A Beginner’s Guide to Buying the Perfect Grafted Mango Plant

Tip 1: Choose the Right Rootstock

The first thing you need to check when selecting a grafted mango plant is the rootstock. The rootstock should be a single, healthy stem without any branches coming out from the sides. This part of the plant provides the necessary support and nutrients for the scion, so it must be strong and disease-free. Look for a rootstock that is about the thickness of a pencil.

Tip 2: Check the Thickness of the Scion and Rootstock

A successful grafted plant has a scion and rootstock of similar thickness. This ensures that the graft will take and the plant will grow healthily. The ideal length for the scion should be around 30 to 45 centimeters. When you’re at the nursery, compare the thickness of the scion and rootstock. If they match, it’s a good sign that the graft will be strong.

Tip 3: Avoid Plants with Plastic Wrap

Many nurseries sell grafted plants that are only a few months old, often with plastic wrap around the grafted area. While this might seem like a good deal, it’s a red flag. The plastic wrap indicates that the graft might not have taken properly. A healthy grafted plant should have no visible plastic wrap and should look like one seamless plant. This means the graft has healed well, and the plant is likely to be more successful.

Tip 4: Look for New Growth

One of the best indicators of a successful grafted plant is new growth. When a graft takes well, the plant will start to produce new leaves and branches. Check the top of the plant for fresh, green growth. If you see new leaves, it’s a good sign that the plant is healthy and the graft was successful. Avoid plants that look stagnant or have no new growth, as they might not thrive once planted in your garden.

ICAR-IARI Indian Agricultural Research Institute

Varieties of Mango developed by IAR Pusa, Delhi

• Pusa Deepshikha
• Manohari
• Pusa Lalima
• Pusa Shresth
• Pusa Pratibha
• Pusa Pitamber

Visit the below link for Information on IAR Pusa Mango and Citrus fruit varieties.

Check out the fruit plant nursery inside ICAR-IARI Pusa, Delhi

Bonus Tip: Avoid Common Mistakes

Here are a few additional mistakes to avoid when buying a grafted mango plant:

• Don’t Rush the Planting: Once you bring your plant home, don’t rush to plant it immediately. Give it some time to acclimatize to its new environment. Place it in a shaded area and gradually expose it to sunlight.
• Nutritional Care: Ensure that your plant gets proper nutrition. Use a balanced fertilizer and water it regularly, but don’t overwater. Mango plants need well-drained soil. Check out our slow release granular fertilizer: Soil Mix Booster and Flower Mate.
• Proper Support: Young plants might need support to stay upright. Use a stake if necessary to keep the plant stable.

Bringing home a healthy grafted mango plant can be a rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can avoid common mistakes and ensure that your mango plant thrives in your garden. Remember to choose a healthy rootstock, check the thickness of the scion and rootstock, avoid plants with plastic wrap, and look for new growth. With a little care and attention, you’ll soon enjoy delicious, home-grown mangoes.

Happy gardening!