# Alphonso Mango Plant Complete Growing Guide, Care & Benefits
Alphonso mango is rightly called the king of mangoes as it has a rich aroma along with the creamy texture and sweetness. If you have always wanted to grow the juiciest and sweetest mangoes in your garden then a grafted Alphonso mango plant is the perfect pick for you. So let us learn all about how to grow Alphonso mango, its benefits and more
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# What makes Alphonso mango special?
India is the largest producer of mangoes in the world with hundreds of varieties to choose from. Alphonso mango is considered to be one of the finest varieties as it has
a rich tropical aroma
bright yellow flesh
no fibres
taste and contains natural sugars
compared to other varieties. Alphonso mangoes are known to be one of the premium quality mangoes in the market.
Compared to other mango varieties, the Alphonso variety is low in fibre and high in sugar which makes it an ideal choice for making desserts, juices, milkshakes, smoothies, and ice-creams.
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# History of Alphonso mango
The Alphonso variety of mango is native to the western coast of India (Maharashtra) and has earned fame for its quality and aroma across the globe.
It is believed that the variety was developed by the Portuguese colonists in Goa through grafting and named after the then ruler Afonso de Albuquerque, who promoted the cultivation of the variety.
Even today, the Alphonso mango is grown in most of the Indian states. However, the Maharashtra region provides the perfect climate for growing the best-tasting Alphonso mangoes.
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# Features of Alphonso Mango
A ripe Alphonso mango is a sight and a delight to behold. The characteristics of an Alphonso mango are as follows:
Features Description
Weight 200-400 grams per piece
Shape Egg-shaped or oval fruit
Peel Colour Smooth yellow skin when ripe
Flesh Colour Deep saffron-coloured flesh
Taste Very aromatic and less fibrous with rich sweetness.
Season April-June (Varies slightly with location)
The fruits are ready for harvest in April-June, depending on the location.
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# Features of Alphonso Mango Tree
Alphonso mango tree, an evergreen plant, retains its leaves throughout the year.
The tree has the ability to produce new shoots several times in a year that eventually flower and bear fruits.
A grafted alphonso mango tree is a hardy plant that can be grown with ease. When you plant the tree in open ground, make sure that there are at least eight meters between each tree. The reason is to provide enough space for air circulation and sunlight.
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# Should I buy a grafted Alphonso mango plant?
When considering growing Alphonso mangoes, it is ideal to grow a grafted plant.
Reasons to grow a grafted alphonso mango plant
Benefits
Fruit production in early years
Better quality fruits
Better yields
The grafting method ensures true to name Alphonso mangoes with better fruit production capabilities. Growing the plants from seeds would give you a mango tree with varied characteristics and it would also take a lot of time before you can have your first harvest.
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# Can I grow Alphonso mango in Kerala?
Yes, Alphonso mango plants can be grown in Kerala if you have the right pot location and conditions.
Even though the Maharashtra region is famous for its Alphonso mangoes, there is a large number of home growers in Kerala that are enjoying great fruits from their Alphonso mango trees. As long as you take care of your plants and give them the required conditions, you can grow Alphonso mangoes in your home garden in Kerala.
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# Can Alphonso mango be grown in a pot?
Yes, Alphonso mango can be grown in pots. In fact, this variety adapts itself well to pot culture. Growing Alphonso mangoes in pots will allow you to grow the plant in
terraces
balconies
rooftops
etc. However, one should keep a few points in mind while growing Alphonso mango in a pot, such as
Keeping the tree size small by pruning regularly
Using a pot of the right size with drainage holes
Using the right soil.
Alphonso mango plant in a pot can be easily maintained at a height of 4-8 feet.
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# How to plant Alphonso mango plant?
The most crucial step when planting an Alphonso mango plant is to decide on the right location.
Requirements for planting an Alphonso mango plant
Tips
Choose a place that receives 6-8 hours of sunlight
Plant in well-drained loamy soil with good aeration
Make sure the place is not prone to waterlogging
Do not plant the mango tree under the shade of other trees.
You must also prepare a suitable pit for planting the sapling. The pit should be 60-90 cm wide and deep. You can line it with well-decomposed FYM compost, bone meal, or rock phosphate.
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# How much water does Alphonso mango need?
