Origin and Common Names
Citrus tachibana (Makino) T. Tanaka, commonly known as the Tachibana orange or Citrus tachibana, is a small fruit tree species native to Japan. The plant belongs to the family Rutaceae and is widely cultivated in Japan for its fruit, which has a unique and pleasant aroma.
General Appearance
The Tachibana orange tree typically grows to a height of 3-6 meters and is characterized by its thorny branches and shiny green leaves. The leaves are ovate and have a length of about 5-10 cm, with a glossy upper surface and a slightly serrated margin. The flowers of the Tachibana orange are small and white, usually appearing in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit of the plant is small and round, with a diameter of about 3-4 cm.
Uses
The Tachibana orange is known for its sweet and sour taste, and it is commonly used in Japanese cuisine for its distinctive aroma and flavor. The fruit is used to make marmalade, jam, and juice, and it is also used in the production of alcoholic beverages such as liqueurs and brandy. Besides its culinary uses, the Tachibana orange is also valued for its medicinal properties. The fruit and leaves of the plant are used in traditional Japanese medicine to treat digestive disorders, respiratory problems, and skin irritations.
In conclusion, the Citrus tachibana (Makino) T. Tanaka or Tachibana orange is a small fruit tree indigenous to Japan. The plant has a distinctive appearance with shiny green leaves and small round fruit, and it has several culinary and medicinal uses in traditional Japanese culture.
Light Requirements
Citrus tachibana requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and productivity. It can tolerate some partial shade, but the fruit production may be reduced.
Temperature Requirements
Citrus tachibana is a subtropical plant and requires warm temperatures to thrive. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It can tolerate some cold but can be damaged if the temperature drops below 5°C (41°F).
Soil Requirements
Citrus tachibana prefers a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH range should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 5.5 to 7.5. The soil texture should be sandy or loamy to ensure good drainage. It is important to avoid waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot.
Cultivation of Citrus tachibana
Citrus tachibana, commonly known as Tachibana orange, can be grown indoors or outdoors depending on your preference. If grown outside, it is best to plant it in well-draining soil and an area that receives plenty of sunlight.
It is vital to ensure that the plant has enough space to grow and spread its roots. If grown indoors, place the plant in a sunny location or near a south-facing window, and maintain a temperature of around 60-70°F (15-21°C).
Watering Needs of Citrus tachibana
Citrus tachibana requires regular watering to stay healthy. The plant should be watered once every week, but the frequency may vary depending on the weather and the soil type.
This plant prefers moist, but not waterlogged soil. It is important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Fertilization of Citrus tachibana
Citrus tachibana requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth. You can fertilize the plant with a general-purpose fertilizer once every month during the growing season, which is typically from spring to fall.
You can also apply a micronutrient-rich fertilizer specifically formulated for citrus trees to encourage better fruit production. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and not over-fertilize, as this can burn the roots of the plant.
Pruning of Citrus tachibana
Citrus tachibana requires minimal pruning and is generally low maintenance. However, it is important to prune any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to maintain the health of the plant.
To encourage better fruit production, you can also prune any crossing or overcrowded branches. Prune the plant during the dormant season (winter), but avoid pruning during the active growing season, as this can damage the new growth and fruiting potential.
Propagation of Citrus tachibana
Citrus tachibana, commonly known as Tachibana orange, is a small flowering tree or shrub that belongs to the Rutaceae family. The plant is native to Japan and China and is a popular ornamental plant worldwide. It produces small, fragrant white flowers and small, round, edible fruit that resembles a mandarin orange but has a distinctive flavor. Propagation of Citrus tachibana is most commonly done by seed and cutting.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the easiest way to propagate Citrus tachibana. The tree produces seeds that are about 3-4 mm in diameter. The seeds are fresh and not dried out, they quickly sprout. Sow seeds as soon as they are mature.
1.Soak seeds in water overnight
2.Plant in a pot filled with well-draining soil
3.Keep the soil moist and cover the pot with plastic
4.Store the pot in a warm, shady area until the seedling appears
Once the seedling appears, gradually increase exposure to light and provide light fertilization. Seedlings typically take 2-4 years to mature and produce fruit.
Propagation by Cutting
Cuttings are another common method of propagation for Citrus tachibana.
1.Collect semi-hardwood cutting during late spring or early summer.
2.Make a horizontal cut at the base of the stem and remove all leaves except for two or three.
3.Dip the cut end in rooting hormone, tapping off any excess.
4.Plant cutting in well-draining soil, allowing one-third of the cutting submerged.
5.Cover the pot with plastic.
6.Store the pot in a bright, indirect light area until the cutting develops roots.
7. After 3 to 4 weeks, remove the plastic cover and move the cutting to a lightly shaded area.
8.Fertilize the cutting regularly to support its growth.
Disease and Pest Management of Citrus tachibana (Makino) T. Tanaka
Citrus tachibana, also known as Ryukyu tachibana or Miyako tachibana, is a species of citrus plant. Like any other plant, it is also susceptible to diseases and pests. Therefore, maintaining a disease and pest management plan is essential for the growth and productivity of the plant.
Common Diseases
Citrus tachibana is susceptible to various diseases. Some of the most common diseases that may affect the plant are:
- Citrus scab: It is a fungal disease that causes rough patches on the fruit and leaves of the plant.
- Citrus canker: It is a bacterial disease that causes yellow halo-like lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruit of the plant.
- Phytophthora root rot: It is a soil-borne disease caused by Phytophthora fungi that affects the roots of the plant, causing decay.
- Alternaria brown spot: It is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and fruit of the plant.
Disease Management
To manage the diseases, practice the following measures:
- Use disease-resistant cultivars of Citrus tachibana
- Remove and destroy infected leaves and fruits immediately
- Use copper-based fungicides to prevent and manage fungal diseases
- Remove any weeds and debris around the plant to avoid the spread of diseases
- Ensure proper drainage
Common Pests
Citrus tachibana is also prone to pest attacks. Some of the common pests that may affect the plant are:
- Citrus leaf miner: It is a tiny caterpillar that tunnels through the leaves of the plant.
- Scale insects: They are small insects that suck the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and eventually drop.
- Citrus psyllid: It is an insect that feeds on the sap of the plant and transmits a deadly bacteria known as Huanglongbing or citrus greening disease.
Pest Management
To manage the pests, try the following measures:
- Prune and destroy infected branches or leaves
- Use sticky traps to trap pests such as leaf miners and whiteflies
- Use insecticides such as neem oil, pyrethrins, and insecticidal soap to control pest attacks
- Introduce natural predator insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control pests
- Keep the area around the plant tidy to minimize pest hiding places
By following these measures, you can maintain a healthy Citrus tachibana plant. Regularly monitor the plant for any signs of disease or pest attacks and take immediate action to prevent the spread of the disease or pest infestation.
