Mangoes are a fan favorite at the grocery store, but did you know they’re also a blast to grow right on your own balcony? Of course, since these beauties are tropical natives, the big question is: how do you get your mango tree through a chilly winter? Let’s dive into everything you need to know to keep your exotic friend happy until spring.
Is the Mango Tree Cold-Hardy?
Coming from tropical and subtropical climates, mango trees aren’t exactly fans of our cold winters. In fact, they live their best lives when it’s warm and humid. While your mango tree will love hanging out on your patio during the summer, you’ve got to keep a close eye on the weather forecast. Once temperatures dip below 60°F (15°C), your plant starts to struggle. They’re also pretty sensitive to cold drafts, so make sure they’re tucked away in a sheltered spot.
Bringing Your Mango Tree Indoors for Winter
Ideally, you want to give your mango tree the same “vacation vibes” in the winter that it gets during the growing season. For young plants, many indoor gardeners swear by the bathroom. If you’ve just recently planted a mango pit, the bathroom is a perfect winter home because it’s usually warm, bright, and humid. Just keep in mind that depending on the height of your mango tree, it might eventually outgrow the shower area after a few years!
A sunroom or heated greenhouse is another fantastic option. You can usually move your tree there starting in its second year, once it’s a bit more established and hardy. As the tree gets older, it becomes more resilient to its environment. As long as the temperature stays above 60°F and there’s plenty of light, your tree should do just fine. If your house is a bit on the dark side, a simple grow light can work wonders.
Don’t forget to adjust your care routine for the season! If your mango tree is spending the winter in a cooler spot, it won’t grow much, so you can scale back on the water and fertilizer. However, if it’s in a cozy, warm room where it feels right at home, you can keep watering and feeding it just like you do in the summer.
Winterizing Your Mango Tree: The Quick Essentials
- It’s totally fine to keep your tree on the balcony or patio during the warm months.
- Mango trees are not frost-tolerant; they need temperatures above 60°F (15°C).
- Bathrooms or kitchens are great winter spots for young trees due to the humidity.
- From the second year on, a sunroom is a great winter home.
- Adjust your watering and feeding based on the room temperature.
- Honestly, growing a mango tree is easier than you think!
