Easy Guide to Growing Your Own Mango Orchard from Seed

Imagine enjoying mangoes that you've grown yourself, right from your backyard.

Starting a mango orchard at home is simpler than you might think and brings endless joy.

From seeding to harvesting, learn the steps to cultivate your own mangoes.

Your home garden awaits its transformation into a vibrant orchard.

Gather Your Supplies

• A knife
• A 20-gallon container
• Well-draining potting mix
• Plastic bag or plastic wrap

Preparing and Germinating Mango Seeds

Starting your mango-growing journey begins with the seeds! Learn how to prepare and germinate them to ensure healthy growth and strong seedlings.

Extract the Seed

Start with a ripe mango, slice it open, and carefully take out the flat seed.

Remove the Husk

Use a knife or your nails to gently peel off the outer husk without harming the seed. Let it dry for a day or two.

Sprout the Seed

Soak the seed in water for a day, then plant it about an inch deep in a pot with good-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a sunny spot.

Cover it with plastic wrap to keep humidity in, and in two to four weeks, you’ll see a sprout.

Choosing a Pot and Planting

Picking the right pot is crucial for your mango tree's success. Discover how to choose the best container and plant your tree for optimal growth.

Choose a Pot

Pick a large pot, like a 20-gallon container with good drainage, for your mango once it has grown a few leaves.

Transplant Carefully

Gently move the young mango tree, keeping its roots intact. Plant it at the same depth as before, fill the pot with well-draining soil, and leave some room at the top for watering. Now it’s ready to grow in its new home.

Nutrients and Sunlight for Mango Trees

Mango trees thrive with proper care. Find out the essential nutrients and sunlight requirements to help your tree flourish and bear delicious fruit.

Watering

Water your mango tree regularly, especially in hot, dry weather, about a few times a week in summer and every two weeks in winter. Keep the soil moist but not soaked. A moisture meter can help, and adding organic mulch on top retains moisture and keeps weeds away.

Sunlight

Mangoes need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If growing indoors, place them by a sunny window or use grow lights.

For outdoor plants, gradually expose them to full sun in summer and protect from frost with covers or by moving them to a sheltered spot.

Fertilizing

Feed mangoes every spring and summer with a balanced organic fertilizer like compost tea or fish emulsion.

Slow-release fertilizers also work well, but avoid high-nitrogen types to promote fruiting. Stop fertilizing in fall and winter as the tree enters dormancy.

Transplanting and Pruning

Repot every 2-3 years to give roots more space, or consider planting it outside in a warm climate. Prune regularly to control size, encourage side branches, and remove dead or diseased parts.

The Reward of Growing Mangoes

There’s nothing like enjoying fresh, homegrown mangoes! Explore the joys and benefits of growing your own mango tree, from planting to harvesting.

Harvesting

At last, it’s harvest time! Mangoes are usually ready when they turn from green to shades of yellow, orange, or red, depending on the type. Handle them gently to avoid bruising.

Storage

After harvesting, let mangoes ripen at room temperature for a few days. They’re ready when they smell sweet and feel slightly soft. You can refrigerate ripe mangoes for a few more days to keep them fresh.

Tips for Growing Mangoes Successfully

Want to grow mangoes like a pro? These tips will help you navigate every step, ensuring your mango tree grows healthy and produces juicy fruit.

Pollination

Mango trees are often pollinated by insects. If you’re growing indoors or where insects are scarce, try hand-pollinating by transferring pollen with a small brush or cotton swab.

Protection

Young mango trees are sensitive to strong winds, which can harm their branches and leaves. Use windbreaks or plant in a sheltered spot for extra protection.

Pest and Disease Control

Watch for common pests like aphids, scale insects, and mealybugs. Check regularly for disease signs and address issues promptly.