Position – The Tango naartjie tree does well in cooler conditions and grows in many SA areas. They thrive in full sun but do not like frost. Plant them about 5 metres away from other trees.
Size – This tree reaches a mature height of between 3 and 4.5 metres, with a canopy spread of 4.5 metres.
Soil Type – Because citrus trees’ roots require more oxygen than other trees, it’s important to plant them in well-draining soil that stays moist but does not become waterlogged. A pH of between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal.
Mulch – To retain the moisture in the soil, use organic mulch around the tree, extending it as far as the roots go. Just be careful not to put it around the tree trunk itself, as this will cause water to accumulate there, and the tree may soon rot.
Watering – Water this tree once every 10 to 14 days in summer and every 2 to 3 weeks in winter for about 45 minutes if the top 2.5 to 5 centimetres of the soil is dry. Generally, they thrive when they are flooded with water and then allowed to dry out completely before the next watering. Never overwater your nova naartjies.
Fertilising – Feed these trees in March, July and December with a well-balanced fertiliser (8:1:6 is ideal). When the tree is young, give it 300 grams of fertiliser on each application. As it matures, increase that to 500 grams.
Pruning – As with all citrus trees, the tambor naartjies can be left to grow without much pruning. If branches are diseased or dead, or ones that get in the way of a pathway, those can be cut away.
Harvesting – Pick your gorgeous, sweet naartjies in May and June, when their skins are orange with no green on them.
