Orange Farming Profit per Acre

Orange Farming 

Orange farming has the potential to be a highly profitable agricultural venture when managed effectively. This detailed analysis highlights the key factors of orange farming profit per acre. Over time, orange farming offers significant financial returns, with the orchard reaching its break-even point and starting to generate net profits from the 6th year onwards. The period between Years 11 and 20 marks the peak profitability phase, where annual income can range between NRs. 180,400 and NRs. 219,760 per acre. This stage represents the most financially rewarding part of the orchard’s lifecycle, making orange farming a lucrative long-term investment for farmers who are committed to managing the initial years of establishment and growth.

Land Preparation

Land preparation is the foundational and most critical step in orange farming, as it sets the stage for healthy growth and high yields. The process begins with clearing the land by removing weeds, rocks, and debris to create a clean planting area. Next, the soil is plowed to a depth of 30-45 cm to loosen it, improve aeration, and facilitate root penetration. After plowing, the field is leveled to ensure uniform water distribution during irrigation, preventing water stagnation in certain areas. Additionally, proper drainage systems must be established to avoid waterlogging, which can severely damage orange trees. These steps collectively create an optimal environment for the successful establishment and growth of orange trees.

Soil Type

Oranges are best grown in sandy loam or loamy soils because they prefer well-drained, fertile soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Citrus trees need deep, sandy, well-drained soils to sustain good growth because of their shallow root system. To determine pH levels and nutritional deficits, a soil test must be performed. Depending on the findings, the soil can be modified with sulfur to lower alkalinity or lime to reduce acidity, bringing the pH down to the right range for fruit production and growth.

Climatic Requirements

Oranges thrive under specific climatic conditions, making it essential to choose the right environment for optimal growth. The ideal temperature range for orange cultivation is between 13°C and 37°C, as extreme cold or heat can harm the trees. Temperatures above 40°C can damage new foliage, while prolonged exposure to temperatures exceeding 50°C can severely affect tree growth.

Oranges require 600-1200 mm of annual rainfall, evenly distributed throughout the year, to support healthy development. Full sunlight is crucial for photosynthesis and fruit production, making sunny locations ideal. Additionally, oranges are sensitive to frost, so they should be planted in frost-free areas. They grow best in subtropical to tropical climates, with sweet oranges and mandarins predominantly thriving in subtropical regions characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. These conditions ensure robust growth, high yields, and superior fruit quality.

Major Cultivars

Choosing the appropriate cultivar is essential to making orange farming profitable. Some of the most well-liked orange types are Blood Orange, which is recognized by its scarlet flesh and distinct flavor; Valencia, which is noted for its sweet juice and late-season harvest; and Navel, which is seedless, easy to peel, and perfect for fresh consumption.

Another early-maturing kind that works well for juicing is hamlin. Sweet Orange, Round Orange (including Hamlin, Valencia, Pineapple, Natal, Pera, and Shamouti), Navel Orange (including Washington, Newhall, Summerfield, Navelate, and Navelina), and Pigmented or Blood Orange (like Moro and Tarocco) are additionally a few other varieties. Selecting the kind that best fits local growth circumstances and market demand is crucial because each variety has distinct qualities.

Planting

a). Planting Season

The ideal planting time for orange trees is from March to August, when the soil is moist, and conditions are favorable for root establishment and early growth. This period ensures that the young plants receive adequate moisture and warmth, which are essential for their development and survival. Planting during these months also allows the trees to establish strong roots before facing harsher weather conditions, setting the stage for healthy growth and future productivity.

b). Spacing

Maintain a spacing of 7m x 7 m to allow adequate sunlight and airflow.

c). Pit Preparation

For pit preparation, dig pits measuring 75 cm x 75 cm x 75 cm to provide ample space for root growth. Mix the excavated soil with 10 kg of well-decomposed farmyard manure (FYM) and 200 g of superphosphate to enrich the soil with essential nutrients. This mixture is then used to fill the pit, creating a fertile and well-aerated environment that supports healthy root development and early growth of the orange tree.

d). Planting Method

Place the sapling in the center of the pit and fill it with the prepared soil mixture. Water thoroughly after planting.

e). Number of Plants per Acre

Approximately 82 plants can be accommodated per acre, depending on spacing.

