Position – Plant your minneola tree in a sunny area with lots of space in a spot that doesn’t get too much wind (especially during fruiting and flowering).
Size – At maturity, this tree is about 3 to 6 metres high, with a canopy width of 1.8 to 6.5 metres.
Soil Type –The minneola is hardier than most citrus trees and does well in any soil type if it drains well (it doesn’t become waterlogged). A pH of 6.5 is ideal for all citrus fruit trees.
Mulch – Spread about 8 centimetres of organic mulch on the ground underneath your tree; be careful to pull it 20 centimetres away from the tree trunk to prevent water from accumulating. Straw, cut grass, shredded leaves, compost and wood chips make good mulch. This retains the moisture in the soil and keeps weeds at bay.
Watering – Your soil should be kept moist but not wet. Water young trees once a week during the dry summer months. You should only water them enough as they age to ensure the deeper soil surrounding the roots remains moist.
Fertilising – A fertiliser specifically for citrus plants will help the minneola tangelo to thrive. Follow the package instructions.
Pruning – Generally, this tree doesn’t need to be pruned. Of course, dead, diseased, or damaged boughs should be removed. Suckers on the base of the trunk and the branches should be taken off too. Pruning should be done towards the end of spring.
Harvesting – Pick and enjoy your sweet fruits during late September early October. When they are ready, their skin is a dark-orange colour. Pick them as soon as they are ready. Leaving them on the tree for too long will hinder the next season’s growth.
