Name: China S-2 Satsuma Mandarin Tree | Cold-Hardy Mandarin
SKU: Mandarin (China S-2)
Price: 34.99 USD
Availability: InStock

Description

China S-2 is a satsuma mandarin selection originating from survivor trees identified after a severe freeze event in China. These selections were evaluated specifically for cold hardiness, fruit quality, and tree vigor, with S-2 standing out for its later ripening window and dependable performance.

By maturing later than many satsumas, China S-2 allows sugars to fully develop while retaining the tender, easy-eating texture satsumas are known for. It is an excellent option for growers looking to stretch the satsuma harvest season without sacrificing resilience.

Overview

Cold-selected satsuma mandarin with proven resilience.
Later ripening than many standard satsuma varieties.
Tender flesh and balanced sweetness.
Compact growth habit well suited to containers.
Self-fertile.

Growing Details

Latin Name: Citrus unshiu ’China S-2’
Site and Soil: Full sun; well-drained soil
Rootstock: 1-gallon trees on Flying Dragon; larger sizes on C-35
Hardiness: Among the more cold-tolerant satsumas; mature, well-hardened trees can tolerate temperatures down to approximately 15°F
Bearing Age: 2–4 years
Size at Maturity:
• Flying Dragon: Typically 6–8 ft tall and wide
• C-35: Typically 10–12 ft tall and wide
Note: Trees grown in containers remain smaller and are easily maintained with pruning.
Bloom Time: Spring
Ripening Time: Late fall; later than many satsumas
Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile
Pests & Diseases: Similar to other citrus; benefits from good airflow and excellent drainage

Additional Notes

Grower’s Insight: China S-2 was selected from satsuma trees that survived a major freeze event in China, making it a strong choice for growers prioritizing cold resilience with a later harvest window.
Regional Insight: Performs well in mild-winter regions and is especially well suited to container growing in cooler climates where satsumas receive seasonal protection.

Planting & Care

At a Glance – China S-2 Satsuma Mandarin

Sun: 3/4 day to full day of sun
Soil: Well-drained soil is essential
Water: Moderate; consistent during establishment
Tree Size: Compact (size varies with management)
Pollination: Self-fertile
Harvest: Late fall
Hardiness: Mature trees tolerate temperatures to ~15°F

Planting & Care – China S-2 Satsuma Mandarin

Site Selection

Choose the sunniest available location to support late-season ripening and cold hardening.
Good air movement improves overall tree health and cold performance.
Avoid low areas where cold air and excess moisture collect.

Soil Preparation

Excellent drainage is critical—satsumas do not tolerate wet feet.
If soil remains wet after rain, plant on a mound, raised bed, or grow in a container.
Lightly amend very poor soils with compost, avoiding heavy fertilization at planting.

Planting Instructions

Dig a hole roughly twice the width of the root ball.
Plant so the root flare sits at or slightly above finished soil level.
Backfill with native soil and water thoroughly to settle.
Mulch 2–3″ deep, keeping mulch several inches away from the trunk.

Watering

During the first 1–2 years, keep soil consistently moist but never saturated.
Deep water, then allow the surface to dry slightly between waterings.
Check soil 4–6″ down; if it feels dry at that depth, it’s time to water again.
Once established, deep watering every 7–14 days during dry weather is typical.

Fertilizing

Citrus are heavy feeders—consistent nutrition is key to healthy growth and fruiting.
Use a citrus fertilizer and follow age-appropriate rates.
Split applications during active growth are most effective: late winter/early spring, late spring, and early summer.
Container citrus often benefits from lighter, more frequent feedings due to nutrient leaching.
Avoid heavy nitrogen late in the season, which can delay hardening and reduce cold tolerance.

Cold Protection

Young trees benefit from protection during their first few winters.
Mature, well-hardened trees tolerate temperatures down to approximately 15°F.
Good drainage, full sun, and proper fertilization timing greatly improve cold performance.

Pruning

Minimal pruning is needed—remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Light shaping after harvest helps maintain airflow and manageable size.

Harvest & Use

Harvest when fruit is fully colored and sweet.
Excellent for fresh eating, especially later in the satsuma season.

General Tips

Drainage problems are the most common cause of failure—when in doubt, plant higher.
Cold tolerance improves significantly as trees mature.
Strong establishment care sets the foundation for long-term productivity.

Mandarin (China S-2)