Growing my own tangerines in containers has been one of the most rewarding gardening experiments I’ve ever taken on. When I first considered the idea, I have to admit, I was sceptical. Could a fruit tree really thrive in a pot? But with some trial and error (and a lot of excitement along the way), I discovered that not only can it be done, but it’s actually easier than I thought. Now, my little tangerine tree sits proudly on my patio, bursting with bright, juicy fruit that I get to pick fresh whenever I fancy.
If you’ve ever dreamed of growing your own citrus fruit but thought you didn’t have the space, let me tell you: growing tangerines in containers is absolutely possible—and worth it! Here are my top 7 tips to help you grow your own container tangerines successfully, based on my own experience.
1. Choose the Right Variety
This is where it all begins! I learned pretty quickly that not all tangerine varieties are suited for container growing. You want to go for a **dwarf variety** because full-sized trees will outgrow their pots in no time. I opted for a dwarf tangerine tree called ‘Dancy,’ which is perfect for containers, and it’s been a star performer. Other good options include ‘Calamondin’ and ‘Mandarinquat.’ These varieties stay small but still produce plenty of fruit, and you can easily move them indoors during the colder months if needed.
When I first saw my little dwarf tree, I wondered if it would ever bear fruit, but sure enough, after some TLC, those tiny blossoms turned into the sweetest little tangerines!
2. Start with a Large Pot (Trust Me)
This is one of those lessons I learned the hard way. My first tangerine tree was in a pot that was too small, and within a year, the poor thing became root-bound. If you start with a larger pot, around 18-24 inches in diameter, you’ll give your tree plenty of room to grow and develop a strong root system from the get-go.
Make sure the pot has good drainage holes. Tangerine trees don’t like to sit in soggy soil, and the roots need to breathe. I added a layer of gravel at the bottom of the pot to help with drainage, which has worked wonders. A sturdy, well-draining pot sets the foundation for a healthy tree!
3. Use Quality Potting Mix
Good soil is like giving your tangerine tree a perfect home. I initially made the mistake of using regular garden soil, which became compacted in the pot. My tree looked sad and stressed until I switched to a well-draining potting mix specifically for citrus or cacti. These mixes are light and airy, allowing for good drainage while retaining enough moisture for the roots.
I also like to mix in some organic compost to give the soil a little nutrient boost. The difference was almost immediate—my tree perked up, and the leaves turned a much healthier shade of green!
4. Give Them Plenty of Sunlight
Tangerines love sunlight. I learned pretty quickly that the more sun they get, the better they grow and fruit. If you’re growing them in a container, you’ve got the advantage of being able to move them around to catch the best light. I keep mine on a sunny patio where it gets a good 6-8 hours of sunlight each day.
In the winter, when the days are shorter, I move the tree indoors to a bright spot near a window. It’s important to give it as much light as possible year-round, especially if you want those delicious tangerines to ripen fully.
5. Water Wisely (But Don’t Overdo It)
Watering is one of those areas where I had to find a balance. Tangerines need consistent moisture, but overwatering can be just as harmful as underwatering. I’ve learned to let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings. If the soil feels dry to the touch, it’s time to water.
One thing I noticed early on was that if the leaves start to droop, it’s a sign your tree is thirsty. And remember, a pot dries out faster than the ground, especially in hot weather, so you may need to water more frequently during summer. I’ve made it a habit to check the soil regularly, and my tree has been thriving ever since.
6. Feed Your Tree Regularly
Feeding your tangerine tree is like giving it the fuel it needs to produce all those juicy fruits. I use a citrus-specific fertiliser, which is designed to give the tree all the nutrients it needs. Citrus trees are heavy feeders, and in a pot, they rely on us to supply those nutrients since they can’t draw them from the ground like an outdoor tree would.
I fertilise mine every month during the growing season (spring through summer) and ease off in the autumn. Just follow the instructions on the fertiliser package, and you’ll be rewarded with healthier growth and more fruit. I’ve even noticed that feeding regularly seems to improve the flavour of the tangerines!
7. Prune for Shape and Health
I’ll admit, I was nervous about pruning my tree at first. What if I cut off the wrong branch? But once I got over that fear, I realised how much a little pruning can help. Tangerine trees in containers can get a bit unruly, and pruning keeps them in check while promoting good airflow between the branches.
In late winter or early spring, I prune away any dead or crossing branches and shape the tree so it doesn’t become too dense. This not only helps the tree stay healthy but also makes sure sunlight can reach all parts of the tree. It’s amazing how much happier my tree looks after a little pruning session—it’s like giving it a fresh haircut!
Final Thoughts: Tangerine Success!
Growing tangerines in containers has been one of the most satisfying gardening adventures I’ve taken on. There’s something incredibly rewarding about picking fresh fruit from your very own tree, and having it in a pot makes it accessible to anyone, no matter how small your space is.
By following these tips, you’ll give your tangerine tree the best start possible, and before you know it, you’ll be enjoying the sweet rewards of your efforts. Just be patient, give it the care it needs, and I promise you’ll be celebrating your own container-grown tangerines in no time!