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The mango is adapted to both tropical and subtropical conditions. Temperature range is 21- 25°C. Rainfall of at least 600 mm/year and an altitude of 1,500-2,000 m are ideal for the crop. The crop is intolerant to saline conditions. A dry period of at least 3 months is necessary for flowering. The tree requires plenty of sunshine for optimum growth and fruiting. Soils and site selection Mangoes require deep soils with good drainage not necessarily fertile but mangoes can thrive in a wide range of soil types.
- Spacing: Mango spacing depends on the rainfall pattern and soil fertility. In Uganda, the recommended spacing for optimum plant population is 8m x 8m giving 144 plants per hectare (58 plants per acre). Planting Medium fine field is adequate.
- Watering: When planting is done during low rainfall season, the young plants should be watered at least once a week to avoid drying. It is also advisable to give water during flowering, where possible, to avoid flower abortion. Watering after fruit set reduces fruit abortion and increases fruit size.
- Fertiliser requirements: Apply manure once a year at the beginning of the rainy season. Put at least 2 tins per tree, applied around one metre from the tree. For artificial fertilizers, put about 1 plastic tumpeco around the tree. Avoid putting too much nitrogen fertilizers to your mango plants during productive stage.
