Growing a mandarin tree from a seed is a rewarding houseplant project. The process is simple and does not require complex equipment or specialized knowledge. By following a few straightforward steps, you can cultivate a beautiful, aromatic plant with glossy green leaves in your home. This guide provides a detailed walk-through of the initial planting and care stages.
Preparing Mandarin Seeds for Germination
The first step is selecting the best seeds. Choose seeds that appear plump and full, discarding any that look flat, shriveled, or immature. Mandarin seeds are generally polyembryonic, meaning one seed can produce multiple seedlings, and they do not require cold stratification to germinate effectively.
A crucial step is to clean the seed thoroughly, removing all residual fruit pulp and the sugary coating. This sugary layer can promote the growth of mold or fungus, preventing germination. Plant the seeds immediately while they are still moist, or store them briefly in a damp paper towel until planting time.
Sowing the Seed: Container and Soil Requirements
Select a small container, such as a four-inch pot, that has excellent drainage holes. A specialized seed-raising mix or a light, well-draining potting soil is the best medium for germination. Standard garden soil should be avoided, as it tends to compact, holds too much water, and often introduces pathogens.
Plant the seed shallowly, about a half-inch deep, and lightly cover it with the potting mix. Water the soil gently until the excess moisture drains out the bottom. To create the ideal warm and humid environment, cover the pot with a clear plastic dome or plastic wrap. This covering helps maintain a consistently high level of moisture, encouraging the seed to sprout.
Nurturing the Young Seedling
Place the covered pot in a warm location, ideally maintaining a temperature between 70°F and 85°F. Providing warmth is important for successful sprouting, which can take anywhere from two weeks to several months. The soil must be checked regularly and kept consistently moist, but never waterlogged, to prevent the seed from rotting.
Once a green sprout breaks the surface, remove the plastic covering immediately to prevent fungal growth and allow for air circulation. The young seedling requires bright, indirect light, such as a spot near a sunny window, or placement under a full-spectrum grow light for 12 to 16 hours a day. When the seedling has developed two or more sets of true leaves, transplant it carefully into a slightly larger pot filled with a well-draining citrus potting mix.
Long-Term Expectations for Citrus Grown from Seed
It is important to have realistic expectations for a mandarin tree grown from a seed. A tree started this way will not yield fruit for a substantial period, typically requiring five to fifteen years before it reaches maturity and begins to flower. During this time, the plant serves primarily as an attractive, fragrant ornamental houseplant.
The fruit produced by a seed-grown mandarin tree may not be identical to the parent fruit from which the seed was harvested. This genetic variation means the resulting fruit could be a different size, flavor, or texture than expected.
For those whose main goal is to harvest the exact variety of mandarin quickly, the most reliable method is to grow a tree that has been grafted. Grafting involves joining a desirable fruiting branch onto a sturdy seedling rootstock, which ensures the resulting tree is true-to-type and produces fruit much sooner.