Mango cultivation is becoming increasingly popular, and modern production techniques are essential for growing high-quality mangoes. Mango growers should consider factors such as land selection, planting distance, hole preparation, fertilizer application, planting method, planting time, variety selection, seedling care, and soil and weather conditions. It’s important to note that not all mango varieties can thrive in all areas due to varying soil and weather conditions. Mangoes require a soil pH level of 5.5-7.0, and they grow best in deep, well-drained, fertile loam soils. When selecting a location for mango cultivation, choose high or medium high land that does not retain water during the monsoon season. The land should be leveled, weed-free, and well-prepared before planting.
The planting distance for mango trees depends on the variety. For fast-growing or large trees, plant at a distance of 12 meters (about 40 feet), while medium-sized trees can be planted at a distance of 10 meters (about 35 feet). Shorter varieties like Bari Mango-3 (Amrapali) can be planted at a distance of 6-8 meters. Before the onset of the monsoon, mark the planting site and prepare holes. The holes should be 75-100 cm in length, width, and depth. After digging the holes, dry them in the sun for 10 days. Then, mix 10 kg of dung manure, 500 g of TSP, 250 g of MP, 250 g of gypsum, 50 g of zinc sulfate, and 10 g of boric acid with the topsoil in each hole. After filling the hole with the mixture, plant healthy and disease-free seedlings that are 4-5 feet tall with 2-3 branches. Plant the seedlings straight in the middle of the hole, press the roots evenly with the soil, and tie the seedlings to a pole.
It’s important to note that different mango varieties have different market demands. Some varieties are in high demand in the local market, while others are more suitable for export. For example, Bangladesh has several superior quality mango varieties such as Langra, Khirsapat, Himsagar, Fazli, Gopal Bhog, and Bombay, which are popular in the local market but may not be as profitable for export. On the other hand, varieties like Bari Mango-2 and Bari Mango-7 are suitable for export markets due to their color and taste. Additionally, the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute has developed several varieties capable of bearing fruit every year, such as Bari Mango-1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8, which can be profitable for gardening with seedlings.
