How to Grow the Alphonso Mango From Seed

The Alphonso mango (Mangifera indica ‘Alphonso’) is a popular and highly prized variety known for its exceptional sweetness, rich flavor, and delicious aroma. It is originally from the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, India. While it is possible to grow Alphonso mango trees from seed, it is important to note that the process can be challenging and time-consuming, and there is no guarantee that the resulting trees will produce fruit that is true to type. Here's a general guide to help you get started:

Materials Needed:

- Fresh, ripe Alphonso mango fruit

- Sharp knife

- Potting soil or seed starting mix

- Small pot or container with drainage holes

- Clear plastic bag or cling wrap

- Patience and care

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Mango Seed

1. Select a fully ripe Alphonso mango fruit. The fruit should be soft to the touch and have a deep, yellow-orange color.

2. Carefully cut the mango open using a sharp knife. Remove the flesh of the mango and set it aside to enjoy later.

3. Locate the mango seed inside. It is usually large, flat, and oval-shaped. Gently remove the seed from the fruit, taking care not to damage it.

Step 2: Cleaning the Mango Seed

1. Rinse the mango seed under running water to remove any remaining fruit pulp or fibers.

2. Gently scrape off the outer layer of the seed using a sharp knife or your fingernail. Be careful not to damage the inner seed.

Step 3: Germinating the Mango Seed

1. Fill a small pot or container with potting soil or seed starting mix. Ensure that the pot or container has drainage holes to allow excess water to drain off.

2. Place the mango seed into the soil, root side down (the side opposite to the scar left from detaching the seed from the fruit). Cover the seed with soil, leaving about half of it exposed.

3. Water the soil gently until it is moist but not soggy.

Step 4: Creating a Warm, Humid Environment

1. Cover the pot or container with a clear plastic bag or cling wrap to create a warm and humid environment that mimics the conditions in the tropics where mango trees thrive.

2. Place the pot in a warm location, such as near a sunny window or on a heat mat. The ideal temperature for germination is around 70-85°F (21-29°C).

Step 5: Monitoring and Care During Germination

1. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Check the moisture content regularly and water as needed.

2. Observe the pot for any signs of germination. Germination may take several weeks to a few months, so be patient.

Step 6: Transplanting the Mango Seedling

1. Once the mango seedling emerges and develops a few sets of true leaves (not the initial cotyledon leaves), it is ready for transplanting.

2. Choose a larger pot or container with good drainage. Fill it with a potting mix suitable for tropical plants.

3. Carefully remove the mango seedling from the previous container, taking care not to damage the roots.

4. Plant the seedling in the new pot, ensuring that the roots are well-spread and covered with soil. Gently firm the soil around the base of the seedling.

Step 7: Ongoing Care for the Mango Tree

1. Place the mango tree in a bright and sunny location, ideally near a south-facing window or outdoors in a warm climate.

2. Water the plant regularly, ensuring good drainage to prevent waterlogging.

3. Fertilize the mango tree every few months using a balanced fertilizer for tropical plants.

4. Prune the tree regularly to encourage branching and maintain its shape.

Remember, growing Alphonso mangoes from seed is challenging, and the process can take several years before the tree starts bearing fruit. It is recommended to check local nurseries or online retailers for grafted Alphonso mango trees, which are more likely to produce true-to-type fruit.