Position
Plant your Tommy Atkins mango tree in full to partial sun, where natural light can warm and sweeten the fruits. Allow plenty of room around your tree to let the canopy spread.
Size
This tree grows to a height of around 4-5 metres, similar to the canopy’s width.
Soil Type
This tree thrives in basic soil with a pH of between 6.0 and 7.2. It is fairly hardy and only really requires soil that drains well so that it doesn’t retain too much water (which would cause the roots to rot). A rich loam deep enough for the roots to extend into it is ideal.
Mulch
Apply organic mulch to your nectarine tree all year round.
Use from 2 to 5 centimetres of pine bark mulch to protect the roots from UV damage and drying out. It retains moisture, and maintains an optimal pH. Do not let the mulch touch the plant stem, as it may cause infection or rot.
Watering
Mango trees should only really be watered around the flowering period. Water it every 2 or 3 days as soon as flower buds appear. Give your tree 60 to 80 centimetres of water under at least 40% of the canopy area. During the rainy season, let the tree survive just on the rainfall.
Fertilising
Just before flowering, use a rapid-release nitrogen fertilizer to boost the health and abundance of fruit and flowers. Use our slow-release nitrogen-rich all plant fertiliser Apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months. The roots will absorb what they required.
Pruning
Trim the tree of dead branches and keep it down to three (max four) main branches for the best results. You should also try to keep the canopy fairly open, not overrun with branches.
Harvesting
The Tommy Atkins can produce gorgeous fruit in its first year. The mangoes are usually perfect for picking 4 or 5 months after the tree has flowered. They should have gorgeous purple-red or red-yellow skin and should not be too firm.
