Orange trees

The orange tree, originally from ancient China, has a rich history spanning thousands of years and several continents. This well-known fruit tree is known for its glossy leaves and juicy fruit. Although the orange tree is native to subtropical and tropical climates, it is surprisingly hardy to around 0 degrees Celsius. When the temperature drops below this point, protection from the cold may be needed. A convenient solution for this is to use a special tree cover or air-permeable plastic.

What types of orange trees are there?

There are different types of orange trees, each with its own unique characteristics and fruits. The most well-known, of course, is the orange tree (Citrus Sinensis), which is grown worldwide for its edible, juicy and sweet fruits. Another variety is the Citrus Calamondin, also known as the Calamondin tree. This tree produces small, round fruits that resemble mini oranges. The fruits have a bitter and sour taste and are often used in cooking to add flavour to dishes or to make a refreshing drink.

How do I look after my orange tree?

Taking care of an orange tree is actually quite simple, but it is important to follow the right steps. After all, you want to enjoy this summer addition to your garden for as long as possible.

Watering the Citrus Sinensis

Orange trees need regular water to stay healthy, especially during hot and dry periods. Make sure the soil is slightly moist, but avoid over-watering to avoid root rot. Check soil moisture regularly and water when needed. Make sure the pot or soil in which the orange tree grows has good drainage so that excess water can drain easily and the roots remain healthy.

Heat and light requirements of the orange tree

For an orange tree, the perfect location is one with plenty of sunlight and shelter from strong winds. Make sure the tree gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day, but is also protected from strong winds. Choose a space where the tree has enough room to grow.

How and when to repot an orange tree?

Is your orange tree in an ornamental pot in your garden? Then it is occasionally necessary to repot it to a larger pot so that it can develop further. First choose a new pot that is at least 20% bigger than your orange tree's current pot. Make sure the new pot has enough drainage holes to drain excess water and use high-quality potting soil that is well-drained. Carefully remove the orange tree from its current pot and remove excess soil from the roots. Then place your orange tree in the new pot and fill the space around the roots with fresh potting soil. Is your orange tree in the open ground? Then of course there is no need to repot it, as the roots can spread freely in the soil.

Pruning the orange tree

Pruning an orange tree is essential for its optimal growth and well-being. The best time to do this is in spring, when the tree can properly repair itself. Remove dead or damaged branches and thin the tree by removing crossing branches. Make sure you keep the size of the tree under control, but do not overdo pruning. Always use sharp tools to avoid damage to the tree. Regular pruning will keep your orange tree healthy and allow you to enjoy its splendour for many years to come!

Give your Citrus Sinensis extra nutrition

To keep your orange tree healthy and growing well, it is wise to feed it from time to time. Special fertilisers for Mediterranean trees have been developed to meet the specific nutritional needs of this tree. Follow the instructions on the package for the right dosage. It is important to feed only during the summer months; extra feeding in winter can even be harmful to the tree.

Orange tree diseases and pests

It is crucial to be aware of common pests on the orange tree, such as the mealybug. Mealybugs are small, fluffy insect pests that nestle under the leaves and along the branches of the tree. They feed on the sap of the leaves, which can lead to weakened growth and reduced fertility of the tree.
To prevent mealybugs, it is necessary to regularly inspect the leaves and branches of the orange tree. Look out for signs of white, fluffy masses on the plant and any deformities or yellowing of the leaves. Rinse the tree thoroughly with water if you notice these symptoms. You can also use a mild solution of water and soap to manually remove the mealybugs from the leaves and branches. It is also important to keep the area around the orange tree clean and remove any fallen leaves or plant debris, as mealybugs like to nest in dirty, damp conditions.

Shop for an orange tree at Green Bubble

Looking for a beautiful orange tree to brighten up your garden or patio? At Green Bubble, you've come to the right place! When you buy one of our orange trees, you're guaranteed a fresh and healthy addition to your garden or terrace. We work directly with growers, allowing us to guarantee the freshness of our Orange trees. Every day we do our best to provide our customers with vibrant and quality trees, so you can receive your orange tree fresh and healthy at home!
Don't feel like going to your local garden shop? No problem! We will deliver your orange tree directly to your home. Easily order your fruit tree via our webshop!