Intercropping

Intercropping is an effective practice to maximize land use and generate additional income during the initial years of orange farming, as oranges are perennial crops that take at least two years to produce their first harvest. Suitable intercrops include legumes (e.g., beans, peas), vegetables (e.g., tomatoes, onions), and short-duration fruit crops like maize, soybean, groundnut, banana, and pawpaw. This practice not only controls weed consistently but also ensures full land utilization during the early stages when orange trees are not yet mature, preventing idle land.

Additionally, intercropping improves soil fertility, reduces weed competition, and provides extra income. For enhanced yields and protection, farmers are encouraged to plant agroforestry trees such as grevillea along the edges to act as windbreaks, minimize the spread of fungal diseases, and provide shade, creating a more sustainable and productive farming system.

Irrigation

When growing oranges, proper irrigation is essential to promoting robust development and large yields. To encourage root development and early growth, young trees should be watered every three to four days during the dry season. However, in order to maintain fruit development and general health, mature trees need to be watered every 7–10 days, depending on the moisture content of the soil.

Since drip irrigation guarantees effective water use, lowers labor expenses, and supplies water straight to the root zone, it is strongly advised. Citrus plants have different water needs depending on their species, time of year, age, and climate, therefore it’s critical to adjust irrigation techniques to the orchard’s unique requirements. The information regarding the daily water requirements for each plant is provided below:

Fertilizer and Manure

From planting to maturity, orange trees’ fertilizer program is planned to satisfy their nutritional requirements during different phases of growth. The suggested dosages for each tree are estimates that should be modified in light of local conditions, tree health, and the findings of soil tests. The information regarding fertilizer dosages for various growth stages is provided below:

a). At Planting time

The objective is to create a nutrient-rich environment for the seedling by preparing the soil effectively. This involves incorporating 200 g of single superphosphate (SSP) to boost root development, adding 50 g of biofertilizer containing azospirillum, phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB), and potash-mobilizing bacteria to enhance nutrient availability, and mixing 50 g of Trichoderma viridae per planting hole to improve soil health and strengthen disease resistance. These steps ensure the seedling has a strong foundation for healthy growth.

b). Planting to Year 1 (Establishment Stage)

The objective of this stage is to promote root establishment and early vegetative growth. The fertilizer schedule is designed to provide essential nutrients in a balanced manner. Within the first 3-6 months after planting, 100 g of urea (a nitrogen source) is applied, split into two doses to ensure steady nutrient availability.

From 6-12 months, a balanced fertilizer mixture is recommended, consisting of 100 g urea (N), 50 g superphosphate (P), and 50 g muriate of potash (K) per tree. These nutrients are divided into 2-3 doses to avoid over-fertilization and ensure consistent uptake by the tree.

In addition to chemical fertilizers, organic inputs play a vital role in maintaining soil health and providing long-term nutrients. Annually, 3 kg of well-decomposed farmyard manure (FYM) or compost should be added to the soil. This organic matter improves soil structure, enhances microbial activity, and supplies essential micronutrients, creating a favorable environment for the tree’s growth and development.

c). Year 2-3 (Vegetative Growth Stage)

During the 2-3 year vegetative growth stage, the objective is to enhance vegetative growth to build a strong and healthy canopy. The fertilizer schedule includes applying 150-250 g of urea per tree annually, split into three applications (before the spring flush, during the monsoon, and post-monsoon) to ensure consistent nitrogen supply.

Additionally, 100-150 g of single superphosphate (SSP) is incorporated into the soil annually to meet phosphorus needs, while 100-150 g of muriate of potash (MOP) is applied per tree, divided into two doses to support potassium requirements.

Micronutrients such as zinc, manganese, and boron are also essential during this stage, applied as foliar sprays (zinc sulfate at 0.5%, manganese sulfate at 0.2%, and boric acid at 0.2%) during active growth phases. Furthermore, 5 kg of well-decomposed farmyard manure (FYM) or compost is added per tree annually to improve soil fertility and provide organic nutrients, ensuring balanced growth and canopy development.

d). Year 4-6 (Initial Fruiting Stage)

During the 4–6-year initial fruiting stage, the objective is to support fruit development and canopy expansion. The fertilizer schedule includes applying 300-400 g of urea per tree annually, split into three doses to ensure a steady supply of nitrogen.

