Mango Cultivation: Comprehensive Guide for Beginners.

Mango Cultivation 

Mango cultivation is a rewarding agricultural practice, especially in tropical and subtropical regions where mangoes thrive. Known as the “King of Fruits,” mangoes require a warm climate, well-drained soil, and proper care throughout their growth cycle. Successful mango cultivation involves stages like planting, irrigation, pruning, and pest management. Post-harvest handling is crucial to ensure fruit quality, involving processes like grading, cooling, and packing. With rising global demand, mango farming offers significant economic potential for farmers worldwide.

Mango serves as a major food source for many tropical inhabitants after bananas. It is a rich source of prebiotic dietary fiber and provides essential vitamins, including A, C, E, and B6. Additionally, mangoes contain vital minerals like magnesium, iron, and copper. They are also abundant in flavonoids such as beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, and β-cryptoxanthin. Even the peel offers valuable phytonutrients, including antioxidant pigments like carotenoids and polyphenols.

Land Preparation

One of the most important steps in guaranteeing ideal growing conditions for crops is land preparation. In order to create a pristine and unobstructed planting space, the land must be cleared of weeds, pebbles, and rubbish. After that, the area is completely plowed to create a fine tilth, which improves soil aeration and makes root penetration easier.

To provide even water distribution during irrigation, the field must be properly leveled. Adequate drainage techniques must also be used to avoid waterlogging, which can have a negative impact on crop productivity and health. When combined, these methods provide a solid basis for productive agriculture.

Soil Type for Mango Cultivation

Loamy, sandy loam, or well-drained soils that are high in organic matter and have a pH between 5.5 and 7.5 are ideal for mango tree growth. They can thrive in a wide range of soil types, including laterite and alluvial soils, provided that the soil is well-drained and deep (at least 6 feet). However, heavy clay or wet soils should be avoided because they can impede the growth of roots and the general health of trees. In mango cultivation, slightly acidic soil is best for encouraging robust growth and optimizing fruit yield.

Climatic Requirements for Mango Cultivation

The best conditions for mango growth and fruit production are found in tropical and subtropical regions. Mango trees require these areas’ warm temperatures and particular weather patterns to thrive. Mango production requires a temperature range of 24°C to 27°C in order to support healthy vegetative growth, blooming, and fruiting.

However, if given enough watering, mango trees are incredibly hardy and can withstand temperatures as high as 48°C. However, frost or extended exposure to temperatures close to 0°C can seriously harm or even kill young trees, and temperatures below 15°C can have a detrimental effect on flowering and fruit set. Even if they are more resilient, mature trees can still be harmed by prolonged exposure to extremely cold temperatures.

A distinct dry season is crucial for mango farming, particularly during the flowering and fruiting stages. Dry conditions help stimulate flowering and reduce the risk of fungal diseases, such as anthracnose, which thrive in humid environments. However, mango trees also require a well-distributed annual rainfall of 750–2500 mm to support their growth and development.

Excessive rainfall during the flowering period can lead to poor fruit set and increased disease incidence, while insufficient rainfall can stress the trees and reduce yields. In regions with irregular rainfall, supplemental irrigation is often necessary to ensure consistent moisture levels.

In addition to climatic factors, mango trees need a soil depth of at least 1 meter to support their extensive root systems, which allow roots to penetrate and spread, providing stability and access to water and nutrients, which are essential for healthy tree growth and high fruit yields.

Mangoes are generally grown at elevations below 800 meters because these areas offer the warm temperatures and climatic conditions that mango trees prefer, though they can also be cultivated at altitudes of up to 1200 meters, though growth and productivity may vary depending on the particular microclimate.

Major Cultivars

The main mango cultivars are well known for their distinct flavor profiles, versatility, and appropriateness for a range of soil and climate conditions. Among the well-known cultivars are Bangalora, which is distinguished by its long shape and sweet-tangy flavor, and Alphonso, which is frequently referred to as the “King of Mangoes” because of its rich flavor and perfume. Bombai and Bombay Green are prized for their unique sweetness, while Banganpalli is common for its juicy pulp and golden-yellow color. A favorite in North India, dashehari is praised for its smooth texture and rich sweetness.

Fazli, a late-season variety, is notable for its large size and excellent pulp quality, whereas Fernandin and Himsagar are known for their creamy texture and rich flavor. Kesar, often called the “Queen of Mangoes,” is prized for its saffron-colored pulp and balanced sweetness. Kishen Bhog offers a delightful flavor, while Langra is loved for its fibrous, sweet, and aromatic pulp. Mankhurd and Mulgoa are recognized for their rich taste, with Neelam being a preferred choice for its long shelf life and pleasant flavor.

