So, late fall into the winter or early spring is when to harvest grapefruit. The downside is that storing on the tree reduces the yield the succeeding year. This method enables you to “store” the fruit for a longer period of time than if you picked it all at once. Mature fruit may be left on the tree and, in fact, will sweeten throughout the winter. Generally speaking however, late autumn is when grapefruits are ready to pick. Grapefruit is sweeter in regions of hot days and warm to hot nights, and more acidic in cooler areas. Grapefruit harvest time may take place in seven to eight months in one area and up to thirteen months in another area due to temperature differences. Therefore, temperature fluxes affect grapefruit harvest time. As a heat lover, grapefruit is cold sensitive. It was introduced into the United States in 1823 and is now a major commercial export of the state of Texas, which has designated the red grapefruit as its state fruit. It was first described in 1750 in Barbados and the first record of the word “grapefruit” used in Jamaica in 1814. Any fruit set in the first or second years should be removed to direct all its energy into growth.Grapefruit most probably originated as a natural hybridization between the orange and the pummelo (pomelo) or Citrus maximus. Keep in mind that newly planted grapefruit trees will take at least three years before producing quality fruit. Over-ripened fruit, which may appear lumpy, should be discarded. The longer the fruit remains on the tree, however, the larger and sweeter it becomes. Once the fruits have turned yellow or gold in color, they're ready for picking. Generally, harvesting takes place in fall. Generally, blankets, tarps, or burlap provide adequate winter protection. Although many people prefer to simply mulch around the tree, it is advisable to leave at least a foot (31 cm.) of space between the trunk and mulch to avoid any problems with root rot. Winter protection may be needed for areas prone to frost or freezing. Don't prune your tree unless removing old weakened or dead branches. You can also add light fertilizer during irrigation every four to six weeks. Then you can begin watering deeply once a week, except during dry periods when additional water may be needed. After planting, you should water every few days for the first couple weeks. While minimal, grapefruit tree care is essential to maintain its overall health and production. Also, be sure that the bud union remains above the soil. Setting it any lower will lead to standing water and cause rotting. Keep the soil level with the surrounding area or slightly mound it. Then water the soil and allow it to settle before backfilling with the remaining soil. After placing the tree in the hole, backfill halfway with soil, firmly pressing down to squeeze out any air bubbles. Dig the planting hole both wide and deep enough to accommodate the roots. Keep in mind that those planted in spring must contend with the heat of summer while fall-planted trees must endure the hardships of unseasonably cold winters. Grapefruit trees can be planted in spring or fall, depending on where you're located and what works best for you and your region's conditions. Keep the tree at least 12 feet (4 m.) from buildings, walks, driveways, etc. For instance, when planting a grapefruit tree, an area on the southernmost side of the home not only offers the most sun but also provides optimal winter protection. Choosing a suitable location is also important. Always get the planting area ready beforehand, amending the soil if necessary.
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