Mango Fruit Drop: A Common Challenge for Mango Growers
Mango fruit drop is a common problem faced by mango growers worldwide. This phenomenon refers to the premature shedding of mango fruits before reaching maturity, resulting in reduced yields and loss of revenue. The fruit drop can occur at any stage of fruit development, from the pea-sized fruit to the almost ripe stage. While factors such as weather, pest and diseases, nutrition, and improper management practices can contribute to the problem, it is important to identify the main causes of fruit drop and implement effective solutions to control it.
Causes of Mango Fruit Drop
One of the primary causes of mango fruit drop is a lack of nutrients. Mango trees need a balanced supply of nutrients to support healthy fruit growth and development. Any nutrient deficiencies, particularly nitrogen, iron, calcium, boron, and zinc, can cause fruit drop. Inadequate or excessive irrigation, poor soil quality, and unfavourable weather conditions can also contribute to fruit drop.
Mango trees are susceptible to various pests and diseases that can cause fruit drop. Mealybugs, mango hoppers, fruit fly and thrips are some of the common pests that infest mango trees. These pests feed on mango flowers and young fruits, causing deformation and early fruit drop. Diseases such as anthracnose, powdery mildew, and stem-end rot can also cause fruit drop.
Common management practices can also lead to mango fruit drop. Overcrowding of fruits on the tree, overuse of chemical fertilizers, frequent pruning, and improper irrigation scheduling are some of the common management practices that can contribute to fruit drop.
Solutions to Control Mango Fruit Drop
The first step in controlling mango fruit drop is to identify the underlying cause. Proper soil and plant testing can help determine if the problem is due to nutrient deficiencies. Once the cause is identified, using fertilizers containing the right balance of nutrients can help mitigate the problem.
Preventive measures such as implementing good agricultural practices, proper pest and disease management, and maintaining optimal conditions for fruit development can help control fruit drop. Timely pruning, thinning, and fruit support can help prevent overcrowding of fruits on the tree.
Proper irrigation scheduling is critical in preventing mango fruit drop. Mango trees need regular irrigation, particularly during fruit development stages. Over or under irrigation can result in nutrient deficiencies, which can lead to premature fruit drop.
In summary, mango fruit drop is a common challenge faced by mango growers. The problem can be attributed to various factors such as nutrient deficiencies, pest and disease infestation, and improper management practices. Identifying the underlying cause and implementing appropriate solutions is crucial to controlling fruit drop and increasing mango production. With proper management practices, you can minimize fruit drop and maximize yields, ultimately increasing your profits.