Mango plant Kent Mangifera indica variety

Characteristics of the Kent variety mango plant

The Kent variety mango plant (Mangifera indica) is native to Florida, but is grown in many tropical and subtropical areas of the world because of the exceptional quality of the fruit. The Kent mango is medium to large in size, with an oval shape and a green skin that turns red and yellow when fully ripe. The average fruit weighs between 500 and 700 grams.

The Kent mango plant can reach significant heights, up to 10 to 20 meters, and develops a dense, rounded crown. The leaves are elongated, lanceolate and bright green in color. Flowering is another distinctive feature of this plant: during spring, it produces clusters of small, reddish-yellow flowers. The flesh of the fruit is yellow, creamy and lacks fiber, making it ideal for consumption fresh, in juices or in sweet preparations.

Ideal climate for the Kent mango

The Kent mango is a plant that prefers tropical and subtropical climates, where temperatures remain constant between 25°C and 30°C. This variety is fairly heat tolerant, but it cannot tolerate temperatures below 10°C, which can cause damage to the developing flowers and fruit. For this reason, it is important to grow Kent mango in frost-free areas or in regions where frosts are rare.

The plant needs high exposure to sunlight, with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun per day. It is particularly sensitive to high humidity, which can promote the development of fungal diseases. The best soils for Kent mango are those that are well drained, rich in organic matter and have a neutral or slightly acidic pH (between 5.5 and 7.5).

Most common diseases of Kent mango and how to prevent and counteract them

1. Anthracnose (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides)

   • Description: Anthracnose is one of the most common fungal diseases affecting mangoes. It manifests as dark, necrotic spots on the leaves, flowers and fruit, causing early fruit drop.
   • Prevention and control:
     • Ensure good air circulation between plants by regular pruning.
     • Avoid overhead irrigation, which promotes moisture on leaves.
     • Treat preventively with copper- or sulfur-based fungicides during rainy periods.

2. Powdery mildew (Erysiphe spp.)

   • Description: This is a fungus that causes a white powder on leaves, slowing growth and damaging inflorescences.
   • Prevention and control:
     • Keep the plant well ventilated and reduce excessive moisture.
     • Apply sulfur-based fungicides at the first signs of infection.

3. Fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis)

   • Description: The fruit fly lays eggs in mango fruits, causing internal damage and leading to fruit drop.
   • Prevention and control:
     • Install attractant traps to monitor the presence of the flies.
     • Collect and destroy infected fruit.
     • Use specific insecticides for fruit fly control.

4. Root rot (Phytophthora spp.)

   • Description: Causes root and collar rot, reducing nutrient uptake and causing plant decay.
   • Prevention and control:
     • Plant mango in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.
     • Treat with specific fungicides or use biological agents such as Trichoderma.

Tips on how to grow the Kent mango

• Exposure: The Kent mango needs full sun to grow best. Plant in a sunny area, away from buildings or trees that might create shade.
• Soil: Use soils rich in organic matter, well drained and with a slightly acidic pH. In clay or heavy soils, improve drainage by adding sand or compost.
• Irrigation: Water regularly, but avoid water stagnation. In the summer months and during the fruiting period, it is important to keep the soil constantly moist.
• Fertilization: Apply fertilizers balanced with nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), especially during the growth and flowering phase. You can enrich the soil with organic compost or well-rotted manure.
• Pruning: Regular pruning helps keep the plant healthy and stimulate the growth of productive branches. It is advisable to prune after the fruit has been harvested to avoid compromising later flowering.

Frequently asked questions and answers

1. How long does the Kent mango tree take to fruit?
A grafted Kent mango tree can take 3-4 years to start fruiting, while a mango grown from seed might take 6 to 10 years.

2. Can the Kent mango be grown in pots?
Yes, the Kent mango can be grown in pots during the first few years of growth. It is important to use a large pot (at least 50-60 cm in diameter) and ensure good drainage. The plant will need to be transferred to full soil or a larger pot as it grows.

3. How to recognize a mature Kent mango?
A Kent mango is ripe when the skin takes on a yellow hue with red undertones. The fruit becomes slightly soft to the touch and gives off a sweet aroma.

4. Does the Kent mango need to be pollinated?
No, the Kent mango is a self-fertile variety, so it does not require the presence of other plants to bear fruit. However, increased activity of pollinating insects, such as bees, can improve production.

5. How long does a Kent mango tree live?
A well-maintained Kent mango tree can live and produce fruit for more than 30 to 40 years if managed properly.

The Kent mango is one of the most valuable varieties for the quality of the fruit, with creamy, sweet, fiber-free flesh. Ideal for those who want to grow a hardy and productive tropical plant, the Kent mango requires proper care in terms of exposure, irrigation and protection from disease. With proper care, this plant can provide abundant, quality fruit for many years.