Description
The minneola tree is a tangelo hybrid between a mandarin naartjie and a grapefruit. It is also known as a honeybell.
The fruit is round with a dark-orange rind and a prominent neck. Minneolas are large, about the size of a fist. They’re juicy and easier to peel than oranges since their skin is slightly looser.
They don’t self-fruit easily, so they do best when interplanted with other good pollinators like tangerines.
They contain fibre, protein and vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and contributes to more youthful skin.
Position
Plant your minneola tree in a sunny area with lots of space in a spot that doesn’t get too much wind (especially during fruiting and flowering).
Size
At maturity, this tree is about 3 to 6 metres high, with a canopy width of 1.8 to 6.5 metres.
Soil Type
The minneola is hardier than most citrus trees and does well in any soil type if it drains well (it doesn’t become waterlogged). A pH of 6.5 is ideal for all citrus fruit trees.
Mulch
Spread about 8 centimetres of organic mulch on the ground underneath your tree; be careful to pull it 20 centimetres away from the tree trunk to prevent water from accumulating. Our pine bark mulch is perfect for citrus trees.
Watering
Your soil should be kept moist but not wet. Water young trees once a week during the dry summer months. You should only water them enough as they age to ensure the deeper soil surrounding the roots remains moist.
Fertilising
Apply slow-release citrus fertilizer during the harvest season and repeat after the fruiting period. Utilising our slow-release Berry/All-plant Fertiliser is a must for citrus; even though it is called berry fertiliser it is for all plants/trees.
Pruning
Generally, this tree doesn’t need to be pruned. Of course, dead, diseased, or damaged boughs should be removed. Suckers on the base of the trunk and the branches should be taken off too. Pruning should be done towards the end of spring.
Pest and Disease Management
It is important to watch out for pests like aphids, scale insects, and mites. We recommend Effective Microorganisms to prevent the spread of these pests and diseases. Hose the tree first, to remove the aphids, and then spray well with EM Control. As they tree grows larger it will be healthy and pests will be a thing of the past.
Harvesting
Pick and enjoy your sweet fruits during late September early October. When they are ready, their skin is a dark-orange colour. Pick them as soon as they are ready. Leaving them on the tree for too long will hinder the next season’s growth.
