The Impacts of Climate on Citrus Farming

Indeed, climate directly impacts the characteristics and development of any crop. Therefore, the same occurs in citrus farming. For those who do not know, citrus farming is the technique used for planting citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, limes, tangerines, and grapefruits.

In this context, citrus production is present in various regions of Brazil due to the easy adaptation of crops to different climatic conditions, from subtropical to equatorial climates, in humid or dry regions. However, for the plants to yield good fruits year after year in all these locations, it is essential to have knowledge about climatic factors. Thus, to help you, the farmer, understand the stages and needs of citrus crops during the harvests, in today's post from 7MBoots, you will have access to some essential information. Check it out below.

Production Potential of Citrus Plants

Above all, it is important to consider that the productive potential of a citrus plant is significantly influenced by the combination of the crown and rootstock used. Furthermore, other factors can limit planting, including: - Soil characteristics - Crop nutrition - Orchard density - Management techniques - Climatic conditions throughout the production cycle.

Additionally, it is essential to remember that citrus plants develop more easily in regions with a mild climate, with fertile soils, and in areas with higher chances of rainfall throughout the year. Therefore, the ideal temperature for citrus production is, at most, 25°C and at least 10°C.

Moreover, we understand the “ideal temperature” as the one where the plant has the potential to reach its maximum production capacity. However, obviously, there are citrus productions in locations where temperatures do not meet these parameters.

The Impacts of Climate on Citrus Farming

Indeed, citrus plants are considered perennial. This means they stay in the field for long periods, exposed to the most varied climatic conditions. Thus, any changes that occur from one year to the next can cause a severe change in the behavior of the plants. Additionally, the production cycle of a citrus plant varies from six to 16 months and involves everything from flower emergence in the cultivars to fruit harvesting.

Stages of the Production Cycle

The term “phenology” designates the stages of production of citrus fruits and studies the relationship between the production cycle and environmental changes. Therefore, knowing and understanding these relationships aids in harvest planning and the implementation of citrus farming. Indeed, the most important stages that comprise the phenology of citrus are: floral induction, vegetative rest, flowering, fruit initiation, maturation process, and harvest point.

In conclusion, cowboys and cowgirls, did you enjoy learning a bit more about The Impacts of Climate on Citrus Farming? Stay tuned to the 7MBoots website, as we will have many updates coming up soon!

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