Page 17 - Edible Trees For Tucson

• Soils: Prefers moist and well-drained soil, but
will grow in various types of soil. Kumquats
are prone to zinc deficiencies, which results
in smaller leaves.
• Microclimates: The trees prefer sunny, open
areas to reach full height and production.
• Pollination: The flowers are insect pollinated.

CARE

Kumquats need minimal pruning—only to
remove dead and diseased wood and shape the
tree for an open form. Trees may be prone to
spider mites, white flies, scale insects, citrus
viruses, stem blights, leaf spot and root rot.

H AR VES T
Kumquat fruit has a gentle blend of both acidic
flesh and a sweet rind; as such, the entire fruit,
including the rind, may be eaten raw, cooked or
candied, and can be used in jellies, marmalades
and preserves, or as flavoring. To combine the
flavors of the flesh and rind, squeeze and massage
just before use. After ripening, the fruit gradually
loses water content, becomes richer in flavor, and
is then best for making preserves. Kumquat fruit
is naturally high in pectin. Kumquats are typically
harvested from November to April.

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