CITRUS FARMING

 The history of citrus farming is long and varied, with evidence of citrus cultivation dating back to at least 2,000 BC. The earliest known citrus fruits were probably grown in Southeast Asia, and from there, they spread to other parts of the world, including China, India, and the Mediterranean. Citrus fruits were introduced to the Americas by European explorers in the 16th century, and they quickly became popular crops. Today, citrus fruits are grown in many parts of the world, including the United States, Brazil, China, and India.

The local names are Machungwa (oranges), Ndimu (limes), Limau (lemons), Madanzi (grapefruits), Chenza (tangerines/mandarins) all in Swahili. Citrus are natives of the subtropical and tropical regions of Asia and the Malay Archipelago. The common citrus fruits are Oranges, Limes, Grapefruits, Lemons and Tangerines.

Maturity Duration: Citrus fruits take anywhere from 6 to 12 months to mature from flowering to harvest.

Expected Yield: Citrus trees can yield anywhere from 50 to 100 pounds of fruit per year.

Growing Season: Citrus trees can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 8-11. They prefer a warm, sunny climate with plenty of rainfall.

Nutritional Value: Citrus fruits are a good source of vitamins C, A, and potassium. They are also a good source of fiber.

Growing Altitude: Citrus trees can be grown at a variety of altitudes, but they do best at low to mid altitudes.

Growing Rainfall: Citrus trees require a moderate amount of rainfall, but they can tolerate drought conditions.

Growing Temperature: Citrus trees prefer warm temperatures and do not do well in cold weather.

Growing Soils and PH: Citrus trees prefer well-drained, sandy loam soils with a pH of 6-7.