Effective Measures to Protect Mango Blossoms: Boost Fruit Yield and Maximize Profit!

Krishi Dunia

• 11 Jan, 2025 11:30 AM IST ,
• Updated Sat, 11 Jan 2025 12:30 PM

The key to a successful mango harvest is the timely care provided to the trees. January is a crucial month for mango orchard maintenance. Proper actions taken during this time not only protect the trees from diseases and pests but also improve the quality and quantity of the blossoms expected in February. According to agricultural experts, farmers should begin special care for their mango trees in January.

Why is January Care Important for Mango Trees?

By the end of January and the start of February, mango trees begin to bear flowers (blossoms). If not properly managed during this period, pests and diseases can severely damage the crop. Dr. A.K. Singh, an agricultural scientist, notes that during the flowering phase, mango trees can be affected by pests like mango hoppers, mealybugs, as well as diseases such as powdery mildew and anthracnose. If not treated in time, these pests and diseases can destroy the blossoms, leading to a significant drop in yield.

Expert Recommendations for Mango Tree Care

1. Timely Spraying
   Apply pesticides before the blossoms start appearing. This helps eliminate pests hiding in the tree’s bark. As temperatures rise, pest populations also increase. According to Dr. Singh, after the blossoms start to resemble pea-sized buds, a mixture of insecticides and fungicides should be sprayed. This helps protect the flowers from diseases like powdery mildew and anthracnose.
2. Use of Recommended Pesticides
   To protect the blossoms from pests and diseases, use the following insecticides:
   • Imidacloprid
   • Malathion
   • Dimethoate
   • Acephate
   • Thiamethoxam
3. Use of Fungicides
   For fungal diseases on the blossoms, apply fungicides like sulfur, copper oxychloride, carbendazim, and hexaconazole. These help keep the flowers healthy and disease-free.

Key Considerations for Spraying

• Ensure even distribution of the spray so that the pesticide and fungicide reach every branch of the tree.
• Focus on spraying around the cracks in the bark and near the blossoms, as pests often hide in these areas.
• Be mindful of weather conditions while spraying. Avoid spraying during high temperatures or rainy periods.

Timely Management of Pests and Diseases

• Mango Hopper (Mathua Pest)
  This pest attacks the blossoms, stunting their growth. To control it, use insecticides like Imidacloprid or Thiamethoxam.
• Mealybug (Dahiya Pest)
  Mealybugs stick to tree branches and blossoms, sucking the sap. Effective management can be achieved with insecticides like Malathion and Dimethoate.
• Powdery Mildew and Anthracnose
  These fungal diseases can ruin the blossoms. Use fungicides like sulfur and copper oxychloride for control.

Regular Care for Better Production

January is the ideal month for regular mango orchard care. The precautions and timely spraying during this period not only protect the crop from pests and diseases but also enhance both the quality and quantity of the yield. Farmers should regularly monitor their orchards, following expert advice to maintain a pest-free and productive harvest.