Dancy Tangerine (Citrus tangerina)
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Common Names: Dancy Tangerine, Zipper-Skin Tangerine, Christmas Tangerine
Family: Rutaceae
Origin: Tangier, Morocco (Introduced to the U.S. in the 19th century)
The Dancy Tangerine (Citrus reticulata 'Dancy') is a classic citrus variety often associated with the winter holiday season. Known for its deep orange color, easy-to-peel "zipper" skin, and rich, sweet flavor, the Dancy Tangerine has long been a favorite among citrus lovers. This tangerine’s small to medium-sized fruits are not only delicious but also visually striking, making them a popular choice for holiday displays and gift baskets.
Distinctive Features and Uses
Leaves: The Dancy Tangerine tree features glossy, dark green leaves that provide a lush, evergreen appearance year-round. The foliage is dense and compact, making the tree an attractive ornamental addition to any garden or patio.
Fruits: Dancy Tangerines are small to medium-sized, with a smooth, deep orange skin that is easy to peel. The flesh is juicy, sweet, and flavorful, with a slight tang that balances the sweetness. The fruit is often seedless or has very few seeds, making it perfect for fresh eating, juicing, and adding to salads and desserts.
Uses: Dancy Tangerines are incredibly versatile and are ideal for fresh consumption, juicing, and culinary uses. Their vibrant color and sweet flavor make them a festive addition to holiday dishes, and they are often enjoyed as a healthy, refreshing snack during the winter months.
Dancy Tangerine is akin to the great grandparent of all contemporary tangelos and mandarins. Dancy Tangerine is a citrus tree with longevity in its roots, originally cultivated in 1843 Florida, before air conditioning, bug spray, and sunscreen. This plant’s preference for the Florida climate is why we can still readily enjoy bounties of delicious sweet, tangy, and juicy fruit. The Dancy Tangerine variety is a semi-dwarf citrus tree, that can reach up to 15 feet at full maturity. It has heavily fragrant blooms, and fruits right around the December holiday season. In fact, Dancy Tangerines were traditionally gifted as a token of abundant health for Christmas, and the Chinese New Year. Continue the legacy of the Dancy Tangerine, and enjoy golden holiday seasons for years to come.
Planting Location and Soil Preparation
Choose a sunny location for your citrus tree that receives at least 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Well-draining soil is essential to prevent waterlogged roots. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider amending it with compost to improve drainage. Citrus trees a particularly high demand for nitrogen.
Planting Your Citrus Tree
Plant your citrus tree any time of the year. Follow these steps:
- Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and just as deep.
- Gently remove the tree from its container and loosen the roots.
- Place the tree in the hole at the same depth it was in the container and backfill with soil.
- Water thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
Watering
Proper watering is vital for healthy citrus trees. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. During the growing season, water every 1-2 weeks, allowing the top few inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering frequency during winter.
Fertilizing
Citrus trees have specific nutritional needs and a particularly high demand for nitrogen. Feed your tree with a balanced citrus fertilizer or a granular fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 2:1:1. Apply fertilizer every 6-8 weeks from spring to early fall, reducing or stopping during winter.
Pruning
Regular pruning maintains the shape, health, and fruit production of your citrus tree. Prune to:
- Remove dead or diseased branches.
- Thin out overcrowded growth.
- Open the canopy to sunlight and air circulation.
- Shape the tree for better aesthetics and easier harvesting.
Pest and Disease Management
Keep a close eye on your citrus trees for signs of pests or diseases. Common pests include aphids, scales, and mites. Monitor for citrus-specific diseases like citrus canker and huanglongbing (citrus greening). Use organic pest control methods whenever possible.
Frost Protection
If you live in an area prone to frost, take precautions to protect your citrus trees until they are well-established. Cover them with frost cloth or blankets when frost is expected, and consider moving potted citrus indoors during colder months.
Mulching
Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of your citrus tree to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health. Keep the mulch away from the trunk to prevent rot.
Harvesting Citrus Fruits
Harvest your citrus fruits when they are fully ripe. Different varieties have varying ripening times, usually ranging from several months to a year. Fruits should be firm, fully colored, and easy to detach from the tree. Use pruning shears or a sharp knife to cut the fruit, leaving a small stem attached.
By following this comprehensive growing guide, you'll be well-equipped to nurture healthy and fruitful citrus trees that provide you with a continuous supply of delectable and nutritious citrus delights.
Happy citrus tree growing!
