Among a wide variety of fruits, nuts and vegetables that thrive in the rich soil of California, many homeowners have at least one citrus tree planted in their yard, providing a beautiful aesthetic, a fragrant smell and a personal source for oranges, lemons, limes or something similar. If you're planning a residential relocation, it's understandable that you'd like to bring your beloved tree along to your new address, but the Golden State has many restrictions surrounding their movement.
Courtesy Moving and Storage is a ProMover with the California Moving and Storage Association, so we're always up to date about regulations and restrictions affecting the moving and storage industry. Many homeowners may not know about the strict protocols in place regarding relocating with citrus trees, but below we have outlined some of the most important points to note.
California Regulations Regarding the Relocation of Citrus Trees
For those relocating to the Fresno area from a different state, the chances of your personal citrus tree crossing the border with you are very slim, unfortunately, but if your move is intrastate, you may be in luck. According to the California Department of Food and Agriculture, it is prohibited to bring citrus trees across state lines but may be possible within the state if certain permits are obtained, and the tree is free of pests and disease.
Each citrus tree may be a case-by-case basis, so it's best to check with the Fresno County Agricultural Commissioner's office ahead of time to see if any additional documentation will be required, or if the move can happen at all.
Your Fresno Move Might Be Affected By a Citrus Quarantine Zone
The main reason behind the strict regulations for moving citrus trees in California is to stop the spread of the disastrous citrus plant diseases Huanglongbing (HLB) and Asian Citrus Psyllid (ACP), which have been leading to a decline in healthy citrus trees in the state.
Because of the outbreak of these plant diseases, California has many agricultural laws and plant quarantine zones in place, with Fresno positioned in Zone 2. In general, Zone 2 and Fresno moving restrictions greatly limit the transportation of citrus plants, and while it is sometimes permitted to bring your personal citrus trees into a quarantine zone, moving out with these trees isn't typically allowed.
Best Practices for Relocating Plants and Citrus Trees
If you are able to relocate with your citrus tree, it's best to plant it in a pot, at least for the move. This way, the roots and soil will be contained while in transport, and it gives you an easier way to lift the tree. Never lift a tree by its trunk, even if it seems stable—this is a method that could easily result in a damaged plant by the end of the relocation.
Also, consider transporting fruit trees safely during the dormant half of the year, from autumn to early spring.This time of year, many plants conserve their energy and go into a sort of hibernation, only to re-emerge and continue growing when the more moderate temperatures return.
If you aren't able to bring your citrus tree with you for your residential relocation, there's still many options to ensure it gets taken care of properly in your absence, including:
- Donate to a Local Garden Center
- Gift to a Friend or Family Member
- Check with a Local Community Garden
What to do if Your Citrus Tree is Affected by HLB or ACP
Because HLB and ACP spread so easily and are already affecting many areas of California, there are specific ways to dispose of your citrus tree if it's carrying one of these diseases, specifically if you're in a quarantine zone. For Fresno homeowners, first check with the Fresno County Agricultural Commissioner's Office about any legal steps that need to be followed. Typically, proper disposal consists of:
- Ensuring Your Citrus Tree Clippings are Completely Dried Out
- Double Bagging Your Citrus Tree Clippings Before Throwing Out
- Following Local Guidelines for Proper Disposal Sites and Methods
Since the 1970's Courtesy Moving and Storage has been providing California homeowners with simple, stress-free and seamless residential relocation services. We're accredited and A+ rated by the BBB for our professionalism and commitment to offering exceptional services and have hundreds of 5-star reviews from customers speaking to the type of experience you can expect when you work with us. Get in touch with Courtesy Moving and Storage today for more information, and we'll give you a free estimate on any of our local moving services.
Subscribe to Courtesy Moving & Storage's Blog
Comments