Raising Mango Trees for Business

One of the most important things to consider in raising mango trees for business is the suitability of the climate, the soil and the irrigation in the proposed site of plantation. Although mangoes can potentially grow in varied kinds of soil, it is preferable to plant them in light well-drained soils with low fertility. A chemical analysis of the soil is preferred before actual planting to correct any nutrition deficiency in the soil. Mango growers should also consider planting windbreakers at boundaries before actually planting the trees themselves to protect the tree from wind. Mango trees prefer frost-free climate with a cool dry winter. Mango tree growers must also plan for irrigation and drainage to prevent soil erosion. About 6 million liters (ML) per year per hectare of mango tree is needed. Drain water in grassed areas.

There are many varieties of mangoes to choose from. Choose the appropriate mango variety that is best suited to your region and climate as well as your targeted market. Before planting mangoes, it is important to have sufficient land area to plant your trees. The actual spacing between trees is still debated. It would depend on the variety of the mango tree planted. However, bear in mind that in spacing trees, there must be enough area for spraying machinery and harvesting aids. It has been recommended to plant only around 200 to 350 trees per hectare. Plant mango tree rows from north to south to maximize sun exposure.

Mango growers can choose from grafted plants and seedlings. Their choice would depend on the mango variety they choose as well as their desire for early harvest. Grafted trees may produce in its third year but only reaches its peak in its sixth to eighth year whereas seedlings take longer time to grow.

In planting mango trees, be sure to dig holes big enough for the root to settle comfortably. Potted trees can also be planted without disturbing the root system. Aim for a mango tree with eight main supporting limbs with a height of around three to four meters. Proper pruning of the mango tree should also be observed. Only a small amount of fertilizer is needed for young trees but they should be applied often. A proper fertilizing plan must be organized after taking a soil and leaf analysis. In harvesting mangoes, one can either harvest by picking mangoes with stems attached and remove the stems (desap) later in your shed or use harvesting aids and desap in the field.