How to Plant Tangerine in Nigeria
Tangerine is a popular citrus fruit known for its sweet, tangy flavour and high vitamin C content.
Growing tangerine in Nigeria is both feasible and beneficial due to the tropical climate, which provides suitable conditions for tangerine trees to thrive.
This guide will take you through all the steps of planting and maintaining a healthy tangerine farm, from choosing the right location to controlling pests and diseases.
Description of a Tangerine Plant
A tangerine plant, scientifically known as Citrus reticulata, is a small to medium-sized citrus tree that belongs to the Rutaceae family.
The tangerine tree is a small to medium-sized evergreen with a dense, rounded canopy.
Its dark green, glossy leaves add beauty to its appearance, while its fragrant white flowers attract pollinators.
The fruits are round, medium-sized, and have a green, slightly rough skin.
Tangerines are segmented inside and can be easily peeled, making them convenient for consumption.
Planting Season for Tangerine in Nigeria
Tangerine planting in Nigeria should ideally start with the onset of the rainy season, which typically begins around April or May.
The natural rainfall during this period provides the young trees with sufficient moisture to establish strong root systems.
Although irrigation is an option, relying on the rainy season reduces water costs and helps the plants to acclimate to the local environment effectively.
Planting Tangerine
Step 1 – Choose a Location
Selecting the right location for planting tangerines is crucial.
Tangerines require plenty of sunlight and should be planted in an area that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Avoid planting in low-lying areas prone to waterlogging, as tangerines do not tolerate standing water and may suffer from root rot in such conditions.
Step 2 – Land Clearing and Preparation
Prepare the land by clearing it of weeds, rocks, and debris.
Proper land clearing prevents competition for nutrients and water between the tangerine plants and weeds.
Next, loosen the soil by tilling it, as this promotes root growth and better water penetration.
For tangerine trees, soil that is well-drained and slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5) is ideal.
You may consider performing a soil test to ensure the soil composition is suitable for tangerines.
Step 3 – Means of Propagation
Tangerines can be propagated through seeds, grafting, or budding.
However, grafted or budded plants are preferred for commercial farming, as they mature faster and maintain the characteristics of the parent plant.
Propagating by seeds is generally slower and less predictable but can be used by farmers on a smaller scale or those without access to grafted seedlings.
Step 4 – How to Plant Tangerines from Seed
- Seed Selection: Use fresh tangerine seeds obtained from ripe fruits. Ensure that the seeds are from a healthy source, as the quality of the seeds will influence the growth and yield.
- Seed Preparation: Clean the seeds and remove any pulp, then soak them in water overnight to speed up germination.
- Sowing: Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep in seedling trays or pots with well-draining soil. Once the seedlings reach about 6 inches in height, they can be transplanted to the field.
- Spacing: Tangerine trees should be spaced 15-20 feet apart to allow sufficient air circulation and sunlight penetration.
Step 5 – Watering
Consistent watering is essential for young tangerine plants, especially during the dry season.
Water the plants regularly to keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Mature trees require less frequent watering but should still be watered deeply during extended dry periods.
Step 6 – Apply Manure
Organic manure, such as compost or well-rotted animal dung, should be added to the soil during land preparation to boost fertility.
After planting, continue to apply organic manure every 3-4 months.
Additionally, you can supplement with NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) fertilizers to encourage healthy growth, using it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Maturity and Harvest
Tangerine trees usually start producing fruit after 3-4 years when grown from grafted plants, while seed-grown trees may take up to 7 years to mature.
The fruits are typically ready for harvest from November to March.
You can tell that the fruits are ripe when they change colour from green to orange and become slightly soft to the touch.
Harvesting is done by clipping the fruits from the tree to avoid damaging the branches.
Pest and Diseases
Tangerine plants are susceptible to various pests and diseases, which can impact their growth and yield.
Some common pests include:
- Citrus aphids: These small insects feed on young leaves and stems, causing curling and stunted growth.
- Citrus leaf miner: This pest burrows into leaves, leaving silvery trails and causing leaf distortion.
- Citrus scale insects: They attach themselves to branches and suck sap, leading to weakened plants.
Common diseases include:
- Citrus canker: A bacterial disease that causes lesions on leaves, stems, and fruits, affecting the overall health and yield.
- Greasy spot: A fungal disease that leads to yellowing and premature leaf drop, especially during the rainy season.
- Root rot: Caused by waterlogged conditions, this disease affects the roots, leading to yellowing leaves and stunted growth.
Pest and Disease Control
To protect your tangerine plants from pests and diseases, employ the following control methods:
- Regular Monitoring: Inspect your plants frequently for signs of pests or disease. Early detection allows for timely treatment and prevention of spread.
- Pruning: Prune your trees to remove diseased or infested branches and improve air circulation, which reduces fungal infection risk.
- Organic Pest Control: Use neem oil, insecticidal soap, or other organic treatments to manage pests without harming beneficial insects.
- Chemical Control: If organic methods are insufficient, consider using recommended pesticides and fungicides. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid excessive chemical residues on the fruit.
- Crop Rotation and Field Sanitation: Practice crop rotation to reduce soil-borne diseases, and keep your field clean by removing fallen leaves or fruits that may harbor pests or pathogens.
How Many Tangerine Plants Can I Grow on an Acre of Land, and What Quantity of Tangerine Can I Harvest?
On average, an acre of land can accommodate 150-200 tangerine trees, depending on the spacing and layout.
A well-maintained tangerine farm can yield around 200–300 fruits per tree annually.
This equates to approximately 30,000–60,000 fruits per acre, which can vary based on factors such as climate, soil quality, and farm management practices.
With favourable conditions and proper care, a tangerine farm in Nigeria can be a profitable venture with a steady yield over the years.
Conclusion
Growing tangerines in Nigeria can be a rewarding endeavour with the right approach to site selection, planting, and maintenance.
The tropical climate offers favourable conditions, but careful attention must be given to pest and disease control to maximize yields.
By following these guidelines, you can establish a successful tangerine plantation and enjoy bountiful harvests year after year.
I hope this article was helpful.
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