When to Plant Mandarin in Melbourne — Cool Temperate Guide
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Easy-peel citrus that's extremely popular in Australian home gardens. Huge variety range from early to late season, covering harvest from April to November. Imperial is the classic Australian variety. Trees are generally smaller and more compact than oranges or grapefruit, making them excellent for suburban gardens. Grafted trees fruit in 2-3 years. Most varieties produce heavy crops of sweet, easy-to-peel fruit that kids love.
How to Grow Mandarin in Cool Temperate Australia
When to Plant
Plant November. Sheltered north-facing position.
- Soil
- Well-drained, slightly acidic. Reasonable tolerance of various soils.
- pH Range
- 6.0-7.0
- Sunlight
- Full sun. 6+ hours direct.
Companion plants: Nasturtium, Comfrey, Marigold
Avoid planting near: Grass to trunk
Cool Temperate Growing Tips for Mandarin
Recommended Varieties
- Satsuma (best cold tolerance of any mandarin)
- Imperial (in sheltered spots)
Key Challenges
- Frost during flowering
- Gall wasp
- Slower growth
Pro Tips
- Satsuma mandarins do well in Melbourne - seedless, easy peel, good cold tolerance.
- North-facing wall position recommended.
- Cool winters actually produce sweeter fruit than tropical-grown mandarins.
Harvesting Mandarin
When ready: Full colour development (orange). Easy peel test - skin separates easily. Taste test is definitive. Sweeter the longer left on tree (within reason).
How to harvest: Cut with secateurs leaving short stub, or twist-pull gently.
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