
By: Jacob Kelley, Regional Extension Agent, Commercial Horticulture, jtk0016@auburn.edu | www.MobileCountyMasterGardeners.org
Protecting Your Citrus Trees: Tips for Surviving Gulf Coast Freeze Events
This January, Mobile and Pensacola experienced record-breaking snowfall, with over seven inches in Mobile and nearly nine inches in Pensacola. As the storm rolled in, local residents called the Mobile County Extension office in a panic, asking how they could protect their citrus trees from the cold. Whether you're a seasoned citrus grower or new to the hobby, this guide offers essential tips to safeguard your trees during future freeze events.
Select the Right Tree and Rootstock
When purchasing a citrus tree, it’s essential to buy locally grown varieties that are grafted onto a trifoliate orange rootstock. While trifoliate oranges produce small, inedible fruit and are full of thorns, they are highly cold-tolerant and can withstand temperatures as low as 0°F. This rootstock helps your citrus trees better endure cold weather, offering a vital first line of defense against freezing temperatures. Citrus grafted onto trifoliate orange rootstock also benefits from better cold tolerance depending on the tree’s variety and the severity of the cold.
Choosing Cold-Hardy Citrus Varieties
Not all citrus trees have the same tolerance to cold temperatures. Cold-hardy varieties like kumquats and Satsuma mandarins are ideal for Gulf Coast climates. When grafted onto trifoliate orange rootstock and properly acclimated, these varieties can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°F for short periods. However, damage can begin at temperatures of 20°F or lower. Other citrus varieties, such as tangerines, navel oranges, and grapefruit, are more vulnerable, with damage occurring between 26°F and 28°F. Lemons and limes are particularly sensitive to the cold, showing signs of damage once temperatures dip below freezing.
Site Selection for Freeze Protection
Where you plant your citrus trees plays a significant role in their ability to withstand cold weather. Choose a location that is sheltered from the winter’s prevailing winds for additional protection. Avoid planting citrus trees too close to structures—at least six feet away—to prevent future issues as the tree matures. Proper site selection is an important preventative measure that can help ensure your tree’s survival during freezes.
Container Growing for Easy Protection
For those concerned about freezing temperatures, growing citrus in containers offers a practical solution. Many local gardeners in areas as far north as Birmingham have successfully grown citrus in pots with the right planning. A tree grown in a large, sturdy container can be moved indoors or to a protected area during freeze events. Ensure the tree is grafted onto a dwarf trifoliate orange rootstock, which is better suited for container growing. A container holding at least five gallons of soil is ideal; larger containers will help prevent the tree from tipping over in strong winds.
Protecting In-Ground Citrus Trees
For trees planted in the ground, there are several techniques to reduce freeze damage. The most crucial aspect of freeze protection is safeguarding the graft union—the area where the rootstock and the desired variety meet. This can often be identified by a change in the texture of the bark, along with scarring or a swollen trunk.
One effective method is soil banking, where soil is mounded around the graft union to insulate it from the cold. After the freeze has passed, remove the soil to prevent injury to the tree. Additionally, covering the tree with tarps, blankets, or frost cloth can offer protection. Be sure the material reaches the ground without touching the tree to avoid damage. You can also use incandescent holiday lights wrapped around the graft union to provide extra warmth.
Post-Freeze Care
After a freeze, it’s natural to wonder if your tree has survived. The best course of action is to be patient—don’t take any drastic measures right away. Trees are stressed after a freeze, and it may take until late spring or early summer before new growth begins to appear. If no growth is visible by June, it may be time to consider replacing the tree.
Once you’re confident that your tree is alive, prune away any dead or damaged wood to prevent disease and pests. A broad-spectrum fungicide designed for citrus can help protect new growth. Fertilizing with a soil test-based approach will also encourage recovery, but keep in mind that citrus trees may take several years to fully recover from freeze damage.
By following these tips, Gulf Coast residents can enjoy healthier, more resilient citrus trees during the unpredictable winter months. For additional guidance on caring for your citrus trees, visit your local extension office or explore more resources online at www.aces.edu.


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