Citrus Calcium Deficiency

Citrus Trees in March 2025

The last month has been one of the wettest we’ve experienced in years. Numerous areas throughout the city are currently submerged due to flash floods. Our garden is thriving, absorbing the surplus water efficiently. The trees and grass have flourished remarkably over the past two months. The citrus trees are particularly thriving, as the ample rainwater arrived perfectly timed for fruit development. This heavy fruit set is bolstered by the rains and the soil amendments made three months ago. However, the trees show nutrient deficiencies caused by runoff, accelerated growth, and high fruit yields.

Citrus Blossom End Rot

A few fruits exhibit brown or dark, leathery, and shrinking skin. These lesions are often confused with fungal infections, especially during wet weather and in the presence of dark skin patches. However, it is essential to recognize that these lesions indicate blossom end rot, typically resulting from calcium deficiency. While inadequate or inconsistent watering might lead to similar symptoms, the heavy rains over the past few weeks eliminate that possibility.

Citrus Calcium Deficiency and Management

The leaves prominently display brown blotches resembling rust, drying edges and a leaf yellowing. To adequately address nutrient needs, applying bone meal or calcium nitrates delivers essential calcium replacement. If opting for bone meal over calcium nitrate, incorporating chicken manure is an effective strategy to tackle any nitrogen deficiency. Removing the affected fruits will alleviate stress on the trees and deter pests like the common fruit flies from being attracted to open lesions.

In Conclusion

In March 2025, heavy rainfall stimulated remarkable growth in citrus trees. However, nutrient deficiencies are impacting their health due to nutrient runoff. The occurrence of blossom end rot linked to calcium deficiency, signaling a need for immediate action. Effective management involves applying bone meal or calcium nitrates and promptly removing affected fruits.

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