Rootstock Guide: Why Turpentine Mango is the Preferred Rootstock for Our Grafted Mango Trees

Why Turpentine Mango is the Preferred Rootstock for Our Grafted Mango Trees

At Sow Exotic, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality, grafted mango trees that thrive in a variety of growing conditions. One of the key factors contributing to the success of our mango trees is the Turpentine mango (Mangifera indica) rootstock. This rootstock is widely recognized for its vigorous growth, disease resistance, and adaptability to different soil types, especially the sandy soils often found in subtropical regions like Florida.

Turpentine mango rootstock provides a strong and resilient foundation for many of the most popular mango cultivars we offer. It helps our grafted mango trees handle common challenges like soil-borne diseases, including anthracnose and verticillium wilt, and ensures that they establish quickly in your garden or orchard. By using Turpentine as the rootstock, we enhance the overall health, longevity, and productivity of the tree, allowing it to focus its energy on producing delicious, high-quality fruit.

The Basics of Grafting Mango Trees

Grafting is a tried-and-true technique used to combine the best qualities of two different plants into one healthy, productive tree. In the case of mango trees, grafting allows us to pair a strong, disease-resistant rootstock like Turpentine with a carefully selected scion from a mango variety that produces superior fruit.

The process involves taking a scion—a small cutting from a desirable mango tree—and attaching it to the rootstock in such a way that they grow together as a single plant. The rootstock supports the tree’s growth by providing nutrients and stability, while the scion dictates the fruit’s characteristics. This method ensures that every mango tree we sell produces fruit identical to the parent variety while benefiting from the robust root system of the Turpentine rootstock.

How to Care for Your Grafted Mango Tree

Planting and caring for your Mango tree to ensure it grows vigorously and produces abundant fruit is very easy! Start by planting your tree in well-draining soil, as mango trees are susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions. Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain moisture, reduce weeds, and regulate soil temperature, which is especially important for young trees.

Water your grafted mango tree consistently but avoid overwatering, especially during the rainy season. Mango trees prefer a balance between moisture and dry periods. Fertilize your tree regularly with a balanced fertilizer that provides essential nutrients, and make sure to apply it according to the tree’s growth cycle.

Pruning your mango tree is another important step in maintaining its health and productivity. Focus on removing any shoots or branches that appear below the graft line—these are growths from the rootstock, not the desired mango variety. By cutting them off early, you ensure the scion gets the energy it needs to grow and produce fruit. Protect your young tree from extreme weather and wind, especially in cooler climates where frost can damage the graft union. If you’re growing mangoes in a subtropical or colder zone, consider adding frost protection or moving your tree into a sheltered location during winter.

With the right care, your grafted mango tree will grow into a strong, productive plant that rewards you with delicious, home-grown fruit year after year. At Sow Exotic, we take pride in offering the best rootstock and varieties to give you the best possible results!