Mango

About

Mango is a large, evergreen tree native to South Asia, capable of reaching heights of 15-30 meters (50-100 feet). It has a dense canopy of glossy, dark green leaves and produces fragrant, small white flowers. The fruit is a fleshy drupe, varying in size and color, with a sweet, juicy, orange-yellow flesh surrounding a large seed. 🌞💧 Sun and Water Requirements: Mango trees prefer full sun and well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils rich in organic matter. They are drought-tolerant once established but benefit from regular watering during dry periods. ✂️🫘 Methods to Propagate: Propagation is typically through grafting to ensure desirable fruit characteristics. Seed propagation is possible but may not produce true-to-type fruit. Grafting involves joining a scion from a desired variety onto a rootstock. 🧑‍🌾👩‍🌾 When to Harvest: Harvesting occurs when fruits mature and develop full coloration, usually in late spring to summer. Mature fruits emit a sweet fragrance and yield slightly to gentle pressure.

Permaculture Functions

• Edible: Mangoes are consumed fresh, dried, or used in a variety of culinary applications, including desserts, beverages, and savory dishes.
• Medicinal: Various parts of the mango tree have been used in traditional medicine to treat ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and respiratory issues.
• Wildlife Attractor: The tree provides habitat and food for various bird species and pollinators.
• Windbreaker: Its dense foliage and substantial size make it effective as a windbreak in agricultural settings.
• Border Plant: Mango trees can serve as property markers or boundary plants due to their longevity and size.

Practitioner Notes

• Fruit set often needs dry cool bloom—rainy flowering washes pollen before bees clock in.
• Sap on skin can cause dermatitis—trim flowering panicles with sleeves and quick soap.
• Alternate bearing responds to thinning young fruit on heavy years—spread load across wood.

Companion Planting

Pest Pressure