The mango (Mangifera indica) is a tropical evergreen tree characterized by a wide, dense layer of leaves, fragrant flowers, and big, thick-skinned fruits that are treasured the world over for their aromatic, sweet taste. If properly cared for in the home garden, mature mango trees are generous with their fruits, bearing prolific amounts. A variety of kinds of mango tree sprays are available that work to help increase overall plant health and fruit yield, in addition to protect the tree from harmful bacterial diseases.
Nutritional Sprays
Mango trees growing in less than perfect soils, such as rocky, calcareous soils, could benefit greatly from an yearly foliar increase of nutrition. For the tree’s initial four to five decades, apply a pre-mixed foliar spray that contains vital nutrients such as zinc, copper, manganese, and boron (a nutrient that helps blossom and fruit production). Following the initial five decades or so, apply a spray that only contains zinc and manganese, with low levels of boron if needed. Trees grown in neutral or acidic dirt may benefit from nutritional sprays of copper and boron in an “as required” basis.
Organic Sprays
For those who prefer organic methods, seaweed tonic is just a mild choice that may be sprayed on mango trees to strengthen tree health, prevent pests and help inhibit diseases such as mildew and blight. There’s little risk of accidentally harming the tree from over-applying seaweed tonic. It may be made readily by putting raw cedar in a bucket of rainwater with a loose lid and leaving it for 2 weeks to a year. After at least three weeks, then pour the seaweed water to a spray can and implement to the leaves.
Fungicide Sprays
Mango trees are notoriously susceptible to powdery mildew and anthracnose, fungal pathogens that wreak havoc on new flowers and fruits. If applied before infection sets in, fungicide sprays may be effective at preventing fungicide. Fungicide will not work if applied after the fungus is present. The fungicide should include copper and sulfur, and also be applied twice to young panicles: the very first time, once the panicles are all about half-mature, and 10 to 21 days later.
Flower-Inducing Sprays
Chemical flower-inducing sprays may be used to encourage higher fruit yields. Fruits are often bigger when the tree is sprayed with flower-inducing sprays. Select a spray that includes potassium nitrate, which gives the tree its required dosage of potassium, or a spray that includes potassium nitrate. Flower-inducing sprays shouldn’t be used on trees that are unhealthy or under ten years old. As with other sprays, it’s rendered ineffective if applied during rainy weather.