Treating Mangoes with Sunburn: How to Save Your Harvest

As mango season approaches, every mango-lover becomes excited for the juicy, sweet fruit. However, sunburn can cause significant damage to mangoes and ruin your harvest. In this article, we will discuss how to treat mangoes with sunburn so you can enjoy a bountiful and delicious harvest.

Understanding Sunburn on Mangoes

Sunburn occurs when the mango fruit is exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods. The skin of the mango protects the fruit from damage, but extended exposure to sunlight can cause the skin to dry out and become damaged. This can result in a range of symptoms, including discoloration, scarring, and ultimately, rotting.

The most common symptom of sunburn is yellow or white patches on the skin of the mango. These patches may be soft and mushy or hard and dry. You may also notice cracks or fissures in the skin, which can lead to the development of fungal spores that will further damage the fruit.

Preventing Sunburn on Mangoes

Prevention is the best way to avoid sunburn on mangoes. Here are some tips:

• Plant mango trees in an area that receives partial shade.
• Prune your mango tree to ensure adequate air circulation around the branches and leaves.
• Water your mango tree regularly to prevent the soil from drying out.
• Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture in the soil.

Treating Sunburn on Mangoes

If you notice signs of sunburn on your mangoes, take action immediately. Here's what you should do:

1. Harvest any fruit that has already ripened.
2. Remove any damaged or diseased fruit from the tree.
3. Prune any branches or leaves that are blocking airflow and sunlight from reaching the fruit.
4. Apply a fungicide or insecticide to protect against pests and fungi that can further damage your crop.
5. Apply a protective coating to the remaining fruit to prevent further sunburn. You can use a commercial product or make your own by mixing equal parts white latex paint and water. Apply the mixture to the fruit with a brush or sprayer, making sure to cover the entire surface of the fruit.
6. Monitor your tree closely and repeat the treatment as needed.

Don't let sunburn ruin your mango harvest. By understanding the causes and symptoms of sunburn and taking preventive measures, you can ensure a healthy crop. If you do encounter sunburn, follow the steps outlined above to treat your mangoes and protect your harvest.

Mango harvesting

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