Kesar Mango Trees: How to Grow India’s Most Beloved Mango

Have you ever dreamed of growing your very own mango tree in your backyard? The sweet and fragrant mango from Kesar Mango Trees, known for its smooth texture and rich flavor, is a top contender for your tropical fruit tree collection.

Kesar mangoes are renowned for their rich flavour, sweetness, and smooth texture. Grown primarily in the foothills of Girnar in Gujarat, India, this variety has a distinct aroma and is typically smaller than other mango varieties, making it a true delicacy. It ripens early, during late spring and early summer, and its golden hue adds to its allure, making it a seasonal favourite.

Ripe Kesar mangoes showing their golden hue and distinct aroma. — Freshly ripened Kesar mangoes, known for their sweet flavor and smooth texture.

Originating from India, Kesar mangoes are not just a fruit; they are a cultural icon, often referred to as the “Queen of Mangoes.” With its rich orange color and a uniquely sweet, tangy taste, the Kesar mango stands out among other varieties, making it a favorite for both mango enthusiasts and gardeners alike.

But can you grow a Kesar mango tree outside of India? The good news is, yes, you can! While these trees thrive in tropical climates, many gardeners in the U.S. (especially in warm regions) are successfully cultivating them. The following steps will help you do the same, whether you’re in Florida, California, or another sunny state.

Planting Kesar Mango Trees

1. Select the Right Location

The first step in growing a Kesar mango tree is choosing the perfect spot for planting. These trees need full sunlight—at least 8 hours per day—to thrive. While they can tolerate some shade, they will not produce fruit in shady areas.

Ideal conditions:

Climate: Kesar mango trees prefer warm, tropical, and subtropical climates. If you live in USDA hardiness zones 10-11, you are in luck. If you are outside these zones, you may still be able to grow a mango tree in a container and bring it indoors during the winter.
Soil: Well-drained soil is a must. The Kesar mango tree doesn’t like to sit in waterlogged ground, so make sure your soil is sandy or loamy with a slightly acidic pH (between 5.5 and 7).

2. Prepare the Soil

Soil preparation is key to growing a healthy mango tree. The Kesar mango, like other mango varieties, thrives in slightly acidic soil with excellent drainage.

Check your soil’s pH: You can buy a simple soil pH test kit at a garden store or online. Mango trees prefer soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 7.
Improve drainage: If your soil is heavy or clayey, add organic compost or sand to improve drainage.

3. How to Plant Kesar Mango Trees

Kesar mango tree in a container, with small mangoes growing on the branches. — A healthy Kesar mango tree in a pot, showcasing its lush green leaves and developing mangoes.

Once your soil is prepared, it’s time to plant your tree. Follow these simple steps:

Dig a hole: The hole should be about twice the size of the root ball of your Kesar mango tree.
Planting depth: Plant the tree at the same depth it was in the pot. Ensure that the root collar is level with the surrounding soil.
Space: If you’re planting multiple trees, space them at least 15-20 feet apart to give them plenty of room to grow.

Caring for Kesar Mango Trees

Watering

While Kesar mango trees are relatively drought-tolerant, regular watering is essential during their first few years of growth.

Watering frequency: Water deeply about once a week, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and keep the soil temperature consistent.

Pruning and Shaping

Pruning your Kesar mango tree will help it grow stronger and yield more fruit. Focus on removing any dead or weak branches, and shape the tree to allow sunlight to reach the center. This is especially important in younger trees.

When to prune: Prune your tree in the early spring before the growing season starts.
Remove suckers: These are unwanted shoots that grow from the base or roots and can drain energy from the tree.

Fertilizing

Mango trees need balanced fertilization to grow strong and produce high-quality fruit.

Fertilizer type: Use a balanced fertilizer that includes nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Organic options like compost or well-rotted manure are also great.
Application timing: Apply fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer.

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How to Encourage Kesar Mangoes to Produce More Flowers and Fruits

Kesar mango tree blooming, with flowers that will eventually turn into mangoes. — Kesar mango tree in the flowering stage, ready to produce mangoes after proper pollination.

