Ashleigh Smith
Mangos are a delicious fruit enjoyed by many around the world. It is easily recognized by its green and blush-colored skin and bright orange flesh. You can identify the tree by its simple, lanceolate leaves that form in clusters. The flowers develop in large panicles with pinkish fragrant blooms. This leads to the fruit hanging in visible panicle clusters from the tree. The mango tree (Mangifera Indica) can only be grown in tropical conditions where it can get plenty of light, warmth, and water.
As the fruit ripens on the tree, you may notice some developing a red blush color. This coloration doesn’t indicate ripeness. It is a reaction that occurs when the sunlight reaches the fruit for long periods of time, changing the pigmentation. This is the same reaction that can cause an ornamental Burning Bush to have various degrees of redness depending on its location in relation to the sun.
A mango’s ripeness can be determined by a sweet aroma emitting from the stem or a gentle squeeze of the fruit. A good mango will be slightly soft without becoming mushy. If you have purchased a mango that isn't as ripe as you would like it to be, place it in a paper bag and roll it closed. The mango will release natural ethylene gas, which triggers the ripening process.
About the Author
I'm Ashleigh Smith, a native to Northern Utah. I first gained a love of gardening with my grandmother as I helped her each summer. I decided to make a career of it and have recently graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Horticulture from Brigham Young University - Idaho. My studies have focused on plant production while I also have experience in Nursery & Garden Center Operations.
Become a True Leaf Market Brand Ambassador! You’ll enjoy awesome perks, free products and exclusive swag & offers! Help us create a gardening revolution and help others experience the joy of growing!
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
0 Comments
No Comments yet! Be the first to start a conversation
Further Reading
From Seed to Harvest: Understanding the Stages of Plant Growth
Written By Lara Wadsworth There are so many different kinds of plants on the earth that it can be overwhelming at times, especially when all we are trying to do is have a successful garden. But when that garden contains 10 to 40 or more different kinds...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-12-1011 min read2Lara's 2024 Garden in Review
Written By Lara Wadsworth This year was only my third year having a garden to myself. Growing up, I gardened alongside my mother and grandmother, but after leaving home, I lived in apartments for many years without much space for a garden. I finally go...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-12-0313 min read0Cultivating Christmas Traditions
Written By Lara Wadsworth The phrase “Christmas time is here!” will soon echo through your speakers and messaging all around. Most American families, regardless of religion, seem to be celebrating this massive holiday in one way or another. Some may fo...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-11-268 min read0Giving Tuesday: Turning Gratitude Into Action
There are a million ways to make the world better. But nothing can happen without action. The best way to make a difference is to start serving, donating, and seeing the people who are within your reach. Big, honorable stories often begin with someone ...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-11-193 min read1