UGA Southern Frost Navel Tree - Citrus sinensis

UGA Southern Frost Navel Tree (Citrus sinensis)

The UGA Southern Frost Navel Tree is a cold-tolerant citrus variety that produces abundant seedless oranges with a naturally sweet, juicy flavor. This self-pollinating tree thrives in cooler climates while delivering impressive harvests, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to grow fresh citrus at home. Buy UGA Southern Frost Navel Tree online to enjoy homegrown oranges perfect for eating fresh, juicing, or making preserves.

Landscaping Uses

Plant this navel orange tree in a sunny garden bed, container, or even indoors near a south-facing window. It works beautifully as a focal point in small yards, patios, and sunrooms where it can receive ample light. The compact growth habit makes it ideal for residential landscapes, and you can position it against a home's south side for extra frost protection during winter months.

Specifications

Height: 8–12 feet
Width: 6–10 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Sun: 6+ hours direct daily
Water: Regular, well-draining
Soil: Citrus-friendly, well-draining loam
USDA Zones: 8–11

Why Homeowners Love It

• Produces seedless navel oranges packed with vitamin C—up to 90% of daily recommended intake per fruit
• Cold-hardy variety survives freezing temperatures better than standard navel oranges
• Self-fertile and requires no separate pollinator tree, perfect for limited space
• Versatile for indoor and outdoor growing in various climates

Planting & Care

Choose a location receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, ideally positioned on the south side of a structure for frost protection. Water regularly during spring and summer months while the tree is actively growing, but avoid waterlogged soil to prevent root issues. Apply fertilizer through midsummer only, stopping by July to minimize tender new growth before winter arrives. Prune as needed to encourage upward branching by cutting 6–12 inches from the branch collar, then making a second cut 3 inches further out. Water strategically during late fall and winter to guard against freezing damage.