Mango Fertilizer: The Ultimate Guide to Soil Nutrition for Bountiful Harvests

Soil Requirements for Mango Trees

Mango trees require well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. The ideal soil composition is sandy loam or loamy sand with good organic matter content. Heavy clay soils or poorly drained soils can lead to stunted growth and root rot.

Macronutrient Requirements

Nitrogen (N)

• Nitrogen is essential for vegetative growth, promoting lush foliage and vigorous shoot development.
• Recommended application rate: 150-200 kg/ha/year

Phosphorus (P)

• Phosphorus supports root development, flowering, and fruit production.
• Recommended application rate: 75-100 kg/ha/year

Potassium (K)

• Potassium enhances fruit quality, sugar content, and resistance to diseases.
• Recommended application rate: 150-200 kg/ha/year

Micronutrient Requirements

Calcium (Ca)

• Calcium strengthens cell walls, improving fruit quality and shelf life.
• Recommended application rate: 200-300 kg/ha/year

Magnesium (Mg)

• Magnesium plays a vital role in photosynthesis and nutrient uptake.
• Recommended application rate: 100-150 kg/ha/year

Zinc (Zn)

• Zinc is essential for enzyme activity and fruit set.
• Recommended application rate: 20-30 kg/ha/year

Iron (Fe)

• Iron is involved in chlorophyll production and respiration.
• Recommended application rate: 10-15 kg/ha/year

Organic Fertilization

Organic fertilizers, such as compost, manure, and cover crops, provide a sustainable and environmentally friendly way to nourish mango trees. They slowly release nutrients over time, improving soil structure and microbial activity.

Fertilization Schedule

• Pre-Planting: Apply 10-15 tons/ha of well-decomposed organic matter to the soil before planting.
• Year 1-3: Fertilize young trees with a balanced NPK ratio of 12:8:16. Apply 150-200 kg/ha/year.
• Year 4-6: Increase the NPK ratio to 15:10:18 and apply 200-250 kg/ha/year.
• Mature Trees: Fertilize mature trees with a ratio of 18:12:24 and apply 250-300 kg/ha/year.

Tips and Tricks

• Split fertilizer applications into two or three doses to prevent nutrient leaching.
• Use a soil test to determine the specific nutrient needs of your soil.
• Foliar feeding with micronutrient solutions can quickly address deficiencies.
• Avoid overfertilizing, as this can lead to stunted growth and fruit drop.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Planting in poorly drained soils
• Using fertilizers with high salt content
• Neglecting micronutrient applications
• Failing to test soil before fertilizing
• Overwatering

Tables

Table 1: Recommended Macro and Micronutrient Requirements for Mango Trees

Table 2: Organic Fertilizer Sources and Nutrient Content

Table 3: Fertilization Schedule for Mango Trees

Table 4: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Fertilizing Mango Trees