Position –
The mandarin naartjie tree thrives in hot, humid conditions and full sun. The fruits have a thin skin and are susceptible to cold and frost. Plant your trees about 3.5 to 5 metres apart to allow for their canopy to spread.
Size
Depending on the soil, climate conditions and care, your mandarin orange tree can grow to a height between 3.5 and 7.5 metres tall.
Soil Type
Naartjie trees need well-draining, healthy sandy soil with a slightly acidic soil. If your soil’s drainage isn’t optimal, plant on a bit of a mound so the soil doesn’t become waterlogged.
Mulching
Add a thick layer of pine bark mulch, keeping it about 20 to 30 centimetres away from the tree trunk (any closer may cause excess moisture and damage the trunk). This will retain the moisture in the soil and will prevent weeds from taking over.
Watering
Your tree needs to be well watered for the best fruits. In summer and spring, increase your watering so that the tree doesn’t dry out in the heat.
Fertilising
To get the most out of your Mandarin naartjie tree, feed it with fertiliser in spring and summer. If the leaves start to yellow, your plant may not have enough magnesium. Apply a little Epsom salts to the tree’s drip line (where the leaves extend their reach). Apply slow-release citrus fertiliser during the harvest season and repeat after the fruiting period. Utilising our slow-release fertiliser is a must for citrus; even though it is called berry fertiliser it is for all plants/trees.
Pruning
You may decide to prune your tree if you need to keep its spread under control, prefer it in a certain shape, or have diseased or dead branches that are sapping it of its vital energy. But, it’s also important not to cut it unnecessarily, especially while it is still young.
Pest and Disease Management:
Aphids, citrus psylla, red scale, citrus greening. Spraying regularly with Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control ) will assist in either prevention or after the fact. If you already have aphids or mites, wash the tree with a harsh hosing, and when dry, spray with Neem oil or EM Control.
Practice good garden hygiene (remove fallen fruit and leaves).
Watch for root rot (if overwatered) and fungal infections during wet periods.
Harvesting
Pick your mandarins when they have turned from green to a beautiful orange colour all over. Clip or twist them carefully from the tree. If you know rain is coming, take them off before the rain, as this can cause the fruit to spoil.
