Grafting Citrus Trees - Best Time of Year

Several viewers of my YouTube channel have asked me, “When is the best time to graft citrus trees?” Whether one lives in Asia, Europe, Africa, Australia, or the Americas, it is possible to determine the best time of year to graft citrus trees based upon the local weather. The citrus grafting season varies from place to place according to the local temperatures.

Grafting Citrus Trees – Best Time is Based on Temperature

Temperature is a very important factor when grafting citrus. I believe that many people think that citrus grafting is more difficult than it really is because they graft at the wrong time and the scions dry out and die before the graft heals. The ideal time of year to graft citrus depends upon the local climate. The temperature at which citrus wounds best heal is between 70°F and 85°F (21°C to 29°C). Citrus should ideally be grafted when temperatures in this range are forecast.

The Citrus Grafting Season is Different

The below weekly temperature forecast shows temperatures that would be good for grafting deciduous fruit trees such as cherries, peaches, plums, or apples. Attempts to graft citrus during such weather are more likely to fail, however, because the temperatures are too cold.

Weekly Temperature Forecast Unfavorable for Grafting Citrus Trees

The Best Time to Graft Citrus Trees

The below weekly temperature forecast shows temperatures favorable for grafting citrus trees. This forecast has temperatures all below the top of the favorable range (85°F or 29°C). A forecast with temperatures rising above the top of the favorable range can also be good for grafting citrus as long as the temperatures are dipping into the favorable range during at least part of the day. When temperatures are higher it is especially important to shade citrus grafts because direct sunlight can dry out a graft and cause it to fail.

Weekly Temperature Forecast Favorable for Grafting Citrus Trees

Tips for Successful Citrus Grafting – Free ebook

This article includes an excerpt from my ebook, Tips for Successful Citrus Grafting. In this ebook I have addressed common issues that cause citrus grafts to fail. You can download a free copy here.