Navel Orange

Plant Type: Citrus
Plant Height: 10-20 feet
Spread: 10-15 feet
Flower Color: orange
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Navel Orange Tree - Sweet, Seedless Oranges for Phoenix Gardens

The Navel Orange (Citrus sinensis 'Navel') is a beloved citrus variety, prized for its sweet, seedless fruit and ornamental beauty. Known for the signature navel formation on each orange, this tree offers Phoenix Valley gardeners both delicious fruit and year-round aesthetic appeal, thriving in the area's sunny climate.

Key Features of the Navel Orange Tree

• Seedless, Sweet Fruit: Navel Oranges are round with bright orange skin, seedless, and exceptionally sweet—perfect for fresh eating.
• Distinctive Appearance: The fruit’s iconic "navel" formation at the blossom end makes it easily recognizable.
• Fragrant Blossoms: White, aromatic flowers bloom in spring, attracting pollinators and adding beauty to the garden.

Growing Navel Orange Trees in the Phoenix Valley

1. Sunlight: Plant in full sun (6–8 hours daily) to maximize sweetness and fruit production. A sunny, south-facing spot is ideal.

2. Soil and Drainage: Navel Oranges thrive in well-draining soil. Amend with organic matter if necessary to enhance drainage.

3. Watering: Regular watering is essential, especially during Phoenix’s hot summer months. Ensure deep watering to establish strong roots, while avoiding overwatering.

4. Frost Protection: While Navel Orange trees can handle cooler temperatures, protect them from frost by covering young trees during cold spells.

Benefits of Growing Navel Oranges in Phoenix

Navel Orange trees are particularly well-suited to Arizona’s climate, benefiting from the ample sunlight and warm temperatures. The seedless, sweet fruit ripens in late fall to winter, making it a delightful treat in the cooler months.

Key Benefits:

• Sweet, Seedless Oranges: Ideal for fresh eating with a juicy, flavorful profile.
• Aromatic Blossoms: Fragrant white flowers add a lovely scent and attract pollinators.
• Easy Care: Tolerates dry conditions once established and performs well in hot climates.
• Ornamental Value: Attractive glossy leaves, vibrant fruit, and rounded canopy enhance any garden.
• Extended Harvest: Provides a reliable winter harvest, perfect for holiday season enjoyment.

Care Tips for Optimal Growth

Navel Orange trees require full sun and consistent watering, especially during dry spells. Use well-draining soil and avoid waterlogged conditions. Fertilize in early spring to support growth and flowering, and apply mulch to retain soil moisture.

Add the Flavor of Navel Oranges to Your Phoenix Garden

For Phoenix Valley gardeners, the Navel Orange tree combines practical fruit production with ornamental appeal. With its seedless, sweet fruit, beautiful blossoms, and ease of care, this tree is a must-have for those looking to enjoy fresh oranges and enhance their outdoor spaces.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Navel Orange

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 8 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth and fruit production)
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy or slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-7.0)
• Spacing: Space trees 10-12 feet apart to allow for optimal growth and air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Navel Orange trees may require light staking during early growth, but become self-supporting once mature

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 3-4 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 3-4 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Navel Orange is considered established after 6-8 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 3-4 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 18-24 inches away from the base of the tree to ensure deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 2-4 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 2-3 emitters per tree for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering frequency to every 5-7 days. In winter, reduce to every 3-4 weeks