How to Get An Orange Tree to Blossom

Providing shade, gorgeous blooms and delicious fruit, orange trees are sought after by gardeners and juice lovers alike. Tending to an orange tree, however, can be tricky. An orange tree planted from seed does not always blossom or bare fruit. The number of years it takes for an orange tree to fully mature can be lengthy, meaning younger trees will take quite some time to produce. Coaxing an orange tree into full bloom may take some work, but the beautiful bounty of citrus that results will be well worth the effort.

Instructions

1. Water the tree once every week and a half. For trees less than a year old, water once a week. Drier climates should water twice as often.

2. Remove any grass or planting from around the base of the tree. Extra plantings will compete with the tree's shallow roots for moisture.

3. Apply citrus fertilizer evenly to the soil around the tree during the cool months. Follow the instructions included on the label of the fertilizer regarding specific quantity and frequency.

4. Prune the tree each spring. Allow the orange tree enough time to mature. It may take up to seven years or more for a tree to produce fruit.

5. Pick unused fruit off the tree when oranges are fully grown to allow for plentiful blossoms next year.

Tips & Warnings

• Orange trees grow best in temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees F. If you live in a colder climate, then consider orange varieties that grow in pots that can be moved indoors for chilly weather.

References

• French Scents
• Aggie Horticulture
• Garden Guides