This weekend, mango lovers from all over South Florida gathered at the UF/IFAS Extension Miami-Dade County for Mango Mania, a celebration of the region’s most iconic tropical fruit. Visitors had the chance to sample dozens of mango varieties, some they’d never even heard of each with their own texture, scent and flavor.
But the event wasn’t just about tasting delicious fruit, it was also about learning what it takes to grow it.
Tropical fruit crop specialist Dr. Jonathan Crane, explains how everything from wind to temperature can affect mango trees. They also gave tips on how to care for trees at home, teaching guests that pollinators, pruning and year-round maintenance are key to a healthy harvest.
“Any adverse environmental conditions too hot, too cool can affect when and if the trees are going to set fruit,” said Crane. “This year we also had windy conditions during bloom, which can affect pollinators and reduce fruit set.”
Even though this year’s crop was smaller than usual, the energy at the event remained high. Volunteers and longtime farmers spoke with guests throughout the day, sharing their stories, traditions and a love for mangoes that runs deep in South Florida.
“There is no fruit in the world that has this many varieties, this many flavors, this many sizes,” said Dilip Sarkar. “In South Florida, we have more than 350 different varieties of mangoes.”
