Establishing a mango orchard requires careful planning and execution. Establishing a mango orchard is a long-term funding and the bushes continue to undergo fruit for a longer period of time than many different fruit crops. Thus its cultivation requires desirable planning which consists of careful choice of site, provision of gentle slopes to facilitate ideal irrigation, and prompt drainage to keep away from the detrimental impact of waterlogging in the course of the wet season. Likewise, suitable preservation and care are necessary for profitable returns through excessive manufacturing of pleasant fruits.
Selection of site, the practice of the field, the true design of the garden, acceptable spacing, digging of pits, selection of planting material and planting, care of younger plants, and intercultural operations require exceptional attention.
Ecological requirements for mango production.
Rainfall requirements for mango farming
Mango trees require a sufficient amount of rainfall for their growth and productivity. The specific rainfall requirements may vary depending on the variety of mangoes and local climate conditions. However, in general, the following guidelines are commonly recommended:
Mango trees require an average annual rainfall of about 1000-1500 mm (39-59 inches) for optimal growth and fruit production. The trees can tolerate periods of drought, but for optimal growth, they need a well-distributed rainfall pattern throughout the year. Mango trees can withstand short periods of waterlogging, but heavy and prolonged waterlogging can be detrimental to their growth and can cause root rot.
The rainfall pattern should ideally have a dry period before flowering and during fruit ripening to avoid excessive growth and improve fruit quality. In areas with inadequate rainfall, irrigation methods such as drip irrigation or sprinkler irrigation can be used to supplement the water requirements of mango trees.
It is important to note that these are general guidelines, and local conditions and specific mango varieties can have different rainfall requirements. It is always recommended to consult with local agricultural experts or extension services to determine the specific rainfall requirements for mango farming in your area.
Temperature ideal for mango production.
Mango trees thrive in warm tropical climates with average temperatures between 25°C and 35°C. In Kenya, most mango-growing regions have suitable temperatures for mango cultivation. However, specific temperature requirements may vary slightly depending on the variety of mango being grown. Generally, mango trees can tolerate temperatures as low as 4°C and as high as 48°C. It is important to note that while mango trees can tolerate a wide temperature range, temperatures below 10°C or above 40°C can negatively impact fruit production and quality.
Altitude ideal for growing mangoes in Kenya
The ideal altitude for growing mangoes in Kenya generally ranges between 300 to 1,500 meters (984 to 4,921 feet) above sea level. Mango trees are adaptable and can grow at different altitudes, but certain altitudes provide more favorable conditions for optimal growth and fruit production. In Kenya, mango cultivation is commonly practiced in areas with altitudes between 600 to 900 meters (1,968 to 2,953 feet) above sea level.
These regions, such as parts of the Coast Province and parts of Eastern Province, offer a combination of suitable temperatures, rainfall, and soil conditions that are conducive to mango tree growth and yield. However, mango cultivation can also be successful at higher altitudes up to 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) with appropriate adjustments to agronomic practices.
Soils ideal for mango growing in Kenya
Mango trees can be grown in a variety of soil types, but they prefer well-draining soils with good water-holding capacity. In Kenya, the following soil types are considered ideal for mango cultivation:
- Sandy loam: Mango trees perform well in sandy loam soils, which have a balanced texture of sand, silt, and clay. These soils provide good drainage while retaining sufficient moisture and nutrients.
- Alluvial soils: These soils are deposited by rivers and are typically fertile and well-drained. Mango trees thrive in alluvial soils due to their high nutrient content and good water retention capabilities.
- Red volcanic soils: Found in some regions of Kenya, these soils are derived from volcanic rocks and are known for their fertility and excellent drainage. They are well-suited for mango cultivation.
- Clay loam soils: While mango trees prefer well-drained soils, they can also tolerate clay loam soils if they are properly managed. Adequate drainage and organic matter addition are essential to prevent waterlogging and improve soil structure.
It is important to note that regardless of the soil type, mango trees require a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth and fruit production. Soil testing and appropriate soil amendments can help maintain the desired pH level for mango cultivation.
