Scientific orchard management urged to boost mango yield

Agricultural experts have urged mango growers to closely monitor orchards during the critical fruit development stage, stressing that careful management at this time is essential to improve fruit size, colour, taste and export quality.

Scientific Officer of the Agriculture Department Muhammad Iqbal said on Tuesday that by early April most mango trees complete flowering and fruit setting, after which the crop enters its growth phase.

He said successful production depends on maintaining healthy fruit-bearing branches and proper orchard management in the weeks leading up to harvest.

He noted that one of the key challenges at this stage is the natural dropping of small fruits, which is often intensified by high temperatures, nutrient deficiencies, hot dry winds and the tree's natural tendency to shed excess fruit.

Experts advised growers to adopt balanced fertilization, timely irrigation and maintain natural grass cover in orchards during summer to reduce heat stress.

They also discouraged ploughing or use of rotavators during this period, saying ground cover helps lower temperatures, prevent sunburn and reduce fruit drop.

Emphasising nutrient management, Muhammad Iqbal said potassium plays a vital role during fruit development as it directly influences colour, size and taste.

He recommended that mango trees older than 15 years should receive about one kilogram of quality potash fertiliser, with half applied after fruit set.

He added that potassium supports photosynthesis, activates enzymes, improves disease resistance and helps regulate water balance, enabling trees to withstand heat stress.