Lane Late Navel Orange (Citrus sinensis ‘Lane Late’)

Lane Late is a late-ripening mutation of the Washington Navel and is well suited to cool-temperate areas where early-ripening oranges may lack sweetness. It produces large, seedless fruit with a bright rind, firm juicy flesh, and excellent flavour balance, holding well on the tree into autumn and early winter. Because of its extended ripening period, Lane Late benefits from warm autumn conditions — something your NW slope can provide if placed in a sheltered, sunny position. Originating from Australia, Lane Late is more adaptable than many late-season navels to variable climates but still requires full sun and good cold-air drainage to achieve full sweetness. Like all citrus in cool wet climates, it is sensitive to winter waterlogging and should be planted on a raised mound with heavy woody mulch. The edible parts include the sweet segments and aromatic rind used for cooking and zesting. It is self-fertile and does not require a pollination partner. Propagation is best achieved through grafting onto trifoliata rootstock, which enhances cold tolerance and reduces susceptibility to root diseases common in high-rainfall soils. Fruiting normally begins in four to six years. Ideal support species include White Clover, Comfrey, Marigold, Lemon Balm, Calendula, Chives, Garlic, and Sorrel, which create a beneficial guild that supports shallow citrus roots, deters pests, and enhances nutrient cycling and soil structure.