How to Grow Mangoes
Mangoes or, in English, Mango, are a type of plant that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family, which includes many plant species. The Anacardiaceae family is part of the Sapindales order, one of the orders of dicotyledonous plants. This family is also known by another name: Cashew family. Apart from mangoes, the Anacardiaceae family includes other plants such as cashews and pistachios.
The scientific name for mango is Mangifera indica, abbreviated as M. indica. In Arabic, mangoes are known by several other names, including: Manjo, Manjah, Anbaa, and Anbag.
Mango Trees
Mango trees are evergreen trees, and their height typically does not drop below 15 meters. In some varieties, they can reach heights of up to 30 meters or more. Mango trees are classified as fruit trees and are nicknamed the “Queen of Fruits.”
These trees thrive in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions. Their original habitat is said to be India and the regions of Indochina Peninsula. Today, mango cultivation has spread across many regions around the world.
Some of the most prominent regions where mangoes are grown include:
- India
- China
- Thailand
- Indonesia
- Southeast Asia
- The southern regions of the United States
- Mexico
- Brazil
Global Mango Production
The global production of mangoes annually is approximately 40 million tons. Specifically, in 2012, this production reached 42.14 million tons. The largest producer of mangoes worldwide is India, which produced around 15.25 million tons in 2012.
The second-largest producer is China, with about 4.40 million tons produced in 2012. Following these are:
- Thailand (3rd)
- Indonesia (4th)
- Pakistan (5th)
- Mexico (6th)
- Brazil (7th)
Cultivating Mangoes
Mango cultivation thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. These climates are most suitable for the growth of mango trees, as they cannot tolerate frost or extremely cold weather. Moreover, mango trees are sensitive to strong winds. Therefore, farmers must select suitable locations for planting and establish windbreaks or other protective measures against strong winds.
Common Methods of Mango Cultivation:
- Seed Cultivation: Farmers can grow seedlings from seeds or purchase ready-made saplings.
- Soil Preparation: Before planting a sapling or seed, the land must be well-prepared through plowing and weeding.
- Soil Type: Mangoes should be planted in fertile soil with good drainage and aeration.
Farmers should take good care of the saplings until they mature. This includes consistent watering, especially in summer. However, the amount of water mango trees need depends on various factors, including:
- The time of year
- Temperature
- Soil type and its water retention capacity
- The tree’s age and size
