Citrus

The genus Citrus, whose common term is citric, designates the species of large shrubs or perennial trees (between 5 and 15 m) of the family of Rutaceae.

whose fruits or fruits have a high content of vitamin C and citric acid, which gives them that characteristic acid flavor.

Native to tropical and subtropical Asia, this genus contains three species and numerous cultivated hybrids, including the most widely traded fruits, such as lemon, orange, lime, grapefruit (also called grapefruit), and mandarin, with several varieties depending on the region in which each of them is grown.

Citrus fruits are characterized by being a source of vitamins (vitamin C, folic acid, vitamin A …), minerals (potassium, with a slight diuretic effect) and antioxidants.

Citrus fertilizer is done either by foliar application, spraying the fertilizer on the leaves of the tree, or by land, spreading it around its base. It is very important to note that the citrus fertilizer should not get close to the trunk of the tree.

The ideal temperature for citrus fruits and their cultivation ranges between 25 and 30 degrees. However, the citrus fertilizer is done from the beginning of spring. Generally, citrus should be fertilized once every six weeks during the spring and summer seasons. In winter periods, citrus fertilizer is supplied once every ten weeks. The highest demand for nutrients by citrus occurs in flowering and fruit formation.

Main nutritional deficiencies

Choosing the correct citrus fertilizer is essential for the growth and development of the plant. Otherwise, it is possible that deficiencies of different nutrients appear that can be reflected in the citrus fruit as follows:

• Calcium deficiency. It is essential in the growth processes of the plant, so its deficiency reduces its development and the plant loses vigor.
• Manganese deficiency. Its main effect is the production of smaller fruits, with a thinner rind and lower sugar content.

Norms of application of fertilizers for nitrogen and phosphorous citrus fruits.

First of all, nitrogenous citrus compost should be applied as fragmented as possible, especially on highly permeable soils. It is not advisable to use citrus fertilizers in cold times of the year, as well as to add large amounts of water to each irrigation. In addition, annual foliar analyzes should be carried out to verify that the plantation is maintained at an optimal nutritional level.

As for phosphorous citrus fertilizers, the fertilizer dose must be adjusted to the needs of the plantation and the assimilation of the soil. Attention should be paid to this last aspect to know which is the most suitable citrus fertilizer to ensure optimal plant growth.