1. INTRODUCTION
Mango is the most important crop among the tropical and subtropical fruits grown in more than 110 countries of the world. It originated in South-East Asia. In Rwanda, Mango is cultivated in all the provinces. However, Eastern Province is well suited for mango production. Mangoes contribute to farmer family diets as well as serving as a cash crop.
The mango is adapted to both tropical and subtropical conditions. It is successfully grown on a wide range of soils. Production of high quality mango fruit depend so much on the range of temperatures available. The two important considerations for mango cultivation are a dry period at least 3 months at the time of flowering and sufficient heat during the time of fruit ripening. For optimum growth and productivity, 20-26°C is believed to be ideal.
2.VARIETIES
Several types of mangoes are grown in Rwanda: Zillate, Alfonso, Apple, Kent, Keitt, Sensation, Tommy atkins, Bire and Dodo.
Originating from Florida in the 1940’s, Kents are ideal sweet, tender mangoes with limited fibers. They are good for juicing and drying.
2.2. Tommy Atkins
Originally from Florida, Tommy Atkins is sweet with firm flesh due to fibers throughout.
2.3. ALPHONSO: this Indian variety is a mild flavored, firm fleshed mango which can range from purple to yellow skin with an oblong shape.
2.4. ZILLATE
The medium-sized oblong fruit is of a yellow ground-colour and has an intensive red blush. The firm, juicy, yellow flesh is relatively free from fibre, aromatic and of good eating quality.
2.5. MANGO ATAULFO KEITT ASIT:
2.6. APPLE
Taken by Muhammad Mahdi Karim
2.7. SENSATION
2.8. DODO: Sweet and big size mangoes from the farm. They are good in blending.
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