Washington Navel Orange Tree

Planting a Washington Navel Orange Tree

Choose a location with 6–8+ hours of full sun and well-drained soil. Plant in spring or fall if possible.

• Dig a hole 2–3 times wider than the root ball, but no deeper than the root ball. Keep the top of the root ball slightly above the surrounding soil.
• Remove the tree from its container and gently loosen circling roots.
• Place the tree in the hole, backfill with the native soil, and firm it gently. Do not add fertilizer to the planting hole.
• Water deeply immediately after planting to settle the soil. For the first 2 weeks, water deeply 2–3 times per week. After that, water about once a week, adjusting for rainfall and heat. Water slowly so moisture reaches 12–18 inches deep.
• Apply 2–4 inches of mulch over the root zone, keeping it 4–6 inches away from the trunk.

Care

• Fertilize with a citrus fertilizer 3 times a year (late winter, late spring, and midsummer), following the label rates.
• Prune only to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Remove any shoots growing below the graft.
• Washington Navel oranges are self-pollinating, so one tree will produce fruit.
• Protect young trees from hard freezes with frost cloth if temperatures drop below 28°F (-2°C).
• Harvest when the fruit is fully orange and tastes sweet. Unlike some fruits, oranges do not continue to ripen after picking.

Container Growing

Washington Navel oranges grow well in a container at least 20–25 gallons with drainage holes. Use a well-draining citrus potting mix, water when the top 2 inches of soil are dry, and fertilize regularly with a citrus fertilizer during the growing season. Repot every 3–5 years as the tree grows.

Washington Navel Orange Tree FAQs

1. Does the Washington Navel Orange Tree need another tree to produce fruit?

No. The Washington Navel Orange Tree is self-fertile, so you only need one tree to enjoy a harvest of oranges. While pollinators like bees may visit the fragrant spring blooms, they are not required for fruit production.

2. When can I harvest the oranges?

The Washington Navel Orange Tree ripens its fruit during the winter months, giving you fresh citrus when many other fruit trees are dormant. Harvest oranges once they develop their full orange color and taste sweet. Unlike some fruits, oranges do not continue to ripen after they're picked, so it's best to leave them on the tree until they're ready.

3. Can I grow a Washington Navel Orange Tree in a container?

Yes. This variety is an excellent choice for container growing, especially in USDA Zones 4–7. Plant it in a large container and move it indoors before temperatures drop below 28°F. A sunny window, sunroom, or bright indoor space helps keep your tree healthy through the winter while adding evergreen beauty and fragrant blooms to your home or patio.

4. What do the oranges taste like?

Washington Navel Oranges are known for their sweet, juicy flavor, easy-to-peel skin, and nearly seedless fruit, with three or fewer seeds per orange. They're perfect for fresh snacking, fruit salads, lunchboxes, or adding bright citrus flavor to your favorite recipes. They also make delicious fresh juice, though they're best known as one of the finest eating oranges.

5. What growing conditions does the Washington Navel Orange Tree need?

This tree grows best in full sun with well-drained soil. It can be planted outdoors year-round in USDA Zones 8–11. In colder regions, growing it in a container makes it easy to protect from freezing temperatures.