Citrus Farming Business

It may seem intimidating for some people, especially the city folk, to think of citrus farming as viable source of income. But this tutorial will help you understand that it doesn’t take more than patience, a good understanding of the citrus trees’ lives to help you start up the wonderful world of the citrus farming business.

There are four important species of citrus: the Citrus aurantfolia (Key Lime), Citrus maxima (Pomelo), Citrus medica (Citron), and Citrus reticulata (Mandarin Orange and Tangerine).

Most commonly used is the Mandarin Orange. You must choose your species wisely as certain species work for certain climates only. This might dictate what your business could take route. Would you want a late-bloomer for those cold winters or those for summer where people would use them for orange juice? It would depend mostly on the species you would choose.

Primer for the Citrus Farming Business

When choosing lots to buy for the citrus farm, you have to choose those that have moist, but not too wet soil. It is suggested that you should test the soil’s viability, dig a hole 12 inches wide and 18 inches deep. Fill it up with water and see it drain out. If it takes more than two days for the water to drain, it is best to change the location. This means that the soil isn’t too good for the citrus. This should be done on all planting sites to prevent bad citrus trees. Remember, this takes a lot of time. It’s better to do this at an early step or waste months waiting for a bad tree to grow.

Location is a very important factor in purchasing lots. The wind speed, sunlight exposure, and such play an important factor in the growth of the citrus. Spaces between trees and rows are important in terms in absorbing sunlight, water, and air and to provide an easy access of labor and equipment.

There are many ways in planting the citrus. The traditional way is the use of seeds but may possibly take years to build. Mix the soil constantly with mulch and manure. Make sure that the area gets much sunlight and water. Water the young tree two to three times in its first week and once or twice in the succeeding weeks.

Weeds should be kept free from the area as possible, as these are the major disrupters of the growth and development of the citrus. There are some pests that are perennial to disrupting the growth. It is suggested that you have someone keep them in check at least once a week.

Citrus Farm Startup Cost

When compared to other businesses, citrus may take a longer time for a return of startup cost, but usually the return will be bigger than the investment in the long run. All it takes is just patience for the business to bloom. It usually takes around five years for the business to start earning. Since the orange is a seasonal plant, it does come with its advantages and disadvantages. But patience would help you win in the end.

16 Comments

  • mahmoud atef said on December 7, 2009
    i am worked a researcher, el harm - el giza - Egypt
  • Roger Linnemann said on February 6, 2010
    I have a commercial grapefruit orchard, 1700, trees, 15 acres in the Rio Grand valley Texas. Can you tell me where I can find a catalog to check on the price of the many different chemicals my farmer uses. Also about what should it cost per acre to maintain an orchard of this size. It produces about 300-350 tons of Rio red grapefruit per year.
  • Daniel Gage said on January 5, 2011
    United Kingdom Great Britain. We are looking into the feasibility of starting up our own small scale citrus fruit plantation here in the UK to meet a small, local demand. But we need expert advice and knowledge regarding temperatures, fruit yeild, care of the plantation and so on. I would be most grateful if you could get in touch and assist us in our enquiries. If you wish to get in touch via phone, I can be contacted on my mobile on 07850043243. Kind regards, Daniel Gage
  • May V. said on January 28, 2011
    United State California Sacramento..I have three acres and I want to start a small citrus farm for my family. Needs help don't know where to start or how but love farming / gardening. This will be my retirement project. Greatly appreciate with any help. May V.
  • Saif said on February 9, 2012
    Pakistan sargodha i have 10 acres land and i want to start a citrus farm (Kino) need help do not know how to start especially row to row and tree to tree distance
  • Gaurav Mohan said on September 27, 2012
    I am from Mahnar ,Vaishali ,Bihar ,India. I want to know deeply about marigold farming and the sources to get its seeds.
  • Nike said on October 11, 2012
    I'm planning to have an orchard establishment of apparently 50 acres of citrus species in Oyo state Nigeria. I be glad if u can put me through the establishment and management process. I will be looking forward for you favorable response. Thanks in anticipation.
  • regis matsika said on March 11, 2013
    what type of soils and climatic conditions are best for oranges and which varieties are most suitable for commercial productions in Gweru ,Zimbabwe , Africa .
  • James Aker said on April 5, 2014
    To farm is to be located in Benue State Nigeria, I need the cost and benefit if venture into it
  • Sailesh said on August 19, 2014
    Hello, I would like to start up an orange farm in Nairobi Kenya. Please advise me on how I can start. Sailesh
  • Bankole said on December 19, 2014
    Hello @nike, am a Nigerian and an horticulturist that have special interest and knowledge in citrus plantation establishments and management. I can help you realize your dream of starting the prolific business of citrus plantation. You can contact me on 08067868805
  • clive said on January 12, 2015
    My farm name is Famous Farmers (cams)1 canal village amuwo-odofin lagos nigeria
  • mukoum Daniel said on April 30, 2015
    I am in the north west region of cameroon. I want to open an orange plantation let me know if these is possible
  • Michael said on February 28, 2016
    I'm thinking of relocation to West Africa from the US and need more detailed information on how to get started with establishing a citrus farm in West Africa.
  • Tarek jroush said on September 16, 2016
    hello every body i want to start new business of citrus do you know company who knows all the steps of care during the season and after cutting what type of product i can use to care of the citrus stand for 3 month and how long the lemon can stand after cutting
  • Elisha Muguti said on August 15, 2022
    Hello there! I want to start a citrus orchard, particularly with oranges on my land. Can you provide information regarding land preparation, selecting the suitable orange variety, fertilization methods (including types of fertilizers), general care for the plantation, and harvesting? My farm is near Kadoma City in Mashonaland West Province, Zimbabwe, in Southern Africa. Thank you!

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