Mango (Mangifera indica) is thought to be native to the border region of India and Burma and dates back as far as 4,000 years. Tropical and subtropical climates suit the mango well as it cannot tolerate freezing temperatures. Mangoes are hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10b to 11.
Young Bearing Trees
Young bearing trees should receive a fertilizer mixture containing approximately 6 to 10 percent nitrogen, 9 to 15 percent available potash and 2 to 4 percent available phosphorous. This is slightly different than young, non-bearing trees. In younger bearing trees, a few years old and not full-grown, fertilize three to four times per year at a rate of approximately 1/4 pound per inch of trunk diameter.
Large Bearing Trees
As with many other fruit trees, large, mature mango trees can get by and thrive with only two yearly doses of fertilizer. While these feedings are referred to as "spring" and "fall" feedings, the best way to tell when to fertilize is once directly after the fruit is gone and again in the spring when the tree begins to bloom. The same rates apply as in young bearing trees.
Types of Fertilizer
Organic fertilizers often work best for mango trees because they are extremely sensitive and prone to fertilizer burn. They require regular and semi-high doses of nitrogen, a nutrient that is prone to burning plants, especially in synthetic, chemical form. Composted manures, blood meal and organic growth fertilizers will suit this need. Iron is a micronutrient commonly needed by mango trees, and a chelated form is ideal. Chelated nutrients are easier for the tree to absorb. Potassium nitrate sprays are sometimes used to combat the common problem of biennial bearing, or bearing once every other year. Copper fungicide can help combat copper deficiency in calcium-rich soils while also helping to reduce the risk of various bacterial and fungal diseases.
Other Fertilizing Considerations
The younger the tree is, the more susceptible it is to over-fertilizing. Fish emulsion sprays or fertilizers work well on younger trees. Sandy soils will require more fertilizer per application than a loamy or clay soil type. Calcium-rich soils may create a deficiency in zinc, copper and manganese which can moderately or severely affect the tree. Trace element mixes are needed for these types of soils.
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