The Washington Navel Orange tree is a popular choice for home gardeners. This citrus variety produces large, seedless fruits that are sweet and easy to peel, making them a favored snack. Its adaptability and straightforward care contribute to its widespread appeal among those looking to cultivate their own citrus. This guide provides information on cultivating a healthy and productive Washington Navel Orange tree.
Site Selection and Planting
Selecting an appropriate location is key for a Washington Navel Orange tree. These trees thrive in full sunlight, needing at least six to eight hours of direct sun daily. Protection from strong winds also prevents damage to branches and young fruit.
Well-draining soil is essential to prevent waterlogging and root rot. They prefer a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-7.0). Amending heavy clay soils with organic matter improves drainage and aeration for better root development.
When planting, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the tree in the center, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with original soil, tamping gently to remove air pockets. A thorough initial watering settles the soil and provides immediate moisture.
Ongoing Essential Care
Consistent watering is important, especially during dry periods. Deep, infrequent watering encourages a strong root system. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry between waterings to avoid overwatering and root issues.
Fertilization provides nutrients for robust growth and fruit production. Use a citrus-specific fertilizer, which contains higher nitrogen and micronutrients like iron, zinc, and manganese. Apply three to four times a year, from late winter/early spring through early fall. Always follow product instructions for application rates.
Applying organic mulch around the tree benefits its health. A two to four-inch layer of wood chips or compost around the drip line retains soil moisture and moderates soil temperature. Keep mulch a few inches from the trunk to prevent moisture buildup and disease. Mulching also suppresses weed growth.
Pruning for Health and Production
Pruning benefits Washington Navel Orange trees, contributing to health and fruit production. It shapes the tree, improves air circulation, and removes dead or diseased branches. Pruning also encourages vigorous fruit development by directing the tree’s energy.
The optimal time for pruning is after harvest, in late winter or early spring before new growth. This minimizes stress and allows effective recovery. Removing crossing or rubbing branches prevents damage and improves structure.
Techniques include thinning dense areas to enhance light and air flow, reducing disease risk. Heading back branches shortens them to promote denser growth and manage tree size. Regularly remove suckers (shoots from rootstock below graft union) and water sprouts (upright shoots from main branches), as they divert energy from fruit production.
Pest and Disease Management
Monitor Washington Navel Orange trees for common pests and diseases to ensure health. Aphids cause leaves to curl and distort on new growth. Scale insects appear as small, immobile bumps on stems and leaves, leading to sticky honeydew. Citrus leaf miners create squiggly trails within leaves, primarily affecting young foliage.
Preventative measures like proper watering and good air circulation through pruning reduce pest and disease outbreaks. For aphids and scale, horticultural oil or insecticidal soap effectively coats and suffocates pests. For leaf miners, removing heavily infested leaves helps, though severe damage is primarily cosmetic.
Root rot results from overly wet soil, causing leaves to yellow and tree decline. Well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering are primary preventative steps. Citrus canker, a bacterial disease, causes raised, brown lesions on fruit, leaves, and stems. Infected parts should be promptly removed and destroyed to prevent spread. Early detection and consistent management control these issues.
Harvesting Your Oranges
Harvesting Washington Navel Oranges involves observing several indicators. The fruit ripens during winter (December to March), depending on climate. A ripe orange has a uniform bright orange color and feels firm and heavy for its size.
While color indicates ripeness, sampling a fruit is the most reliable way to confirm sweetness. Once oranges reach peak flavor, they can be harvested. Unlike some fruits, oranges do not ripen significantly after picking.
To harvest, use clean pruning shears or clippers to snip the stem close to the fruit, leaving a small “button” attached. Avoid pulling fruit from the branch, as this can damage the stem or tree. Gently handling fruit prevents bruising and extends storage life. Harvested oranges can be stored at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for several weeks.