Kesar Mango Farming: A Comprehensive Guide to Planting, Pruning, Care, and Harvest

Kesar mango farming is a popular agricultural practice known for cultivating the Kesar variety of mangoes. Kesar mangoes are renowned for their distinct aroma, rich flavor, and golden saffron-colored pulp. This farming method requires suitable tropical and subtropical climates, with Gujarat, India being the primary producer. Kesar mangoes are highly demanded in national and international markets due to their superior taste and quality. The cultivation of Kesar mangoes contributes significantly to the economy and agricultural sector.

Kesar Mango Farming

What is Kesar Mango Farming?

Kesar mango farming refers to the specialized cultivation of the Kesar variety of mangoes, known for their exceptional taste and quality. It is predominantly practiced in Gujarat, India, where the climatic conditions favor mango production. Kesar mangoes are distinguished by their distinct aroma, golden saffron-colored pulp, and sweet flavor.

The farming process involves careful selection of seeds, optimal land preparation, regular irrigation, pest control, and timely harvesting. The Kesar mangoes have gained global recognition, commanding a high demand in domestic and international markets,

Special Features of Kesar Mango

Kesar mangoes originated in Junagadh, Gujarat, in 1931.
The first cultivar was grown by Junagadh Wazir Sale Bhai in Vanthali.
Kesar mango is small to medium-sized with a roundish shape and a curved tip.
The skin is dull and slightly mottled yellow, sometimes with a green tinge when less mature.
They are known for their distinct aroma, rich flavor, and golden saffron-colored pulp.
Highly sought after in domestic and international markets.
Contributes significantly to the agricultural economy of Gujarat.

Pits Preparation for Kesar Mango

Prepare pits of 1x1x1m size for Kesar mango planting.
Maintain a distance of 9x9m between pits.
Expose Pits to sunlight before planting.
Mix the soil with 30-40 kg of FYM or compost and 1 kg of single superphosphate.
Check soil pH and ensure it is within the optimal range of 6.5 to 7.5 for Kesar mango cultivation.

Plantation of Kesar Mango Trees

Selection of Healthy Saplings: Select healthy saplings for Kesar mango farming. Look for saplings with strong stems, well-developed roots, and disease-free leaves.
Number of Plants Per Acre: The Kesar mango variety is typically planted at a density of 900 plants per acre, ensuring optimal spacing for growth, sunlight penetration, and efficient management of the orchard space.
Age of the Plant when Planted: In Kesar mango farming, the recommended age of the plant at the time of planting is generally around 1 to 2 years. This ensures the sapling has developed a strong root system and can adapt well to the new environment.
Support and Stacking of Plants: In Kesar mango farming, plants are provided with support and stacking. Stakes or poles are placed near each plant to provide support and prevent bending or breakage of branches. Stacking techniques such as crisscrossing branches enhance stability and facilitate proper growth and fruit development.

Drip Irrigation/ Water Management in Kesar Mango

Implement a drip irrigation system for water management in Kesar mango farming.
Install drip lines or emitters near the base of each tree.
Adjust the water flow to deliver consistent and controlled water directly to the root zone.
Monitor soil moisture regularly and adjust irrigation frequency and duration accordingly.
Proper water management helps prevent water stress, promotes healthy growth, and improves fruit quality.

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Compost/Fertilizers Application Stages

Fertilizer application in Kesar mango farming can be split into two doses.
After fruit harvesting in June/July, apply half of the recommended dose and irrigation if there is no rain.
Apply the remaining half amount in young and old orchards in October.
Before Flowering, consider the foliar application of 3% urea in sandy soils.
Compost/fertilizer application varies based on the plant’s age, starting with well-decomposed FYM or compost at the planting time.
Gradually increase the amount of FYM or compost, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P2O5), and potassium (K2O) as the plant matures.

Pruning Stages/Season for Kesar Mango

Pruning stages for Kesar mango trees occur during specific seasons.
Initial pruning is done after planting, focusing on removing weak or damaged branches.
Formative pruning takes place during the first three years to shape the tree’s structure.
Subsequent pruning is done annually during the dormant season, typically in winter.
The main objectives include thinning crowded branches, removing dead or diseased wood, and maintaining an open canopy for better sunlight penetration and air circulation.

Flowering Stages for Kesar Mango

Time of Flowering: Kesar mango typically flowers in late winter or early spring. The exact timing of Flowering may vary depending on the specific climate and location. However, Kesar mango trees generally bloom between February and April, heralding the onset of the fruiting season.

Factors Affecting Flowering: Age of the tree, Pruning practices, Nutritional status of the tree, Water availability and irrigation management, Climatic conditions, including temperature and humidity, Photoperiod (day length), Presence of pests and diseases, Pollination efficiency and availability of pollinators.

Importance of Flowering: Flowering plays a crucial role in Kesar mango farming as it is the precursor to fruit production. It determines the potential yield and quality of the mango crop. Successful Flowering ensures pollination, leading to the formation of healthy and abundant fruit, which contributes to the economic success of the mango farm.

Pollination Techniques: In Kesar mango farming, pollination is primarily accomplished by insects, especially bees. However, artificial pollination techniques can be employed if natural pollination is insufficient. This can involve hand pollination using a brush or transferring pollen manually from male to female flowers. Ensuring adequate pollination is crucial for fruit set and yield in Kesar mango farming.

Pests and Diseases Management in Kesar Mango

Pest and disease management are crucial to Kesar mango farming to ensure healthy tree growth and optimal fruit production. Common problems that affect Kesar mango trees include mango hopper, mango mealybug, mango fruit fly, and aphids. Effective pest management strategies include regular monitoring, cultural practices like pruning and sanitation, and the judicious use of insecticides when necessary.

Disease management involves preventing and controlling fungal and bacterial infections such as powdery mildew, anthracnose, and bacterial black spot. Practices like proper orchard hygiene, timely pruning of infected parts, and applying fungicides or bactericides can help mitigate disease outbreaks. Regular scouting and monitoring of the orchard, implementing integrated pest management (IPM) techniques, and adhering to recommended spray schedules can significantly reduce the impact of pests and diseases.

Harvesting Time and Yield of Kesar Mango

Generally, Kesar mangoes are ready for harvest from late May to early July. The average yield of Kesar mango trees is approximately 1000 to 2000 fruits per tree per year, with variations based on factors such as tree age, management practices, and climatic conditions. The yield can range from 10 to 15 tonnes per hectare, contributing to the economic viability of Kesar mango farming.

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Conclusion

Kesar mango farming is a highly rewarding agricultural practice that offers delicious and aromatic mangoes. With its origins in Junagadh, Gujarat, Kesar mangoes have gained popularity for their unique flavor and quality. Successful cultivation requires proper pit preparation, water management, fertilization, pruning, and pest and disease control.

Kesar Mango Farming: A Comprehensive Guide to Planting, Pruning, Care, and Harvest