Additionally, 150-200 g of single superphosphate (SSP) is applied per tree during the pre-flowering stage to meet phosphorus needs, while 200-300 g of muriate of potash (MOP) is applied during the fruit set and development stages to support potassium requirements.

To enhance fruit quality, 200-250 g of calcium nitrate is applied per tree annually. Micronutrients such as zinc, boron, and magnesium are also crucial during this stage and are applied as foliar sprays during the pre-flowering and fruit set stages.

Furthermore, 10 kg of well-decomposed farmyard manure (FYM) is added per tree annually to improve soil fertility, provide organic nutrients, and ensure balanced growth and fruit production.

e). Year 7 and Beyond (Mature Fruiting Stage)

During the 7th year and beyond (mature fruiting stage), the objective is to maintain high yields and superior fruit quality. The fertilizer schedule includes applying 500-600 g of urea per tree annually, split into three doses (pre-flowering, fruit set, and post-harvest) to ensure consistent nitrogen supply.

Additionally, 200-250 g of single superphosphate (SSP) is applied per tree annually, divided into two doses to meet phosphorus needs, while 400-500 g of muriate of potash (MOP) is applied during the fruit set and development stages to support potassium requirements.

To address magnesium needs, 50-100 g of magnesium sulfate is applied per tree annually. Micronutrients such as zinc, manganese, and boron are applied as foliar sprays as needed to address deficiencies. After harvest, 50-100 g of sulfur is applied per tree to maintain soil pH and nutrient availability. Furthermore, 20 kg of well-decomposed farmyard manure (FYM) is added per tree annually to enhance soil fertility, provide organic nutrients, and sustain long-term tree health and productivity.

Weed Control

Effective weed control is critical in orange cultivation, as weeds compete with trees for essential nutrients, water, and sunlight. During the initial years, manual weeding is especially important to eliminate weeds and ensure they do not obstruct the growth of young trees.

Mulching with organic materials like straw or compost can further suppress weed growth while retaining soil moisture and enhancing soil health. When manual weeding and mulching are not enough, pre-emergent herbicides can be used carefully to manage weeds without harming the orange trees. Implementing proper weed management practices is vital for maintaining a healthy orchard and maximizing tree productivity.

One of the most sustainable and effective methods for weed control is intercropping. This practice involves growing compatible crops, such as legumes, vegetables, or cover crops, between the rows of orange trees. Intercropping not only suppresses weed growth by competing for sunlight, nutrients, and space but also boosts overall farm productivity and income.

Additionally, it improves soil health by adding organic matter, fixing nitrogen (in the case of legumes), and encouraging beneficial microbial activity. This integrated approach makes intercropping a valuable strategy for sustainable orange farming.

Pruning

Pruning is the proper and cautious removal of plant parts such as shoots, branches or pinching.

There are three common types of pruning in orange production.

a). Early pruning

This is done on young and growing trees for proper establishment. It involves maintaining a single stem up to a height of 0.6-1 m then nipping the main shoot to allow for side branching. The side branches are allowed to grow and develop then pruned, allowing 3-4 main branches for production. Any extra branches, including those growing inwards should be removed.

b). Maintenance pruning

This type of pruning is done throughout the season mainly to control diseases and pests. Any infested branch is cut, taken out of the field and burned. The burning must be controlled to avoid damage to other farms.

c). Annual pruning

This is done yearly to open up and maintain the canopy thereby reducing overbearing and incidences of pests and diseases. The best time to carry out annual pruning is at the end of the harvest season or at the beginning of the rainy season before flushing.

Pest and Disease Management

Common Pests in Citrus Plants

a). Scale Insects

 Infesting citrus plants, citrus scale insects are microscopic pests that feed on the sap of citrus branches, leaves, and fruits. Ant colonies are drawn to the sticky material they create while they feed, known as honeydew. Due to their ability to shield the scale insects from their natural predators, these ants worsen the infestation.

b). Mealybugs

Soft-bodied insects known as mealybugs feed on plant sap and release a sticky fluid called honeydew, which can cause ant infestations and other problems like sooty mold.

c). Miner of Leaves

 The larvae of leaf miners are pests that burrow through plant leaves, leaving behind noticeable trails and seriously harming the foliage, which can weaken the plant and lower its general health.
d). Aphids

Aphids are tiny insects that congregate on newly growing plants and feed them by sucking sap, weakening the plant and perhaps causing stunted growth and other health problems.

e). Thrips

Thrips are tiny insects that damage plant tissues and cause apparent scarring after feeding on leaves and flowers.

f). Mites

Microscopic pests called mites cause discolouration, poor photosynthesis, and general plant health by draining chlorophyll from leaves.