Samarbehist and Chausa are celebrated for their unique sweetness and juicy texture, while Suvarnarekha and Vanaraj stand out with their appealing appearance and delicious pulp. Finally, Zardalu, known for its rich aroma and distinct sweetness, rounds out this diverse list of mango cultivars, each offering something special for mango enthusiasts across the world.

The Tommy Atkins mango is commonly exported due to its extended shelf life, brilliant red and green skin, and tolerance to handling during transportation, making it a commercial favorite in international markets. The Keitt variety is a late-season mango, extending the availability of fresh mangoes with its green skin, sweet, non-fibrous flesh, and great storage capabilities.

The Kent mango, on the other hand, is prized for its great output and resilience to disease; it yields big, juicy, sweet fruits that are perfect for both commercial farming and fresh eating. These cultivars meet a range of market demands, including those for exports, longer harvest seasons, and consistent productivity.

Propagation

Farmers must ensure they obtain vegetatively propagated, true-to-type plants from recognized and certified nurseries to guarantee the quality, genetic purity, and desired characteristics of the mango trees. Vegetative propagation is essential in mango cultivation because it preserves the exact traits of the parent plant, such as fruit quality, yield, and disease resistance, which cannot be achieved through seed propagation. Using plants from reliable sources also minimizes the risk of introducing pests, diseases, or inferior varieties into the orchard.

Planting

a) Planting Season

The ideal time for planting mango trees is at the beginning of the monsoon season, typically from June to August, when natural rainfall provides sufficient moisture for young saplings to establish a robust root system. In regions with access to irrigation, planting can also be done during the spring months of February and March, allowing the trees to take advantage of warmer temperatures and an extended growing season. Selecting the appropriate planting season is crucial for ensuring healthy growth and establishing a productive mango orchard.

b). Spacing

Spacing is a critical factor in mango farming, as it directly impacts tree growth, sunlight exposure, and overall orchard productivity. For traditional varieties, the standard spacing is 10 meters x 10 meters, allowing ample room for the trees to grow and develop their extensive canopy and root systems. This spacing ensures proper air circulation and reduces competition for nutrients and water.

In contrast, high-density planting is becoming increasingly popular, especially for dwarf varieties. Here, spacing is reduced to 5 meters x 5 meters or even 3 meters x 3 meters, enabling farmers to grow more trees per acre.

This method maximizes land use, increases yield per unit area, and facilitates easier management practices such as pruning, pest control, and harvesting. However, high-density planting requires careful attention to pruning and nutrient management to prevent overcrowding and maintain tree health.

c). Pit Preparation

Pit preparation is a crucial step in mango farming to ensure healthy root development and optimal growth of the trees. Begin by digging pits of 1 meter x 1 meter x 1 meter to provide sufficient space for the roots to spread. Once the pits are dug, mix the excavated topsoil with 10 kg of well-rotted farmyard manure (FYM), 250g bone meal, 100g Trichoderma viridae, 0.5 to 1 kg single super phosphate, and 200g neem cake per pit.

This nutrient-rich mixture enhances soil fertility, promotes microbial activity, and provides essential nutrients for young saplings. After filling the pits with this mixture, allow them to settle for 2–3 weeks before planting. This settling period helps the soil stabilize and ensures that the nutrients are well-integrated, creating an ideal environment for the mango trees to thrive. 

d). Planting Method

To plant a sapling, carefully position it at the center of the prepared pit, ensuring it is upright and well-aligned. Cover the roots with soil, taking care to keep the graft union above the soil level to prevent any risk of decay or damage. Once the sapling is securely planted, water it immediately to help settle the soil around the roots and provide the moisture needed for initial establishment. 

e). Number of Plants per Acre

The number of plants per acre in mango farming varies depending on the spacing method used. For traditional spacing, which typically follows a 10m x 10m layout, approximately 40 plants per acre are planted. This wider spacing allows ample room for the trees to grow, ensuring proper sunlight exposure, air circulation, and nutrient availability.

In contrast, high-density planting significantly increases the number of trees per acre. With spacing reduced to 5m x 5m or 3m x 3m, farmers can plant 160–200 plants per acre. This method maximizes land use, boosts yield per unit area, and facilitates easier management practices such as pruning, pest control, and harvesting. However, high-density planting requires careful attention to pruning, irrigation, and nutrient management to maintain tree health and prevent overcrowding.

Intercropping in Mango Orchard

Intercropping in mango orchards is a practical and beneficial practice, especially during the initial 3–4 years when the mango trees are still young and have not fully developed their canopy. During this period, farmers can cultivate suitable intercrops such as legumes, vegetables, or short-duration fruit crops between the rows of mango trees.

