​  Mango season is here, bringing the juiciest, most delicious time of the year! Whether you love them fresh, blended into a smoothie, or sprinkled with a bit of chili powder, mangos are a true summer delight. But did you know these tropical gems have a fascinating history and a strong presence right here in Florida? Let's dive into what makes this season so special.

A Global Fruit with Deep Florida Roots
Mangos (Mangifera indica L.) originated in the Indo-Burma region and have been cultivated in India for over 4,000 years. These delicious fruits spread worldwide in the 16th century, reaching the Americas in the 18th century. Florida got its first taste in 1833, when mangos were introduced at Cape Sable, and they've thrived here ever since. While Florida isn't the world's top mango producer (that title belongs to India, Mexico, and Brazil), we do have ideal growing conditions. The best mango-producing counties in Florida are Miami-Dade, Lee, and Palm Beach. Warm coastal climates make these regions perfect for commercial orchards, while backyard mango trees are a common sight throughout South Florida, offering homeowners a seasonal bounty.​

The Mango Craze is Right Here!
Mangos aren't just a backyard treat—they're a global sensation. Thanks to improved handling and shipping, fresh mangos are available year-round in U.S. markets, but nothing beats the flavor of a locally grown, sun-ripened Florida mango. So, as mango season kicks into high gear, get ready to indulge in this tropical treasure. Whether you enjoy them fresh, dried, or blended into a refreshing summer drink, one thing's for sure—mangos make life a little sweeter!

How to Pick the Perfect Mango
When shopping for mangos, forget about color—ripeness is best determined by feel. A ripe mango should give slightly when gently squeezed, similar to a peach or avocado. Also, take a sniff! A ripe mango has a sweet, fragrant aroma near the stem.​

Keeping Mango Trees Healthy
Mango trees are relatively low-maintenance, but a little care ensures a bountiful harvest. The two major fungal diseases affecting homegrown mangos are powdery mildew and anthracnose, which attack new growth, flowers, and young fruit. The best way to prevent disease is by:

• Planting disease-resistant varieties.
• Choosing a location with full sun to dry off flowers and leaves quickly after rain.
• Avoiding overhead irrigation that wets the leaves, flowers, and fruit.
• Monitoring for disease symptoms during flowering and fruiting.
• Applying sulfur and copper sprays in early spring when flower panicles are about ¼ full size, then reapplying 10 to 21 days later to protect fruit production from fungal pathogens.
  

The Mango Season Calendar
Mango trees bloom in Florida from December to April, with fruit ripening in late spring and summer. The peak season typically runs from May through September. Here are a few popular varieties to enjoy that have “Moderate Resistance" to “Moderate Susceptibility" to anthracnose:

• Carrie,' 'Duncan,' 'Edward,' 'Glenn,' 'Keitt,' 'Palmer'
  

Mango Madness: Local Markets & Festivals
One of the best parts of mango season is the abundance of fresh fruit at local markets, farm stands, and mango-themed events. South Florida hosts mango festivals where you can sample different varieties, learn about mango cultivation, and even pick up a rare tree for your backyard! Join us at the 2^nd annual Florida Mango Festival – West Palm Beach on June 29^th, 2025. There will be experts giving talks, trees and mangos for sale, along with many other tropical fruit vendors. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/florida-mango-festival-west-palm-beach-the-sweetest-taste-of-florida-tickets-1257742785529