Introduction

Mangoes, often called the “King of Fruits”, are loved for their sweetness, aroma, and health benefits. India is one of the largest producers of mangoes in the world, and mango farming is both a profitable business and a rewarding experience. If you’re a beginner dreaming of starting your own mango farm, the good news is that mango farming can be easy—if you follow the right steps from the beginning.

This guide will walk you through the easy way for beginners to start mango farming, covering everything from choosing the right variety to harvesting your first crop.

1. Understanding Mango Farming Basics

Before you start, it’s important to understand the fundamentals of mango farming.

• Scientific Name: Mangifera indica

• Climate: Tropical and subtropical

• Lifespan: 40–100 years with proper care

• Harvest Time: 3–5 years after planting (for grafted plants)

Why Mango Farming is Good for Beginners:

• Low maintenance once established

• High market demand in India and abroad

• Multiple varieties to suit different tastes and climates

• Can be grown in a wide range of soils

2. Choosing the Right Mango Variety

Selecting the right mango variety is one of the easiest ways to ensure a good harvest.

Popular Varieties in India for Beginners:

• Alphonso: Famous for its sweetness and export value

• Banganapalli: Long shelf life and good size

• Kesar: Rich aroma, ideal for desserts

• Totapuri: Less sweet, used for processing and pickles

• Neelum: Good for late harvesting

Tip: Choose a variety suited to your local climate and soil. If possible, plant 2–3 varieties to spread harvest time and reduce risks.

3. Selecting the Perfect Land

Mango trees need well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.

• Soil Type: Sandy loam to alluvial soil with good drainage

• pH Level: 5.5 to 7.5

• Sunlight: Minimum 8 hours daily

• Water Availability: Ensure a reliable source for irrigation during the first few years

Pro Tip: Avoid waterlogged areas, as standing water can damage roots and reduce yield.

4. Land Preparation—The Easy Way

Land preparation is simple if done step-by-step:

1. Clear the Land: Remove weeds, stones, and unwanted plants.

2. Ploughing: Deep ploughing to loosen the soil for better root penetration.

3. Levelling: Level the ground to prevent water stagnation.

4. Marking: Mark planting spots with recommended spacing (usually 8–10 metres apart).

5. Pit Preparation: Dig pits 1 m x 1 m x 1 m. Fill with a mix of topsoil, organic manure, and compost.

5. Planting Mango Trees

For beginners, grafted saplings are the easiest choice—they grow faster and bear fruit earlier.

• Best Season to Plant: June–July (monsoon) or February–March

• How to Plant:

  • Place the sapling in the centre of the pit.

  • Fill soil around the roots without covering the graft union.

  • Water immediately after planting.

Spacing Recommendations:

• Dwarf varieties: 5–6 metres apart

• Regular varieties: 8–10 metres apart

6. Irrigation Made Simple

Water is critical for young mango plants.

• First 2 Years: Water every 7–10 days in summer, 15–20 days in winter.

• Mature Trees: Water only during flowering and fruit development.

• Drip Irrigation: Best for water conservation and steady supply.

Avoid overwatering, as mango trees are drought-tolerant once established.

7. Easy Fertilisation Tips

Fertilisers help in faster growth and better yield.

Organic Option (Beginner-Friendly):

• Compost or cow dung: twice a year

• Neem cake: Prevents soil pests

Inorganic Option:

• NPK (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium) mixture as per tree age

• Apply micronutrients like zinc and boron for better flowering.

Tip: Always apply fertilisers after light irrigation for better absorption.

8. Pruning and Training

Pruning is an easy way to keep trees healthy and productive.

• Remove dead, diseased, and crossing branches.

• Maintain a strong central stem and 3–4 main branches.

• Allow sunlight to reach all parts of the tree.

9. Pest and Disease Management

Beginners should learn to spot common issues early.

Common Pests:

• Mango hoppers

• Fruit flies

• Mealybugs

Common Diseases:

• Powdery mildew

• Anthracnose

Easy Prevention:

• Use neem oil sprays.

• Maintain field hygiene.

• Apply recommended organic or chemical treatments when needed.

10. Flowering and Fruit Development

Mango trees usually flower in late winter or early summer.

For Best Results:

• Avoid heavy irrigation during flowering.

• Protect flowers from pests.

• Thin excess fruits to improve size and quality.

11. Harvesting—The Rewarding Stage

• Harvest when fruits turn colour and emit a sweet aroma.

• Pick in the morning or evening to avoid heat damage.

• Handle gently to prevent bruising.

Yield: A well-maintained mature tree can produce 200–300 fruits per season.

12. Marketing Your Mangoes

For beginners, selling mangoes can be as easy as:

• Direct sales to local markets

• Supplying to fruit vendors

• Selling through online platforms and farm visits

• Contract farming for bulk buyers

Conclusion

Mango farming is not only a business—it’s a journey filled with satisfaction. For beginners, following these easy steps will help you grow healthy trees, produce high-quality fruits, and earn good profits. Remember, patience is key—your efforts will pay off season after season.