UF/IFAS researchers share tips on injecting oxytetracycline for Florida citrus growers.
In the latest efforts to combat citrus greening, also called HLB, Florida citrus growers are injecting oxytetracycline into their citrus trees to combat the bacteria that causes the disease. In March 2025, several UF/IFAS researchers issued “Suggested Use Pattern of Injectable Antimicrobials for Huanglongbing (HLB) Management” to give guidance on the “Best Practices” so far for injections. In our last blog, we shared tips on timing injections. Now, see below for tips on injection considerations.
Considerations When Injecting Oxytetracycline
The document shared the following recommendation for injection sites when injecting oxytetracycline:
- “Do not re-use injection sites.
- The rootstock is the recommended location for injection, but scion injections are also effective.
- Subsequent injections should be above or below the initial site by 2 inches and on the opposite side, or to the right or left by 2 to 3 inches.
- Do not use any post-wounding treatments as these may interfere with wound healing.”
The document also shared these additional considerations:
- “Injection into the trunk can cause significant damage to the tree.
- Trees with a trunk diameter of less than 2.5 inches are prone to more damage.
- Minimizing the hole size by using a smaller injector tip will minimize tree damage.”
The document also maintains that Florida citrus growers should still continue their efforts to target Asian citrus psyllids, the vector of citrus greening, advising “antibacterial programs do not replace Asian citrus psyllid management programs.”
See our next blog for guidance on application rates.
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