Valencia orange

Description

The Valencia orange is a sweet, juicy orange known for its bright orange skin and flavorful flesh. It is often used for juicing and is prized for its high juice content.

Ripening:
Ripens from late March to June in South Africa. The fruit is ready when fully orange and slightly soft.

General Information:

• Climate: Thrives in subtropical to warm temperate regions and prefers full sun. It is sensitive to frost.
• Soil: Requires well-drained sandy loam with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
• Growth Habit: Grows 10-20 feet tall with a dense canopy and produces fragrant white flowers.

Care Tips

1. Watering:
   • Keep the soil consistently moist; water deeply during dry periods and allow the top inch to dry out between waterings.
2. Fertilizing:
   • Apply a balanced citrus fertilizer (like 6-6-6) in early spring and midsummer to promote healthy growth and fruit production.
3. Pest Control:
   • Regularly check for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and scale. Use organic treatments like neem oil or insecticidal soap as necessary.
4. Mulching:
   • Apply a layer of organic mulch (such as straw or wood chips) around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
5. Harvesting:
   • Harvest when the fruit is fully orange and slightly soft. Gently twist or cut the fruit from the branch to avoid damage. Harvesting is best done in the morning.