Trials of containerized satsuma trees grown in a screened facility will soon begin in Louisiana, reported Louisiana State University (LSU) AgCenter horticulture Extension agent Anna Timmerman. She discussed the trials during the recent virtual 2021 LSU AgCenter Citrus Symposium.
Research objectives include determining optimal planting density and yield. Field days for growers will likely be conducted in 2022, and a management guide will be produced for growers, Timmerman said.
Satsuma trees in the trial will be planted in air-pruning Smart Pots that eliminate the need for pruning and help to dwarf the trees. Satsumas grafted to a dwarfing rootstock will be grown in soilless media and fertilized and irrigated via fertigation. The satsumas will be planted at densities of 500, 1,000, 1,500 and 2,000 trees per acre.
It will take two or three years before fruit is picked from the trees, “but …..
Learn more about Growing Containerized Satsumas Under Screen on the Citrus Industry website.]