Introduction
Citrus (Rutaceae family) is considered as one of the most important commercial fruit crops. Sudan, with all its vast area, wide range of soils, diverse climatic conditions, and ample water
resource possesses great potentials for citrus production. At present, the commercial citrus production in Sudan spreads all over the country, mainly along the narrow strips of alluvial soils
of the main River Nile, Blue Nile, and White Nile. In addition, it is also extending to the banks of annual valleys and rivers and upper terraces in which underground water is available for irrigation [1].
The important citrus groups have grown commercially in Sudan include: Small fruited acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle), grapefruit (C. paradise Macfad), sweet orange (C. cinensis
Osbeck), and Mandarins (C. reticulate Blanco). Each group is composed of several varieties and selections (Ali-Dinar, 1984).
The total area of citrus production in Sudan is estimated around 171,192 hectares with a total production of 2.3 million tons and exportation amounting to 9.8 thousand tons, for years (2010-
2013) (National Horticulture Administration, 2013). Therefore, the national strategy of citrus expansion is directed towards the large national schemes, e.g. Gezira, Suki, Rahad and the Blue NileSchemes in the Central Clay Plain [2]. Although the citrus crop is kept in great esteem, yet its present status is threatened by several problems, including low productivity caused by diseases.
Refrences:
- Mahdi EM (1979) Studies of the nutritional status of selected citrus orchards in shambat. M.Sc. Thesis, University of Khartoum. Sudan