The Seto Satsuma Tree is a type of Mandarin that can tolerate colder temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Seto Satsumas are virtually seedless, very easy to peel, have thin skin, and a sweet, slightly tangy flavor.
The Seto Satsuma Tree is a type of Mandarin that can tolerate colder temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Seto Satsumas are virtually seedless, very easy to peel, have thin skin, and a sweet, slightly tangy flavor. These virtues make the fruit a favorite for eating fresh. The tree’s ability to take cold temperatures makes it possible to grow in the ground in USDA Zones 8 to 10, and in a container in colder climates.
The fruit is small, deep orange, and has a refreshing, slightly tart, but sweet taste. They have no or very few seeds and have a surprising amount of juice for their size. Seto Satsuma Trees are also small and only grow to a mature size of about 12 feet tall, and 6 feet wide. The Seto Satsuma is a small, cold-hardy tree that produces early crops of easy-to-peel, small, seedless mandarins that are sweet, tart, and juicy. It’s easy to see why this tree is a favorite for both small gardens and container-grown locations.
Citrus Tree Care
When growing a Seto Satsuma tree in the ground, try to choose a spot that is protected from high north winds, either from a building or established plants and trees. Select a sunny location that is well-drained and never has standing water. Dig a hole that is at least ten inches wider than the tree’s root ball on all sides. Do not over-bury, and plant so that the surface of the potted tree’s soil is even with the surface of the ground once planted.
If you are growing your Seto Satsuma tree in a pot, choose a sturdy pot with holes for drainage. Select a pot that offers ample growing room for the tree. You should be able to fill the new pot with at least 4 inches of fresh soil below and on all sides of the tree’s existing root ball. Place the potted tree where it can get as much direct sunlight as possible. If growing indoors, place the tree in a south-facing window. Remember that you must water the tree well, but also allow for drainage. You can do this by watering the potted tree outdoors, or in a shower or bathtub. Allow the tree to fully drain, and only water again when the top inch or two of soil has dried out.
Fruit & Harvesting
The Seto Satsuma tree blooms white blossoms in spring. Mature fruit begins to turn deep orange and becomes ready to eat in the fall and throughout November. While other citrus is often not ready until December or January, Seto Satsumas can be eaten at Thanksgiving time and for some time after as well. A mature tree can produce over seventy pounds of citrus each season.
Since Seto Satsumas are so easy to peel, be sure to use clippers when harvesting mature fruits. Hold the fruit in one hand, and cut the stem with sharp clippers just above the fruit. Be careful to not damage the thin skin. Harvested fruits are good for three or four days and up to a week, and their storage can be extended with refrigeration.
Growing Zones
Advice
Although the Seto Satsuma tree is a small tree that produces a small fruit, a healthy tree can give you loads of citrus. Be ready to share your crop. It is also a good idea to consider making juice, cakes, pies, and marmalade or jams to extend the usefulness of this delicious citrus. If you do end up with fruit that is not consumed, you can always compost the excess citrus at the end of the season.
Also, when the crop is done producing, be sure to pick any fruit remaining on the tree at the end of winter before the tree blooms again in spring. Removing the previous crop is essential for giving the tree ample energy to produce a strong bloom, and another good crop of fruit.
FAQs
How cold hardy is a Seto Satsuma Orange Tree?
Seto Satsuma Trees can withstand short periods at temperatures as low as 10 degrees. A Seto Satsuma can be grown in the ground in USDA Zones 8-10. In areas with sustained winter freezing, grow your Seto Satsuma Tree in a container on a patio or porch in the summer, and bring it indoors to a bright location over the winter months.
What kind of fertilizer does a Seto Satsuma Tree need?
Seto Satsuma Trees, like other citrus varieties, needs a balance of standard NPK fertilizer as well as micronutrients and minerals specific to growing fruit crops. Use a fertilizer formulated for citrus. These fertilizers will often have an NPK ratio of 6-4-6 or similar, as well as the nutrients magnesium, manganese, iron, zinc, copper, and sulfur. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for amounts according to your tree’s size.
How are Seto Satsuma fruit different from other Citrus?
Seto Satsumas are smaller compared to other oranges or citrus such as tangelos, honeybells, or navels. They are virtually seedless, easy to peel, and mainly favored for eating out of hand. Another distinction this fruit has, is that it is mature and ready to harvest in November, at least a month sooner than many other citrus.
Does the Seto Satsuma Tree need a second pollinator tree?
No. The Seto Satsuma Tree is self-fertile and can grow a fine crop on a singe tree. Two Satsumas, or a Seto Satsuma and another tangerine/mandarin can cross-pollinate and produce heavier yields, but a solo tree will still produce a good amount of fruit.
