Growing Guide: Cara Cara Red Navel Orange

Plant Type	Perennial Fruit Tree
Harvest Season	Winter to Early Spring
Mature Size	10-15 feet tall, 8-12 feet wide
Soil & Moisture	Well-draining, sandy loam soil; moderate moisture with good drainage
Light Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Rate	Moderate
Self-fertile	Yes
Zone Hardiness	Outdoors 9-11 depending on variety; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Propagation	Grafted and capable of producing fruit this growing season or in up to 2-3 years.

Climate: Cara Cara Oranges thrive in warm, temperate to subtropical climates and are best suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11. The tree prefers temperatures between 60-85°F and can tolerate brief periods of cold, though protection from frost is necessary. In cooler climates, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter.
Soil: Prefers well-draining, sandy loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). The tree benefits from soil enriched with organic matter, such as compost, but excellent drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.

Location: Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Cara Cara Oranges perform best in full sun, which is essential for vigorous growth and vibrant fruit color.
Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by tilling and adding compost or organic matter to enhance fertility and drainage.
Planting Time: Plant in the spring after the last frost, when the soil has warmed up. In Florida and similar regions, summer planting is also beneficial due to the abundance of rain, which aids in establishing young trees. If planting in containers, ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate the tree’s growth and has adequate drainage.
Spacing: Space trees 8-12 feet apart to allow adequate room for growth and air circulation.

Consistent Moisture: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Cara Cara Oranges require moderate watering, especially during dry spells, but should not be overwatered.
Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Full Sun: Ensure the tree receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production. Sun exposure is key to developing the rich red color in the fruit.

Growing Season: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and abundant fruiting. Supplement with a citrus-specific fertilizer during the growing season to support fruit development and enhance color.
Frequency: Fertilize every 6-8 weeks during the growing season for optimal growth.

Routine Pruning: Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree. Regular pruning helps to maintain a manageable size and promotes better air circulation and light penetration.
Maintenance: Cara Cara Oranges are relatively low-maintenance once established. Keep the area around the tree clear of weeds and debris to prevent pests and diseases.

Common Pests: Monitor for pests such as aphids, scale, and citrus leafminers. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
Diseases: While Cara Cara Oranges are relatively disease-resistant, it’s important to watch for signs of citrus canker, anthracnose, and root rot. Ensure proper spacing, good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering to reduce disease risk.

When to Harvest: Cara Cara Oranges typically ripen from winter to early spring. The fruit is ready to pick when it reaches full color and feels firm to the touch. The flesh color intensifies as the fruit matures.
How to Harvest: Gently twist or cut the fruit from the tree, leaving a small portion of the stem attached. Enjoy the fruit fresh, as juice, or in various culinary dishes.