Hi, can you tell me why the pulp of my ripe Mandarin is so dry?

Hi Jin Li, the main cause of the pulp going dry in mandarins is because the fruit has been left on the tree for too long, mandarins are best picked and not left on the tree until required, if left too long the flesh will be dry. The best guide to knowing when your fruit are ready is to pick one and taste it.

Other reasons could be too dry during the growing season, make sure the tree is consistently watered throughout spring, summer and autumn. Mulch around the tree to help conserve soil moisture and keep weeds at bay, Tui Mulch & Feed is perfect for this as it also helps add organic matter to the soil. Feed your tree in early spring with a balanced citrus fertiliser such as Tui Citrus Food.

Lianne.