Robertson Navel Orange

Robertson Navel Orange is a low-vigor selection of sweet orange that began as a limb sport on a Washington navel tree in California. Its compact growth, early crop, and fruit that holds well on the tree make it a useful choice for a home orchard or a large patio container. ## Fruit and season The [UC Riverside Citrus Variety Collection](https://citrusvariety.ucr.edu/crc3792) records this selection as a small, heat-resistant, productive tree and reports December-to-January ripening at Riverside. The [University of Arizona Extension](https://extension.arizona.edu/publication/oranges-southern-arizona) notes that Robertson usually matures about 10 to 14 days ahead of Washington and retains the familiar navel-orange flavor. Fruit timing varies by climate. ## Site and care Give the tree a sunny position with soil that drains well. Citrus grows best in full sun and needs regular deep watering while young; established trees need irrigation adjusted to rainfall, soil, and heat. The [UF/IFAS home citrus guide](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/HS132) recommends removing rootstock suckers and limiting canopy pruning to the amount needed for clearance or shape. ## Maintenance Keep the graft union above soil and remove shoots that arise below it. Water deeply during dry spells, especially as the tree establishes fruit and roots. Protect the tree from hard freezes; a container makes it easier to shelter in colder climates.