Valencia Orange Tree for Sale - Buying & Growing Guide

Planting and Care

by John Haryasz | Horticulture Writer and Landscape Designer – last update on April 27, 2022

Planting instructions

Before planting a Valencia orange tree, you need to find a location that receives plenty of direct sun exposure each day. The area should also have excellent soil drainage as well. Dig a hole that is considerably wider than the root ball and a bit less deep than the root ball is tall. Those growing this plant in zones 8 or warmer can do so outdoors year-round. Anyone in a cooler climate should overwinter their Valencia orange tree in a large enough container to give the root system plenty of space.

Watering and nutrients

After planting a Valencia orange tree, water it multiple times per week. Once the tree has become established, you can reduce your watering schedule, but remain consistent. A weekly watering during the growing season should make for ample fruit production. Fertilize this plant in the early spring, late spring, and once again later in the season. You can use a fertilizer that is marketed for citrus trees, or you can choose a general-purpose mix that has equal amounts of each main macronutrient.

Pollination

Like many citrus trees, the Valencia orange tree relies on insects to conduct pollination. Likewise, these plants are self-fertile, meaning that you don’t necessarily need to have more than one to produce fruit. Despite that, having more than one Valencia orange tree will only increase and improve your orange production. Having multiple trees usually makes for better quality fruits than if you only have one. The flowers arrive in spring and, after receiving pollination, give way to a relatively long fruit harvest.

Pruning

Valencia orange trees will often survive in the absence of judicious pruning. However, there are several benefits to performing a seasonal pruning job. You can prune this plant either at the very beginning of the season, before the bloom time, or after the fruits have been harvested. In either case, you should focus on removing any part of the tree that shows significant damage or signs of decline. You should also prune to promote a stronger form that will be better capable of holding the fruit to come.

Pests, diseases, and animals

There are several pests and diseases that can be bothersome for a Valencia orange tree. In the former case, leafminers, aphids, and mites are among the insects that can cause infestation. Regarding disease, there are several fungal and bacterial infections that can take place. One of the most common infections, which afflicts many citrus fruits, is citrus canker. You’ll notice spots of discoloration on your plant’s leaves if it contracts this illness. Such problems are often the result of excessive heat and humidity, but there can be other causes.

Harvesting

A Valencia orange tree will be ready for harvest from late spring through the summer. During this time, the tree may produce one or two distinct harvests for you to enjoy. When a Valencia orange is ready to be picked, it will have a bright orange color, as you would expect, and it should be relatively plump and give off a pleasant fragrance. Removing these fruits is quite easy. You can use your hands to loosen a harvestable orange, and it should detach from the branch with ease.

Achieving maximum results

There are a few keys to getting the most out of your Valencia orange tree. First, you should ensure that this tree remains warm and in full sun exposure. Generally, the more warmth and light this tree receives, the better its fruits will be. You should also be aware of the many pests and diseases that can befall this plant. Many of these issues will affect the quality of your fruit and may also threaten the life of your tree. Remain vigilant and treat these problems right away to keep your tree as healthy as possible.

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