Citrus Problems of Immature Fruit Falling From the Tree

Identification

• Citrus trees normally retain only 1 to 2 percent of fruitlets responsible for fruit set. The remaining fruitlets drop when fruit is pea-sized and at the end of the flowering period. However, trees suffering from immature fruit loss start to lose even their 1 to 2 percent required fruitlets and young fruit. (Reference 2)

Cause

• Immature fruit drop is common in trees that are growing under cultural stress. Citrus trees that are planted in very sandy soils are more prone to the disorder. Pest infestations also weaken trees and leads to fruit loss. Immature fruit loss occurs when citrus is less than an inch in diameter.

Management

• Keeping trees in good health is among the best preventative measures for immature fruit loss. Irrigate and fertilize trees adequately using slow release fertilizers or compost. Avoid planting trees in excessively windy areas. (Reference 2)