Common Citrus Diseases

a). Citrus greening

Orange farming is highly susceptible to Citrus Greening (Huanglongbing, HLB), caused by Liberibacter sp. (e.g., L. asiaticum, L. africanum, L. americanus). Symptoms, appearing 1–2 years post-infection, include blotchy mottling, vein yellowing, and chlorosis on leaves, resembling nutrient deficiencies. Fruits remain small, unevenly developed, with aborted seeds and bitter juice, while the lower half stays green, giving the disease its name. Infected trees stop producing fruit within 3–5 years and eventually die. The disease spreads via the Asian Citrus Psyllid (Diaphorina citri), which transmits the bacteria while feeding on citrus leaves.

b). Citrus Tristeza Virus (CTV)

Citrus Tristeza Virus (CTV), caused by a Closterovirus. Symptoms include leaf vein clearing, chlorosis, leaf cupping, stunting, stem pitting, and a bumpy, ropy trunk appearance. Trees bear small fruits, experience reduced fruit size, and decline over 7 to 8 years.

Control measures include using virus-free or certified bud-stock, resistant rootstock, controlling vectors like citrus aphids (Toxoptera citricida, T. aurantii, Aphis gossypii, and A. spiraecola), and destroying infected plants. The virus spreads through diseased bud-wood and aphid vectors, with optimal infection temperatures between 20°C and 25°C.

c). Citrus Canker

Citrus Canker, caused by Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri, is another critical disease prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions. Symptoms include callus-like lesions on aerial organs, defoliation, twig dieback, and premature fruit drop. Management involves using copper-based bactericides and integrated disease management practices.

d). Phytophthora Root and Trunk Rot

Phytophthora Root and Trunk Rot, caused by the fungus Phytophthora citrophthora, thrives in wet soil and weather conditions. Symptoms include whitish fungal dots on the bark, gummosis, bark rotting, and eventual tree death. Effective management requires integrated pest management (IPM) practices, combining biological control, cultural practices, and judicious pesticide use to mitigate these diseases and ensure healthy orange cultivation.

Fruit maturity

Citrus fruits do not have a well-defined physiological maturity stage and can be edible several weeks or months before reaching full maturity. Harvesting typically occurs when the fruit is mature enough to be consumed, with commercial harvest timing determined by factors such as fruit skin color, Brix levels (12-16 for mandarins and 10-14 for sweet oranges), and acid content (0.5 to 2% for mandarins and 0.5 to 1.5% for sweet oranges). These criteria ensure the fruit meets quality standards for both taste and marketability. 

Harvesting

Oranges typically begin bearing fruit 3-4 years after planting, with harvesting time varying depending on the variety, ranging from late winter to early summer. The fruits are usually hand-picked to prevent damage, and a well-managed orchard can achieve an annual yield of 10-15 tons per acre.

Cost of Investment per Acre for Farming

Initial Investment (Year 1)

Annual Maintenance Cost (Year 2 onwards)

NRs. 50,000–60,000 per acre. We will use NRs. 55,000 as the average annual maintenance cost.

Income from 1 Acre of Farming

Income Data

Analysis of Orange Farming Profit Per Acre

The orchard reaches its break-even point and begins generating a net profit starting from the 6th year onwards. During the period of Years 11–20, the orchard achieves peak profitability, with annual incomes ranging between NRs. 180,400 and NRs. 219,760. This phase represents the most financially rewarding stage of the orchard’s lifecycle. Peak Profitability: The highest income is generated during Years 11–20, with an annual income of NRs. 180,400–219,760.

Conclusion

Orange farming can be highly profitable with proper management and investment. By focusing on best practices in land preparation, soil management, irrigation, and pest control, farmers can maximize yields and profitability.