Soil management in citrus farming is the foundation of agronomic sustainability and fruit quality. Proper management ensures healthy roots, efficient water and nutrient use, and the longevity of the plantation.

The strategy is based on a deep understanding of soil properties, focusing on physics, chemistry, and biology.

1. Foundations of Soil Management for Citrus 🔬

Management begins with the precise characterization of the soil to adapt it to the specific needs of the citrus.

A. Soil Chemistry (Fertility and pH)

• Periodic Analysis: Soil and foliar analyses are performed regularly to determine the levels of available nutrients (, , ) and micronutrients (). This allows fertilizers to be applied only at the required dose and time (Precision Fertigation), avoiding waste and contamination.
• Optimal pH: Citrus trees prefer slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 6.0 – 7.0). In regions with calcareous (alkaline) soils, management should focus on:
  • pH correction: Application of sulfur or use of fertilizers that acidify the root zone.
  • Chelates: Application of iron chelates (Fe-EDDHA for pH > 7.5) to ensure the absorption of micronutrients, which are blocked in alkaline soils.

B. Soil Physics (Structure and Drainage)

• Texture: The best soils are sandy loam or loam, as they allow for good aeration and drainage. Soil that is too clayey (“heavy”) can cause waterlogging, root asphyxiation, and promote fungal diseases (such as Phytophthora spp.).
• Avoid Compaction: The use of heavy machinery is minimized, or reduced tillage or no-till farming is employed, to protect the soil structure and its porosity.

2. Sustainable and Regenerative Practices 🌿

Modern citrus farming is committed to improving the biological health of the soil.

A. Increase in Organic Matter (OM)

Organic matter is crucial, as it improves water retention, soil structure, and nutrient availability. It is promoted through:

• Organic Fertilization: Application of compost, well-decomposed manure or shredded pruning waste.
• Green manures: Cultivation of cover plants between the rows of trees (such as legumes) that are mowed and incorporated into the soil, providing organic matter and fixing nitrogen.

B. Management of Plant Cover

Instead of keeping the soil completely clean with herbicides, cover crops are used to:

• Erosion Control: Natural or planted vegetation protects the soil from water (rain) and wind erosion.
• Biodiversity: They promote beneficial fauna, contributing to the biological control of pests.
• Controlled Water Competition: The covers are mowed at critical times (such as flowering) to eliminate competition for water, and are allowed to grow at other times, releasing nutrients.

C. Combatting “Soil Fatigue”

When a citrus plot is replanted on top of another that was also previously planted with citrus, soil fatigue can occur, affecting the development of the new plants. This can be combated by:

• Disinfection (if necessary): Use of chemical or solar techniques (solarization) before replanting.
• Biostimulation: Application of mycorrhizae (beneficial fungi) and other microorganisms to improve root absorption capacity, increase resistance to pathogens, and revitalize the soil.

thread of sustainable competitiveness.