Citrus roots are very demanding in oxygen, required for their respiration and the absorption of nutrients and water. Good soil aeration is essential for the good development and production of the plant and to give it greater tolerance against pathogens that can affect the root.
▶ In addition to oxygen, citrus crops require high amounts of mineral or nutritional elements that allow them to complete their phenological cycles without major problems.
▶ Credits: crops – [Image of Public Domain]
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The effects of poor drainage induce the death of the root system, the poor development of this, which occurs in heavy soils (clay), is also a consequence of the lack of oxygen (root asphyxia), the accumulation of toxic gases formed (sulfites, methanes and carbon dioxide).
And on the other hand, the higher concentration of elements such as iron, manganese and salts. A good citrus soil should not offer obstacles that prevent the normal development of the roots, at least in the first two meters (compaction zones, rocks, water table).
The three main characteristics that a soil should have for citrus planting are: aeration, good drainage and effective depth. The physical properties of a soil are considered more important than fertility, because they are difficult to modify, while the chemical properties are relatively easier and cheaper to correct with the application of fertilizers.
It is important to know the chemical composition of the soil where the citrus orchard is to be installed, as this provides valuable information about its richness and physical composition, which must be evaluated with a key instrument called soil analysis.
NOTE: Reference material.