How to Grow Tangerines From Seeds?
Growing tangerines from seed is possible, though it requires patience and understanding. You’ll need to prepare the seeds properly, provide the right growing conditions, and accept that the resulting fruit may differ from the parent tangerine.
The Allure of Growing Tangerines From Seed
Growing your own fruit trees, including tangerine trees, from seed can be a deeply rewarding experience. It connects you to the cycle of nature, provides a unique sense of accomplishment, and allows you to cultivate something truly your own. While propagation via grafting is the standard for commercial citrus, seed propagation offers the chance to develop new varieties and understand the genetic diversity within citrus fruits.
Understanding Tangerine Genetics
It’s important to understand that tangerine trees grown from seed won’t necessarily produce fruit identical to the parent fruit. Citrus plants are often hybrids, and seeds can carry genetic traits from different parents. This means you might end up with a tangerine that is sweeter, more sour, larger, smaller, or even a completely different variety than you expected. This variation is part of the adventure!
Seed Sourcing and Preparation
The key to success lies in selecting healthy seeds and preparing them correctly.
- Source: Obtain seeds from ripe, healthy tangerines. Organic tangerines are a good option, as they are less likely to have been treated with chemicals that could inhibit germination.
- Extraction: Carefully remove the seeds from the fruit.
- Cleaning: Rinse the seeds thoroughly to remove any pulp or sugar. This is crucial to prevent mold growth.
- Stratification (Optional): Some growers recommend stratifying (cold-treating) the seeds to improve germination. To do this, place the cleaned seeds in a damp paper towel inside a sealed plastic bag and refrigerate them for 30-60 days.
Planting Your Tangerine Seeds
Once the seeds are prepared, it’s time to plant them.
- Potting Mix: Use a well-draining potting mix specifically designed for citrus or seedlings. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well.
- Containers: Choose small pots (approximately 4-inch diameter) with drainage holes.
- Planting Depth: Plant the seeds about 1/2 inch deep.
- Watering: Water gently but thoroughly after planting, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Providing the Right Growing Conditions
Tangerine seeds need warmth, light, and consistent moisture to germinate and thrive.
- Temperature: Maintain a consistent temperature of 70-80°F (21-27°C) for optimal germination. A heat mat can be helpful.
- Light: Place the pots in a bright location with indirect sunlight. Once seedlings emerge, gradually introduce them to direct sunlight.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Check the soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch feels dry.
- Humidity: Tangerine seedlings benefit from high humidity. Consider placing the pots on a humidity tray or using a humidifier.
Nurturing Your Seedlings
Once the seeds germinate, it’s essential to provide proper care to ensure healthy growth.
- Fertilizing: Begin fertilizing the seedlings with a diluted citrus fertilizer every 2-4 weeks. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully.
- Repotting: As the seedlings grow, repot them into larger containers as needed.
- Pruning: Prune any dead or damaged leaves or branches.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Growing tangerine trees from seed can be challenging. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Overwatering: This can lead to root rot and kill the seedlings.
- Underwatering: Seeds and seedlings need consistent moisture.
- Using Poor-Quality Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix specifically designed for citrus.
- Insufficient Light: Tangerine seedlings need plenty of light to thrive.
- Lack of Patience: It can take several years for a tangerine tree grown from seed to produce fruit.
From Seedling to Fruit: A Long-Term Commitment
Remember that growing a tangerine tree from seed is a long-term commitment. It can take anywhere from 3 to 7 years for the tree to mature and produce fruit. Be patient, provide consistent care, and enjoy the journey. While you’re waiting, understand that the fruit might not taste exactly like the tangerine from which you took the seeds. This potential for variation is part of what makes growing from seed so exciting!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Seedlings not emerging | Seeds too old, soil too dry | Ensure seeds are fresh, maintain consistent soil moisture |
| Seedlings damping off | Overwatering, poor drainage | Improve drainage, reduce watering frequency, use fungicide if necessary |
| Yellowing leaves | Nutrient deficiency | Fertilize with a balanced citrus fertilizer |
| Slow growth | Insufficient light, low temps | Provide more light, increase temperature |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take for tangerine seeds to germinate?
Germination can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on factors such as temperature, moisture, and seed quality. Maintaining a consistently warm and humid environment will speed up the process.
What is stratification and is it really necessary?
Stratification is the process of exposing seeds to cold, moist conditions to break dormancy. While not strictly necessary for tangerine seeds, it can improve germination rates and uniformity, particularly for certain citrus varieties.
What type of soil is best for growing tangerine seedlings?
A well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for citrus is ideal. Look for mixes containing peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite for optimal drainage and aeration.
How much sunlight do tangerine seedlings need?
Tangerine seedlings need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. If you don’t have enough natural sunlight, supplement with grow lights to ensure healthy growth.
When should I repot my tangerine seedling?
Repot your tangerine seedling when it becomes root-bound or the roots start circling the bottom of the pot. Choose a slightly larger pot each time you repot.
How often should I fertilize my tangerine seedling?
Fertilize your tangerine seedling every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted citrus fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Can I grow tangerine trees indoors?
Yes, tangerine trees can be grown indoors, but they require bright light and may need supplemental lighting. Choose a dwarf variety specifically bred for container growing.
What are the common pests and diseases that affect tangerine trees?
Common pests include aphids, scale, and spider mites. Common diseases include citrus canker and root rot. Regularly inspect your tree for signs of pests and diseases and take appropriate action.
How do I protect my tangerine tree from frost?
If you live in an area with frost, protect your tangerine tree by wrapping the trunk with burlap or moving it indoors. Young trees are more susceptible to frost damage than mature trees.
How long does it take for a tangerine tree grown from seed to produce fruit?
It can take anywhere from 3 to 7 years for a tangerine tree grown from seed to produce fruit. Grafted trees typically produce fruit much sooner, often within 1-3 years.
Will the fruit from my seed-grown tangerine tree taste the same as the parent fruit?
Not necessarily. Tangerines are often hybrids, and the fruit from a seed-grown tree may have different characteristics than the parent fruit. This is part of the fun and excitement of growing from seed!
Is it possible to successfully graft my seed-grown tangerine tree later on?
Yes, grafting is absolutely possible and a great way to ensure specific desired fruit characteristics. Once your seedling has established a healthy root system, you can graft a scion (a cutting from a known variety) onto it. This combines the rootstock vigor of your seedling with the predictable fruit production of the grafted variety.