Satsuma mandarin care guide
Citrus unshiu
Also known as: Unshu mikan, Mikan
Pets and children
Caution advised
The oils in the peel and leaves can cause vomiting, diarrhea or skin irritation in dogs and cats; keep fallen fruit and peel out of reach too, and consult a veterinarian if any is eaten.
How often to water Satsuma mandarin
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 2 days
- Water a pot thoroughly once the topsoil is dry, about every one to two days in summer; in the ground it only needs water in a long dry spell.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 3 days
- Slightly drier soil while the fruit colors makes it sweeter; as a guide, water every two to four days once the surface dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 7 days
- About once a week, a few days after the soil dries, in the morning of a mild day.
Light and placement for Satsuma mandarin
As a guide, a sunny, airy spot, since more sun generally means sweeter fruit; keep it off the path of cold north wind, such as beside a south-facing wall.
Overwintering Satsuma mandarin
Overwintering guide: −5°C (23°F) or above
Among the hardier citrus, it generally winters outdoors on the Kanto and Kansai plains; where it drops below about -5°C, or for a young tree, wrap it in fleece or move the pot under the eaves.
Fertilizing and repotting Satsuma mandarin
Fertilizer
As a guide, slow-release organic fertilizer in March and June plus a small thank-you feed after harvest in November or December; for a pot, generally smaller, more frequent doses.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Satsuma mandarin
- A heavy crop one year is followed by almost none the next.
- Drying out in summer while carrying fruit makes it drop the crop.
- Pruning removes the shoot tips that would have carried fruit.
Tips for growing Satsuma mandarin
- Thinning in July or August to one fruit per 20 to 30 leaves helps it crop every year.
- Remove fruit from a young tree for about its first three years so it can build a frame.
- Wait until the peel is fully colored before picking for the best sweetness.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
