Citrus trees are typically very spindly and tend to branch from the base of the tree. In order to raise productive trees, pruning is a must. A well-pruned citrus tree could be kept the size of a bush or even raised in a pot without hampering its ability to produce.

Pruning Tip: Citrus fruit only forms on new stem growth so branch ends should be pruned to urge new growth. Since it is very important for branches with fruit to have adequate sunlight, each year branches should be thinned and those “inside” the crown removed altogether to increase sunlight penetration.

Did you know?

Bananas are not really trees but are a large grass species. They are monocots. Bananas are also sterile; although producing both male and female flowers the banana fruit does not contain seeds. Bananas will flower after they produce 30 leaves, usually in eight to 13 months. Male flowers are purple and located at the end of the stem; female flowers are enclosed in bracts containing six to seven “hands,” each with eight to 16 bananas, also known as “fingers.” Once the plant flowers, the fruit will ripen within 5 months.