In this section we will look at
1.)About Mango Farming
2.) Varieties of Mangos
3.)How to Plant Mangos
5.)Mango Common Diseases
6.)Profitability of Mango Farming
8.)Challenges facing Mango Farming
Image of mango farming
Mango Scientifically known as Mangifera indica is one of the most widely cultivated fruits in tropical and subtropical regions, including Kenya. Known as the "king of fruits," mango is prized for its sweet flavor, nutritional value, and versatility. With increasing local and global demand, mango farming has become a lucrative venture for farmers.
Mango is a perennial fruit tree that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. Originating in South Asia, mango has spread globally, thriving in warm climates. Kenya is among the top mango-producing countries in Africa, with significant production in arid and semi-arid regions. Mangoes are a rich source of vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, making them highly sought after for both fresh consumption and processing.
Bees and other insects play a crucial role in pollination. Avoid spraying harmful chemicals during flowering.
Varieties of Mangos
Kenya grows several mango varieties, both local and exotic, depending on climatic conditions and market demand. Some popular varieties include:
Apple Mango
Characteristics: Medium-sized, round fruit with a reddish-yellow skin.
Taste: Sweet and aromatic.
Market: Popular in local and export markets.
Tommy Atkins
Characteristics: Large fruit with red skin and a long shelf life.
Taste: Mildly sweet, fibrous.
Market: Preferred for export due to its durability.
Kent
Characteristics: Oval-shaped fruit with green and red skin.
Taste: Sweet and non-fibrous.
Market: High demand for fresh consumption and juice production.
Ngowe
Characteristics: Long, slender fruit with orange-yellow skin.
Taste: Very sweet.
Market: Local markets and processing.
Keitt
Characteristics: Large fruit, greenish-red when ripe, with a smooth texture.
Taste: Sweet and non-fibrous.
Market: Preferred for export due to high yield and extended harvest period.
How to Plant Mangos
Site Selection
Choose a location with ample sunlight, good drainage, and protection from strong winds.
Avoid waterlogged areas as mango trees are sensitive to root rot.
Land Clearing
Remove weeds, rocks, and debris.
Plow and harrow the land to create a fine tilth.
Pit Preparation
Dig planting pits 1 meter x 1 meter x 1 meter.
Mix topsoil with organic manure (10–15 kg per pit) and refill the pits before planting.
Propagation
Mango trees are propagated through grafting for better yields and faster maturity.
Grafted seedlings produce fruit within 3–4 years, compared to 6–8 years for seed-grown trees.
Planting Time
Best planted at the onset of the rainy season to ensure adequate water supply.
Spacing
High-density planting: 5m x 5m (commercial orchards).
Traditional planting: 10m x 10m (large trees).
Planting Method
Place the seedling in the center of the pit.
Cover with soil and press gently to remove air pockets.
Water the seedlings immediately after planting.
Irrigation
Mango trees are drought-tolerant but require consistent watering during the first 2–3 years.
Drip irrigation is recommended for efficient water use.
Reduce irrigation during flowering to promote fruit set.
Weeding
Regular weeding prevents competition for nutrients and reduces pest habitats.
Mulching can suppress weeds and conserve soil moisture.
Pruning
Prune young trees to establish a strong canopy structure.
Remove dead, diseased, or overcrowded branches to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration.
Fertilization
Apply organic manure annually to enrich the soil.
Use nitrogen-rich fertilizers during the vegetative stage and potassium-rich fertilizers during flowering and fruiting.
Mango Common Pests
Mango Weevil: Infests fruits, causing premature drop.
Fruit Fly: Causes fruit rot.
Aphids: Transmit viral diseases.
Control: Use insecticides, traps, and biological controls.
Anthracnose: Black spots on leaves and fruits.
Powdery Mildew: White powdery coating on leaves and flowers.
Root Rot: Affects roots in waterlogged conditions.
Control: Apply fungicides, ensure proper drainage, and maintain field hygiene.
Profitability of Mango Farming
Mango farming can be highly profitable, especially with good management and access to markets:
Initial Investment: Ksh 100,000–200,000 per acre (seedlings, inputs, labor).
Yield: Mature trees can produce 200–500 fruits annually.
Revenue: Ksh 300,000–800,000 per acre annually, depending on market prices.
Advantages of Mango Farming
Mangoes are a major export crop, with markets in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.
They provide a source of income for smallholder farmers and large-scale growers alike.
The mango processing industry offers opportunities for value addition (e.g., juice, dried mangoes, and jams).
Mangoes are a rich source of beta-carotene, vitamin C, and potassium, essential for health.
They contain antioxidants that boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.
Mango trees provide shade and act as windbreaks in arid areas.
They contribute to carbon sequestration, improving environmental sustainability.
Pests and Diseases
Require continuous monitoring and control measures.
Market Fluctuations
Prices may drop during peak harvest seasons.
Post-Harvest Losses
Poor handling and lack of storage facilities can lead to significant losses.
Climate Change
Erratic weather patterns affect flowering and yields.
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