Position
Plant your Tommy Atkins mango tree in full to partial sun, where natural light can warm and sweeten the fruits. Allow plenty of room around your tree to let the canopy spread.
Size
This tree grows to a height of around 4-5 metres, with a canopy similar in width.
Soil Type
Give your plants the best possible start by adding a bag of Volcanic Rock Dust (R25 per bag) to the soil. Volcanic Rock Dust helps replenish essential minerals and trace elements that have been depleted from our soils over time.
We also recommend adding a bag of Superfrass (R25 per bag) when planting. Superfrass provides a natural source of NPK and micronutrients to encourage strong, healthy growth, while also helping to improve the plant’s natural resistance to pests.
Together, these products help create a nutrient-rich growing environment and give your plants the foundation they need to establish and thrive.
Watering
Mulching
Apply organic mulch to your tree year-round.
Use from 2 to 5 centimetres of pine bark mulch to protect the roots from UV damage and drying out. It retains moisture and maintains an optimal pH. Do not let the mulch touch the plant stem, as it may cause infection or rot.
Fertilising
Just before flowering, use a rapid-release nitrogen fertilizer to boost the health and abundance of fruit and flowers. Use our slow-release nitrogen-rich all-plant fertiliser. Apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months. The roots will absorb what they require.
Pruning
Trim the tree of dead branches and keep it down to three (max four) main branches for the best results. You should also try to keep the canopy fairly open, not overrun with branches.
Pests and Diseases
Harvesting
The Tommy Atkins can produce gorgeous fruit in its first year. The mangoes are usually ready to pick 4 or 5 months after the tree has flowered. They should have gorgeous purple-red or red-yellow skin and should not be too firm.
