Young grafted citrus trees such as naartjie, orange, lemon, lime and grapefruit are quite expensive to buy, ranging from R150 to R250 per tree depending on the nursery. In addition, new trees take a few years to start producing. But if they are well cared for, these trees will provide fruit, and thus income, for many years.
Citrus trees grow best in warm, temperate and subtropical climates without frost.
Even so, most citrus can cope in areas with mild frost, provided the temperature does not drop below 2°C or the wind is severe.
Navel and Valencia oranges, Clementine naartjies and limes are best for a colder climate.
Even if your region experiences moderate frost (around -5°C), you can still plant certain citrus varieties. Ask your local nursery for advice.
Grapefruit is popular as a health fruit, but these trees should be planted in a warmer area.
TIPS FOR NOVICE GROWERS
Follow these steps to ensure good-quality fruit:
Planting
Dig a square hole about 10cm larger than the plastic soil bag the young tree is in when you buy it.
Denne historien er fra Farmer's Weekly 6+13 January 2023-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
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Denne historien er fra Farmer's Weekly 6+13 January 2023-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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