Citrus is not only a vital part of our economy in Florida but it’s also a major component in our landscapes. Having grown up in the major grapefruit producing region of Florida, the citrus industry is near to my heart. So, for me, it is very exciting to see all of the interest in the citrus industry in North Florida despite the devastation the industry is facing in South Florida. With many folks spending more time outdoors and investing in their landscape, I wanted to share some ways residents can enjoy citrus in their landscape all while protecting the future of the citrus industry in our region!
Start with Identification!
It’s important to be aware of some of the major pests and diseases affecting citrus. Fortunately for us in the Panhandle, many of the major pests and diseases troubling citrus to the south haven’t become *quite* as widespread in our area, and with your help we can keep it that way! Regularly scouting the citrus in your landscape and detecting any major pests or diseases early will be very important to prevent it from spreading.
Citrus Greening (HLB)
The first major disease all Floridians should be aware of is citrus greening. Citrus greening or huanglongbing (HLB) is the major disease affecting the citrus industry worldwide. It is a bacterial disease caused by the bacteria Candidatus Liberibacter. The bacterium is spread from tree to tree by a tiny insect known as the Asian citrus psyllid. Psyllids spread the disease by feeding on infected trees and moving on to non-infected trees. Once the tree is infected, there’s little hope for survival as there is no cure for citrus greening.
Citrus greening can be difficult to diagnose as it can be easily confused with nutrient deficiency. Symptoms of citrus greening include yellowing of the veins and a blotchy mottle pattern. Nutrient deficiencies tend to have a symmetrical pattern on each side of the leaf vein whereas citrus greening is asymmetrical. Overall, a tree infected with citrus greening will appear unhealthy with discolored leaves, a thin canopy, and reduced fruit production.
Citrus Canker
Another disease to be on the lookout for is citrus canker. Citrus canker is also caused by a bacterial pathogen but is spread primarily though wind, rain and human movement. Citrus canker is highly contagious and can spread very rapidly. Transporting infected plant material from an area where canker is present is the primary means of spreading the pathogen.
Purchase from a certified nursery!
One of the absolute most important things you can do if you are planting citrus is to purchase your trees from a certified citrus nursery! A certified nursery has been inspected by the state of Florida to confirm that the nursery is producing clean, disease-free trees. Citrus trees grown in a certified nursery will have a tag with:
- Nursery name and registration number
- Tree variety
- Rootstock
When buying a tree from a secondary retailer such as a garden center or retail nursery, you will want to be sure to inspect trees carefully. Look for:
- Dark green, healthy foliage
- A smooth, undamaged trunk
- No signs of pests, spots, or wilting
Support Healthy Trees
Proper care helps trees remain vigorous and better able to withstand stress. Key practices include:
- Selecting and properly planting cold tolerant varieties for our area
- Watering appropriately
- Fertilizing based on UF/IFAS recommendations
- Pruning only as needed to maintain structure and remove dead wood
Keeping the Panhandle free of citrus greening and citrus canker will play a major role in the success of the citrus industry in North Florida. If you suspect a pest or disease issue or need help with citrus care, contact your local Extension agent for guidance and up-to-date recommendations.
For more information on growing citrus, please visit:
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