Tropical climates are ideal for mango growth. Meanwhile, the weather in Victoria is as varied as the state itself. So, the question arises can you grow a mango tree in Victoria?
Cultivating a mango tree can be complicated in Victoria. However, it can work if you put in the work and stay patient.
In this guide, we will look if mangoes can be grown in Victoria, the best cultivar, how to plant them, and how to care for them.
Can You Grow a Mango Tree in Victoria?
Yes, it is possible to grow a mango tree in Victoria. Victoria is a relatively colder state, whereas mangoes flourish in tropical and subtropical climates. But you can still grow mangoes in Victoria as the temperature begins to rise in the summer.
We will get into detailed discussion later on, but make sure your tree gets winter protection, proper drainage, and ample sunshine. This way you’ll be able to enjoy mangoes in 5-6 years.
Is It Hard to Grow a Mango Tree in Victoria?
Yes, it is hard to grow a Mango tree in Victoria due to extra cold climate.
Victoria is on the southeastern side of mainland Australia, which is colder than other territories in that part. Meanwhile, mango trees prefer warm climates, ideally above 70°F (21°C) and a minimum of 40°F (4°C), making it comparatively hard to grow mangoes in Victoria.
However, if you manage to plant a hardy variety, protect it from frost, and give it optimal care until it’s at least 3m (9 ft) tall, successful outcomes are possible. Also, the tree grows fast as the weather warms up in summer. So, yes, it can be hard but not impossible.
What’s The Best Mango Variety to Grow in Victoria?
R2E2 is the best mango variety to grow in Victoria. Mangoes of this variety are large, round, and orange in color.
Besides boasting a heavenly taste, R2E2 is hardy and resistant to practically all temperatures. Therefore, you can grow it in Victoria comfortably.
What’s The Best Way to Plant A Mango Tree in Victoria?
To plant a mango tree in Victoria, start by filling a small pot with well-draining potting soil. Next, place a sprouting mango seed in the soil and cover it with a thin layer of soil. Water the soil lightly and place the pot in a location receiving indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged by watering it as needed. In no time, you will get a healthy mango plant.
Growing mangoes in a colder region without an outdoor tropical situation is tricky. Fortunately, seedlings come in handy here. You can sow a mango’s seeds and grow them as an indoor houseplant. The following steps can be implemented to plant a mango tree from a seed:
- For starters, purchase a ripe mango from your local market. Every mango has a husk containing a seed. Take the husk, clean and dry it off, and remove the seed.
- Clean the seed and ensure not to leave paper-like layers around it.
- Put the mango seed in the plastic bag after wrapping it with a damp cloth. Alternatively, you can wrap it in a paper towel.
- Place this bag in a warm location to hasten germination. Make sure the fabric/towel stays moist.
- A seed starts sprouting within three weeks. So, keep a check on this bag, and open it every 3-4 days to ensure it is sprouting.
- About five weeks later, you can plant the seed into the potting mix.
- Add an inch (around 2 centimeters) of potting soil over the seed, water it, and top it off. The ideal pH for a mango tree is 6 to 6.5, so try to stay within this range.
- You can expect to see shoots and tiny leaves in the 6th week.
- From now on, it will keep blooming. Make sure to place the pot where it gets sunlight.
- Remember that warmth is more important to an indoor plant than direct sunshine. So, refrain from putting it under intense sunlight.
- Water the pot, keep it moist but never leave it drenched.
- When the seedling reaches about 8 inches (20 centimeters) tall, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or into the ground in a sunny location.
- It is important to harden off the seedling before transplanting it outdoors by gradually exposing it to outdoor conditions over the course of several days. This will help the seedling acclimate to its new environment and reduce the risk of transplant shock.
How to Take Care of A Mango Tree in Victoria?
You must give your mango tree proper care if you want it to produce fruit indoors. A sunny site, regular leaf and soil water, proper drainage, and frost protection can all help a lot.
Mango trees are challenging to cultivate in general, and if you are not in an ideal site, it may be even more challenging. However, if you manage to mimic a tropical situation at your home and give your best, you can expect fruitful outcomes.
The actions required for success are listed below:
- Firstly, make sure to place your pot in a sunny spot. It needs 6-8 hours in the sun, but direct sunlight can dry the plant. So, consider putting it on a south-facing or westward window for an optimal experience.
- Water the plant regularly. Keep the soil evenly moist but ensure it is dry prior to watering. Give it good drainage, and never leave it wet.
- Keep the indoor temperature between 70°-75°F (21°-24°C).
- Keep the plant strictly indoors throughout fall-winter.
- Fertilizer is not usually needed that often for indoor plants. However, you can use one to boost their growth. A liquid fertilizer is better suited for potted mango trees, and you can apply it once every month.
- For instance, Aero Garden Liquid Plant Fertilizer can ensure incredible growth of your plant. It contains iron, magnesium, calcium, and other vitamins that plants need to thrive. You can get this product by clicking this link.
Will A Mango Tree Grow Slower Than Usual in Victoria?
Growing mangoes in colder areas like Victoria can be slower. But if you understand the technique, provide it with a humid atmosphere, and take care of it, things can be different.
Mango trees grow pretty slowly in the beginning. They need full sun, humidity, proper watering, and drainage to grow steadily and bear fruit. Growing from a seedling is even slower as it can take approximately three years to bear fruit.
Additionally, timing plays a huge part here. The ideal time to grow this plant is in the fall, as it will have adequate time to develop its roots in cold months. In the spring and summer, the growth then picks in speed.
Ultimately, it’s all about consistency, technique, and atmosphere. Let it grow at its own pace after you give it your all.
References
travelonline.com, baag.com.au, travelvictoria.com.au, daleysfruit.com.au, gardenworld.com.au, lovethegarden.com, whyfarmit.com
