Tangerines are delicious and nutritious citrus fruits that are popular for their sweet, tangy flavor. Tangerine farming can be a rewarding venture, both for personal consumption and as a source of income. To successfully grow tangerines, you’ll need to follow specific steps and care for your trees throughout their life cycle.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, from selecting the right location to harvesting your tangerines.
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
– Select a sunny location with well-drained soil. Tangerines thrive in full sunlight, so choose a spot with at least 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Step 2: Obtain Tangerine Varieties
– Research and choose a tangerine variety suitable for your climate and preferences. Common varieties include Clementine, Satsuma, and Dancy.
Step 3: Prepare the Soil
– Test your soil’s pH and amend it as necessary to achieve a pH between 6.0 and 7.0, which is ideal for tangerines.
– Dig a large planting hole and mix organic compost into the soil to improve drainage and fertility.
Step 4: Planting Tangerine Trees
– Plant your tangerine trees in the spring or early fall.
– Space trees at least 12-15 feet apart to ensure proper airflow and growth.
Step 5: Watering
– Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply when the soil is dry 2-3 inches below the surface.
– Reduce watering during the winter months.
Step 6: Fertilize Regularly
– Use a balanced fertilizer, high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply in early spring and late summer.
– Follow the specific recommendations for your chosen tangerine variety.
Step 7: Pruning
– Prune tangerine trees to remove dead or diseased branches and maintain a desirable shape.
– Pruning helps improve air circulation and sunlight exposure.
Step 8: Pest and Disease Management
– Monitor your tangerine trees for pests like aphids, spider mites, and diseases such as citrus canker.
– Use organic or chemical control methods as necessary.
Step 9: Protect from Frost
– If you live in a frost-prone area, cover your trees with blankets or install heat lamps during cold nights to protect them from frost damage.
Step 10: Harvesting
– Tangerines are ready to harvest when they have developed a bright orange color and are easy to separate from the tree.
– Gently twist or cut the fruit from the tree to avoid damaging the branch.
