The Amrapali mango, a popular choice among mango lovers, is known for its delicious flavor, juicy texture, and compact size. This hybrid variety, developed by crossing the Dasheri and Neelum mangoes, has gained popularity in Bangladesh and other mango-growing regions due to its high yield, disease resistance, and excellent taste. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about the Amrapali mango, including its price, weight, growing regions, cultivation practices, and essential care requirements.
Amrapali Mango: Overview
- Scientific Name: Mangifera indica ‘Amrapali’
- Origin: India (crossbreed of Dasheri and Neelum)
- Average Weight: 200-250 grams per fruit
- Price in Bangladesh: BDT 60-100 per kg (prices may vary based on location and season)
- Harvest Season: May to July
Characteristics of Amrapali Mango
- Size and Shape: Amrapali mangoes are small to medium-sized, with an average weight of 200-250 grams. The fruit has a distinct oblong shape with a slightly pointed end.
- Color: When ripe, the mango skin is a bright red to crimson, while the flesh inside is a rich orange-yellow.
- Flavor: The taste is sweet, with a unique blend of tartness, and the flesh is fiberless, making it perfect for direct consumption.
- Yield: Amrapali mango trees are known for their high yield, producing up to 150-200 kg of fruit per tree under optimal conditions.
Growing Regions for Amrapali Mango in Bangladesh
The Amrapali mango is best suited to regions with warm and humid climates. In Bangladesh, it is primarily grown in the northern and northwestern districts, including:
- Rajshahi: Known as the mango capital of Bangladesh, Rajshahi offers the ideal climate and soil conditions for cultivating Amrapali mangoes.
- Chapai Nawabganj: Another key region for mango cultivation, Chapai Nawabganj provides fertile soil and ample water resources, which are essential for growing Amrapali mangoes.
- Dinajpur: The cooler climate of Dinajpur also supports the growth of Amrapali mangoes, particularly in its well-drained loamy soils.
Cultivation Guide for Amrapali Mango
Cultivating Amrapali mangoes requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you grow this delicious variety in your garden or orchard.
1. Soil Requirements
Amrapali mangoes thrive in well-drained, fertile soils with a pH level of 5.5 to 7.5. Sandy loam or loamy soils are ideal for their cultivation. Ensure the planting area has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
2. Planting Season
The best time to plant Amrapali mango saplings is during the monsoon season, between June and August, when the soil is moist, and temperatures are moderate. This allows the young trees to establish their root systems before the onset of harsher weather.
3. Planting Distance and Depth
- Spacing: Maintain a spacing of 8-10 meters between each sapling to ensure adequate sunlight and air circulation, which are essential for healthy growth.
- Planting Depth: Dig a hole that is 1 meter wide and 1 meter deep. Place the sapling in the hole and cover it with a mixture of topsoil, compost, and organic manure.
4. Fertilizer Management
Proper fertilization is crucial for the growth and fruiting of Amrapali mango trees.
- Organic Fertilizers: Use well-decomposed cow dung or compost at the rate of 20-25 kg per tree annually. Organic matter improves soil fertility, water retention, and microbial activity.
- Inorganic Fertilizers: Apply a balanced NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) fertilizer, such as 10:26:26 or 12:24:12, at a rate of 1 kg per tree during the pre-flowering stage (February to March). Repeat the application after the fruit set (April to May).
- Micronutrients: Apply micronutrient mixtures containing zinc, boron, and magnesium at recommended doses to prevent deficiencies and ensure optimal growth.
5. Water Management
Proper watering is essential for the healthy growth and fruiting of Amrapali mango trees.
- Frequency: Water the saplings regularly during the first two years after planting, especially during dry periods. Mature trees require less frequent watering, except during flowering and fruit development stages.
- Irrigation Method: Use drip irrigation or basin irrigation to provide deep and uniform watering, promoting deeper root growth. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to fungal infections and root rot.
- Mulching: Apply organic mulch, such as straw or dried leaves, around the base of the tree to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health.
Pest and Disease Management
1. Common Pests
- Mango Hopper: This pest feeds on the sap of young shoots and flowers, causing leaf curling and reduced fruit yield.
- Control: Use insecticides like Imidacloprid (0.005%) or Dimethoate (0.05%) during the flowering stage. Apply neem oil (2-3%) as an organic alternative.
- Fruit Fly: These flies lay eggs inside the fruit, leading to larvae development and fruit rotting.
- Control: Use pheromone traps or bait sprays containing spinosad. Apply insecticides such as Malathion (0.1%) or Spinosad (0.02%).
2. Common Diseases
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes white powdery patches on leaves, flowers, and young fruits, leading to poor fruit set and premature dropping.
- Control: Apply sulfur-based fungicides like wettable sulfur (0.2%) or systemic fungicides like Triazole (0.05%).
- Anthracnose: This disease causes black spots on leaves, twigs, and fruits, leading to fruit rotting and reduced yield.
- Control: Use copper-based fungicides like Copper Oxychloride (0.3%) or Carbendazim (0.1%). Prune affected parts and ensure good air circulation around the trees.
Harvesting and Post-Harvest Management
- Harvesting Time: Amrapali mangoes are usually ready for harvest between May and July. Harvest the fruits when they are mature but not fully ripe to prevent damage during transportation.
- Harvesting Method: Use a harvesting tool or cut the fruit with a sharp knife, leaving a small stalk attached to prevent sap burn.
- Storage: Store the harvested mangoes in a cool, well-ventilated area. Keep them at a temperature of 13-15°C with a relative humidity of 85-90% to prolong shelf life.
Conclusion
The Amrapali mango is a versatile and rewarding variety for both home gardeners and commercial growers. With its high yield, delicious taste, and compact size, it offers great potential in the mango market. Proper cultivation practices, including soil management, fertilization, pest control, and water management, are essential for achieving the best
results. By following these guidelines, you can ensure healthy growth, high yield, and excellent fruit quality for your Amrapali mango trees.
Whether you are an experienced gardener or a beginner, the Amrapali mango offers a delightful addition to your orchard, providing not only delicious fruits but also the joy of growing one of Bangladesh’s finest mango varieties.
For more tips on growing mangoes and other fruits organically, visit Organic Gardener Tips.