Site Selection and Land Preparation:
Proper land preparation is essential for establishing a healthy and productive mango orchard. Choose a location suitable for mango cultivation. Ideally, mango orchards thrive in warm tropical or subtropical climates with temperatures above (10°C). Ensure the site has well-draining soil, good sunlight exposure, and protection from strong winds.
Land preparation for mango planting is a crucial step to ensure the success of your mango orchard. Here are the basic steps involved in land preparation for mango planting in Kenya:
Clearing the land
Start by clearing the land of weeds, shrubs, and any obstacles that may hinder proper tree growth. Remove rocks, debris, and unwanted vegetation from the area.
- Soil testing: Conduct a soil test to assess the nutrient content and pH level of the soil. This will help determine if any soil amendments or fertilizers are needed to optimize the soil conditions for mango cultivation.
- Drainage: Ensure proper drainage by creating channels or ditches if needed. Mango trees do not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so make sure the land has good natural or artificial drainage systems.
- Land leveling: Level the land to ensure uniform water distribution and prevent pooling of water. This can be done by either filling low areas or digging ditches in high areas.
- Organic matter addition: Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil. This improves soil structure, water-holding capacity, and nutrient availability.
- Soil cultivation: Use a plow or a harrow to break up clods and loosen the soil. This promotes root penetration and improves overall soil aeration.
- Marking out the planting holes: Determine the spacing between mango trees based on the variety and the growth habits of the mango trees. Mark out the spots where you will dig the planting holes. The spacing in dry areas varies from 10M *to 10M due to limited growth while in wet areas spacing varies from 12M * 12 M because of abundant vegetative growth.
Preparation of planting holes and seedlings planting.
Planting holes should be dug before the onset of the rainy season. Proper land preparation is essential for establishing a healthy and productive mango orchard.
Step by step on how to dig holes for planting mango seedlings
Determine the hole’s size:
The size of the hole depends on the size of the plant’s root ball. A general rule is to dig a hole that is at least twice as wide as the root ball and slightly deeper.
Dig the hole
Using a shovel or an auger, start digging the hole for the mango seedling. Begin by loosening the soil and removing the top layer of grass or weeds.
- If using a shovel, start by making a circular cut around the perimeter of the hole you want to dig. Then, dig into the soil to create a hole that is wider than the root ball but consistent in depth.
- If using an auger, simply insert it into the ground and drill down until you reach the desired depth.
Adjust the depth:
Check the depth of the hole by placing the mango seedling’s root ball vertically inside. The root ball should sit slightly above or at ground level. Adjust the hole’s depth accordingly, either by removing or adding soil.
Loosen the sides:
Use the shovel or a garden fork to gently loosen the sides of the hole. This will promote better root penetration into the surrounding soil. The spacing in dry areas varies from 10M *to 10M due to limited growth while in wet areas spacing varies from 12M * 12 M because of abundant vegetative growth.
Amend the soil (if necessary):
If your soil is heavy clay or lacks organic matter, you can improve its quality by amending it. Mix in compost, well-rotted manure, or other organic matter into the soil you removed from the hole. This will help enhance drainage and nutrient availability to the mango seedling.
- Remove the polythene paper. Carefully remove the polythene paper taking care of the root ball and root system of seedling.
- Place the mango seedling in the hole: Carefully place the mango seedling in the center of the hole, ensuring that the root ball is in an upright position. Gently spread the roots out in all directions.
- Backfill the hole: Gradually add soil back into the hole around the roots, firming it gently to eliminate air pockets. Be careful not to bury the mango seedling too deeply; the top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil.
- Water thoroughly: Once the hole is filled and the mango seedling is firmly planted, water it thoroughly. This will help settle the soil and provide the initial hydration the seedling needs.
- Mulch around the tree: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw, around the base of the mango seedling. This will help conserve moisture, suppress weed growth, and insulate the roots.
