The Plant Company grows and sells thousands of Citrus plants throughout NZ. We pride ourselves on producing high quality plants and seeing the joy from our customers when they receive them. We do hope you enjoy them and support this NZ business that is passionate about Citrus.
The variety of Lemon ‘Lemonade’ is used to make the ever-popular lemonade drink. The fruit produced during winter and early spring are pale yellow...
Lemon Meyer is a popular variety that produces fruit all year round once established. The fruit are bright yellow, smooth skinned, relatively easy to...
Lemon Yen Ben is a quick growing, evergreen shrub that produces fruit year-round once established, though most are produced in winter. It is a...
Lemon Genoa is a variety of lemon that bears fruit through summer. The fruit are green-yellow and have a sour taste which makes them great for drinks...
Bearss is a variety of the commonly known, Tahitian Lime, and produces an abundance of fruit in winter and again in summer. It is a popular variety...
The Kaffir Lime is a quick growing and compact shrub that produces unusual looking fruit. The fruit are green, warty, and inedible due to the thick...
The Tahitian Lime is a popular and quick growing shrub that bears masses of medium sized fruit that are juicy, strongly scented, and have that...
The Sublime Lime variety is a popular and quick growing variety that bears an abundance of tasty, green fruit. The fruit ripen in winter and are...
Encore is a variety of Mandarin that produces medium sized fruit that are sweet and juicy. The fruit are easy to peel and almost seedless. The fruit...
Mandarin Afourer is a variety that produces easy to peel, sweet, juicy, flavoursome fruit. The fruit ripens in winter and will hold on the tree for...
“Clementine” is a variety of Mandarin that produces a mixture of small, medium and large sized fruit that are sweet and juicy. The fruit ripen from...
Corsica No. 2 is a popular variety of Mandarin that produces medium sized fruit that are sweet and slightly tangy. The fruit ripen in winter, are...
Kawano is a Satsuma variety of Mandarin that produces large sized, flattened fruit that are sweet and flavoursome. The fruit ripens in winter, are...
Okitsu is an early producing variety of Mandarin that bears sweet fruit that are easy to peel. The fruit are low acid and will be seedless unless...
Miyagawa is a variety of Mandarin that produces large sized, flattened fruit that have a smooth skin. The high-quality fruit peel easily, are...
Satsuma is a very popular Mandarin variety because of its easy to peel fruit which are exceptional to eat. The fruit ripen in winter and are...
Miho is a Satsuma variety of Mandarin that bears fruit in late autumn. The fruit are virtually seedless, easy to peel, sweet, and juicy. The lush...
Silverhill is an easy to peel variety of Mandarin that has fruit with a thin and smooth skin. The fruit ripen in winter and are large, flatly shaped...
Kusaie is a variety of Lime that is a quick growing and compact shrub that fruits prolifically throughout the year. The lime green fruit have an...
Grapefruit Cutlers Red produces good yields of large, deep orange, juicy fruit from winter through spring. The rind is thick but easily peeled. It...
Grapefruit Star Ruby is a variety of grapefruit that produces good yields of medium sized, golden coloured fruit that are mostly seedless. The flesh...
Grapefruit Golden Special is one of the more popular grapefruit varieties due to its large and juicy fruit that are mostly seedless. The fruit ripen...
Blush is a variety of Kumquat that produces decorative, bright yellow-orange fruits in autumn. The edible fruit are acidic and have a somewhat tart...
Calamondin is a variety of Kumquat that produces bright orange fruits in autumn. The edible fruit are acidic and have a somewhat tart taste but make...
Citrus trees are evergreen plants that belong to the Rutaceae family. They are known for their fragrant blossoms and juicy fruits, which have been cherished for centuries. Common types include oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits, each bringing its own unique flavor and culinary uses to the table. Beyond their delicious fruits, citrus trees are valued for their ornamental qualities, providing year-round greenery and seasonal bursts of colour with their flowers and fruit.
Each type of citrus tree has its own requirements, and choosing the right one for your garden is crucial. For instance, some trees may be more tolerant of colder temperatures, while others may require more sunlight or specific soil conditions. Understanding these needs not only ensures healthy growth but also enhances fruit yield. Moreover, considering factors like disease resistance and growth habits can help in selecting a tree that will thrive in your specific garden environment.
In New Zealand, several citrus varieties thrive due to the favorable conditions. Some popular choices include:
Citrus Trifoliata: A Special Mention
Citrus trifoliata, also known as the hardy orange, is not commonly grown for its fruit but as a rootstock for grafting other citrus varieties. Its hardiness makes it an excellent choice for providing grafted citrus trees with a robust foundation, particularly in areas with challenging growing conditions. This rootstock enhances the tree's ability to withstand cold temperatures and resist certain soil-borne diseases, ensuring the longevity and productivity of the grafted variety.
