Citrus 'Orange': Navel
Citrus x sinensis, also known as the Navel Orange, is an evergreen tree in the Rutaceae family that grows up to 30 feet tall in tropical or sub-tropical climates. It is a hybrid resulting from a cross between a mandarin orange and a pomelo although when this was done is not fully known. However, its name means "from China" and likely refers to where it was originally grown and used. It has glossy green leaves and attractive orange edible fruits. It is not cold hardy so in cooler zones it can be grown in a container that can be overwintered indoors. If planted in the ground, it is frost tender and does best when planted in a place where it can receive early morning sunlight during the growing season so new, tender branches don't freeze. Sweet orange dislikes root disturbance so it should be placed in its permanent location outside when young. If growing them in pots, great care must be taken when moving them to larger containers.
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Available in 8", 12" STD, 17" STDNavel Orange requires full sun (6+ hours) for optimal growth and fruit production. Inadequate light can cause poor health and lack of fruit.
Navel Orange requires consistent moisture, generally needing deep watering 1–2 times per week (or up to 3 times in hot/dry conditions) to maintain soil moisture, while avoiding waterlogged conditions. Newly planted trees need more frequent watering, while established trees should have their soil dried slightly (about 2–3 inches deep) between deep, slow, and thorough waterings. It is drought tolerant once established, but flourishes when kept moist. Do not overwater.
Pruning Navel Oranges is different than other deciduous fruit trees. Flowering and fruiting on sweet orange trees occurs on new wood and you don't want to cut flowers that are your future fruits. It is recommended that all pruning occur after the fruit has ripened. When ready for pruning, we suggest Bond Drop Forged Pruner.
Your plant needs food too! We suggest Espoma Citrus Tone.
Proper nutrition is important to the health of your plant and its longevity. To ensure your plant is getting the appropriate nutrition, use a fertilizer labelled for this tree type and apply according to the label.
