Why Oranges Split and How to Prevent It

Oranges are a popular citrus fruit that are enjoyed around the world for their sweet and tangy flavor. Unfortunately, one frustrating issue that many orange growers face is when their oranges start to split open. This can happen for a variety of reasons, and can result in damaged or unusable fruit. In this article, we’ll explore why oranges split and what you can do to prevent it from happening.

What Causes Oranges to Split?

There are several factors that can contribute to oranges splitting:

• Inconsistent watering: If an orange tree receives inconsistent amounts of water, the fruit may grow too quickly in response to sudden influxes of moisture. This can cause the skin to stretch and split open.
• Heavy rain: Similarly, heavy rains can also cause oranges to absorb too much water too quickly, leading to splitting.
• Hot weather: When temperatures rise above 90°F, oranges may experience a phenomenon called “thermal loosening,” where the skin becomes more flexible and prone to splitting.
• Insect damage: Certain insects, such as stink bugs and fruit flies, can puncture the skin of the fruit and cause it to split.

How Can You Prevent Oranges From Splitting?

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent oranges from splitting entirely, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk:

• Maintain consistent watering: Water your orange trees regularly and consistently, so the fruit has a chance to grow at a steady rate without sudden spikes in moisture.
• Protect against heavy rain: Cover your orange trees with a canopy or tarp during periods of heavy rain to prevent excess moisture from seeping into the fruit.
• Provide shade: If you live in a hot climate, consider planting your orange trees in a location that provides partial shade during the hottest part of the day.
• Use insecticides: If you notice signs of insect damage on your fruit, use an insecticide spray to eliminate the pests before they have a chance to cause further damage.

What Should You Do if Your Oranges Have Already Split?

If you notice that some of your oranges have already split, there’s not much you can do to repair the damage. However, you can still salvage the fruit by cutting away any affected areas and using the remaining sections for juice or cooking.

A ripe orange

The Bottom Line

While splitting can be a frustrating issue for orange growers, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk. By maintaining consistent watering, protecting against excess moisture, providing shade, and using insecticides when necessary, you can help ensure that your oranges stay intact and delicious.

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