How to Prune Citrus Trees in Florida
Florida is a large state with landscape varying from everglades to coastal. Florida's vast environment has areas with hardiness zones ranging from 8b through 11. Citrus trees are a tropical tree that thrives in warm, mild climates. While citrus trees will thrive on their own without any additional pruning, occasionally branches must be pruned. The best time of year for pruning citrus is early spring, before the tree begins growing again.
Examine the tree and determine which branches require pruning. In particular, branches that are encroaching on structures, touching the ground, crossing other branches or have been damaged by frost should be removed.
- Florida is a large state with landscape varying from everglades to coastal.
- In particular, branches that are encroaching on structures, touching the ground, crossing other branches or have been damaged by frost should be removed.
Cut the underside of the branch, 15 inches from the tree's trunk. Cut as far as possible and stop once the branch's weight begins binding the saw.
Cut the top side of the branch, 18 inches from the tree's trunk. According to the University of Florida Extension office, this cut ensures that the branch splits without tearing the bark.
Cut a small incision along the bark of the branch where the branch meets the trunk. This cut should go along the surface of the branch, not parallel with the tree.
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Steven White is a privately contracted software engineer and efficiency analyst. He has more than five years of experience providing technical support for AT&T broadband customers. Along with his technology background, White enjoys carpentry and plumbing.
