Managing Citrus Peel Thickness

Peel thickness requirements vary depending on the citrus type and market needs. Thicker peels provide higher levels of oil extraction and offer a greater resistance against pests and better shelf life. In the fresh fruit market a thicker peel is regarded as being easier to peel, however, excessively thick peel is undesirable. For juice production a thicker peel gives lower relative juice content resulting in lower juice extraction levels. Tailoring your crop nutrition plan will help to manage a desired citrus peel thickness.