When to pick mandarin oranges

Question

Should oranges be picked before buds come out? How long before buds come out should oranges be picked? We had a huge crop of oranges this year and very, very few flowers.

Answer 1

The only criteria for knowing when to harvest mandarins is by color (and taste). You should not factor in the presence or onset of buds when determining mandarin harvest. Mandarins should be picked as soon as they turn orange or the flavor will deteriorate (they will become overripe).

For more information on growing mandarin oranges, please visit the following link:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/tangerine/mandarin-orange-tree-care.htm