GerryAnnHomeGarden road widening in the rainforest barangay of Dapdap, Tayabas, Quezon, Philippines

Before we settle in the farm, there is one Calamansi tree already bearing fruits non-stop throughout the year.

Whenever I passed by the Calamansi tree to see plump and gleaming calamansi fruits, I’m always attracted to climb the tree.  Climbing the tree became my habit, and to pluck fruits as much as 4 kilos is fun. 

Do you know that Calamansi tree is a shrub or small tree growing to 3-6 meters only?  It bears small citrus fruit that is commonly used to flavour foods and drinks in the Philippines.  Believing that the fruits will be beneficial in the long run, my wife and I planted some seeds of the consumed fruits in one garden pot.  To date, we have four additional Calamansi trees flourishing with plenty of fruits.  2 Corinthians 4:7 That the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.

Calamansi fruits may not be appealing to some but there are plenty of benefits we can get from it.  My wife Mary Ann and an outstanding cook use Calamansi fruits for juice, food seasoning, dip, and occasionally, as hair conditioner/skin moisturizer.

If you crave to have Calamansi tree in your yard, I have some seedlings available.  Constant watering during dry climate will make the Calamansi tree fruitful in 2-3 years time.  As a fruit juice aficionado, here's how you can enjoy drinking Calamansi juice.

Wash 4 pieces of medium Calamansi fruits.

Cut the upper portion taking care not to cut the seeds. Cut seeds contribute to astringent taste.

Manually squeeze in a high ball glass (350-400ml) or use fruit extractor.

Add one and 3/4 part sugar for every part water.

Refrigerate or for a quick refreshing drink add 2 scoops of crushed ice.

Mix thoroughly, adjust the taste according to yours, drink slowly and treat your taste buds soothingly relaxed.

Let’s go and treat ourselves to an impressive Calamansi juice delight.