These intercrops make efficient use of the available space, provide additional income, and help improve soil fertility by adding organic matter or fixing nitrogen in the case of legumes. However, it is important to avoid crops that compete heavily for nutrients, water, or sunlight, as this can negatively impact the growth and establishment of the young mango trees. By carefully selecting intercrops, farmers can optimize land use, enhance soil health, and maximize overall productivity in the orchard.

Irrigation in Mango Plants

Mature mango trees need regular irrigation, particularly during flowering and fruit development, to maintain high yields and quality. Young plants require watering every 7–10 days for healthy growth. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot. Drip irrigation is ideal for water efficiency, uniform distribution, and sustainable farming. Water requirements vary based on soil type, climate, and rainfall, so adjustments may be needed for optimal growth and fruit production.

Fertilizer and Manure

A crucial component of mango farming is the application of fertilizer and manure, which have a direct impact on the trees’ development, well-being, and yield. A carefully thought-out fertilization program guarantees ideal development and a high fruit output, as the nutritional requirements of the mango plant vary according to its growth stage.

a). Young Plants (1–3 years)

The main goals for young mango trees, those that are one to three years old, are to develop a robust root system and encourage robust vegetative growth. To improve soil structure and provide organic nutrients, each young plant should receive 10 kg of well-rotted Farmyard Manure (FYM) each year.

Each plant should also receive 100g of Nitrogen (N) to support the growth of leaves and shoots, 50g of Phosphorus (P₂O₅) to encourage root development and early flowering, and 100g of Potassium (K₂O) to improve overall plant vigor and disease resistance. Divide the suggested fertilizers into three equal parts and apply them at the end of February, June, and October to provide a consistent supply of nutrients. This timetable helps the plants grow steadily and gets them ready for later fruiting phases.

b). Mature Trees (4+ years)

Mature mango trees, typically four years or older, have significantly higher nutrient requirements, especially during the flowering and fruiting phases. To meet these demands, each tree should annually receive 20–30 kg of farmyard manure (FYM) to enrich the soil with organic matter and maintain fertility.

Additionally, 1 kg of nitrogen (N) is essential for promoting canopy growth and supporting fruit development, 500 g of phosphorus (P₂O₅) aids in strengthening the root system and improving flower and fruit set, and 1 kg of potassium (K₂O) enhances fruit quality, size, and resistance to pests and diseases.

To ensure consistent nutrient availability, the recommended fertilizers should be divided into three equal doses and applied at the end of February, June, and October. This systematic approach supports the tree’s nutritional needs throughout the growing season, fostering robust growth, abundant flowering, and superior fruit production.

Weed Control

Controlling weeds is an important component of growing mangoes, especially in the early years when the plants are still developing their root systems. Mango trees need regular weeding to avoid weeds competing with them for sunlight, water, and nutrients. Mulching is a useful technique for preventing weed growth while preserving soil moisture and enhancing soil quality.

In order to prevent chemical residues and to protect the environment and trees, hand weeding is usually chosen for weed control, even though herbicides can be used sparingly. Farmers may enhance the output of their mango trees and encourage healthy growth by keeping their orchard free of weeds.

Training and Pruning in Mango

Pruning

Pruning in mango trees is typically minimal, as annual pruning is generally not practiced. However, these trees tend to grow densely, so occasional light thinning of branches may be necessary to facilitate better cultural practices. It’s important to remove any dead or diseased branches to maintain tree health. Additionally, controlling tree height by cutting back tall branches is essential for better management and productivity.

Training

The tree is trained to develop into a compact, well-branched structure. Initially, it is grown with a single trunk by removing all lateral shoots from the main stem until the plant reaches a height of 70–100 cm. To encourage branching, the terminal buds are pinched off, allowing three shoots to grow from each pinched point. This process is repeated for the lateral branches, resulting in nine secondary branches. The pinching continues in the same pattern until 27 tertiary branches are formed. This training process typically takes 2–3 years to complete.

Pest and Disease Management

Pest Management

Mango trees are susceptible to several pests that can significantly impact yield and fruit quality. The Mango Hopper is a common pest that sucks sap from flowers and young leaves, leading to deformed twigs, leaves, and fruitlets. It can be controlled by spraying Imidacloprid or Carbaryl.

Another major pest is the Fruit Fly, which lays eggs in developing fruits, causing premature ripening, rotting, and fruit drop. Effective control measures include using bait traps, spraying Malathion, and practicing early harvest to reduce exposure.

