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Complex, Tart and Bitter: The GardenZeus Guide to Lime Tree Varieties

January 2, 2018 Made with Sunshine: Growing Citrus in California / The Mighty Garden Archive By: Ann Clary

California’s Mediterranean climates are suitable for growing some but not all limes, as the needs of lime trees vary depending on the variety. In general, lime trees do best in areas where frosts are not common. It may be possible for lime trees to perform well in mild Mediterranean climates along the coast that are […]

Intensive Planting for Citrus Trees: GardenZeus Advanced Tip

December 31, 2017 Made with Sunshine: Growing Citrus in California / The Mighty Garden Archive By: Ann Clary

Citrus trees can be planted using a method known as “intensive planting” or “intensive backyard orcharding” in which up to four citrus trees on compatible root-stocks are planted in a single hole and spaced 12 to 24 inches apart. Root stocks from the same species and/or genus will grow together underground in a natural process called […]

A Brief Guide to Mandarins and Their Hybrids

December 30, 2017 Made with Sunshine: Growing Citrus in California / The Mighty Garden Archive By: Ann Clary

Though Mandarin trees are a much less common sight in California than the common sweet orange tree, they are enjoyed and planted by many for their unique fruit. As a group, mandarin orange trees are one of the most diverse types of citrus. Many types of Mandarins have a loose, easy to peel skin, with […]

Grapefruit Trees: Making Good Choices For the Home Garden

December 30, 2017 Made with Sunshine: Growing Citrus in California / The Mighty Garden Archive By: Ann Clary

It is easy to love grapefruit: grapefruit trees make beautiful specimens for the home garden, with glossy, dark green leaves and colorful fruits that hang for an extended period of time. And grapefruits are a delicious and highly nutritious fruit. Larger than other citrus fruits, grapefruits may have yellow, pink, or reddish flesh. But there […]

GardenZeus Quick Tips: How to Harvest Tangerines

December 22, 2017 Made with Sunshine: Growing Citrus in California / The Mighty Garden Archive By: Ann Clary

Learn how to harvest tangerines: avoid leaving behind valuable fruit through proper harvesting techniques and good cultural practices. Tangerines can be harvested by using hand pruners and cutting the stem close to where it meets the fruit. Compared to other types of citrus fruits, tangerines require more caution when harvesting. Their loose skin makes it […]

Getting Started with Lime Trees in Mediterranean Climates

December 18, 2017 Made with Sunshine: Growing Citrus in California / The Mighty Garden Archive By: Ann Clary

In Mediterranean climates such as California, lime trees are less commonly grown than other types of citrus. The regions in which limes can be successfully grown are fairly limited, as they are quite sensitive to cold temperatures. Limes are small trees in the Citrus genus and the family Rutaceae, with many of its numerous plant […]

GardenZeus Quick Tips: Protecting Citrus Trees From Trunk Injuries

December 12, 2017 Made with Sunshine: Growing Citrus in California / The Mighty Garden Archive By: Ann Clary

Regardless of species and variety, trunks of citrus trees are sensitive to sunburn and subject to injuries from mowers, weed-whackers and other gardening tools. Proper prevention can protect your citrus trees and extend their life span. Citrus bark and cambium are sensitive to sunburn, and sun protection for trunks and branches may be necessary during […]

Getting Started with Kumquat Trees

December 10, 2017 Made with Sunshine: Growing Citrus in California / The Mighty Garden Archive By: Ann Clary

Many regions in California, particularly in Southern California, are ideal for growing kumquats. Kumquat trees are adapted to grow actively during hot summers, and are not damaged by cold winter temperatures. One healthy, productive kumquat tree is adequate for a family, and may produce hundreds or thousands of fruits during a year. To get started, […]

Orange Trees: Should They Have Companion Plants?

December 8, 2017 Made with Sunshine: Growing Citrus in California / The Mighty Garden Archive By: Ann Clary

GardenZeus recommends against planting under orange trees for the following reasons: 1) healthy trees have a dense, evergreen canopy that blocks sunlight for any lower growing plants; 2) gardeners need access to trees for harvest and pruning; and 3) established citrus plants thrive in dry upper soil conditions. GardenZeus also recommends against using mulch, with […]

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