Q.
I have a miniature mandarin tree, Burgess Scarlet, which has plenty of fruit on it. However the fruit is bitter and sour. Is there anything I can do to make the fruit sweeter? Thanks Graeme, Putaruru.
A.
When citrus becomes sour it is a sign the plant is short of nutrients and/or that the soil has dried out when the fruit is forming during summer.
For this season you won't be able to alter the taste, but for next seasons fruit apply a side dressing of Tui Citrus Food (if planted in the garden) in spring and summer. If you have poor or dry soil, add a layer of mulch around the base of the plant. An application now with Tui Organic Seaweed Plant Tonic will stimulate some root growth and improve the vigour of the plant.
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How can I make my mandarins taste sweeter? Comments
I would get one or two fish heads, soak them in a bucket of water for 6 weeks and feed the mandarin tree with the fluid from this. Be careful as it stinks to high heaven and dont get it on the actual tree, water it in around the drip line as it will burn the plant. I used this for my tomatoes this year and have never had a better crop. Good luck.
Janice Austin
I grow some Christmas lilies in a pot over summer. They are still in the pot. Should I take them out now and replant later in the year, or should I just leave them. Thanks.
Greata
Hi Greata, lilies are fabulous in pots, you can leave them in the pot and simply give them a side dressing of Tui NovaTec Premium fertiliser (suitable for pots) or you can replant them somewhere else. While they are dormant is the best time to transplant them. Thanks, Jenna - Tui Team.
jenna