Re: Oranges in Oakland?
Jason D wrote:
>
> I have read that the Trovita orange is adapted to
> cooler climates, but I've never tried it here in the
> Bay Area. I think it's a type of Valencia.
Dr. Moy from the San Antonio, TX Botanical Center developed hybrid
oranges that withstand the winters here in TX. At the SABC's Sept. sale
I bought one that was around six feet tall and had one baby orange on
it. ($40) It was absolutely delicious and the most expensive fruit I
have ever eaten. <G>
Anyway, I planted my orange last Sept. just before we hit 110 degrees of
course, and my little tree nearly burned to death. She recovered and
after weeks/months on end of freezing weather starting in late Nov.,
down to the low 20's, the tree is doing just fine and hasn't lost a
single leaf.
The fruits are not huge but more on the order of a large Tangerine.
They also peel as easily as a Tangerine, another plus. The flavor is
sweet and very orangey, not washed out like store bought oranges.
I toured the SABC this past Tuesday and the Moy hybrid oranges there are
doing fine, remnants of fruit being devoured by birds after the harvest.
Dr. Moy also developed Papaya trees that are hardy here.
I don't know if there is a source outside of the SABC to purchase these
Moy hybrids but will find out today.
Linda
south of San Antonio, TX
zone 9
