March 10, 2008

The kumquats in my greenhouse

I've been paying close attention to my citrus trees in my greenhouse because
this is the time of year that they are beginning to produce fruit.  I am so
happy that this juicy kumquat is so prolific.  And notice the honey bees,
searching for nectar from citrus blossoms on a cold, March morning!  It
should be a very good spring.

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Here is some more interesting information about the Kumquat.
Citrus fruits come in various colors, flavors, shapes, and sizes.  The
most recognizable are oranges, tangerines, clementines, lemons, limes,
and grapefruits.  Less known, the smallest member of the citrus family
is the kumquat.  Kumquats are native to China.  Depending on the
variety, they look like tiny round or oval oranges, usually no more
than an inch or so across.  The unusual thing about kumquats is that,
unlike other citrus fruits, which have thick, pithy rinds, kumquat peel
is thin and soft, and perfectly edible.  In fact, the peel is sweet,
compared to its rather tart flesh.  Kumquats are delicious eaten whole,
but they can also be sliced and added to salads.  This diminutive fruit
can also be poached in syrup, and made into wonderful jams and
marmalades.