1. Planting Time: Mangoes are generally planted in spring or autumn, during seasons when temperatures are just rising or falling. This typically falls in March-April or September-October. Spring planting in March-April is most suitable due to rising temperatures and higher humidity, resulting in higher survival rates. This prevents mangoes from being frost-damaged over winter and aids in seed germination and growth. Alternatively, planting in September-November, as temperatures decrease and evaporation rates reduce, also yields good survival rates.
2. Planting Methods:
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Choosing Seedlings: Selecting appropriate varieties is crucial. Ensure that seedlings have well-healed graft unions and are free from diseases or injuries. Additionally, consider planting a mix of early, mid, and late-maturing varieties to extend the mango's fruiting period and maximize profits.
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Site Selection and Fertilization: Mangoes should be planted in flat, sunny, wind-sheltered areas with deep, organic-rich sandy loam soil, which is beneficial for plant growth. Good drainage is essential as mango seedlings are susceptible to waterlogging. If soil fertility is low, supplement with organic fertilizers or superphosphate.
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Planting: Before planting, dig a hole 80 cm wide and 70 cm deep, then add sufficient basal fertilizer to the pit. To improve seedling survival rates, soak them in rooting solution before transplanting. Planting is ideally done in spring from March to April, ensuring higher survival rates. Planting density is typically 3-3.5 x 4-4.5 meters, with around 45-55 mango trees per acre.
Mango trees are perennial crops, and naturally grown fruit trees mostly have tall crowns with dense branches, so proper management is essential for growers.