Getting your Kesar mango tree to flower and bear fruit can sometimes require a little extra attention and care. Here are some tips on encouraging your tree to produce more flowers and fruits:

Control the Watering During Flowering Season

Watering plays a significant role in the flowering and fruiting process of mango trees. During the flowering period, it is important not to overwater your Kesar mango tree. Overwatering can cause the flowers to fall off prematurely, resulting in a poor fruit yield.

Watering schedule: During the flowering season, reduce watering slightly. Make sure the tree gets enough moisture but avoid excessive watering.

Pruning for Better Yield

Regular pruning can encourage a better flower and fruit yield. By cutting back older branches, you allow the tree to focus its energy on producing new shoots, which are more likely to flower and bear fruit.

Remove excess growth: Trim away any branches that are dead, diseased, or growing inwards. This will allow more sunlight to reach the tree’s core, encouraging healthy blooms.

Use of Growth Regulators

In some cases, gardeners use growth regulators to promote flower and fruit development in mango trees. These products can help initiate the blooming process, especially if the tree is not flowering naturally due to environmental stress.

When to use growth regulators: Apply these products just before the flowering season to encourage better fruiting results.

Proper Pollination

While Kesar mango trees are self-pollinating, you can increase the chances of successful pollination by attracting pollinators to your garden. Bees and other insects are vital for transferring pollen from one flower to another.

Attract pollinators: Plant other flowering plants nearby to attract bees and butterflies. Additionally, you can gently shake the branches of the tree to encourage the natural spread of pollen.

Common Challenges in Growing Kesar Mango Trees

Kesar mango tree showing potential pests on leaves and early-stage fruit development. — Challenges in growing Kesar mango trees, such as pest control and cold weather protection.

Cold Weather Protection

Kesar mango trees are sensitive to cold, and frost can damage the tree. If you’re growing your tree in a cooler climate, be sure to protect it during winter.

Covering the tree: During cold nights, cover the tree with a frost blanket to keep it warm.
Growing in containers: If you’re in an area with freezing winters, growing the tree in a large container allows you to bring it indoors during the cold months.

Pest and Disease Control

Mango trees are relatively hardy, but they are susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Regularly inspect your tree for signs of pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and mango weevils.

Natural pest control: Consider using neem oil or insecticidal soap to control pests. Both are effective and safe for the tree and the surrounding environment.

How to Harvest Kesar Mangoes

The moment you’ve been waiting for—harvesting your own Kesar mangoes!

When to harvest: Kesar mangoes are usually ready for harvest 3-4 months after flowering. Look for the mangoes to develop their signature golden-orange color.
How to pick: Gently twist the fruit off the tree with your hands or use pruning shears to cut the stem. Be sure not to damage the fruit.

Tips for success: Growing Kesar Mango Trees in the USA

Many gardeners in the USA have successfully grown Kesar mango trees, especially in warm states like Florida and California. However, even those living in colder regions can grow these mangoes by using containers and bringing them indoors during the winter months.

Ensure your tree receives enough warmth and sunlight.
Grow it in a large container to protect it from frost.
Keep an eye on your tree’s health, especially during the colder months.

Conclusion

Growing a Kesar mango tree in your backyard can be an exciting and rewarding experience. By following these simple steps—from selecting the right location and preparing the soil to pruning, watering, and harvesting—you’ll be on your way to cultivating one of India’s most beloved mango varieties.

If you’re in a warm climate, plant your tree directly in the ground; if you’re in a cooler region, consider growing your tree in a pot so you can move it indoors during the colder months. Either way, you’ll soon be enjoying the sweet, fragrant taste of homegrown Kesar mangoes right from your garden.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I grow Kesar mango in the USA?
- Yes, if you live in USDA hardiness zones 10-11, you can grow Kesar mangoes outdoors. In colder areas, grow the tree in a container and bring it inside during winter.
How long does it take for a Kesar mango tree to bear fruit?
- Kesar mango trees usually start bearing fruit 3-4 years after planting, depending on care and climate.
What is the best fertilizer for Kesar mango trees?
- A balanced fertilizer with high potassium content is ideal. Organic compost works well too!
Can I grow a Kesar mango tree in a pot?
- Absolutely! Growing a Kesar mango in a large container allows you to control its environment and bring it indoors during winter.

By following this guide and using the tips shared, you can successfully grow your very own Kesar mango tree and enjoy the delicious fruits it produces. Happy gardening!