1.1. Propagation
Mangos are propagated mainly by grafting. The selection of suitable rootstock is as important as the selection of the scion cultivar variety, type. It has a strong influence on the growth, yield, fruit maturity stage of final fruit development (ripeness) and soil adaptability, among other things.
In Rwanda, the uniform seeds of the polyembryonic cultivar Dodo are routinely used successfully. Seeds must be taken from ripe fruits and should be as fresh as possible at the time of planting. Before planting, the hard woody endocarp should be removed to examine the seed for disease or any damage caused by the mango weevil. Freshly sown seeds should be protected from high temperatures and dessication by providing shade. Once seedlings emerge the shade is removed to harden the plantsjoining parts of plants together such that they will unite and continue their growth as one plant. The rootstock should be fertilized, watered and grown to the diameter of a pencil prior to grafting
1.2. Grafting
Grafting is the most reliable and economical means of propagating the mango. It consists of transferring a piece of a mature, bearing tree (scion) to a separate seedling tree (rootstock), forming a permanent union. The scion forms the canopy of the tree, while the rootstock forms the lower trunk and roots.
Grafting success involves the intervention of trained horticulturalist or agronomist. The farmer who wish to graft his/her mango trees will seek assistance from the above mentioned professionals or buy grafted seedlings from them.
2. Planting
Dig holes 80 cm deep and 80 cm wide while separating top soil from sub (red) soil. Mix well decomposed manure (50 kg/tree) with top soil and put back into the hole. Make a small hole within and plant in the grafted seedling. The plastic bags used for potting should be removed before planting. When covering the hole a basin should be made around each plant for harvesting water. Each plant should be mulched. One month after transplanting, the grafting tape should be removed. Any shoots, which grow below the point of union should also be removed. Normally, grafted trees are spaced at 4-5 x 4-5m, plant density of 400-625plants/ha.
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