Choosing the right citrus rootstock for optimal growth and yield
Citrus rootstocks serve two essential functions. Firstly, they help overcome environmental limitations related to soil quality, water issues and climate conditions. Secondly, they improve the fruit’s marketability by affecting size, yield and internal quality. The longevity of a citrus orchard, typically 25 to 40 years, largely depends on choosing the right rootstock at the outset. If a rootstock proves unsatisfactory, the trees can be top-worked, however, this process delays production by at least two years.
Factors to consider when choosing a rootstock
- Climate analysis: Understanding the local climate is essential for choosing rootstocks with the right cold and drought tolerance
- Water quality and quantity: Conducting a water analysis ensures that rootstocks with appropriate tolerance to salinity and irrigation conditions are selected
- Soil classification and analysis: Soil type, pH and drainage influence rootstock performance. For example, calcareous or clay-heavy soils may not suit all rootstocks
- Disease presence: Nematodes and Phytophthora can devastate crops, so selecting disease-tolerant rootstocks is crucial
- Compatibility with scion cultivars: Some rootstock-scion combinations are incompatible, leading to stunted growth or other issues
The below information is an abbreviated version; for more detailed information on each rootstock, read ROOTED e-publication Issue 2 in Media | DuRoi Nursery
