How to Grow Mangoes in California

Commercial mango groves exist in California.

Mangoes are extremely sensitive to frost, so much of the United States is off limits for mango production unless the trees are very well-protected and provided with a tropical microclimate. It is possible to grow mangoes in Southern California, and in fact there are established commercial mango groves in areas of Southern California, such as the Coachella Valley. Southern California is subject to occasional frosts and freezes, though, so winter protection for the trees is a necessity.

Instructions

1. Double-check the variety you want to plant with the person or organization that gave you the seedling to ensure it has a history of successfully being grown in the state. Mangoes have two major types that are based on origin: One is from India, and the other is from the Philippines and Southeast Asia. The University of Georgia notes most mangoes grown in California are of the Philippines type.

2. Shelter the tree from summer sun in hot areas, especially in the desert. California's deserts occasionally experience storms in summer, but other than that, the temperatures regularly soar past 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The California Rare Fruit Growers organization, or CRFG, suggests placing the tree on the north side of a building or in an area where other, taller trees will provide shade for the mango tree. While mango trees usually need full sun, the summer desert sun could be too intense.

3. Provide sun, in contrast, in cooler, foggier areas such as near the coast. CRFG's advice is to do the opposite of Step 2: plant on the south side of a building, preferably near sun-reflecting pavement.

4. Cover the tree, especially if it is less than two years old, whenever the temperature falls below freezing. CRFG says this will become more difficult as the tree gets taller but is still recommended. Try using warm lights, heaters or trunk wraps under the cover as well. Texas A&M even suggests camp lanterns, but ensure any electrical equipment you use is rated for outdoor use and approved for use under covers in agriculture. You don't want to risk setting your tree on fire.

5. Irrigate the tree during warmer weather. While mango trees don't differ all that much from other trees in terms of watering requirements, CRFG advises watering starting when the temperatures begin to rise, which can be as early in the year as February in the desert.

References

• National Mango Board: Mango History
• University of Georgia IFAS Extension: The Mango -- A Tropical Treat
• University of Florida: Mango Growing in the Florida Home Landscape
• NOAA: Thunderstorms in San Diego and Associated Easterly Wave of 20 July 1998
• California Rare Fruit Growers: Mango
• Texas A&M: Home Fruit Production -- Mango