Blood orange season is mostly in the winter that is because they rely on certain kinds of weather to develop its distinctive red flesh. Here are other things to remember about the blood orange season:
Orange fruit season
Most blood oranges are in season and ready for harvest from December to May. Low temperature plays a part in the darkness of the red color of blood orange. The more cold weather has passed, the more pigment will develop and bloodier your orange will be. However, some cultivars of blood orange can yield fruit in autumn or early spring. The two most popular varieties are the dark-fleshed Moro which is available from December to March and the delicately flavored Tarocco which is available in the market from January to May.
In choosing a fruit to eat, pick blood oranges that are firm to touch and heavy for their size. Take note that a brownish area on the skin has no effect on its flavor or quality but do avoid ones with mold or spongy spots. Oranges don’t continue ripening once you pick them, so leave the fruit on the tree until the time you plan to use them. The blood orange fruit can last 4 to 6 weeks in the refrigerator.
Orange planting season
It is best to plant a blood orange tree in the spring or autumn but it can also be planted on any season except the warm months. It requires full sun and cool winter that is not more than light frost to grow well. The blood orange tree grows up to 3-8 meters and can also do well in a pot with loamy soil.
Follow a regular watering schedule during the first year to establish a deep, extensive root system. After that, you may reduce or increase the amount and frequency of watering based on the climate. In hot seasons, it requires 4 to 6 inches of water every month. Keep in mind that this is a medium growing plant and may take 2 to 3 years before it yields fruits.
Orange blooming season
Blood oranges bloom with white fragrant flowers in spring or winter. Most of its pollination is assisted by bees. Flowers will appear from small shoots that originate where the leaves meet the stem. You should take extra careful if blooms appear in winter since frost can typically destroy its flowers. You may bring your blood orange tree indoors during this season or cover it with blanket. Placing an incandescent light bulb beneath the cover can provide the tree with the warmth it needs through the winter. You may also opt to place your potted tree in a heated room.
In addition, a blood orange tree needs an annual dosage of citrus fertilizer in half the recommended strength. It should be applied to the plant at least once a month except during winter. It will also respond well to a foliar feeding of a water-soluble fertilizer applied as a spray. Choose a fertilizer that is rich in iron, manganese and zinc.