Mangoes are a popular tropical fruit cherished for their delicious taste and abundant nutritional value. Florida’s sandy soils and warm climate are ideal for growing mango trees.
This article will discuss how to grow and care for mango trees in Florida, including soil requirements, fertilizers, and some of the best mango cultivars to consider for your garden.
Good products for growing Mangos:
- 50lb Bag Organic Solution Grade Sulfate of Potassium Fertilizer Powder 0-0-50
- Down to Earth Organic Langbeinite Fertilizer Mix 0-0-22
- ALASKA Fish Emulsion Fertilizer 5-1-1 Concentrate 1 Gallon
- Fertilome Fruit, Citrus and Pecan Tree Food 19-10-5
Mango Tree Care Guide
| Common Name(s) | Mango |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Mangifera indica |
| Days to Harvest | 4-6 years fruit from seed. |
| Light | Full sun for best fruit production |
| Water | Water twice weekly during the dry season, and more when fruiting |
| Soil | Mangos grow in various types of soil as long as well-draining. |
| Fertilizer | Langbeinite 0-0-22 or 0-0-50 or 19-10-5 |
| Pests | Mango fruit fly, Scale, Mealybugs, Aphids |
| Diseases | Anthracnose, Powdery mildew, Mango malformation disease |
Ideal Soil Conditions for Mango Trees
Florida’s sandy soils are perfect for growing mango trees, as they provide excellent drainage and prevent waterlogging, which can be detrimental to mango trees.
However, these soils may require additional supplements such as mulch and fertilizer to provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. Learn more about the best types of soils to plant with.
Fertilizing Mango Trees in Florida
Traditional fertilizers high in nitrogen can prevent mango trees from flowering during mango season in Florida.
To promote optimal growth and fruit production, a special fertilizer high in potassium, such as 0-0-50 or 19-10-5 is recommended.
Potassium sulfate is an excellent choice for mango trees, as it provides essential nutrients without high nitrogen content. Discover the best tropical fruit tree fertilizers for tropical fruit trees.
If you provide your mango tree with too much nitrogen it may not fruit and focus on growing leaves. So a fertilizer with little or no nitrogen is highly recommended.
Best Florida Mango Cultivars
There are several mango cultivars that thrive in Florida’s climate. Some of the best varieties to grow include:
- Orange Sherbet: A delicious, fiberless mango with a sweet, tangy flavor.
- Lemon Meringue: Known for its citrusy aroma and flavor, this mango is perfect for those who love a hint of lemon.
- Maha Chanook: Originating from Thailand, this mango offers a unique, complex flavor and is highly sought after by mango enthusiasts.
- M-4: A seedling of ‘Kiett’ and pollinated by the ‘Gary’ mango variety. M-4 boasts a smooth texture and rich, sweet coconut flavor.
Challenges of Growing Mango Trees in Florida
Despite the favorable climate, there are challenges to growing mango trees in Florida. Diseases, such as anthracnose and powdery mildew, can affect the health of your trees.
Regularly inspect your mango trees for signs of disease and take appropriate measures to prevent or treat these conditions. Learn more about disease prevention and management for tropical fruit trees.
Grafting Mango Trees
Grafting is an essential technique for creating mango trees with desired characteristics, such as disease resistance and fruit quality.
By grafting scions from a desirable cultivar onto a hardy rootstock, you can propagate mango trees with improved traits. Find out more about the art of grafting and creating fruit tree hybrids for your Florida garden.
One of the best rootstocks for growing and grafting mango is the “Turpentine” mango variety, a vigorous rootstock.
History of Mango Trees in Florida
Mangoes have a rich history in Florida, dating back to the early 20th century.
Pioneers in the mango industry, such as David Fairchild, introduced various cultivars to the region.
Since then, mangoes have become an essential part of Florida’s agricultural landscape and a favorite among fruit enthusiasts. Explore the history of tropical fruit gardening in Florida.
Conclusion
In conclusion, growing mango trees in Florida can be a rewarding experience, thanks to the state’s ideal climate and soil conditions.
By selecting the right cultivar, providing proper fertilization, and addressing potential challenges such as diseases, you can enjoy a thriving mango tree in your Florida garden.
Don’t forget to explore other tropical fruit trees that grow well in Florida, such as coconut trees, sugar apple trees, and cherimoya trees, to create a diverse and bountiful garden.
As you embark on your tropical fruit gardening journey, be sure to check out our list of 10 must-have tools for Florida fruit tree gardeners to ensure you have everything you need to care for your fruit trees.
And if you’re looking to expand your garden with more exotic fruit trees, discover our guide to growing rare and unusual tropical fruits in Florida. Happy gardening!