Mealybugs are another concern, feeding on plant sap and weakening the tree. They can be managed using Neem oil or Chlorpyriphos. For Mediterranean and Oriental Fruit Flies, additional strategies like hot water treatment, vapor heat treatment, and traps are recommended, along with eliminating host plants and burying fallen fruits to break their life cycle.

Disease Management

Mango trees are also vulnerable to various diseases, with Anthracnose being the most devastating. Caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloesporioides, it attacks flowers, young fruits, leaves, and twigs, causing black, sunken lesions and fruit rot. The disease thrives in moist conditions and spreads through rain. Effective control involves collecting and destroying infected plant parts and spraying copper-based fungicides like Copper oxychloride or Mancozeb.

Powdery Mildew, another common disease, can be managed by applying Wettable sulfur or Karathane.

Dieback, characterized by the death of branches, can be controlled by pruning affected areas and applying Bordeaux mixture. Proper sanitation, timely fungicide application, and moisture management are key to preventing these diseases and ensuring healthy mango trees.

Fruit maturity

Fruit maturity is crucial for optimal quality, especially for climacteric fruits. Immature fruits will not develop their full flavor if harvested too early. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that harvesting is done when the fruit has reached full maturity.

Maturity Indices

Maturity Indices are essential for determining the optimal time to harvest mangoes, ensuring the best quality and flavor. Several signs and indicators help farmers assess fruit maturity accurately. One of the primary signs is the first drop of ripe fruit from the tree, which signals that the mangoes are nearing readiness for harvest. Another key indicator is the number of days elapsed since bloom, as mangoes typically mature 90–120 days after flowering, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

Fruit alterations in appearance and texture are also trustworthy indicators of maturity. Ripening is indicated by a noticeable shift in skin color from green to yellow, red, or orange (depending on the cultivar). Furthermore, a sign of maturity is the beginning of yellowing of the flesh close to the endocarp, which is the inner portion of the fruit that surrounds the seed. Additionally, the fruit’s cheek—the rounded side—becomes fuller, indicating that its weight and size have achieved their ideal levels.

Internal changes are equally important in assessing maturity. The endocarp (the hard shell around the seed) should be fully hardened, indicating that the fruit has developed properly. Furthermore, the total soluble solids (TSS) content, which measures the sugar concentration in the fruit, should range between 12% and 15%. This range ensures that the mangoes have achieved the desired sweetness and flavor profile.

By carefully monitoring these maturity indices, farmers can harvest mangoes at the right time, ensuring high-quality fruit with excellent taste, texture, and marketability. Proper timing also helps reduce post-harvest losses and maximizes the shelf life of the fruit.

Harvesting

Harvesting of mangoes typically begins when grafted plants are 3 to 4 years old, initially yielding about 10–20 fruits per tree. The trees reach their peak productivity between the 10th and 15th years, and with proper management, yields can continue to increase until the trees are around 40 years old. Mangoes are usually ready for harvest 90–120 days after flowering, and the ideal time to harvest is when the fruits develop a mature color and show slight softening.

To avoid damage, farmers often use a harvesting pole with a net to gently pluck the fruits. After harvesting, the fruits are cleaned, graded, and prepared for storage or market, ensuring they meet quality standards for consumption or export. Proper harvesting and post-harvest handling are crucial to maintaining fruit quality and maximizing profitability.

Post Harvest Management

Storage

Mangoes should be cooled as soon as possible after harvest because their shelf life is only two to three weeks. Certain species may withstand temperatures as low as 10°C, but most varieties should be stored around 13°C. A sequence of meticulously planned actions is required for post-harvest management in order to guarantee that the fruit keeps its freshness and quality.

These steps include preparation, where the fruit is sorted and prepared for further processing; grading to categorize the mangoes based on size, quality, and ripeness; and thorough washing to remove any dirt or residues. The mangoes are then dried and often waxed to enhance their appearance and reduce moisture loss.

After waxing, the fruits are packed into appropriate containers for protection during transit. Pre-cooling is performed to rapidly bring the mangoes to the desired storage temperature. Finally, the mangoes are palletized for easier handling and then transported under controlled conditions to reach markets or distribution centers while preserving their quality.

Packaging

Mangoes are usually packed in corrugated fiberboard boxes measuring 40 cm × 30 cm × 20 cm. Each box holds a single layer containing 8 to 20 mangoes, depending on their size. To maintain freshness and prevent spoilage, these boxes are designed with ventilation holes covering approximately 8% of the surface area, ensuring proper airflow during storage and transportation. This packaging method helps preserve the quality of the mangoes by regulating temperature and reducing moisture buildup.