My mandarin tree has produced a dozen fruits for the first time and I’m grateful for the gifts. They are small, juicy globes that bring me goodness with each segment. That’s very gratifying.
In return, I pampered my tree. I chose an Imperial mandarin because they are seedless and easy to peel. That the scent of the fruit’s zest lasts on my hands is a bonus. At present, my young tree is in a large pot but I’m thinking of planting it in the ground once the frosts have passed in a few months. I feed and water it regularly and have covered the top of the soil with a layer of sugar cane mulch. This will break down over time and also adds an insulating layer over the plant’s roots.
How lucky am I to be able to access fruit and vegetables in my own garden? The plants do all the work and I’m thankful for their efforts.