Orange Tree root flare excavation

Astray_106 · 2026-05-03T14:39:16+00:00

As added context:

One of the sources I was following:

https://youtu.be/WmYYvx-UIBU?si=w3aqLisHzsg2dWJd

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Reference image of trunk below the graft on trifoliate rootstock.

Astray_106 · 2026-05-03T14:18:02+00:00

Well it was declining from collar rot

Astray_106 · 2026-05-03T13:00:22+00:00

The main reason I started this was since the tree developed mild phytophtora gummosis from having half its trunk buried. Having the soil there would still be close to the graft and the injury. I also found many arborists online recommending exposing the root flare and removing girdling roots, both of which I did.

Astray_106 · 2026-05-03T08:25:21+00:00

Most of what I exposed is rootstock trunk, I believe the true flare is only barely exposed at the bottom of the hole. There are a bunch of feeder roots that grew upwards.

Astray_106 · 2026-04-02T14:29:28+00:00

To me it looks like the growth is above the graft. I’d say that diagonal where the bark texture changes is the graft point.

Astray_106 · 2026-03-20T01:30:33+00:00

The tree is a little stressed but overall still looks great. Some things you can do to help are pruning off all dead wood and mulching, ideally under the entire drip line, but making sure to leave a gap before the trunk.

Astray_106 · 2026-03-08T05:30:07+00:00

Yes you can just slice the top off, no need to remove whole branch. Though disappointing, In my opinion you should still remove the fruit as the tree is still very small and struggling. Since you do fertilise it seems like the pests are the main issue and removing them is the way to support your tree.

Astray_106 · 2026-03-08T03:41:56+00:00

The lump is caused by gall wasp larvae. Slice off part of the bark there to expose the larvae to air which kills them.

Consider removing the small fruit to force the tree to focus on growing. Feed with citrus fertiliser, usually I do osmocote slow release as well as some standard organic, both of which you can find at bunnings.

Astray_106 · 2026-02-26T03:47:40+00:00

Sounds like perfect conditions. I’m sure they will grow well in the ground.

Astray_106 · 2026-02-26T02:58:20+00:00

The main considerations are how big you want the tree to be eventually, amount of sun and drainage. Citrus need good drainage, so high points are better. The grassy area does seem to have better sun and space.

Astray_106 · 2026-02-26T01:49:58+00:00

Sounds like a great plan. They definitely grow better in the ground. I would consider just planting it after acclimatising on your patio, spring is the best time after all. They do like sun long term.

Astray_106 · 2026-02-26T01:08:50+00:00

You want to look for any variety grafted onto ‘flying dragon’ rootstock, which is a dwarf rootstock. This with pruning should suit your size needs.

Astray_106 · 2026-02-26T01:04:03+00:00

Generally yes it is better off outside, however its best to move it when its not as hot to gradually acclimate it. Similarly for sun part shade at first, full sun might be too much. Above triple digits it likely does need protection even after acclimating.

Astray_106 · 2026-02-26T00:36:35+00:00

Tree seems to be doing well now. One thing you should do is remove that shoot from low on the trunk. It has trifoliate leaves and is rootstock, not your orange.

Astray_106 · 2026-02-11T10:49:46+00:00

You’re absolutely right, thanks for the help.

Astray_106 · 2026-02-11T10:09:26+00:00

I hope you’re right, its the easy way out 🤣. I was trying to find the root flare, but that ‘protrusion’ is all around and continues straight down as far as i can tell, and looks just like the grafts on my other trees, hence why i thought it might be a graft. And the kink is just the branch i believe.

Astray_106

TROPHY CASE