Mango 'Pickering' (Mangifera indica)
Brittany's favorite mango!
The Pickering Mango is a fast-growing, disease-resistant fruit tree that is a member of the Cashew family, Anacardiaceae and is thought to be a cross between the Carrie and Irwin varieties. It is known as a “condo” mango because it is compact and perfect for small properties or containers. It matures to a size of 10 to 15 feet with a 15-foot canopy spread, but can easily be kept at 6 to 10 feet high in a container. This small, grafted tree will produce fruit at a young age and a small size.
Pickering’s evergreen leaves grow in rosettes on the branches and pinkish-yellow flowers bloom in late winter to early spring. The leathery-skinned fruits mature by midsummer, 4 to 5 months after flowering, and are a blend of green, yellow, blushing pink, and purplish hues. On average, they weigh from 0.75 to 1.5 lbs. Inside, the yellow-orange pulp is firm and creamy, with little or no fiber. It is extremely sweet and juicy, with a delightful coconut-mango, or piña colada flavor.
The fruits are a rich source of vitamins and minerals with antioxidant properties that boost the immune system and promote heart, skin, hair, and digestive health. They can be eaten out-of-hand or added fresh to fruit salads, garden salads, smoothies and ice cream. The possibilities are endless with this amazing fruit!
Mangoes generally are not fussy about their soil as long as it’s well-draining. It grows best in full sun and requires moderate moisture. Pickering mangoes are hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11 with some frost protection until well established.
Quick Care Guide
| Plant Type | Evergreen Fruiting Tree |
| Harvest Season | Late Spring to Early Summer (varies by variety) |
| Mature Size | 15-100 feet tall, depending on the variety and growing conditions; 15-30 feet wide |
| Soil & Moisture | Well-draining, sandy loam soil; moderate moisture, drought-tolerant once established |
| Light Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to Fast |
| Self-fertile | Yes |
| Zone Hardiness | Outdoors 9-11 depending on variety; Patio/Greenhouse 4+ |
| Propagation | Grafted and capable of producing fruit from now to within 3 years. |
Full Growing Guide
Tropical Delights with Year-Round Appeal
Mango trees are prized for their delicious fruit and attractive, evergreen foliage. Native to South Asia, these trees are now grown in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. With the right care, mango trees can be a fruitful addition to your garden or home orchard, producing bountiful harvests for years to come. This guide provides detailed instructions on how to grow and care for mango trees, ensuring they thrive in your environment.
Climate and Sunlight
Mango trees thrive in warm, tropical climates, needing full sun to produce the best fruit. They require at least 8-10 hours of direct sunlight each day. While they can tolerate some shade, reduced sunlight may lead to lower fruit yields. Mango trees prefer regions with hot, dry summers and mild winters. In cooler climates, they can be grown in large containers and brought indoors during the winter months, provided they receive enough light.
Soil Requirements
Mango trees prefer well-draining, sandy loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.5). They are relatively adaptable to different soil types, but poor drainage can lead to root rot. If your soil is heavy or clay-based, consider amending it with sand or organic matter to improve drainage. Raised beds or mounds can also be beneficial in areas with heavy rainfall. Mango trees are somewhat drought-tolerant once established but will produce better fruit with consistent moisture.
Watering Needs
Young mango trees require regular watering to establish a strong root system. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Once established, mango trees are more drought-tolerant and can withstand periods of dryness. However, during the flowering and fruiting season, consistent watering is essential to support fruit development. Mulching around the base of the tree can help retain moisture and reduce weed competition.
Fertilization
Mango trees benefit from regular fertilization, particularly during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or a formula specifically designed for fruit trees. Apply fertilizer in early spring, mid-summer, and again in the fall. For young trees, you can also use a high-phosphorus fertilizer to encourage root development. Organic options such as compost, bone meal, and fish emulsion can provide additional nutrients and improve soil health.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning mango trees is important to maintain their size, shape, and productivity. Prune in late winter or early spring before the new growth begins. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches to promote good air circulation and sunlight penetration. For container-grown trees, pruning helps control size and encourages bushier growth. Regularly remove any suckers (shoots from the base of the tree) to direct energy towards fruit production.
Pests and Diseases
Mango trees can be affected by pests such as scale insects, aphids, and mealybugs, as well as diseases like anthracnose and powdery mildew. Regular inspection of the tree for signs of pests or disease is crucial. Organic treatments such as neem oil or insecticidal soap can help manage pest infestations. For fungal diseases, ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Copper-based fungicides may be necessary in severe cases of fungal infections.
Harvesting
Mangoes are typically ready for harvest 3-6 months after flowering, depending on the variety and climate. The fruit is usually harvested when it reaches full size and begins to change color but is still firm. Harvesting too early can result in less flavorful fruit, while harvesting too late can lead to overripeness and fruit drop. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the fruit from the tree, leaving a small portion of the stem attached to prevent sap from leaking out.
Propagation
Mango trees can be propagated from seeds, although grafting is the preferred method for ensuring true-to-type fruit production. Seed-grown trees may take 6-10 years to bear fruit, while grafted trees typically produce fruit within 3-6 years (from grafting time). Grafting also allows for the combination of desirable rootstocks with specific mango varieties, improving disease resistance and adaptability to local growing conditions.
Final Tips
Mango trees are long-lived and can produce fruit for decades with proper care. Patience is key, especially in the early years, but once your mango tree is established, it will reward you with delicious fruit and lush, tropical beauty. For the best results, pair this general guide with specific care instructions for your chosen mango variety from Sow Exotic.
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