Few plants are as iconic in the Coachella Valley as the orange tree. With glossy green leaves, fragrant spring blossoms, and vibrant fruit, orange trees are both beautiful and productive additions to desert landscapes.
Thanks to our abundant sunshine and mild winters, orange trees thrive in the Valley when given proper care. Popular varieties such as Valencia and Navel oranges perform especially well in residential yards.
Why it works in the desert
Orange trees love full sun and heat — both of which the Coachella Valley has plenty of. While they are not native desert plants, they adapt well with thoughtful irrigation and soil management. Mature trees can provide welcome shade along with seasonal fruit.
Water smart
Proper irrigation is key to healthy citrus.
- Water deeply and infrequently to encourage strong roots.
- Mature trees should be watered deeply enough to soak the soil 2–3 feet down.
- Increase watering during peak summer heat and reduce during winter.
- Place drip emitters around the tree’s drip line (outer canopy edge), not at the trunk.
Avoid shallow, frequent watering, which can weaken roots and wastewater.
Care and maintenance
Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch to help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature, keeping mulch a few inches away from the trunk. Fertilize with a citrus-specific fertilizer several times per year to support fruit production. Yellowing leaves may indicate nutrient deficiencies, which are common in our alkaline soils.
Protect exposed trunks from extreme summer sun, and periodically deep-water to help flush salts below the root zone.
A sweet reward
With proper care, orange trees can produce fruit for decades, offering fresh juice, shade, and the unmistakable fragrance of citrus blossoms each spring.
For more water-wise tips and rebate information, visit CVWaterCounts.com.
