How to Plant Satsuma Trees

Satsuma trees are a type of citrus tree that produces sweet, seedless oranges. They are very popular in warmer climates such as the southern United States, and can be a great addition to any backyard or garden. If you’re interested in planting satsuma trees, here’s what you need to know:

Choose a Location

The first step in planting satsuma trees is to choose a suitable location. Satsuma trees thrive in warm, humid climates and prefer well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. They also need full sun exposure to produce sweet, juicy oranges. Look for a location in your yard or garden that gets at least 6-8 hours of sunlight each day and has good drainage.

Prepare the Soil

Once you’ve chosen a location for your satsuma tree, it’s time to prepare the soil. Satsumas do best in soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. You can test your soil’s pH with a kit from your local gardening store. If your soil is too alkaline, you can add sulfur to lower the pH. If it’s too acidic, you can add lime to raise the pH. Prepare the soil by digging a hole about twice as wide and deep as the root ball of the tree.

Plant the Tree

Now it’s time to plant your satsuma tree. If you’re planting a bare root tree, soak the roots in water for several hours before planting. Gently remove the tree from the container or burlap and place it in the hole you dug earlier. Make sure the tree is level and upright, and backfill the hole with the soil you prepared earlier. Water the tree well to settle the soil.

Care for Your Tree

After planting your satsuma tree, it’s important to care for it properly. Water the tree regularly, especially during dry spells or in periods of drought. Fertilize the tree once a month during the growing season with a citrus-specific fertilizer. Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and promote new growth. Watch for pests such as citrus leaf miners or spider mites, and treat them as necessary.

Harvest Your Oranges

With proper care, your satsuma tree should start producing fruit within three to four years. The oranges will ripen in the fall or winter, depending on your location. When the fruit is bright orange and easily comes off the tree when gently pulled, it’s ready to be harvested. Satsumas are easy to peel and can be eaten fresh, juiced or used in a variety of recipes.

By following these steps, you can successfully plant and grow your own satsuma tree. With a little care and patience, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious, juicy oranges right from your own backyard!