Jakkie (OPJ) Stander
Citrus Research International | Department of Horticultural Science, University of Stellenbosch
E-mail: jakkie@sun.ac.za
Citrus trees are perennial evergreens, which sustain a complex tree structure with one to three distinct annual vegetative growth flushes. After a sufficient induction period, with the onset of growth-promoting conditions during spring (increase in temperatures and sufficient water and mineral nutrient supply), flowers develop from buds on vegetative shoots that originated from vegetative shoots in the different growth flushes of the previous 12-month season.
This article is the second in a series of three articles on the physiology of citrus flowering, and will focus on the important chronological events pertaining to the development of a citrus flower, as influenced by endogenous factors, environmental conditions and cultural practices.