I’m a beginner gardener and need advice on to how to start a tangerine tree from seeds straight from the fruit. Process? I’m living in

Question

southern Cailfornia for the first time.

Answer 1

First it is important to note that the fruit that grows from the seed will take a long time to show, and they may not be anything like the fruit that it came from. But, you can still get something from the tree. Most people advise planting the seed as it is, but I find that this takes a very long time. There is a shortcut. Make sure to use fresh seeds, as they die when they are dried out.

There is an outer layer of seed coating to protect the seed from moisture. This can be removed to speed up the process from months to weeks. Take your fingernail or sharp object (be careful) and pry the tip of the seed coating. When you can grasp it, peel them apart. This will reveal the real seed inside. Put this in a moist, but not sopping wet, paper towel in a baggie and put it in a drawer somewhere. Check it once a day until you see a root. Plant this in some citrus soil and give it as much light as you can.

This article will help you care for tangerines: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/tangerine/tangerine-tree-care.htm