The “growing season” is whenever your citrus tree produces fruit. [3] X Research source In a dry, hot climate, fertilize your citrus tree on Valentine’s Day (February 14), Mother’s Day (second Sunday in May), and Father’s Day (third Sunday in June). [4] X Research source If you’re growing your citrus indoors, fertilize it between mid-spring and late summer/early autumn. [5] X Research source
You can buy a soil test online, or from a home improvement store.
For instance, if your NPK recommendation is 15-5-10, you’d use a fertilizer with a 15-5-10 NPK ratio for your plant. Some experts recommend using a fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants. [9] X Research source Other experts from hot, dry climates suggest using a 13-13-13 or 15-5-10 fertilizer. [10] X Research source It really depends on where you live!
Don’t give your citrus tree all of this fertilizer at once! Spread out this total amount over the growing season. These measurements apply to chemical fertilizers.
For these particular measurements, use a fertilizer with an 8-13% nitrogen content. If your fertilizer has a 17-21% nitrogen content, divide these measurements in half. If you’re using a balanced fertilizer (like 13-13-13), experts recommend using at least 1 lb (0. 45 kg) of fertilizer on 1-year old trees, 2 lb (0. 91 kg) on 2-year old trees, and 3 lb (1. 4 kg) on 3-year old trees. [16] X Research source
Some liquid fertilizers might be sprayed on your tree’s leaves.
