My Satsuma Orange Tree Is Not Producing Fruit

Satsuma Orange

• Satsuma orange trees produce sweet, juicy and low-acid fruit and demonstrate better cold hardiness than other orange trees. The trees maintain compact sizes with heights of 4 to 6 feet and thrive in both indoor and outdoor plantings.

Season

• Satsuma orange trees grow and flower from spring to summer for midfall harvests. The trees don't produce fruit in winter or in cold areas. Aggie Horticulture recommends growing Satsuma orange trees in 20-gallon pots in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zone 7 and lower for winter protection. Move the trees indoors for protected growing when temperatures drop below 30 degrees Fahrenheit.

Site and Space

• Satsuma oranges require full sun, space and air to flower and bear fruit, and do best with eight to 10 hours of light every day. Lack of sunshine and crowded growing sites keep the trees from blooming and producing fruit.

Nutrition and Water

• Orange trees, including the Satsuma, need adequate drainage, nutrition and water for fruit harvest. Amend outdoor sites with organic compost and peat moss and use peat-based potting soils for potted growing. Texas A&M University recommends watering Satsuma orange trees with 2 to 3 inches of water every week and checking soil dryness before watering. Slow-release citrus fertilizer in spring, as per the manufacturer's directions, provides Satsuma orange trees with the resources needed for blooming and fruiting.

Pollination

• All vegetable and fruit plants require successful blooming and pollination for fruit formation. Lack of pollination means a failed fruit harvest. Satsuma oranges are self-fertile and can pollinate themselves, but need air circulation and insect involvement for best pollen transfer. Use fans and open windows for air movement in the house and release beneficial insects for pollen transfer outside.