When newly planted, young Alphonso mango plants need a lot of water. However, waterlogged soil should be avoided at all costs. Once the plant has matured and has begun to bear fruit, watering the plant becomes a bit easier. Below are some pointers on how to water your Alphonso mango plant:
Watering Tips
Newly planted plants Require regular watering for the first few weeks after planting, however, make sure the soil is not waterlogged.
Established plants Alphonso mangoes are extremely tolerant of dry conditions once they have matured, therefore watering them during flowering and fruiting is advised. Water them during prolonged dry periods as well.
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# How to mulch Alphonso mango?
One of the most effective things you can do for your plants is mulching. Some of the key reasons why mulching is beneficial for your Alphonso mango plant is:
Moisture retention
Weed control
Improves soil fertility
Protects the roots
Helps regulate temperature
You can use leaf litter, compost, and/or straw mulch to achieve the best results.
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# How to apply fertilizer to Alphonso mango?
Adding the right type and amount of fertilizer will ensure that your Alphonso mango plant receives all the essential nutrients. Here are some fertilizing tips for Alphonso mango:
Fertilizer Tips
When planting Add a layer of compost and FYM to the pit along with bone meal, and rock phosphate.
Annual Application Apply a balanced dose of NPK as per your plant's requirement each year. Applying a layer of compost every year will improve the soil's fertility as well as its micro ecosystem.
For more information on what type of fertilizer to use for your tree, you can always consult your local nursery or agricultural extension office.
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# How to prune and take care of your Alphonso mango plant?
Pruning is essential to increase yield, encourage growth, and maintain a healthy Alphonso mango tree. Always remember to prune dead, diseased, crossing, and weak branches as well as suckers that emerge from the rootstock. To avoid disease transmission, always use clean and sharp pruning shears.
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# Does Alphonso mango plant suffers from pests?
Alphonso mango plant, like all other plants, is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases.
Common pests and diseases: Fruit flies, powdery mildew, Anthracnose, Leaf spot, scale insects, Mealybugs.
However, many ailments can be avoided by ensuring proper planting site selection and maintenance practices. To keep pests and diseases at bay,
avoid waterlogging
give your tree enough space to grow
remove any infected leaves
prune regularly, and
keep your garden clean.
If your Alphonso mango plant is infested with pests or diseases, you may need to treat it with an appropriate chemical or biological pesticide. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations when using any pesticide.
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# Benefits of Alphonso Mango
Alphonso mango is a powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals like
Vitamins A, C, E, B6, fibre, potassium, magnesium, copper, and antioxidants
It has been found to help in weight loss when consumed in its raw form. However, it should be consumed in moderation as it has a high amount of sugar. Adding Alphonso mango to your diet plan can help boost immunity and reduce stress levels due to its high content of anti-inflammatory chemicals, such as serotonin and dopamine.
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# Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
## How long does it take for Alphonso mango plant to yield fruits?
A grafted alphonso mango plant takes 3-5 years to bear fruits.
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## Does Alphonso mango plant require direct sunlight?
Direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours is required for a mango plant to thrive.
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## Can I grow Alphonso mango plant inside my house?
It is recommended to grow an Alphonso mango plant in direct sunlight, therefore growing it inside your home is not advised.
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## Is it essential to prune an Alphonso mango plant?
Pruning is essential to encourage fruitful growth and maintain a healthy tree.
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## Can a single Alphonso mango tree yield fruits?
A single tree can yield fruits, although having another mango tree nearby will help with better yield and fruit quality.
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# Why should you grow Alphonso mango plant?
Growing an Alphonso mango tree in your home garden is not only gratifying but incredibly rewarding. Having the king of mangoes in your garden allows you to relish the homegrown mangoes with their unique aroma and exquisite taste. Growing Alphonso mango is a satisfying experience that provides you with a lifetime of fresh mangoes, a beautiful evergreen tree in your garden for shade, and so much more. So why wait? Get a grafted Alphonso mango plant today and let the king of mangoes rule your home garden for years!
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# Buy Grafted Alphonso Mango Plant from Keraleaf
At Keraleaf, we value the importance of growing quality fruit plants in your home garden. We take pride in offering you a wide range of grafted fruit plants that will assist you in embarking on your gardening journey. With Keraleaf, you can expect to receive only the best when it comes to grafted Alphonso mango plants. Our team has handpicked these grafted plants with precision so that you can enjoy the most delicious homegrown fruits in the market.