Plant citrus to supplement your income

Citrus fruits, which are rich in vitamin C, fetch a good price. Consider starting a co-operative system in your community, planting trees in a number of yards and buying inputs in bulk to save money, says Shane Brody.

- Shane Brody.

Young grafted citrus trees such as naartjie, orange, lemon, lime and grapefruit are quite expensive to buy, ranging from R150 to R250 per tree depending on the nursery. In addition, new trees take a few years to start producing. But if they are well cared for, these trees will provide fruit, and thus income, for many years.

Citrus trees grow best in warm, temperate and subtropical climates without frost.

Even so, most citrus can cope in areas with mild frost, provided the temperature does not drop below 2°C or the wind is severe.

Navel and Valencia oranges, Clementine naartjies and limes are best for a colder climate.

Even if your region experiences moderate frost (around -5°C), you can still plant certain citrus varieties. Ask your local nursery for advice.

Grapefruit is popular as a health fruit, but these trees should be planted in a warmer area.

TIPS FOR NOVICE GROWERS

Follow these steps to ensure good-quality fruit:

Planting

Dig a square hole about 10cm larger than the plastic soil bag the young tree is in when you buy it.