We’re planting a new Honeybell Grove at Dooley Groves. It’s been 5 long years since we’ve had citrus on the original homestead. It’s finally here!
This photo was taken in better days, before citrus canker caused the original 200 acre grove to be taken. Father and son, Dooley and Mike Houghtaling welcome customers to Dooley Groves. They are 3rd and 4th generation citrus growers on this land. Mike learned to be an expert Honeybell citrus grower from both his father and grandfather. They’re gone now, so Mike is replanting with the help of his son, Dave.
The land is cleared of debris, left after the grove was burned. Then, it was smoothed, surveyed and leveled, so it would hold the maximum number of trees.
Mike creating the beds necessary to plant.
The soil was given composting and iron humate, soil amendments to assure wonderful, healthy green trees and delicious fruit.
The Sun sets on a beautiful Autumn day. The irrigation system is next to be installed.
The trees will be ready for their first harvest in only three seasons. This is what they’ll look like at that point.
The irrigation system is installed. Black tubing was laid down each row and the orange colored emitters were attached. This drip irrigation system puts water directly where it is needed, without wasting precious water.
October 25, 2010 — Planting Day
Mike Houghtaling, President of Dooley Groves and long-time citrus grower, carefuly plants the first Honeybell tree. They’ll be about 3 feet high by next year!
The planting crew is doing an excellent job!
Three generations! Mike Houghtaling with his son, David and David’s son, Conner, plant the last tree.
Mike is a happy man. He’ll tend to these trees daily for the next 3 years before they produce rare and delicious Honeybells. More citrus trees are to be planted in the Spring of 2011.
