Mangosteen Farming
Mangosteen farming profit per acre is driven by the unique appeal and high demand for this tropical fruit, renowned for its exquisite flavor and rich aroma. As a delicacy, the edible aril, constituting about 25–30% of the fruit’s weight, boasts 19.8% soluble solids, 4.3% reducing sugars, and 17.5% total sugars, making it highly valued in both fresh and processed markets. While the crop holds immense export potential, farmers must adhere to precise cultivation practices to meet its specific requirements and achieve optimal yields, ensuring its position as a coveted commodity in international trade.

The profit analysis of mangosteen farming highlights the challenges and rewards of this long-term investment. In the initial phase (Year 1–10), expenses of NRs. 605,000–655,000 surpass the modest income of NRs. 21,600, resulting in a loss of up to NRs. 633,400. However, the growth phase (Year 11–30) sees significant improvements, with net profits reaching up to NRs. 500,000. From the mature phase (31st year onward), mangosteen farming profit per acre stabilizes at an annual net income of NRs. 625,000, making it a lucrative venture after breaking even between Year 20 and 30.
Land Preparation
Land preparation for mangosteen farming involves essential steps to create optimal growing conditions for this tropical fruit. The process begins with clearing the field of weeds, debris, and existing vegetation, followed by deep plowing to loosen and aerate the soil. Leveling ensures proper drainage, which is critical as mangosteen is highly sensitive to waterlogging. Drainage channels are also constructed, especially in regions prone to heavy rainfall, to prevent water stagnation. Establishing a mangosteen orchard requires adherence to standard fruit crop practices, including deep plowing, multiple harrowing sessions to enhance soil structure, and positioning planting stakes 8–10 meters apart for proper spacing.
Soil Type
Mangosteen thrives best in well-drained, deep loamy soil enriched with organic matter, providing the ideal environment for healthy growth. The soil should have a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5, as acidic conditions promote optimal nutrient uptake. Saline or alkaline soils must be avoided, as they significantly hinder plant development. In cases of low natural fertility, the soil should be enhanced with organic compost or well-decomposed manure prior to planting to ensure a nutrient-rich foundation for the crop.
Climatic Requirements
Mangosteen thrives in warm, humid tropical climates with temperatures ideally between 25°C and 35°C but can tolerate a range of 20°C to 30°C, though growth slows below 20°C. It requires annual rainfall of 1,500–2,500 mm and can grow at altitudes up to 800 meters above sea level. Young plants benefit from partial shade to prevent leaf burn, while consistent rainfall or adequate irrigation supports growth in drier regions. The plant flourishes in fertile, deep, porous, and well-drained soils with good moisture retention, particularly in heavy clay soils enriched with sand and silt, and a water table about two meters below the surface.
Major Cultivars
Major cultivars of mangosteen include the flavorful and juicy Mesta, celebrated for its rich taste, and Ratu, a popular variety in Indonesia known for producing medium-sized fruits. Additionally, various local varieties have adapted to specific regions, catering to diverse growing conditions and preferences.
Planting
a). Propagation Method:
Mangosteen trees are primarily propagated from seeds, a method that typically requires 7–10 years for the trees to mature and bear fruit. Alternatively, grafting or vegetative propagation techniques, such as air-layering, can reduce the fruiting time to 5–7 years; however, these methods are less common due to technical challenges and limited commercial adoption.
b). Planting Season
Since the natural moisture during this time encourages the development and growth of the young plants, the best time to plant mangosteen is at the beginning of the rainy season, which is usually between May and July.
c). Spacing
Mangosteen trees are planted using the square system, maintaining a spacing of 8 meters by 8 meters between trees and rows. This spacing ensures adequate sunlight penetration, proper air circulation, and sufficient room for each tree to grow optimally.
d). Pit Preparation
To cultivate mangosteen, dig 60 cm x 60 cm x 60 cm pits and fill them with a nutrient-rich blend of organic compost, topsoil, and well-decomposed manure. Strong root establishment and robust plant growth are supported by this preparation.
e). Planting Method
When planting mangosteen, transplant healthy saplings with intact root systems, ensuring careful handling to avoid damage. If the saplings are grafted, position the graft union above the soil level to prevent rot and support proper growth.
f). Number of Plants per Acre
With a spacing of 8 meters, plant density is approximately 64 plants per acre.
Intercropping
During the early growth stages of mangosteen, intercropping with short-term crops such as vegetables, legumes, or medicinal plants can optimize land use and generate additional income. However, it is important to avoid deep-rooted or water-intensive crops that could compete with mangosteen for essential nutrients and moisture.
Irrigation
Effective irrigation is crucial for mangosteen cultivation, requiring consistent moisture levels, particularly during dry periods. Drip irrigation is recommended for its efficiency in maintaining soil moisture and conserving water. Care should be taken to avoid overwatering, as waterlogging can damage the plant’s roots and hinder growth.
