Grafted Esbal Clementine Tree on Volkameriana rootstock 3L pot

Tender, almost seedless flesh

Esbal clementines offer exceptionally fine, juicy flesh with few, if any, seeds. This characteristic makes them particularly popular for fresh consumption, appealing to both families and premium citrus fruit lovers.

Medium caliber and flattened shape

Esbal fruits are medium-sized (50 to 60 mm in diameter) and have a distinctive flattened shape, making them ideal for visually standing out on market stalls. Their medium weight (55 to 65 g) makes them particularly attractive to consumers.

Intense orange skin that is easy to peel

The skin of Esbal fruits is thin, smooth, and bright orange, making them easy to peel. This practicality reinforces their position as ideal clementines for everyday consumption.

Conservation and freshness

Esbal clementines can be stored for 5 to 6 days at room temperature and up to two weeks in the refrigerator, depending on their ripeness. This extended shelf life is an asset for mass distribution and exports.

An early and strategic harvest

Harvesting begins in mid-October and continues through November, positioning this variety as one of the earliest on the market. This strategic precocity allows farmers to stay ahead of competing varieties and increase their competitiveness.

A compact and vigorous tree

The Esbal Clementine is a compact and vigorous shrub, reaching 4 to 6 meters in height and a rounded crown 2 meters wide. Its natural shape facilitates management and harvesting, while the absence of thorns reduces the risk of injury during maintenance.

Self-fertility and resistance to local conditions

Esbal is parthenocarpic, meaning it produces fruit without the need for cross-pollination. However, to ensure seedlessness, it is advisable to use protective netting during flowering to prevent accidental pollination by bees.

Adaptation to calcareous soils and rootstocks

The Esbal Clementine thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils. Recommended rootstocks include:

• Citrange C35: Improves resistance to limescale and cold, while optimizing productivity.
• FA5: Strengthens tolerance to calcareous soils and guarantees healthy growth in French conditions.

A perfect fruit for fresh consumption

Esbal clementines, with their balanced taste, easy peeling, and seedlessness, are ideal for everyday consumption. Their convenience and premium quality appeal to a wide range of consumers, from families to high-end citrus fruit lovers.

Possibility of transformation

Although primarily intended for fresh consumption, Esbal clementines have abundant juice and a subtle flavor, making them suitable for processing into juice, jams or desserts.

Attractive yield

On average, an Esbal tree grafted onto Citrange C35 produces around 10 kg of fruit per year. Although moderate, this yield is offset by the quality and earliness of the fruit, which guarantees attractive prices on early markets.

Added value for producers

Thanks to its early harvest, which begins in mid-October, the Esbal clementine tree allows producers to capture a significant share of the market before the arrival of later varieties. This strategy guarantees increased profitability and a significant competitive advantage.

Exposure and growing conditions

Plant trees in full sun to maximize growth and fruiting. Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils rich in organic matter are ideal for this variety.

Watering and fertilization

Water regularly, being careful to avoid overwatering to prevent root problems. Use a specific citrus fertilizer, rich in nitrogen and potassium, to stimulate fruit growth and tree health.

Size and maintenance

Prune lightly after harvest to maintain a balanced growth habit and encourage the production of new fruiting branches. Remove any overgrown or dead branches to promote good aeration.

Protection against diseases and parasites

Although hardy, Esbal is susceptible to mealybugs, aphids, and diseases such as sooty mold. Adopt preventative practices, including:

• Spraying with Bordeaux mixture in autumn and spring.
• Pheromone traps to control pests.
• Preventive applications of horticultural oils or nettle manure.

Weather protection

Esbal can withstand temperatures down to -7°C, but in areas exposed to frost, it is recommended to use wintering veils or choose protected locations.