Soil Preparation for mango tree plantation

Mango trees produce long taproots, which search for water and anchor this massive tree in the ground and containers. The best soil is at least 19 and half feet deep, but with good watering practices, mangos grow well in 3-foot-deep soil. Check the area for impermeable layers under the topsoil of the plant, which will stop the roots from growing downward. It is important to transplant the mango tree while young, since the roots rapidly grow deep.

The soil is in well-draining conditions for the mango tree to survive. This tree does not bear standing water or waterlogged soil. Excessively wet soil causes root rot diseases and tree decline. If drainage is a problem, plant on a slope to improve drainage. If it is a non slopy ground, plant the mango tree on a mound made up of native soil 2 to 3 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide.

The best soil for mango plant growth ranges between 4.5 and 7.0 pH, which is neutral to acidic soil. The mango plants does tolerate slightly alkaline soil. Use a soil testing kit and determine the pH of the soil. To improve the acidity of the soil, mix in organic materials like peat moss a year before planting mango plant.

Mango plants like moderately fertile soil but have a low tolerance for salty soil. Avoid to use chemical fertilizers, which contain a high amount of salt, to improve poor soil. Do not plant these fruit trees in an area is fully fertilized. The best way to improve the fertility for mango plants is to mix equal parts of native soil, organic mulch and sand.