A “Sunkist plant” refers to varieties of sweet oranges, scientifically known as Citrus sinensis, celebrated for their delicious, juicy, and flavorful fruit. While ‘Sunkist’ is a well-known brand, the plants are specific cultivars of sweet orange trees. Growing these plants adds ornamental appeal with attractive foliage and fragrant blossoms, and provides the rewarding experience of harvesting fresh, homegrown fruit.
Sunkist Plant Characteristics
Sweet orange plants are evergreen trees or shrubs, often reaching heights of 15 to 30 feet, though dwarf varieties are available for smaller spaces or container growing. Their growth habit is rounded with glossy, dark green leaves up to 4 inches long. Slender spines may be present, particularly on new growth.
The plants produce fragrant, creamy white flowers, often in clusters, primarily in late winter or early spring. These blossoms develop into the familiar round to slightly oval fruits, typically 2 to 5 inches in diameter. The rind turns a vibrant orange when ripe, matching the sweet, juicy pulp inside. Fruit ripening can take around 12 months after flowering, meaning trees may display both flowers and fruit simultaneously.
Cultivation and Care
Light
Sweet orange plants require abundant sunlight to thrive and produce high-quality fruit. They perform best when receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. For optimal growth and fruit production, 8 to 12 hours of direct sun is ideal. When grown indoors, placing the plant in a south-facing window can provide the necessary light intensity.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important for sweet orange plants, but waterlogging should be avoided. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings, specifically the top inch or two, before re-watering. Overwatering is a common issue, leading to root problems and leaf drop. Watering frequency will vary based on climate, container size, and time of year, with more frequent watering needed in warmer months.
Soil Requirements
Sweet orange plants prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil, with an ideal pH range between 6.0 and 7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter to enhance fertility and improve drainage. For container-grown plants, a potting mix formulated for citrus or cacti works well. This mix often contains bark, perlite, and peat moss or coco coir to ensure proper drainage and aeration.
Temperature and Humidity
Sweet orange plants thrive in warm climates and are suited for USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 60°F and 90°F (15°C to 32°C). Temperatures below 32°F (0°C) can cause damage, and consistent temperatures below 45°F (7°C) can kill the plants. In cooler regions, container plants should be moved indoors for winter protection. Citrus plants also appreciate a minimum of 50% humidity; using a pebble tray or humidifier can help increase ambient humidity indoors.
Fertilization
Sweet orange plants are heavy feeders and benefit from a regular fertilization schedule. A balanced, slow-release citrus-specific fertilizer is recommended, applied during the growing season. Fertilization every 4 to 8 weeks during spring, summer, and early fall supports healthy growth and fruit development. Nitrogen fertilizer should not be applied after August to avoid stimulating new growth that could be damaged by frost.
Pruning and Harvesting
Pruning
Pruning sweet orange trees maintains shape, improves air circulation, and removes dead or diseased branches. The best time for significant pruning is after fruiting, or in late winter to early spring before new growth begins, but after the risk of frost has passed. Minor trimming, such as removing suckers, can be done at any time. Pruning should focus on removing deadwood, weak or crossing limbs, and opening up the canopy for light penetration.
Harvesting
Sweet orange fruit is ready for harvest when it has fully colored and reached its mature size. While color is a good indicator, taste is the best determinant of ripeness, as some varieties may color before reaching peak sweetness. Fruit should be carefully picked to avoid damaging the tree or the fruit, often by clipping the stem close to the fruit. The fruit can often be left on the tree for an extended period, improving in sweetness.
Common Issues and Solutions
Sweet orange plants can encounter several common pests. Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that cause distorted leaves and excrete sticky honeydew, which can lead to sooty mold. Scale insects appear as small bumps on stems and leaves, also feeding on sap and producing honeydew. Spider mites can damage leaves, especially on new growth, and are more active in spring and fall. Horticultural oil sprays are effective solutions for many of these pests, working by smothering them.
Root rot is a common disease, often caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil, leading to discolored, soft, and decaying roots. This results in yellowing leaves, wilting, and leaf drop. Ensuring proper watering practices and using well-draining soil are the primary preventative measures.
Fungal issues like sooty mold are often secondary problems resulting from honeydew produced by sap-sucking pests. Improving air circulation and controlling the primary insect infestation helps manage sooty mold.