Preparing a Mango Seed
To begin, wrap the mango seed in a moist paper towel. Seal it in a small bag and store it in a dark, warm place until it sprouts. After germination, fill a pot (3-4 inches) with well-draining soil. Lay the sprouted seed flat and cover it lightly with soil. Place the pot in a sunny area and water it well.
Optimal Conditions for Growth
Mango seedlings need bright light but not direct sunlight until mature. Indoors, a south-facing window is ideal. Outdoors, they prefer filtered light. Mature trees need 6-8 hours of sunlight. They aren’t picky about soil type but require good drainage. Soil pH can vary. Mangos thrive in warm, humid climates, ideally between 65 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Mango Seedling Care
Keep the soil moist for your seedlings. As they grow, water less frequently. Ensure the water drains well. Water when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry. Initially, seedlings don’t need fertilizer. Once they have several leaves and a full pot of roots, apply a balanced fertilizer.
Pest and Disease Management
Mangoes can attract pests and suffer from diseases like powdery mildew and fungal leaf spots. Improve lighting and airflow to prevent these. Treat mildew with neem or horticultural oil. Increase spacing and water at the base to avoid leaf spots. Manage mites and aphids with water sprays or insecticidal soap. Remove mealybugs and scales manually with alcohol.
Transplanting Techniques
When roots fill the pot and the soil dries quickly, it’s time to transplant. Do this in spring or summer when growth is active. For container plants, choose a slightly larger pot with drainage. Loosen circling roots and plant at the same depth. Fill with fresh soil and water. For outdoor planting, choose a warm location with no frost. Avoid full sun initially. Dig a hole, place the plant, and backfill with soil. Water well.
