How to Plant a New Orange Tree

Orange trees provide beauty and bountiful harvests. With proper care and attention, you can grow an orange tree in your own yard. Follow these simple steps to plant a new orange tree.

Step 1: Choose the Right Spot

Choose the right spot to plant your orange tree. Find a location with full sun exposure and well-draining soil. Avoid planting under power lines or next to buildings, as the tree will need ample room to grow. Also, keep in mind the size of the tree at maturity.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

Prepare the planting hole by digging a hole twice as wide and as deep as the tree's root ball. Mix in organic matter such as compost or aged manure to the soil. This will provide nutrients and improve the soil's drainage.

Step 3: Plant the Tree

Remove the tree from its container and gently loosen the roots. Place the tree in the planting hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Fill in the hole with soil and gently tamp it down. Water thoroughly to settle the soil.

Step 4: Provide Care and Maintenance

To ensure your orange tree grows properly, provide proper care and maintenance. Water the tree regularly, especially during the first year after planting. Fertilize with a citrus fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Prune the tree as needed to remove dead or diseased branches or to shape the tree.

Step 5: Enjoy the Harvest

After a few years, your orange tree will begin to produce fruit. Enjoy the harvest by picking the oranges when they are ripe. Use the delicious fruit in your favorite recipes or simply eat it fresh from the tree. Your hard work will be rewarded with sweet and juicy oranges grown in your own backyard.