Chapter 4 - Agricultural production practice

Abstract

Citrus can grow in a wide variety of soils, provided that soil drainage is adequate but the optimal soils are structures deep sandy or moderately loamy structures with pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Citrus trees are most sensitive to soil salinity. Climate has the strongest effect on citrus growth and production. The commercial citrus growing regions of the world are located in a belt between 40 degrees south and north of the equator, and nowhere outside this belt. Most cultivars are sensitive to frost. Strong winds and hailstorms are additional risk factors. Citrus needs heat, sunshine, and adequate rainfall or irrigation. The commonly used unit of the heat supplied to the plant is the Growth-Degree-Day or the heat unit per day. Citrus trees reproduce by seeds, cuttings, budding (grafting), and layering, with budding being the most widespread method. The properties of the grafted tree are a combination of the characteristics of the rootstock and those of the scion. Orchard layout, that is, planting pattern and density should be planned. High planting density means more trees per hectare but less fruit per tree due to less exposure to sunlight. The importance of irrigation in citriculture cannot be overestimated. A variety of irrigation systems, such as flooding, sprinklers, and drip irrigation, are in use. Intensive culture of citrus requires fertilization. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the principal macronutrients. Pest control, disease management, and sanitary maintenance are critical tasks. Harvesting is one of the most expensive operations in citriculture. Citrus is harvested mostly by hand and occasionally by machines.