Reclaimed Wastewater for Irrigation of Citrus in Florida

Abstract

Reclaimed municipal wastewater has been used to irrigate young and mature sweet orange and grapefruit trees in Florida. In the central ridge area of Florida, trees receiving reclaimed wastewater had greater yields and improved tree vigor compared to trees receiving wellwater. The high level of reclaimed wastewater applied (2.54 cm/week), however, decreased fruit total soluble solids, acids, and their ratio. In contrast, tree vigor and fruit quality were not different for mature grapefruit trees growing in the coastal, flatwoods area of Florida, which received reclaimed wastewater or canal water. Yields, however, were higher for the reclaimed wastewater treatments in one season, but the effect was variable. No adverse effects of applying high levels of reclaimed wastewater were noted at either site. The use of reclaimed wastewater for citrus irrigation has potential benefits for Florida citrus growers in the future.