As a leader in the Florida citrus industry, IMG Citrus is committed to fostering sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in the area of soil health. Our groves, nestled throughout Florida, are not just citrus-producing fields but are the testing grounds for innovative and responsible farming techniques. This year, we have taken significant steps in addressing one of the industry's most pressing challenges – citrus greening or HLB – while simultaneously prioritizing the health and vitality of our soil.

OTC Trunk Injections

In January 2023, IMG Citrus initiated a critical phase in combating citrus greening by employing Oxytetracycline (OTC) trunk injections. This antibiotic technique, once administered to the citrus trees, plays a pivotal role in fighting the bacteria responsible for this disease. In its inaugural year, IMG Citrus injected over 450,000 trees across all grove locations, with the exception of Panther Grove. The preliminary outcomes have been promising, showing signs like denser canopies, enhanced brix levels, and consistent growth in fruit size. At IMG Citrus, we are optimistic that the second year of injections will bring about a notable increase in yields, both in terms of piece count and fruit sizing, mirroring trends observed at other OTC test sites.

Understanding the potential risks of repetitive injections and possible plant resistance to OTC, we are also exploring innovative alternatives. These include the use of anti-microbial peptides in injections and foliar applications. These peptides have shown potential in reducing plant stresses and stimulating the plant's natural immune response against pathogens.

Prioritizing Soil Health

Amidst these advancements, IMG Citrus recognizes the fundamental importance of soil health, which is often overlooked in conventional citrus production. We have long been committed to enhancing soil health by leveraging beneficial bacteria and fungi for nutrient cycling and employing composting strategies to build organic matter. Our analysis indicates that healthier soils, with organic matter content between 2-3%, directly contribute to more vigorous trees due to improved nutrient supply, holding capacity, and biological function. Our overarching aim is to refine a production system that inherently bolsters soil health.

Compost Utilization

A key element in our soil health strategy is the use of quality compost. This not only maintains robust soil life but also boosts beneficial fungal populations crucial for nutrient absorption. Our compost, rich in humus, aids in moisture retention and improves soil structure. While humus-based compost may have lower direct nutrient levels compared to chemical fertilizers, its colloidal nature ensures a more sustained nutrient availability for the plants. Our compost application, ranging from 4 to 10 tons per acre annually, fulfills 30-75% of the crops' nitrogen needs, satisfying our phosphorus requirements and reducing our use of synthetic fertilizers.

Cover Crop Innovations

In addition to compost, we employ cover crops to further enhance soil health. The challenge lies in identifying the right species and understanding their nutrient release patterns in harmony with citrus production. We explore both seasonal and perennial cover crops, with current trials including Sunn Hemp, Hairy Indigo, Aeschynomene, Sorghum-Sudan, and Perennial Peanut. These cover crops, particularly the perennials, are instrumental in increasing organic matter and protecting soil health, potentially reducing the need for synthetic herbicides.

Looking Forward

Our journey towards sustainable, healthy citrus production continues. We believe in a holistic approach, where the health of our trees and the vitality of our soils go hand in hand. By innovating and integrating practices like OTC injections, compost usage, and strategic cover cropping, we are not just growing citrus; we are nurturing an ecosystem. We aim to ensure that our groves remain productive, sustainable, and resilient for generations to come.

This article was written with contributions from Brian Randolph, Director Of Grove Production