My 34 and 32 year old grapefruit trees exposed. Will they die?

Discussion in 'Indoor and Greenhouse Plants' started by Ariel, Mar 14, 2012.

  1. Ariel

    Ariel Member

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    All, I've found lots of discussions of leaf dropping for citrus trees. But nothing that discussed the age of the tree as a factor with cold exposure. I have two grapefruit trees and was forced to move to a new location on a terribly cold day - in the 20 degree range. The trees were exposed for about 6 hours and were then brought inside. Immediately the trees began the lose there leaves. One has almost all leaves withered or lost and the other has a just a very few leaves left. The one with the lost leaves has a new tree starting from its roots (about 3 inches height) that looks well and was present prior to exposure (one month ago). I am assuming the trees are root bound because they haven't been cut or transplanted for a few years. They would be too big for the house if they grew more. I planted these with my father so many years ago from a grapefruit we shared. They hold sentimental value as something special we did together. He took care of them as I grew through my teens and then attended college. I've had them for over twenty four years since then. So the question is, am I likely to lose these precious trees? I'm keeping them near a window and watering them as the soil appears to get dry. This is a place they previously thrived. I'm afraid to mess with the roots to cause further shock. If the leaves do return, how long will that take to occur? All advice is welcomed. Thank you in advance for any replys.
     
  2. Junglekeeper

    Junglekeeper Esteemed Contributor 10 Years

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    Last edited: Nov 3, 2015

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