Care of the tree Citrus x sinensis or Sweet Orange |
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The genus Citrus, family Rutaceae, includes shrubs and trees native to Asia, Melanesia and Australia. Some species and hybrids are: Citrus x sinensis, Citrus x paradisi, Citrus x limon, Citrus x aurantium, Citrus maxima, Citrus reticulata, Citrus medica, Citrus micrantha, Citrus glauca. Common name: Sweet Orange. It's a hybridization between Citrus maxima and Citrus reticulata species. They are perennial fruit trees with a compact crown that reach 10 meters (32.8 feet) in height. The leaves are glossy dark green, alternately arranged and oval in shape. The scented white flowers appear in axillary racemes; they can bloom from late fall to mid spring. The fruits are the well-known oranges. They are used as isolated specimens or in small groups and also in pots for patios (they can be kept if the winter is very cold). Citrus x sinensis prefers full sun exposure and warm climates with mild winters. They do not resist frost. Avoid sudden temperature changes. The soil should have a medium consistency with a certain ability to retain moisture. They need medium watering in summer, waiting for the surface part of the substrate to have dried. The rest of the year the soil must have a certain degree of humidity. Fertilize in fall with compost or manure and in winter with slow-release mineral fertilizer. Prune lightly in late winter to keep a more compact crown and remove dry branches. In summer they can be attacked by mites, mealybugs and whiteflies. They propagate by seeds or by grafting but they are not simple or fast processes; it's recommended to acquire new specimens in garden centers, nurseries or plant stores. |
Images of the tree Citrus x sinensis or Sweet Orange |
 Citrus x sinensis  Citrus x sinensis  Citrus x sinensis |