Fertilizer and Manure
For optimal growth, mangosteen plants require an annual application of 10–15 kg of organic manure, such as farmyard manure or vermicompost, per plant. In addition, a structured fertilizer schedule is essential: during Years 1–3, apply 100–200 g of NPK (10:10:10) per plant every six months, and from Year 4 onwards, increase the dosage to 500–700 g annually, divided into 2–3 applications to support sustained growth and fruit production.
Weed Control
Effective weed management in mangosteen cultivation involves mulching with organic materials such as straw or dried leaves to suppress weed growth while retaining soil moisture and improving fertility. Additionally, manual weeding or shallow cultivation (limited to the topsoil layer) should be performed regularly to eliminate invasive weeds without damaging the shallow root system of mangosteen trees. If manual methods are insufficient, selective herbicides may be applied sparingly and strictly according to manufacturer guidelines or agricultural expert recommendations to minimize chemical impact on plant health and the environment. Prioritizing non-chemical controls ensures long-term soil health and reduces dependency on herbicides.
Pest and Disease Management
Mangosteen cultivation faces challenges from pests such as fruit borer (managed via pheromone traps or neem-based insecticides) and mealybugs (controlled with insecticidal soap sprays or natural predators like lady beetles). Key diseases include anthracnose, which requires fungicides like copper oxychloride or carbendazim, and root rot, mitigated through proper drainage to prevent waterlogging. Preventive measures focus on regular field monitoring, pruning to enhance airflow and sunlight penetration, and selecting disease-resistant varieties where available. Integrating these practices minimizes chemical reliance and sustains tree health and productivity.
Harvesting
Mangosteen trees typically begin bearing fruit 8–10 years after planting, with harvesting timed when the fruit’s skin transitions to a dark purple hue while retaining firmness to ensure optimal ripeness. Fruits are carefully plucked manually using ladders or picking poles to avoid damaging the tree or fruit, as shaking branches is discouraged. A mature, well-managed tree can yield 200–500 fruits annually, influenced by factors such as tree health, climatic conditions, and cultivation practices. Proper harvesting techniques preserve fruit quality and support sustained productivity over the tree’s lifespan.
Cost of Investment Per Acre for Mangosteen Farming
S.N. | Categories | Estimated Cost (NRs.) |
1 | Land Preparation (plowing, leveling, and pit digging) | 40,000 |
2 | Mangosteen Saplings / Seeds | 20,000 |
3 | Fertilizers and Manure | 30,000 |
4 | Irrigation System Setup (Drip) | 100,000 |
5 | Labor Costs (Planting, Maintenance) | 40,000 |
6 | Pest & Disease Control | 25,000 |
7 | Miscellaneous Costs (Pesticides, Mulch, etc.) | 25,000 |
Total Initial Cost | 280,000 |
Annual maintenance Cost Per Acre
Annual maintenance costs for a mature mangosteen orchard (from Year 2 onwards) typically range between NRs. 50,000–75,000 per acre, covering essential practices such as mulching, manual weeding, pest/disease management, pruning, fertilization (organic or chemical), and irrigation. Labor expenses dominate these costs, particularly in regions with high manual labor rates, alongside inputs like fertilizers, fungicides, and equipment.
Costs may vary based on local agro-climatic conditions, scale of operations, and resource availability. Proactive investment in quality inputs and skilled labor ensures tree health, optimizes yields, and mitigates long-term risks. Farmers should tailor budgets to local prices and consult agricultural experts for precise, region-specific financial planning.
Income from One Acre Mangosteen Farming
Year Range | Estimated Yield (kg) | Market Price (NRs./kg) | Total Income (NRs.) |
5th Year | 32 | 100 | 3,200 |
6th Year | 64 | 100 | 6,400 |
7th–10th Year | 120 | 100 | 12,000 |
11th–20th Year | 500 | 100 | 50,000 |
21st–30th Year | 1,000 | 100 | 100,000 |
31st Year Onward | 3,500 | 200 | 700,000 |
Analysis of Mangosteen Farming Profit Per Acre
The profit analysis for mangosteen cultivation reveals significant financial challenges in the initial phase (Year 1–10), with a total income of NRs. 21,600 against expenses of NRs. 605,000–655,000, resulting in a net loss of NRs. -583,400 to -633,400. In the growth phase (Year 11–30), the income increases to NRs. 500,000 in the first decade and NRs. 1,000,000 in the second, with maintenance costs of NRs. 1,000,000–1,500,000, leading to a net profit ranging from NRs. 0 to 500,000.
From the mature phase (31st year onwards), the annual income reaches NRs. 700,000, with a maintenance cost of NRs. 75,000, yielding a consistent annual net profit of NRs. 625,000. The project breaks even between Year 20 and 30, depending on yield and market price.