Published Apr 08, 2024
Alphonso Mangoes are 4 to 6 inches long, with inedible golden yellow skin. They bloom from late winter to early spring in India. Known for their rich golden pulp, they have a warm, sweet, and sometimes tart taste.
Ratnagiri and Devgad are two types of Alphonso mangoes from Maharashtra, known for their unique taste. Grown along the Konkan coast, this region also produces high-quality cashews, jackfruit, and coconuts.
Alphonso mangoes grow best in tropical lowlands with rainfall of 30 to 100 inches. They need well-draining, rich, loamy soil with a pH of 5.2 to 7.5. Trees start bearing fruit after 8-9 years and can continue for up to 300 years.
Mango trees are propagated from seeds or asexual methods like grafting. While seeds are easily collected and planted in nursery beds, asexual methods ensure higher fruit quality, yields, and export suitability.
After harvesting mangoes, apply full nitrogen, half phosphorous, and half potash fertilisers. In October, apply the remaining fertilisers with the last irrigation, along with organic manure, for slow release.