Crop · Citrus
LNC for Citrus
Citrus groves under Saudi conditions combine high value with high water demand — LNC is a natural fit.
-40%
Irrigation
+22%
Yield
5y
Duration
The challenge
Lemon, orange, and mandarin operations in Saudi Arabia often run on coarse, calcareous sands — soils where water holds poorly and micronutrient availability is already challenged. Year-round irrigation demand is substantial.
Mechanism
LNC application through existing drip lines improves root-zone water retention and reduces fertigation loss. The Desert Control reference program with Limoneira (USA) demonstrates the effect on commercial-scale citrus; KSA operations replicate the mechanism.
Typical results
What to expect on citrus
- −35 to −50% irrigation volume depending on soil and climate
- +18 to +25% yield uplift on stressed plots
- Reduced nitrogen leaching — typical fertilizer reduction of 15–25%
- Better fruit size consistency and grade distribution
Application notes
- Applied through existing drip irrigation — no equipment changes
- Compatible with standard citrus rootstocks and cultivars
- Best applied in late winter ahead of spring flush
- No disruption to harvest or pruning schedules
Seasonality
For KSA citrus (primarily in Jizan and eastern regions), LNC is optimally applied December to February ahead of the spring growth cycle.
Citrus FAQ
- Will LNC affect brix or acidity?
- No direct effect. Indirectly, reduced plant stress tends to support more consistent brix/acid balance — favorable for premium fresh-market fruit.
- Is LNC compatible with saline irrigation water?
- Yes, within reasonable limits. LNC improves soil behavior under moderately saline water. For brackish-water operations, custom formulation is used.