The appreciation of the mango began over
4,000 years ago in India and throughout Southeast Asia. It was there
that the first selections of improved cultivars were cloned from
vast orchards and untamed jungles. The ensuing millennia’s
brought great recognition to the delectable fruit, and now it is
known by more people worldwide than the peach.
Commercial production of the fruit now spans
six continents, and here in Florida is where most of the world’s
commercial varieties were developed. The Tommy Atkin, Haden, Keitt,
and Van Dyke remain the most popular commercial varieties, and they
were all selected in Florida less than 100 years ago. Although Florida
did enjoy a brief stint as a commercial mango producer, the fresh
fruit market is now dominated by Mexico, Brazil, and Columbia. Ironically,
the mango has never been more popular domestically, but the product
has changed dramatically.
Growers in Miami, Houston, and Las Angeles
are finding enormous satisfaction growing and harvesting one of
the world’s finest fruits right in their own backyard. However,
the needs of the dooryard grower are very different than those of
a commercial producer. Dooryard growers generally prefer small trees
that require minimal care and bear only the highest quality fruit.
The criteria for commercial selections emphasize production, handling
characteristics, and a red color.
The mango varieties that we grow represent
the finest selections from around the world including those selected
here in Florida. The mango viewer will provide insight into the
different characteristics of each variety, and the rating system
will assist in choosing a tree tailored to individual tastes and
preferences.
The rating for “flavor” takes
into consideration fiber content, sweetness, and especially the
desire to eat again.
The rating for “color” is based
on eye appeal which generally favors reds and yellows.
The category for “disease resistance”
grades the fruit’s ability to ward off anthracnose which is
a fungus that leaves blemishes on the skin.
The “tree” category rates the
beneficial attributes of each tree, and it indicates those that
are more or less desirable to grow.
“Production” factors in both
pounds per tree and the consistency of the crop.
