'Richards Special' Mandarin

How to grow Mandarin ‘Richards Special’ in NZ

Plant in full sun in fertile, free-draining soil enriched with compost. Select a warm, sheltered position protected from frost and wind. Water regularly, especially during dry spells and while fruit is developing. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. In cooler areas, grow in a large container that can be moved to a sunny, frost-free position in winter.

Mandarin ‘Richards Special’ care tips

Fertilise with a citrus-specific fertiliser in early spring and again in late summer. Prune lightly after harvest to shape the tree and improve airflow. Monitor for common citrus pests such as scale, aphids, and leaf miner, and treat if necessary. Young plants may require frost protection until well-established.

Mandarin ‘Richards Special’ size, spacing, and growth rate

Grows 2–3 m tall and wide with a moderate growth rate. Space trees about 3 m apart for optimal growth, or plant in large pots for smaller gardens.

Landscaping uses for Mandarin ‘Richards Special’

Excellent for home orchards, edible landscapes, and decorative planting in sunny courtyards. The evergreen foliage, scented flowers, and colourful fruit provide year-round interest, while the compact habit suits both small and large gardens. Plant with other citrus to extend your fruiting season.

Why buy Mandarin ‘Richards Special’ from The Plant Company?

The Plant Company supplies healthy, well-established Mandarin ‘Richards Special’ trees grown for reliability and premium fruit quality. Each plant is securely packaged for safe NZ-wide delivery. As New Zealand’s most trusted plant nursery, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional plants and expert advice to help your garden thrive.