For centuries, the mango tree has been a symbol of abundance and prosperity in the Bengal region.
Traditionally, mango trees were planted in hectares of fertile soil in expansive orchards allowing for the growth of hundreds if not thousands of saplings, basking in the warm tropical sun.
However, modern lifestyle has changed dramatically. Most people often living in urbanized infrastructures are far-removed from traditional agricultural practices.
This shift leads us to think of new and innovative ways to grow a mango tree.
Growing a mango tree in your living room in 4 easy steps
At first glance, this may seem just as outrageous as keeping a blue whale in your bathtub! But, with the right techniques it is completely do-able and practical to turn your living room into a tropical mango haven.
Step 1: Picking a variety
It is important to choose the right variety of mango. Ideally, dwarf mangoes, like Amrapali, are your best bet. They are the bonsais of the mango world – compact,manageable and just as delicious. Most dwarf mango variants grow between 4-8 feet.
Next up is choosing the right pot to plant the tree. A container that is at least 20cm high and has enough drainage holes is ideal.
Additionally an unglazed clay container is best because it will allow excess soil moisture to escape through its walls.
Mango trees aren’t picky eaters but they do have their preferences. They thrive when the soil pH spans between 5.5 and 7.5. A good potting mix with some aged manure or compost is your way to go.
Step 2: Sprouting the seed (within the seed pod)
Enjoy a delicious ripe mango! Use a sharp kitchen knife to remove as much of the flesh from the seed as possible.
Use a sturdy pair of scissors to cut away the seam of the pod on each side from where the seed is located to the top of the pod — without damaging the seed.
Drill or cut a hole, stick a chopstick, pencil or toothpick through both the holes.
Lower the pod into a glass of water until the seed is submerged and it is hanging by the stick and let it germinate!
Step 3: Tending to your mango plant
After your mango plant has started germinating, which usually takes about 2-4 weeks, comes the hard part: waiting.
Mango trees take time to bear fruit,often several years. Place your mango tree in the sunniest spot you can find in your home. Make sure to water your plant regularly but avoid waterlogged pots. Unlike you and I mango trees love humidity and grow best in temperatures between 70-85°F.
Indoor plants often need help with pollination. A little trick is using a paintbrush to transfer pollen from flower to flower.
Step 4: Harvesting the fruit of your hard work
When you finally spot that first mango, it will surely be a moment of pure joy and pride. But do wait until the fruit is fully ripe so you can savor the sweet succulent reward of your hard work. Not to mention it is organic and free from any chemical pesticides.
Growing a mango tree in your living room is a quirky yet rewarding hobby. With a lot of patience and the right bit of knowledge of how to take care of the plant, you’ll be enjoying fruits in no time! Besides, even if your plant bears no fruit everytime you look at the mango tree in your living room you’ll have a great story to tell.