Well from what I know, they need a lot of nutrients as they feed heavily. If your tree is in the ground fertilize 2-4 Times a year but not close to the possible freezing temps cause the tender New growth will freeze. Find a fertilizer with a ratio of 3-1-2 (NPK), cause that's close to the actual rate they uptake such nutrients, but that fertilizer also should have the micro nutrients. That's about all I know, I don't have any in ground citrus!

norwoodn is correct, toss the fertilizer stakes, they're worthless. Find a high quality citrus fertilizer. Create a nice well around your tree, with the ring at and slightly beyond your tree's canopy. Make sure the water will settle out at the ring and not the trunk. Broadcast the fertilizer into the well ring and water in well. The best NPK ratio for citrus is 5-1-3 (which is close to what norwoodn has mentioned), and be sure the fertilizer has the full compliment of micronutrients as well (iron, magnesium, manganese, calcium, zinc). Fertilize 4 times a year, starting in February, and ending in about Sept or Oct, depending on when your cold season starts for you in California. For me, I put down my last fertilizer application in October. Can't really see how your tree is planted, the photo is too close up, but be sure there is no grass under your little tree as well.

Patty S.

The leaves in the pic do not display any obvious signs of nutrient deficiency. I've seen trees with sure signs of nutrient deficiency set fruit. Are you sure you're watering well? Or not watering too much? Please explain what you mean by 'drying'.
Nik

This post was edited by nikthegreek on Mon, Apr 28, 14 at 23:33