I read the info on growing a Clementine tree/bush and learned it is one likely to flower and fruit. My seeds are from an old tree from my neighbor. Fruit is fabulous!! QUESTION: Do I need to dry out the seeds first? Or can I plant after eating a piece of fruit? I also planted apple seeds in September from one of their trees (another old one) but forgot about it. It remains on my kitchen window sill (rarely sunny) with dry soil. QUESTION: Is it too late for these seeds? THanks!!
Emelle, almost all seeds from various citrus varieties come true to variety when planted. Unfortunately, the seeds of Clementine Mandarins are one of the few varieties that do not produce true. In other words, by planting a clementine seed, you will not get the same fruit as your neighbor's tree. Your Clementine seed will generally produce a mandarin type of fruit, which might be equal to, or better than, but in all probability will be inferior to the fruit from which you obtained the seed. The time period from seed germination to fruit production will be approximately 5-6 years, if grown outside in the ground. I have one more piece of bad news. Apple seeds are NEVER planted in the hopes of obtaining an apple tree that will produce good tasting fruit. Apple trees grown from seed almost always produce very inferior fruit. It is estimated that the chance of producing an apple tree grown from seed to produce a good tasting apple is 1 in 100,000. I will leave you with some good news....if you like Key Limes. A Key Lime tree grown from seed, will produce fruit in just 2-3 years. NOTE: that key limes are very tender and require a very warm location. Take care. - Millet
Millet, That's quite an awakening; thanks. I think I'll take my dollar and wheels down to a good nursery and buy some established young'uns! =) I will be living in Santa Cruz, CA 2 miles from ocean, and best to wait till then I suppose. Lots of people have citrus there, and some apples and apricots. Wish me luck! Emelle
