Citrus Tree Care and Grafting

John Mills, an expert grower, shares his extensive knowledge on growing citrus trees. He discusses the importance of selecting the right rootstock, such as trifoliata and flying dragon, for different environments. The video provides a detailed guide on grafting techniques, including selecting and preparing bud sticks. John also explains the best practices for planting and caring for citrus trees, emphasizing the importance of proper watering and fertilization. Finally, he offers advice on maintaining young trees, including removing flowers to promote root growth.

How long has John Mills been growing citrus trees?

• 55 years

• 25 years

• 35 years

• 45 years

What is a key benefit of the trifoliata rootstock?

• It is resistant to all pests

• It requires no maintenance

• It is suitable for wet and dry conditions

• It grows very tall

What is a characteristic of the flying dragon rootstock?

• It is a semi-dwarf variety

• It has outward-pointing thorns

• It has upward-pointing thorns

• It is ideal for large gardens

What is the first step in the grafting process?

• Trimming the leaves and thorns

• Selecting a rootstock

• Making an incision

• Taping the bud

Why is it important to leave the leaves on the rootstock during grafting?

• To prevent pests

• For photosynthesis

• To protect the bud

• For aesthetic purposes

What shape should the hole be when planting a citrus tree?

• Oval

• Round

• Square

• Triangular

How often should newly planted citrus trees be watered initially?

• Every three or four days

• Once a month

• Every week

• Every day

Why should flowers be removed from young citrus trees in the first year?

• To prevent pests

• To encourage root and tree growth

• To improve fruit quality

• To enhance leaf development

When is the best time to fertilize citrus trees?

• January and February

• November and December

• July and August

• March and April

What is the purpose of keeping mulch around citrus trees?

• To retain moisture and nutrients

• To attract pollinators

• To prevent weeds

• To enhance fruit flavor