Re: Citrus fruits
- Subject: Re: Citrus fruits
- From: &* A* O*
- Date: Wed, 03 Oct 2001 17:09:10 -0700
At 03:27 AM 9/29/2001, Richard Lovejoy wrote:
>We are presently experiencing some problems with our second fruit crop
>this year and wonder if our knowledgeable members can help us. Whilst
>mainly affecting the oranges, a lesser extent the mandarins and some
>lemons they are nearly all splitting at their base and in the worst cases
>the fruit are virtually halved as they approach ripening. It is almost as
>if the inside of the fruit is growing faster than skin/peel. We thought it
>might be a lack of water during late August early September, although the
>trees are regularly watered, but in recent days we have had a very good
>share of rain and the problem continues. Is it due to water or should we
>be looking at a disease?
Richard -
As people have said already, this is exactly what is happening. The rind
becomes dry during dry weather, especially on young trees, and cannot
expand as quickly as the interior flesh. This problem is often accompanied
by fungal growth on the spilts in wet weather so people sometimes think the
split is disease induced.
Routine watering during dry periods can help forestall this problem as can
a heavy mulch program, which keep the soil moisture and temperature more
constant.
>Can anyone help please as we would actually like to enjoy what is
>potentially a very good crop.
The fruit will need to be harvested now, and the flesh processed. Freezing
the pulp for future use can use useful if it cannot be used all at once.
Sorry about the problem. As your trees mature they may be less prone to
this problem.
Regards,
Seán O.
h o r t u l u s a p t u s - 'a garden suited to its purpose'
Seán A. O'Hara fax (707) 667-1173 sean@support.net
710 Jean Street, Oakland, CA 94610-1459, U.S.A.
