Garden Eats

As I follow my own learning curve, I’ve come across a teeny little tangerine tree that needs salvaging. I’m wondering if I give it a new home, will it bear fruit? Also, who has had good success rooting and re-planting figs? Do they grow well indoors?

Here’s what I know about the tangerine tree:

• it’s five years old

• in the past three years I’ve seen three pieces of fruit grow, yet never mature

• the leaves appear healthy and are oily (produce a tangeriney scent when rubbed)

• was planted in organic compost

Notice in the photos, it’s close to a shed and fence. What you don’t see is a gigantic lemon tree about five feet away from it. Could this be influencing the stunted growth? Or, is it a tangerine bonsai?

I’ve been researching all sorts of possibilities. From what I can tell, transplanting is possible. Who can make suggestions from experience? This tree is in my San Diego back yard and can be moved to any type of light, sandy or moist soil or into a pot if best.

How about the figs? What does it really take to successfully root them? They seem to love sandy soil, should I mix some of the soil they’re in along with organic compost? Who has actually grown them indoors and can share some tips?

If anyone has insight I’d love to have you share it here in the comments section! If you have any photos, I’d love to see those too! Email me!