Mangoes aren’t just a delicious, healthy snack—they’re also the starting point for a gorgeous tropical tree right in your living room! If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at growing your own, you’re in the right place. Here’s the lowdown on how to plant and care for a mango pit the right way.
Getting Started
Growing your own mango tree starts with a trip to the grocery store. Make sure you pick out a ripe mango, ideally organic. Why organic? Well, many conventional fruits are treated with growth inhibitors that can prevent the pit from sprouting. Once you’ve enjoyed the juicy fruit, give the pit a good scrub to remove any leftover pulp. From here, you can soak the clean pit in water for about two weeks (just be sure to change the water every day) before planting it in some quality seed-starting mix.
An Alternative Method
If you’re feeling a little more hands-on, there’s another way to jumpstart the process. You can carefully pry open the hard outer shell of the pit at the tip using a small tool. You only need a tiny crack—the goal is to help the sprout emerge without damaging the delicate seed inside. Once you’ve got that little opening, tuck the pit upright into a pot, leaving about an inch or so poking out of the soil. Now, the real fun begins: watching it grow!
Creating the Perfect Tropical Vibe
Before you plant, make sure you choose a pot that’s big enough. Mango trees are famous for their long taproots, and they don’t handle being repotted very well when they’re young. To keep your plant happy, line the bottom of the pot with some stones to ensure good drainage—mangoes hate “wet feet” (standing water). Use a high-quality potting mix to give your little tree the best start possible.
To keep things moist, mist the soil regularly rather than drenching it. Pro tip: Cover the pot with some plastic wrap to create a mini greenhouse. This mimics the humid tropical climate mangoes love. Keep your seedling in a warm, bright spot—ideally between 75°F and 85°F. If you give it enough love, your indoor mango tree can eventually reach a height of about six to ten feet!
Quick Summary
- Start with a ripe, organic mango.
- Clean the pit thoroughly.
- Option 1: Soak the pit in water for two weeks, then plant.
- Option 2: Carefully crack the shell and plant upright.
- Use a large pot to accommodate deep roots.
- Ensure excellent drainage with stones at the bottom.
- Keep the soil consistently moist.
- Use plastic wrap to maintain high humidity.
- Find a warm, sunny spot for your new plant.
