Mangoes are easily one of the most delicious and versatile fruits out there. Whether they’re adding a tropical twist to a dessert or a pop of flavor to a savory dish, they’ve become a total staple in our kitchens—and luckily, we can find them almost year-round. But have you ever wondered when mangoes are actually in season?
When is harvest time?
There isn’t just one simple answer to this. The harvest season depends entirely on where the mangoes are being grown. Since they’re cultivated in tropical climates all over the globe, it’s technically “mango season” somewhere in the world at any given time. That’s exactly why our local grocery stores stay stocked throughout the year. Even though they seem to be everywhere, you might notice they can be a bit pricey; that’s because the harvest window in any single region is usually pretty short, lasting only about three months.
Where do they grow?
Mangoes are grown in tropical and subtropical regions across the globe. Just like citrus fruits, they crave warmth and sunshine. Next time you’re at the store, check the sticker on your mango—it likely traveled from one of these places:
- South Africa
- Brazil
- India
- Australia
This is just a small sample of where they come from. One thing is for sure: that mango has traveled a long way to get to your kitchen counter!
Ripe or unripe?
Mangoes are harvested at different stages depending on how they’re being shipped. Fruits that are picked fully ripe are usually sent via air freight so they arrive at the store ready to eat. On the other hand, mangoes picked while still green are often sent by sea. This long boat ride gives them plenty of time to ripen on the way. Sometimes, shippers even use cool temperatures to slow down the ripening process so the fruit doesn’t get mushy before it hits the shelves.
The freezer trick
If you happen to find a great deal on a bunch of perfectly ripe mangoes, don’t be afraid to stock up! Mangoes are actually perfect for freezing. With just a little bit of prep, you can keep them in the freezer for up to three months. It’s super convenient to have pre-portioned mango chunks ready to toss into smoothies or desserts whenever the craving hits. Just be sure to label your bag with the date—you’ll want to use them within that three-month window for the best flavor and texture.