The use of Citrus trifoliata as a rootstock is a strategic decision in citrus cultivation, as it can improve the vigour and resilience of the tree. This rootstock is especially beneficial in areas prone to frost or where soil conditions are less than ideal. By grafting a desired citrus variety onto a trifoliata rootstock, gardeners can enjoy the benefits of a healthy, productive tree that is better equipped to handle environmental stressors.
To thrive, citrus trees require specific growing conditions. Understanding and providing these conditions is key to successful cultivation and abundant fruit production.
Climate
Citrus trees prefer a warm, temperate climate. In New Zealand, they grow best in regions with mild winters and ample sunshine. Coastal areas and the northern parts of the North Island are particularly suitable. These regions provide the necessary warmth and protection from extreme cold, which can be detrimental to citrus trees. In more temperate areas, gardeners may need to take additional measures, such as using frost cloths or selecting hardier varieties, to ensure their citrus trees thrive.
Understanding the microclimate of your garden can also be beneficial. For example, planting citrus trees near a sunlit wall can provide extra warmth and shelter from winds. Additionally, considering factors such as wind exposure and cold air drainage will help in selecting the best planting site to ensure your citrus trees receive the warmth they need.
Soil Requirements
Well-drained soil is crucial for citrus trees. They dislike waterlogged roots, which can lead to root rot. Sandy or loamy soils enriched with organic matter provide the best foundation for these trees. Improving soil drainage can be achieved by adding organic matter like compost or creating raised beds to enhance root health.
A soil pH of around 6 to 7 is ideal for citrus trees. Testing your soil and adjusting its pH if necessary can significantly impact the health and productivity of your trees. If your soil is too acidic or alkaline, amendments like lime or sulphur may be needed to bring it into the optimal range for citrus growth.
Watering Needs
Citrus trees need regular watering, especially during dry periods. However, overwatering can be detrimental. It's important to maintain a balance, ensuring the soil is moist but not soggy. Consistent watering helps prevent stress, which can affect fruit development and overall tree health.
Using mulch around the base of the tree can help retain moisture and reduce the frequency of watering. Drip irrigation systems are also an effective way to provide consistent moisture without over-saturating the soil. Monitoring soil moisture and adjusting watering practices according to weather conditions will help keep your citrus trees healthy and productive.
Sunlight
These trees thrive in full sun. A minimum of six hours of direct sunlight daily is recommended to ensure healthy growth and fruit production. Sunlight is crucial for photosynthesis, the process by which plants produce energy, and it plays a significant role in fruit sweetness and flavour.
When planting citrus trees, choose a location that receives the maximum amount of sunlight throughout the day. Avoid planting in shaded areas or near larger trees that could block sunlight. Proper site selection will ensure your citrus trees receive the light they need to grow vigorously and produce abundant fruit.
Proper planting and ongoing care are essential for establishing healthy citrus trees that will produce bountiful harvests for years to come.
Selecting a Grafted Citrus Tree
When purchasing a citrus tree, opt for a grafted variety. Grafted citrus trees are typically more resilient and productive. The grafting process combines the hardiness of a rootstock like citrus trifoliata with the desired fruit-bearing qualities of another citrus variety. This process not only improves disease resistance but also enhances fruit quality and yield.
Grafted trees are often more mature and faster to bear fruit compared to seedlings. They are also more uniform in their growth habits and fruiting patterns, providing a more predictable and reliable harvest. When selecting a grafted tree, ensure the graft union is healthy and well-healed, indicating a strong connection between the rootstock and scion.
Planting Tips
Maintenance and Pruning
Regular maintenance is key to a healthy citrus tree. Consistent care ensures the tree remains vigorous and fruitful.
Growing citrus trees in New Zealand offers numerous benefits. These trees enhance gardens and provide fresh produce, contributing to both personal enjoyment and environmental health.
Despite their many benefits, citrus trees can face challenges. Being aware of potential issues and how to address them ensures a successful citrus-growing experience.
Common Issues
Overcoming Challenges
By selecting the right variety for your region and providing proper care, many of these challenges can be mitigated. Choosing varieties known for their disease resistance and cold tolerance can reduce the impact of environmental stresses. Consulting with The Plant Company can also provide valuable insights tailored to your specific area, helping to address challenges effectively.
Implementing preventative measures, such as proper site selection, soil preparation, and pest management, further supports tree health and resilience. With attention to detail and consistent care, you can overcome challenges and enjoy the rewards of growing citrus trees in New Zealand.
Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.