Grapefruit are a wonderful source of Vitamin C and are a great breakfast fruit and will add lots of zingy flavour to salads.

Varieties

Wheeny and Golden Special grapefruit varieties are the traditional grapefruit that many would know. Excellent for those who like a strong marmalade.

The red grapefruit varieties such as ‘Star Ruby’ and ‘Cutlers Red’ are becoming very popular. All red varieties are much sweeter than the non-red varieties.

Preparation and Planting

• Choose the variety best suited to your location and needs.
• Select a sunny position with well-drained soil and protection from strong winds and heavy frosts.
• Dig a hole twice the size that is needed and dig in a high-quality soil improver and some organic Citrus fertiliser.
• Remove the new grapefruit plant from the container and tease the roots to encourage root growth in the soil.
• Position the plant in the hole and backfill with the blend of soil/soil improver and gently firm down.  Form a raised or doughnut-shaped ring of soil around the outer edge of the plant’s root zone to keep water where it’s needed.
• Water in well after planting and keep the soil moist for several weeks while the new plant establishes.

Caring for your Grapefruit

• Although quite a drought tolerant once established, grapefruit-like a good regular supply of water for reliable fruit production. Water your tree every 7 to 10 days during the summer.
• Once established, grapefruits are prolific producers of fruit and require generous applications of citrus food. It is best to fertilise your trees in late summer/early autumn and again in late winter/early spring. Be sure to follow the directions on the packet and water well before and after the application.
• Pruning your tree is important to ensure good healthy growth and an abundant harvest of fruit. Pruning is best completed in late winter/early spring after the main harvest. Prune for a well-shaped tree and remove any weak or damaged branches.
• Pest Watch. There are a few pests and diseases that may affect grapefruit trees. These include Scale, Leaf Miner, Stink Bugs, and Sooty Mould. If you spot a problem, bring in a picture and we can advise on the best method of control.

Enjoy the convenience of the harvest of fresh and tasty grapefruits from your own tree.