How to Grow Satsuma Trees
Satsuma (Citrus unshiu) is one of the sweetest and most cold-hardy citrus fruits. Originally from China, the name "Satsuma" comes from the Japanese province where these trees were first cultivated and introduced to the West.
Brought to North America in the 18th century, this citrus fruit is known for its easy-to-peel skin and delicate, seedless pulp. Small to medium in size, satsuma trees have a slow, spreading growth habit and produce beautiful white flowers in spring, attracting early pollinators.
How to Plant Satsuma Trees
When planting a satsuma tree, ensure daytime temperatures are consistently above 50°F for at least a week. This protects the tree from potential damage due to late frosts and allows it to adjust to the mild temperatures before summer heat arrives.
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If a severe frost occurs in spring, cover the seedling's branches with a blanket.
Location Matters
Choose a spot with plenty of sunlight and some protection from the wind, such as near a building or a fence. Satsumas need full sun exposure and are sensitive to harsh winds.
How to Care for Satsuma Trees
Light
Satsuma trees require 8-10 hours of direct sunlight, especially in the spring when they are developing flowers and fruit. Full sun conditions are essential for healthy growth and bountiful harvests.
Soil
These citrus trees thrive in sandy, loamy soil with good drainage and a slightly acidic to neutral pH. While they can adapt to rocky or clay soils, they do not tolerate salty soil conditions.
Water
Regular, deep watering is crucial, especially during the growing season. Newly planted trees should be watered every two to three days, then reduced to once a week as they become established. During dry periods, increase watering frequency to keep the soil consistently moist.
Temperature and Humidity
Satsumas are more cold-tolerant than other citrus varieties. Mature trees can withstand winter temperatures as low as 14°F. However, young or less hardy trees need extra protection if temperatures dip below this.
You can mound soil around the base of the trunk or use a trunk wrap to shield it from the cold. Winter temperatures between 25°F and 35°F contribute to the fruit's sweetness.
Fertilizer
Satsuma trees benefit from an 8-8-8 balanced citrus fertilizer. Fertilize in late January to early February as new growth starts. A two-year-old tree can handle 450 to 500 grams of fertilizer annually.
Satsuma Varieties
With over 100 cultivars available, you can choose a satsuma tree that fits your climate and taste preferences:
- ‘Owari’: A highly productive tree known for seedless, high-quality fruit.
- ‘Brown Select’: Compact with a less drooping habit and sweet, easy-to-peel fruit.
- ‘Silverhill’: Vigorous growth and especially sweet fruit with low acidity.
- ‘Early St. Ann’: An early-ripening variety ready for harvest from mid-September.
Satsumas vs. Mandarins
Satsumas are often classified alongside mandarins but have distinct characteristics. Genetics reveal that satsumas are a tangerine-grapefruit hybrid, offering a softer texture and looser rind compared to traditional mandarins. They also ripen earlier, making them an excellent choice for early winter harvests.
Harvesting Satsumas
Satsumas are typically harvested from October to December, depending on the variety. They don’t hang well on the tree once ripe, so prompt harvesting is essential.
The fruit’s skin becomes loose as it matures, and color variations are common based on climate. In humid areas, ripe satsumas may still appear green, while cooler nights can produce a rich orange hue. Cut the fruit from the tree to avoid damaging the rind, as bruised satsumas spoil quickly.
How to Grow Satsumas in Pots
Satsuma trees can reach 20 feet in height but are easily trained to grow smaller in containers. Keeping the tree pruned to about 5-6 feet is ideal.
The biggest advantage of container planting is the ability to move the tree indoors during colder months. Place the pot near a sunny window and maintain high humidity by misting the leaves.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for satsuma trees, especially to prevent fruit from touching the ground. The best time to prune is in early spring, after the risk of frost.
Remove branches growing within 18 inches of the ground and clear any leaf debris to maintain a healthy, disease-free environment.
Propagating Satsumas
Propagation is usually done through grafting, though hardwood cuttings can be rooted using talc. If you propagate from seedlings, keep them protected for the first two years.
Note that citrus trees are subject to site-specific diseases, so avoid moving citrus plants between states to prevent contamination.
Common Pests and Diseases
Satsuma trees are generally resilient but can fall prey to sour orange scab, a fungal disease that affects leaves, branches, and fruit. While it impacts the appearance, it rarely diminishes the quality of the fruit's pulp.
With proper care, satsuma trees will reward you with a bountiful and delicious harvest. Whether planted in the ground or grown in a pot, these citrus trees bring a sweet, sunny touch to any garden.
Enjoy This Video Tutorial About Planting Fruit
Source: Self Sufficient Me
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Last update on 2025-01-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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