Insulation for Citrus Trees

Lemon and other citrus trees should be insulated when winter temperatures dip below freezing.

Citrus trees grow in warm climates in the United States. Large amounts of American citrus fruit production hail from Florida and California. Occasionally, winter temperatures in these areas dip below the freezing point, which may cause harm to growing citrus trees. When frost threatens a citrus tree, grove owners and private growers may protect their trees by using an insulation method.

Types of Citrus Trees

Virtually all types of citrus trees need protection from winter freezes and frosts. As a rule, this family of trees is not well-adapted to cold temperatures, according to the University of Arizona. Many citrus trees respond well to winter insulation, including tangelos, oranges, lemons and limes.

Temperature

According to the Redwood Barn Nursery website, citrus trees should be protected by insulation when temperatures dip below 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Periodic dips in temperature should not harm a citrus tree, but when temperatures are predicted to remain in the 20s for several days, trees should be protected.

Soil Insulation

Young trees, those under 4 years old, respond well to soil insulation, according to the Citrus Tree Care website. Cover the trunk about 15 inches high with tightly packed soil. Soil can warm the tree's temperature up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Soil also absorbs the sunlight well, so trees do not become light deficient when treated with a soil insulation method.

Winter Blankets

Another method for insulating trees is to use a winter frost blanket, according to the University of Arizona website. Frost blankets may be wrapped around the trunk of the tree and secured with stakes. Many citrus nurseries sell frost blankets. Old blankets, quilts and burlap sacks may also be used to protect citrus trees from frost.

Warnings

The Citrus Tree Care website warns that plastic should never be used to protect a citrus tree from frost. Plastic prevents air from circulating properly around the trees. Additionally, a winter frost blanket should never be used for more than three days at a time. Prolonged used of winter blankets may prevent the citrus trees from getting enough sunlight.

References

• University of Arizona: Protecting a Citrus Tree from Cold
• Redwood Barn Nursery: Winter Care of Citrus
• Citrus Tree Care: Surviving a Freeze