Grafted Mango Tropical live tree Kent 3’-4’ tall

Characteristics of Mango ‘Kent’

Mango ‘Kent’ is renowned for its outstanding attributes:

1. **Flavor**: The ‘Kent’ mango is celebrated for its sweet and rich flavor with notes of tropical fruit, making it a favorite for fresh consumption, desserts, and culinary creations.

2. **Texture**: The flesh of the ‘Kent’ mango is smooth, fiber-free, and exceptionally juicy, providing a delightful and luscious eating experience.

3. **Color**: The skin of ‘Kent’ mangoes is typically green with occasional blushes of red or orange when fully ripe. The fruit’s flesh is a vibrant orange or yellow.

4. **Size**: ‘Kent’ mangoes are medium to large in size, often weighing between 12 to 24 ounces (340 to 680 grams) per fruit.

**Grafting Mango ‘Kent’**

Grafting is a horticultural technique that involves joining the tissues of one plant (the scion, in this case, ‘Kent’ mango) with the rootstock (the base plant). Grafting offers several advantages when it comes to growing ‘Kent’ mango trees:

1. **Consistency**: Grafting ensures that the resulting ‘Kent’ mango tree will bear fruit consistent with the characteristics of the ‘Kent’ variety, including its flavor, size, and appearance.

2. **Disease Resistance**: Rootstock selection can impart disease resistance to the ‘Kent’ mango tree, helping protect it against common mango diseases.

3. **Faster Fruit Production**: Grafted mango trees often begin producing fruit at an earlier age compared to trees grown from seeds. This means you can enjoy the delicious ‘Kent’ mangoes sooner.

4. **Size Control**: Grafting allows for better control of the tree’s size and shape, making it more manageable and suitable for various growing spaces, including home gardens.

**Caring for Grafted Mango ‘Kent’ Trees**

To ensure healthy growth and a bountiful harvest from your grafted ‘Kent’ mango tree, follow these care guidelines:

1. **Climate**: Mango ‘Kent’ thrives in tropical and subtropical climates with warm temperatures. It is sensitive to frost and requires protection in colder regions.

2. **Soil**: Plant your grafted mango ‘Kent’ tree in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Mango trees prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil.

3. **Spacing**: Allow adequate spacing between trees, typically 15 to 20 feet apart, to accommodate their mature size and canopy.

4. **Watering**: Mango trees need consistent moisture, especially during dry spells or while they are establishing their roots. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

5. **Pruning**: Prune your mango ‘Kent’ tree as needed to maintain a balanced shape, improve air circulation, and remove dead or crowded branches.

6. **Fertilization**: Feed your mango ‘Kent’ tree with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for fruit trees. Apply fertilizer during the growing season to support healthy growth and fruit production.

7. **Pest and Disease Management**: Monitor your tree for common mango pests and diseases, including aphids, scales, and anthracnose. Implement appropriate pest and disease control measures as needed.

With proper care and attention, your grafted mango ‘Kent’ tree can provide you with a consistent supply of sweet and luscious mangoes, allowing you to enjoy the tropical excellence of this exceptional fruit variety right in your own garden.