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Fruit Trees for South Texas
Fruit Trees for South Texas. South Texas falls into USDA hardiness zones 8 and 9, and constitutes part of the subtropical Sunbelt. This warm, humid region runs from South Texas to Southern California and features hot summers with winter temperatures that never drop under 20 degrees F. The region nurtures some of the more delicate citrus trees, as...
South Texas falls into USDA hardiness zones 8 and 9, and constitutes part of the subtropical Sunbelt. This warm, humid region runs from South Texas to Southern California and features hot summers with winter temperatures that never drop under 20 degrees F. The region nurtures some of the more delicate citrus trees, as well as hardier stone fruit trees.
Grapefruit
According to Aggie Horticulture, grapefruit trees are so productive in Texas that they've become the state fruit. Grapefruits produce best when they get hot days with warm, humid nights, so these trees do best in Zone 9 of South Texas. Once they reach maturity, grapefruits are hardy to the mid-20s F but should get some winter protection. Grapefruits should be planted in south-facing locations for full winter protection, using loamy, well-draining soil and organic compost. They require full sun for eight hours every day and at least 2 inches of water every seven to ten days. Fertilize grapefruit trees once a year after their growth begins.
Oranges
Aggie Horticulture notes that oranges are the most widely grown citrus tree in the US and are especially successful in South Texas. Oranges require warm, humid conditions for full growth and produce sweet, thin-skinned fruit in Texas. These trees are hardy to 20 degrees F but should receive south-facing plantings for protection in the winter. They should be planted in well-draining, loamy soil mixed with organic compost and peat moss. Oranges do best with deep waterings once a week and fertilizer every spring.
Peaches
Peaches are stone fruit trees and are more susceptible to cold than citrus trees, but enjoy the full sun and warmth of South Texas. These are smaller trees than oranges and grapefruits, and are hardy to freezing temperatures. Peach trees need excellent drainage and full air circulation to avoid rotting, so should be planted with plenty of space. They also require spots that have high elevations and well-draining soil, and benefit from addition of organic compost. Give peaches a dose of nitrogen fertilizer in the summer of their first year, and then feed them every month in their second year. Peaches need 2 to 3 inches of water per month.
