All About the W. Murcott Mandarin Tree.
The W. Murcott mandarin, also referred as the Honey Tangerine, is a popular citrus fruit that is prized for its sweet and rich flavor. It should not be confused with the California Honey Mandarin, which is a different mandarin variety. W. Murcott mandarins are known for their exceptional flavor. They are very sweet and have a rich, honey-like taste with a hint of tanginess. The fruit is typically easy to peel, making it a favorite among citrus enthusiasts for snacking and making fresh juice. The flavor of W. Murcott mandarins is often considered superior to that of many other mandarin varieties.
The W. Murcott mandarin tree typically produces fruit in the late winter to early spring. The exact timing of fruit ripening can vary depending on factors like climate, growing conditions, and the age of the tree. In some regions, the fruit may start to ripen in late January and continue into March or April.
The W. Murcott mandarin tree grows willowy branches and has an upright growth habit. Because the fruit tends to grow along the perimeter of the tree, care should be taken to protect the fruit from wind or other external factors while it is ripening. This variety is typically alternate bearing and very sensitive to cold temperatures. Ideally, it is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11. In cooler regions, it can be grown in pots or containers and brought indoors during the colder months to protect it from freezing temperatures.
Growing a W. Murcott Mandarin Tree in a Pot of Container:
1. Select a suitable container: Choose a large pot or container with good drainage holes. For a starter or primo sized tree, choose a pot at least 10-14” in diameter to accommodate the growing tree and its root system.
For in-ground planting, plant the tree in a prepared area about 3x the diameter of the pot, and as deep as possible. That soil should be well-draining and loose, allowing for root growth. To plant your tree, dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball and at the same depth as the pot, keeping the crown of the roots just above the soil line. Water thoroughly after planting.
2. Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is suitable for citrus trees. We recommend this do-it-yourself potting mix. Whatever mix you choose, it should be chunky and well-draining and should have good water retention while allowing excess water to drain away.
3. Location: Place the pot in a sunny location where the tree will receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Citrus trees thrive in full sunlight.
4. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the tree when the top 1-2” of soil feels dry. Be cautious not to let the pot sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
5. Fertilization: Fertilize the Minneola Tangelo tree with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer according to the instructions on the label. Typically, you should fertilize in the spring and late summer. Our recommendations are Romeo Fertilizer and G&B Organics Citrus & Fruit Tree Fertilizer.
6. Pruning: Prune the tree in early spring to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. Remove any dead or diseased branches.
7. Protection from cold: If you live in an area where winter temperatures drop significantly, consider moving the potted tree indoors or providing protection when frost is expected. Citrus trees are sensitive to cold temperatures.
8. Pest control: Monitor the tree for common citrus pests like aphids and scale insects and treat them as needed with insecticidal soaps like Captain Jack’s.
Growing a W. Murcott mandarin tree in a pot allows you to enjoy its delicious fruit even in areas with less favorable climates. With proper care, you can look forward to harvesting sweet and flavorful mandarins from your potted tree.
$60.00
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