Citrus trees require three fertilizations a year to keep vigorous and to develop abundant, high-quality fruit.
The first of those three annual feedings is in February. The other two should take place in May and August. To make it easy to remember, feed them on Valentine's Day, Memorial Day and Labor Day — give or take a few days, of course!
Fertilize citrus trees with a fertilizer product high in nitrogen.
I prefer ammonium sulfate (21-0-0), but you also may use a specialty citrus fertilizer containing a similar percentage of nitrogen. Some citrus fertilizers recommend application amounts much too high for most citrus.
(See accompanying table for fertilizer amounts recommended for the size and age of your tree.)
Spread the recommended amount of fertilizer evenly under the tree, starting near the trunk and going out several feet beyond the branch ends.
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Next, water the fertilizer in slowly. I like to use a soaker hose attached to a hose bib just barely opened. If you have basin watering, gradually fill the basin and allow the water to soak in.
Apply the same amount of fertilizer with each application during the year.
But — don't over-fertilize.
Citrus trees that are overfed can develop poor-quality fruit with thick peels.
James S. Wood / Arizona Daily Star
» Citrus fertilizer requirements
Years after planting
Pounds of fertilizer
Young trees
1 to 2 years
about 1/2 pound
Small trees
2 to 3 years
about 3/4 pound
Midsize small trees
3 to 4 years
about 1 1/2 pounds
Small adult trees
4 to 5 years
about 2 pounds
Midsize adult trees
5 to 6 years
about 2 1/2 pounds
Large-size adult trees
more than 6 years
about 3 pounds
NOTE: Two cups equals approximately one pound of fertilizer.
If your tree is growing vigorously and has dark green leaves, cut back on the recommended fertilizer amounts. You even may want to skip one or more of the annual fertilizations if your tree is healthy and fruitful.