- Staking (if necessary): If the mango seedling is tall or weak, it may require support until it establishes stronger roots. Use a stake or bamboo pole to anchor the tree, tying it securely with soft and flexible ties.
- Regular maintenance: Monitor the mango seedling regularly, especially during the first year of growth. Maintain proper watering, weed control, and pest management to ensure the healthy development of the tree.
Field maintenance for mango orchard.
Irrigation.
Irrigating mango seedlings in the orchard is essential to ensure their healthy growth and development. Here are the steps to properly irrigate mango seedlings in the orchard:
- Determine the irrigation schedule: Mango trees require regular watering during their initial growth phase, especially when they are seedlings. They should be watered at least once a week during dry periods and irrigation frequency may be reduced as the trees grow and establish.
- Check soil moisture: Before irrigating, it is important to assess the soil moisture content. Insert your finger or a soil moisture probe into the soil to a depth of 4-6 inches. If the soil feels dry at this depth, it is an indication that irrigation is required.
- Provide deep watering: Mango seedlings have shallow root systems, so it is important to provide deep watering rather than shallow, frequent watering. This encourages the roots to grow deep into the soil, making the trees more drought-tolerant in the future. Water should penetrate at least 1 to 2 feet in depth during irrigation.
Irrigation
- Use drip irrigation or flood irrigation: Drip irrigation is the most efficient method of irrigation for mango seedlings. Install drip irrigation lines or emitters near the base of each seedling, allowing a slow and steady release of water directly to the root zone. Alternatively, flood irrigation can be used, especially for larger orchards, where water is allowed to flow over the soil surface around the base of the seedlings until it reaches the desired depth.
- Adjust irrigation based on evapotranspiration: Evapotranspiration is the water loss from the soil due to evaporation and plant transpiration. Consider the evapotranspiration rate and adjust the irrigation schedule accordingly. Use weather and soil moisture sensors to help determine the appropriate watering schedule and avoid over or under-watering.
- Mulch around seedlings: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw, around the base of the mango seedlings. Mulching helps retain soil moisture, reduce evaporation, and control weed growth. It also regulates the soil temperature, which is beneficial for the mango seedlings’ growth.
- Monitor for drainage: Mango seedlings prefer well-drained soil. Ensure that water does not accumulate around the seedlings, as waterlogged soil can cause root rot or other diseases. If drainage issues are observed, consider improving soil drainage by adding organic matter or adjusting the irrigation system to avoid the pooling of water around the plants.
Remember to always monitor the soil moisture levels and adjust the irrigation accordingly. Proper irrigation is crucial, as both overwatering and underwatering can be detrimental to the growth and health of mango seedlings in the orchard.
Fertilization.
Manures and fertilizers may be applied in September – October. Fertilizers are applied 45 to 90 cm away from the trunk up to the peripheral leaf drip and incorporated.
Fertilizer rates at different stages of mango tree growth.
| Manure and Fertilizers | 1-year-old Kg per tree | Annual increase kg per tree | 6th year onwards kg per tree |
| FYD | 10.0 | 10.0 | 50 |
| N | 0.20 | 0.20 | 1.0 |
| P | 0.20 | 0.20 | 1.0 |
| K | 0.30 | 0.30 | 1.5 |
The usual method of applying fertilizer to young and bearing trees is to use the ring method of fertilizer application by digging a row around the base of the tree, approximately 7.6-13 cm (3-5 inches) deep, following the tree canopy. The fertilizer is then placed into the row and covered with soil. Remember to maintain a distance of 45-90 cm (18-35 in) from the tree trunk. Each fertilizer application must be followed by a light, controlled irrigation. Fertilizers must not be worked into the soil.
In mango fields where drip irrigation is applied, the farmers can also apply fertigation (applying fertilizers through the irrigation system). Micronutrients of complementary amounts of K can be applied with foliar spraying. Many fruit orchards are also low in Boron, and the trees should be sprayed every year with 100 g borax or 75 g Solubor/100 l water.
Pruning.
