![]() Do not prune leaves damaged by citrus leafminer because undamaged areas of leaves will continue to produce food for the tree (unless the leafminers are only in a few leaves). Even heavy infestations of citrus leafminer on young trees are unlikely to cause tree death. Citrus leafminer is likely to cause more damage in young citrus trees as foliar damage reduces their vigorous growth. Mature citrus trees (more than 4 years old) generally tolerate leaf damage by the citrus leafminer with little effect on tree growth or fruit yield. Indoor citrus houseplants may be taken outdoors during warm weather to spray with water or to allow rainfall to help dislodge mites. For dislodging spider mites, direct the sprays upward toward the undersides of foliage. Also, be sure to inspect nearby shrubs and trees for these pests.Ī high-pressure spray of water from the garden hose can be used to dislodge small pests, such as mites and aphids. This may significantly help to slow the infestation of scale insect pests. Prune out heavily infested twigs or branches and promptly dispose of pruned material. Apply mulch out as far as the limbs extend. Mulch trees in the landscape with a 3-inch deep layer of an organic mulch (bark, pine needles, leaves, or compost), but do not pile the mulch against the trunk. ![]() Repot citrus plants in the spring as needed. Allow potting soil in containers to become slightly dry between watering. Plants in containers may need water much more often. Established trees require 1 inch of irrigation water per week during the growing season. It is especially important to water trees during periods of heat and drought. Water established citrus trees as needed, which is usually no more than once per week on established trees and monthly in the winter during periods of no rainfall. For information on how to test the soil, please see the fact sheet HGIC 1652, Soil Testing. Avoid the temptation to over-fertilize trees and shrubs, as this can lead to increased pest problems. In counties along the coast, such as Horry, Beaufort, and Charleston, where high phosphorus levels naturally exist in the soils, use a 15-0-15 fertilizer for citrus trees. In the absence of a soil test, fertilize citrus trees with a slow-release, citrus tree fertilizer or a slow-release tree & shrub fertilizer (such as a 12-6-6) once or twice in the spring, following fertilizer label rates. Fertilize and lime according to the soil test results. Have the soil tested to determine the soil pH and the nutrient content of the soil. ![]() However, do not over-fertilize trees and shrubs, as this can lead to increased pest problems. Citrus under drought or nutrient stress are more susceptible to scale and other insect pest infestations, so maintain plant vigor. ![]() Maintain good citrus tree health to reduce the chance and severity of scale infestation, and for the trees to better tolerate insect pests already present. To maintain a healthy citrus tree, such as this orange tree ( Citrus x sinensis), one must be observant of insect pests that injure the foliage, twigs, and fruit and treat the pest problem accordingly.īarbara Smith, ©2017 HGIC, Clemson Extension Cultural Control & Prevention of Citrus Pests
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