How to Get a Clementine Tree to Bloom

Clementine trees need to bloom to produce fruit.

The Clementine is a type of mandarin orange, also known as a tangerine. Native to Asia, the Clementine was developed in Algeria and brought to the U.S. in 1909. Like many types of citrus fruit, the Clementine grows best in sub-tropical environments. It can handle temperatures down to 22 to 23 degrees Fahrenheit at the lowest, but the fruit may be damaged. Proper care will ensure your Clementine tree flowers.

Things You'll Need

• Spade
• Mulch
• Nitrogen

Instructions

1. Select a location for the Clementine tree that is protected from frost, such as a south or southeast facing wall. The location should also provide full sun and well drained soil. Avoid alkaline or saline soils.

2. Dig a hole for the Clementine tree as deep as the tree’s root ball and three times a wide. Place the tree into the hole and fill the hole with soil. Pat the soil down and water the tree for 20 minutes.

3. Apply a 2 to 3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the Clementine tree about 4 to 5 feet in diameter.

4. Apply three applications of 0.1 to 0.2 lbs. of nitrogen to the Clementine tree between February and September. Apply the nitrogen the soil around the tree and water for 20 minutes after each application.

5. Water the Clementine tree every week for 20 minutes in periods of drought.

References

• Purdue University; "Mandarin Orange"; Julia F. Morton; 1987
• Aggie Horticulture; Home Fruit Production Mandarins; Julian W. Sauls; December 1998
• University of Mississippi: Fruit and Nut Review Citrus