Experts urge scientific orchard care to improve mango yield, quality

MULTAN: Agricultural specialists have advised mango growers to keep a close watch on orchards during the fruit development stage, saying careful management in this period is important for improving fruit size, colour, taste and export-standard quality.

Muhammad Iqbal, a scientific officer of the Agriculture Department, said on Tuesday that most mango trees complete flowering and fruit setting by early April, after which the crop moves into its growth phase. He said successful production depends on keeping fruit-bearing branches healthy and ensuring proper orchard management in the weeks before harvest.

He said one of the main issues during this stage is the natural shedding of small fruits. According to him, this problem often becomes more severe because of high temperatures, nutrient shortages, hot and dry winds, and the tree’s natural tendency to drop excess fruit.

Advice on irrigation, fertiliser and ground cover

Experts recommended that growers use balanced fertilisation and ensure timely irrigation to support the crop during the summer months. They also advised farmers to maintain natural grass cover in orchards to help reduce heat stress.

They discouraged ploughing and the use of rotavators during this period, saying that ground cover helps keep temperatures lower, protects fruit from sunburn and reduces fruit drop.

The experts said orchard management at this stage has a direct bearing on the market and export value of the crop, as fruit development is closely linked with appearance and eating quality.

Potassium described as vital during fruit development

Emphasising nutrient management, Muhammad Iqbal said potassium has an important role during fruit development because it directly affects colour, size and taste.

He recommended that mango trees older than 15 years should be given around one kilogram of good-quality potash fertiliser, with half of that amount applied after fruit set.

He added that potassium supports photosynthesis, activates enzymes, improves resistance against disease and helps regulate water balance. According to him, these functions enable mango trees to better cope with heat stress during the development stage.

The advice comes as growers enter a crucial period for orchard care, with experts stressing that scientific management practices can help improve both yield and fruit quality in the lead-up to harvest.