Grapefruit tree root and limb pruning

Discussion in 'Citrus' started by cds, May 30, 2009.

  1. cds

    cds Member

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    Location:
    Indian Wells, CA
    Our neighbor has decided to build a masonry wall 13" from the base of our 40 year old Marsh Seedless Grapefruit tree. They will also be cutting off all branches hanging over the wall. Their desire is to kill the tree but we have managed to get the City to require that they can only excavate down 8" for the footing at the dripline. In the meantime, how can I begin the excavation and limb pruning process to ensure the likelyhood of the tree living? We are in the desert in California and summers can be very hot. Their time frame will be at any time between June and October for the construction. Thanks for any tips.
     
  2. Millet

    Millet Well-Known Member 10 Years

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    Location:
    Denver,Colorado USA
    The roots of citrus trees normally decent approximately 4 feet into the soil. However, citrus are a primarily a shallow rooted tree with the VAST MAJORITY of the tree's root system in the top 6 - 10 inches. Your tree being 40 years old, could have a root system a little deeper, but still the main root volume will be very shallow. If your "neighbor" goes ahead and cuts through half of the tree roots, by installing the wall, it will actually help the tree if he also follows through by cutting off all the branches on his side of the wall, because your tree will only have 1/2 of it's root system to nourish the canopy. Citrus are easily able to survive strong pruning of their canopy. With good nutrition and correct watering by you, I believe your tree will still survive. Do not apply any type of wound paint to the ends of the cut branches. The tree can heal much better, and quicker if you just let the ends heal them selves. Good luck to this grand old tree. - Millet
     

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