Mangifera indica -/mangifera in'dica/- species

July 1, 2020

Definition: A large evergreen tree that produces sweet, oval-shaped fruit with greenish-yellow skin (tinged with red), attached at the broadest end on a pendulous stalk. The species is commonly known as mango.

Why do Forest Garden farmers grow mango trees?

Mangifera indica trees are drought resistant and produce delicious commodity farmers can take to market.

Starting Mango Seedlings

Through their training with TREES, Forest Garden farmers are taught the best methods to germinate tree seedlings. The best method to start mango seedlings is in a bare root bed. Prior to sowing the seeds, a farmer will double-dig and add soil amendments to the nursery bed. After preparing the bed, the seeds are sown with 5 cm spacing between seeds and 10-15 cm between rows. Then the seeds are covered with a thin layer of soil.

From Farm to Market

Mangoes are enjoyed by people from all over the world. However, the cultivation of Mangifera indica trees takes time and skill.
Farmers must be prepared to provide regular care for the tree when it is young. Learn more about mango and other fruit trees in Chapter 6 of the Forest Garden Training Center's Technical Manual.