Orange tree in Germany »Does it also grow here?

Oranges originally come from China

There is evidence that different types of citrus were grown around 4,000 years ago. Many ancient writings, going back to the time of 2100 BC. BC, describe citrus varieties and their cultivation in China. The orange is presumably a cross fruit of mandarin and grapefruit. Thanks to increased trade relations, the exotic fruits reached Europe via Persia and the Arab region. From around the 15th / 16. In the 19th century it was very fashionable in European noble houses, in special orangeries oranges and others Growing citrus plants.

Great variety in Europe too

In 1706 the botanist Johann Christoph Volkamer was the first German to describe it in his famous book "Nürnbergische Hesperides" a large number of the varieties that were gathered in the stately homes at that time and grown from seed became. Unfortunately, many of these then known varieties have been lost, but were occasionally rediscovered in old Italian palace gardens and nurseries. Offspring of the historical varieties can be viewed today in the botanical garden on the island of Mainau in Lake Constance. The orange varieties at that time were, however, exclusively bitter oranges,

the sweet orange only came from the 18th Century to southern Europe.

Oranges do not tolerate frost

Orangesto cultivate in the normal room, needs good care. Usually the plants grow so lush within a short period of time that the space originally allocated to them quickly becomes too small. In addition, oranges - just like olives and other Mediterranean plants - need one Winter break with temperatures of a maximum of 10 ° C. At the same time, oranges tolerate, unlike so many types of lemon, no frost and should therefore not be planted in the garden. Oranges are best grown in a bright winter garden with plenty of space. Particularly well suited are compact, rather bushy growing varieties such as. B. the bitter orange varieties "Chinotto" and "Bouquet de Fleurs".

Oranges can be left outside in summer

Many types of oranges, especially the refined ones, can be left outside in summer. After the last frosts, place the plant in a sheltered, warm place on the south or west side of the house. Here they can stay until the first frosts begin.

Tips & Tricks

Note that plants that remain in the greenhouse or conservatory will grow much more abundantly than outdoor plants. Due to the higher temperatures, the plants grow faster and there are usually three shoots in the growing season. Oranges are self-fruiting, i. H. You don't need another tree for fertilization.