How to Revive Your Citrus Trees
- 1). Check to see if the tree is still viable. Nick the bark of the citrus tree's trunk with a sterile blade so you can see the cambium. Take steps to revive the citrus tree if the cambium still has a green color, as this is a sign that the tree's internal system is still lively.
- 2). Inspect your ailing citrus tree thoroughly. Look for dead, broken and damaged branches and stems, as well as wilted or discolored foliage. Examine the sickly areas for signs of disease. Look for symptoms such as spotted foliage, leaf curl, twig dieback and insects.
- 3). Remove all fruit from your ailing citrus, as this will redirect the tree's energy towards repairing itself. Use sharp, sterile pruning shears to remove any dead, damaged or diseased branches, stems and foliage from the tree. Sterilize your shears between each cut to prevent spreading disease to healthy areas.
- 4). Remove all weeds and vegetation from the citrus tree's planting area so the tree doesn't have to compete for its nutrients. Keep the planting area free of debris and foliage to reduce the potential for disease.
- 5). Complete a soil test to identify the soil's pH levels. Dig a hole, 6 to 8 feet deep, under your tree's canopy. Take your soil sample from this depth to ensure an accurate reading. Place your soil sample in a clean bucket or container. Pay special attention to the container's cleanliness as residual soil or fertilizer in the container will cause inaccurate test readings.
- 6). Check the soil sample test results. Adjust the soil's pH levels if the levels fall below 6.0. Scatter pure lime under the canopy of your citrus tree to increase the pH levels. Incorporate the lime into the soil and water thoroughly.
- 7). Feed your citrus tree with a well-balanced, slow release fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 8-8-8. Delay feeding if you have recently added lime to the soil. Choose a fertilizer that is specifically designed for citrus trees. Apply according to the directions to prevent root burn.
- 8). Protect your citrus tree from disease and insect infestation. Spray the citrus tree with a fungicidal spray treatment to reduce the potential for disease. Apply an insecticide to control infestations. Apply each application thoroughly and according to the directions for best results. Speak with a horticultural or nursery specialist for selection assistance.
- 9). Maintain a moist, but not wet, soil environment for your citrus tree. Water your tree about twice each month throughout the growing season. Adjust the irrigation schedule for periods of drought and rain. Irrigate the soil deeply so the water reaches about 6 feet below surface level. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between each irrigation but never allow the soil to dry out completely.