Orange, Washington Navel
Scientific Name: Citrus sinensis 'Washington'
History/general species info: Navel oranges supposedly originated in the Mediterranean area from where they were taken to Brazil, and were introduced by the U.S.D.A. to the United States from Brazil in 1873, where they were used to start the commercial orange orchards in California.
Characteristics: Evergreen, shiny/glossy leaves. Beautiful, waxy, white flowers smell absolutely incredible and will perfume your whole yard. Exceptionally delicious fruit, seedless, thick rind that is easy to peel. Highly productive. Fruit has a long hang time on the tree. Considered one of the best oranges to eat fresh. A single tree will produce fruit, but two or more will result in the largest fruit set.
Flower: yes; white, fragrant
Planting / Care: Requires fertile well-drained soil. Requires a moderate amount of watering. Follow a regular watering schedule during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Watering can be reduced after establishment. Feed with a citrus fertilizer in spring; repeat in fall. Pruning time: winter. Suckers, growth emerging below the graft, should be removed any time they are observed. Harvest time: September-October, will store on tree into February-March. For detailed citrus care information click here.
Size and Spacing: Height 15-20 feet. Width 20-30 feet
Pollinator needed to bear fruit: No; self-pollinating
Links:
Diagnosis of Common Citrus Problems:
https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/extension/homefruit/citrus/table2.html
Growing Healthy Citrus in the Backyard
https://mastergardenerssandiego.org/newclass/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Growing-Citrus-San-Diego-2016.pdf
