The Fragrant Citrus Tree That Handles The Cold Better Than Most

If you live in a colder climate, you may think that you are unable to grow citrus trees outside. These trees are often found in warmer regions, thriving under the bright sun and withstanding hot temperatures. However, not all citrus trees are built the same, and there are hardy citrus trees for cooler climates that you can bring into your yard. One great option is the fragrant Owari Satsuma semi-dwarf mandarin tree. This variety is cold-hardy to temperatures of around 28 degrees Fahrenheit and is suitable for growing in USDA Hardiness Zones 8 to 11. As it is a smaller variety, you can grow this compact orange tree in a container and bring it indoors over winter if you live in zones 4 to 7. 

Although slow to grow, the Owari Satsuma semi-dwarf mandarin tree gets to a height of around 10 to 15 feet when grown outside in the ground. However, it tends to mature to a smaller size of 6 to 8 feet when grown in a container. It's fragrant and produces good quality, sweet fruit, and becomes pretty productive once it has settled in. The fruit ripens in early winter and doesn't hold well on the tree, so it needs to be harvested as soon as it is ready.  

Like most citrus trees, the Owari Satsuma semi-dwarf mandarin tree loves the sun and needs about 8 hours of direct light a day. If you are growing your tree in a container, ensure that the potting mix you are using is chunky and well-draining. When it comes to watering, it is best to let the soil dry out before completely soaking it. These trees tend to prefer deep waterings. For container-grown trees, water the soil until it begins to run out of the bottom of the pot. You can prune your Owari Satsuma semi-dwarf mandarin tree in the spring to maintain its shape and remove dead or damaged branches. 

It is a good idea to fertilize your tree during its growing season to help it produce fruit. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month and then reduce the feed in the winter. These trees may not give you fruit straight away, so patience is key! Sometimes, it will take years for the small Satsumas to appear, but once they do, the tree will produce a lot. Ensure you are caring for your citrus tree during winter by mulching or covering it with frost blankets, as even though it is cold-hardy, it may suffer.