The mandarin occurs as a wild plant in southern China and is one of the most commonly cultivated citrus fruits in tropical and subtropical climates. At the beginning of the 19th century, the mandarin was introduced to the Mediterranean as a cultivated plant. The evergreen tree can grow up to seven meters high in its natural environment and also tends to grow very bushy.
How do I prune a tangerine tree correctly?
Mandarin trees should be pruned in spring or immediately after flowering. First, remove dried and stunted branches, cut off inwardly growing shoots and cut off crossing branches. Pay attention to hygiene and use sharp cutting tools to avoid infection. The goal is an even, bushy crown.
The optimal time
Tangerine trees should be pruned extensively in spring if possible. The best time is at the end of the winter season, before the first new shoots sprout. If this is not possible, you can also prune the tree directly after flowering. However, you should hurry, because shortly afterwards the first new buds will form - and these are better left on the tree. In particular, pruning before new growth stimulates the mandarin tree to produce new shoots so that a dense crown can develop. Otherwise, you can remove a stubborn shoot or a stunted/dry branch throughout the year.
Instructions
When pruning the tangerine tree, proceed as follows:
- First remove dried and stunted branches.
- Then shoots growing inwards are cut off.
- If two (or more) branches cross each other, cut one (or more). However, one shoot should remain
- If possible, always make the cut just above one eye.
- The cutting tool should of course be sharp and disinfected.
- Hygiene is extremely important when trimming trees, otherwise fungal infections can easily occur.
- For this reason, you should also seal larger cuts with tree resin if possible.
- Do not crush the branches, this will cause serious injury to the tree and disrupt the sap flow.
- Leave fruit-bearing branches untouched for the time being.
- Aim for the most even, bushy crown possible.
Sharp scissors such as rose scissors or a sharp knife are best suited for cutting. Tangerines can be grown both as a bush and as a standard tree.
Tips & Tricks
When repotting your tangerine tree, you should take a close look at the root ball and remove any dead or damaged roots. Only then is it transferred to a new, larger pot.