Pruning mango trees is an important practice that helps maintain the tree’s health, shape, and productivity. Here are some key points to consider for mango pruning:
- Timing: Pruning is typically done during the dry season when the tree is dormant. This is usually in winter or early spring.
- Tools: Use clean and sharp pruning shears or loppers to make clean cuts without causing damage to the tree.
- Goals: Determine the objectives of pruning, which can include shaping the tree, removing dead or diseased branches, thinning crowded areas, and improving air circulation and sunlight penetration.
- Thinning: Remove excessive branches to allow for better air circulation and light penetration within the canopy. This helps reduce the risk of diseases and promotes fruit production.
- Heading: To control the size and shape of the tree, selectively remove the ends of branches to encourage lateral growth and branching. This can help maintain a manageable tree height for easier harvesting.
- Dead/diseased branches: Cut back and remove any dead, broken, or diseased branches to prevent the spread of infections and improve overall tree health.
- Suckers and water sprouts: Remove any suckers (shoots growing from the rootstock) and water sprouts (vigorous vertical shoots) as they can weaken the tree and divert energy away from fruit production.
- Aesthetic considerations: Prune to maintain the desired shape and appearance of the tree. This can include balancing the canopy and removing any crossing or rubbing branches.
- Aftercare: After pruning, clean up the area by removing any pruned branches and debris. Make sure to dispose of them properly or use them for mulching if suitable.
It’s important to note that while pruning can be beneficial, excessive pruning can result in reduced fruit production. Therefore, it’s essential to strike a balance while pruning mango trees. If unsure, consult a local horticulturist or arborist for specific guidance on pruning mango trees in your region.
Weed control.
Weed control in a mango orchard is crucial to ensure the health and productivity of the mango trees. Here are some methods for effective weed control:
1. Mulching:
Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw, around the base of the mango trees. This helps suppress weed growth by blocking sunlight and preventing weed seeds from germinating. Additionally, mulch conserves soil moisture and nourishes the soil as it decomposes.
2. Manual weeding:
Regularly inspect the orchard and manually remove any weeds that emerge. This method is labor-intensive but effective, particularly in the early stages of weed growth. Pay attention to removing weeds around the base of the mango trees and in areas where they can compete for nutrients.
3. Chemical herbicides:
Carefully consider using herbicides as they can have adverse effects on the environment and non-target plants. If necessary, consult with a professional or local agricultural extension service for guidance on selecting and applying herbicides that are approved for mango orchards while minimizing potential risks.
4. Pre-emergent herbicides:
These herbicides are applied before weed seeds germinate to prevent their growth. However, be cautious as the timing and application rates vary depending on the herbicide and local conditions. Seek expert advice for proper application techniques.
5. Cover cropping:
Planting cover crops between the mango trees can help suppress weed growth. Select cover crops that are adaptable to your region, provide good ground cover, and do not compete excessively with the mango trees for nutrients and water.
6. Cultivation:
If weeds are limited in number and not established, occasional shallow cultivation between the rows of mango trees can help disturb weed growth and prevent them from becoming established.
7. Timing of weed control:
Regularly monitor the orchard and address weed growth early on. Controlling weeds when they are small and before they produce seeds is easier and more effective.
8. Integrated Weed Management (IWM):
Implementing a combination of these techniques based on the specific requirements and conditions of your mango orchard can provide effective weed control while minimizing negative impacts on the environment and mango tree health.
Intercropping
As mango ‘trees take a longer time to yield any profit to the grower. It is desirable to supplement one’s income by growing some short-term crops till they are shaded by the trees.
Remember to follow all local regulations and guidelines when applying herbicides, and always prioritize the health and well-being of the mango trees. Additionally, consulting with local agricultural experts can provide valuable insights on effective weed control strategies specific to your region.
References
https://slideplayer.com/slide/4235731/
https://wikifarmer.com/planning-and-planting-a-mango-orchard/
https://www.worldagroforestry.org/sites/default/files/users/admin/mango-planting-manual.pdf.
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