My Oranges Are Splitting Terribly: How Can I overcome Orange Splitting?

 Encountering splitted oranges on your tree is one of the most disappointing things you will come across as you take a walk in your farm. Your mind will get rolling wondering what reason that could be. Worry not! In this article, I will explore a number of possible causes why your oranges could be splitting and suggest ways on how you can stop that. Keep reading!

A photo of Splitted Oranges

Causes of orange splitting.

The main cause of fruit splitting is often attributed to fluctuations in environmental conditions, particularly.

• Inconsistent watering-Fluctuations in watering, particularly irregular deep watering followed by dry periods, can cause oranges to split. When the soil becomes overly dry and then suddenly receives a large amount of water, the fruit may expand too quickly, leading to splitting.

Management: Maintain a regular watering schedule to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Deep, infrequent watering is preferable to frequent shallow watering. Adding a layer of mulch around the base of the tree also helps retain soil moisture.

• Temperature fluctuations- Rapid changes in temperatures, especially during the ripening period, can stress the fruit and result in splitting. This is particularly common in regions where temperatures vary greatly between day and night.

Managing temperatures to reduce the risk of fruit splitting involves implementing practices that help moderate temperature extremes and minimize stress on the fruit. They include mulching whereby organic mulch is applied around the base of the plant to help regulate soil temperature and moisture. Maintaining consistent and adequate irrigation is also necessary to help regulate and provide moisture to the trees during hot weather.

• Varietal susceptibility – Certain orange varieties are more prone to splitting than others. Varieties with thinner or more delicate skins are generally more susceptible to splitting under adverse conditions. Navel oranges are more associated with splitting though other varieties may split as well.
• Nutritional deficiency- Nutritional deficiency, particularly minerals like boron and calcium can weaken cell walls and affect the fruit structure making the fruit prone to splitting as it expands.

Managing fruit splitting due to nutritional deficiencies involves addressing the underlying nutrient imbalances. This is only made possible by conducting soil tests to determine the nutrient levels and adjusting fertilization accordingly. You can also use foliar sprays that contain the deficient nutrients to provide a quick uptake for the plants, especially during critical growth stages.

• Pests and Diseases – Damage caused by pests or diseases, such as citrus borers or fungal infections, can weaken the fruit’s skin and make it more prone to splitting.

Management: Prune trees to improve air circulation and reduce humidity which can prevent fungal diseases. Apply the ideal insecticides or fungicides as recommended by your farm expert.