Mango trees are generally very long-lived and easy to care for. Since they form deep taproots with many lateral roots, they require a sufficiently large and deep planter. They come from the tropics, so they like it warm.
How do you properly care for a mango tree?
Caring for a mango tree includes moderate watering without waterlogging, regular spraying of the leaves, if necessary repotting in loamy soil with compost, no topiary and protection from sunburn and spider mites. In winter it requires little water and fertilizer in cooler temperatures.
The right watering
Mango trees are not particularly thirsty plants. It is enough to water your mango moderately once a week. Be sure to avoid waterlogging in the plant pot, otherwise the roots of your mango will rot. Once a day, spray the leaves of your mango with lukewarm, low-lime water, as it likes high humidity.
Repotting the mango tree
Repotting your mango tree is only necessary if the planter actually becomes too small. Then choose a larger container and a deep growing base. Soil that is too sandy is not suitable for mango trees. A mixture of equal parts of loamy garden soil and compost, on the other hand, works quite well.
Pruning the mango tree
The mango tree does not need a topiary. But you can encourage it to branch out by pruning early, which will make it look bushier. Dry plant parts must be cut out, as well as individual shoots that are too long. It's best to do this during the winter months.
The diseases of the mango tree
Although the mango tree is considered quite robust, it is not completely immune to diseases and pests. Growth disorders can often be remedied with an aluminum sulfate solution (€13.00 on Amazon) from the pharmacy or drugstore.
Brown spots on the leaves indicate sunburn. Provide shade, especially during midday. Black or wilted shoots, on the other hand, are usually caused by spider mites. Rinse them thoroughly and ensure that the humidity is sufficiently high in the future.
The most common problems with mango trees:
- Growth disorders
- Sunburn
- Spider mites
The mango tree in winter
As a rule, a mango tree does not need winter rest and continues to be watered and fertilized as usual. However, if it is given a cool place to overwinter, it will need slightly less water and fertilizer than in the warmer months. This is the case, for example, if it is outside in summer and in a moderately heated greenhouse or winter garden in winter.
