The term “mando tree” commonly refers to the Mandarin orange tree, scientifically known as Citrus reticulata. These popular citrus plants are cherished for their sweet, easy-to-peel fruit, making them a favored choice for home gardeners. Mandarin trees offer an appealing addition to many landscapes, providing both ornamental beauty and delicious produce.
Identifying the Mandarin Tree
Mandarin trees are evergreen, typically growing up to 25 feet, though semi-dwarf varieties reach 8 to 10 feet. Their leaves are usually dark green, glossy, and ovate to lance-shaped, sometimes with thorns.
In spring, small, white, fragrant flowers appear. These blossoms develop into the distinctive fruit. Mandarin oranges are smaller than typical oranges, with a flattened shape and a thin, smooth rind that turns deep orange when ripe. The segmented flesh can be seedless or contain seeds, depending on the variety.
Growing and Caring for Your Mandarin Tree
Mandarin trees require full sun, needing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production. While they can tolerate partial shade, fruit yield may be reduced.
Mandarin trees need well-draining soil, ideally slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-6.2). Incorporating organic matter like compost improves fertility and drainage. They also grow well in containers, which helps manage soil conditions and protect from cold. Ensure pots have drainage holes and are large enough to accommodate root growth, such as a 15-gallon size.
Consistent moisture is important, but overwatering can cause root rot. Water deeply once a week, letting the soil dry slightly between waterings. Container trees may need more frequent watering. During fruit development, ensure adequate water, then slightly reduce frequency as fruit matures to enhance sugar content.
Mandarin trees prefer warm temperatures, ideally 68°F to 100.4°F (20°C to 38°C). They have limited frost tolerance; mature trees can withstand brief drops to 15°F (-9°C), but fruit can be damaged at 24°F to 26°F (-4°C to -3°C). Protect trees, especially young ones, if temperatures are expected to fall below freezing.
Fertilization supports healthy growth and fruiting. Apply a slow-release fertilizer annually in early spring, ideally one formulated for citrus trees or with a 12-6-6 NPK ratio. Apply fertilizer where water penetrates for proper absorption.
Pruning maintains the tree’s shape and health. Perform this between February and April, before blooming. Focus on removing dead or damaged branches, rootstock suckers, and opening the canopy to improve air circulation and light penetration.
Harvesting and Using Mandarin Oranges
Mandarin oranges ripen on the tree and do not sweeten further once picked. Determine ripeness by taste, though a deep orange color is a good indicator. Some varieties may color fully before peak sweetness. The typical harvest season runs from mid-November through early February, but varieties can extend this from late autumn to early summer.
To harvest, twist the fruit off the branch or snip the stem close to the fruit with secateurs to prevent tearing the rind. Mandarins can remain on the tree for several weeks after ripening, allowing a prolonged harvest. However, leaving them too long can cause the rind to puff and the fruit to lose flavor or dry out.
Once harvested, mandarins are versatile. They are enjoyed fresh as a sweet snack due to their flavor. Segments can be added to fruit salads, green salads, or stir-fries.
Mandarin juice is used in beverages or salad dressings. The zest and peel flavor baked goods, jams, and teas. For storage, ripe mandarins can be kept in a cool place or refrigerated in a plastic bag for up to six weeks.