Mango cultivation practices for the subtropics

Description

Mango is well adapted to hot, tropical climates. However, it can also be grown in the mild subtropics, where cooler winter temperatures improve flower induction and cause early bearing and lower annual growth rates, which help to control size and favour high-density plantings. There are also disadvantages to growing mango in the subtropics: cold spells and low temperatures can damage vulnerable young trees or areas of young growth, or can induce flowering of very young trees at the nursery, causing premature ageing of inadequately managed plants. This chapter reviews the differences between mango cultivation in tropical and subtropical climates and explores the factors necessary for successful subtropical cultivation.

Table of contents

1 Introduction 2 Tropical versus subtropical mango cultivation: climatic considerations 3 Exploiting genetic variation among mango cultivars 4 Cultural techniques: planting density, spacing and out-of-season production 5 Cultural techniques: control of growth and flowering 6 Conclusion 7 Where to look for further information 8 References