| I have four dwarf fruit trees, lemon, lime, orange and grapefruit. At what rate should these trees be watered in the summer months and for how long? |
| to learn the specific needs of your landscape, both for its health and your water bill. For newly planted trees, water should reach about 2 feet deep, expanding to 3 feet as it matures. You probably need to water 5-7 days in summer until the root system establishes, or keep the soil consistently moist for a month or so. Then gradually taper off as weather cools to every 2-3 weeks. It's essential that you allow your drip system to run long enough for water to penetrate the appropriate depth. Depending on the size emitters, soil type, etc. this might take several hours. Desert Landscaping for Beginners, ISBN 0-9651987-3-1, Arizona Master Gardener Press has an excellent chapter on citrus growing, including watering and fertilizing charts based on the tree's age. to learn the specific needs of your landscape, both for its health and your water bill. For newly planted trees, water should reach about 2 feet deep, expanding to 3 feet as it matures. You probably need to water 5-7 days in summer until the root system establishes, or keep the soil consistently moist for a month or so. Then gradually taper off as weather cools to every 2-3 weeks. It's essential that you allow your drip system to run long enough for water to penetrate the appropriate depth. Depending on the size emitters, soil type, etc. this might take several hours. Desert Landscaping for Beginners, ISBN 0-9651987-3-1, Arizona Master Gardener Press has an excellent chapter on citrus growing, including watering and fertilizing charts based on the tree's age. |
