(Mangifera indica) 

Mangos grow on huge trees, native to India. They have since spread around the world. They make great indoor plants, too, and they are very easy to grow from seed. After a few years, you might even get a mango harvest. It can take up to five years to produce fruit, but makes for a beautiful houseplant in the mean time. Plus, it's a great conversation starter.

"Fun" Fact:

Did you know Mangos are in the same family as Poison Ivy? It's true! And they're both in the cashew family. The tree sap and the rind contain the chemical called Uroshiol, which is the oil that causes the poison ivy rash.

Setup:

First, make sure to choose a ripe Mango. This will ensure the seed has had some time to develop as much as possible.

Supplies you will need:

• Kitchen Knife
• A pair of strong scissors. (We use kitchen sheers).
• Paper towels
• Plastic bag 

We will be showing you how to sprout a mango seed in a plastic baggy. We find this to be the most effective way to grow the seeds at home. 

Step1: 

Start by cutting the Mango until the seed is removed from the fruit.

Wash off the pulp from the seed as much as possible and pat dry with a towel. (This will make sure the seed won't slip) 

Step 2: 

This is when the scissors come in handy.

You will want to literally trim the edges of the seed husk until you begin to see an opening. Be careful not to cut too much or you'll damage the seed. 

Next, you will want to use your fingers to gently break the husk open exposing the seed, as seen below. This may take a few minutes.

Below: The small opening in the husk.

Above: the exposed seed from the husk.

Below: the seed placed on a paper towel and plastic bag for humidity and moisture.

Step 3:

Get the paper towels damp with water (not overly wet) and place the seed in the middle, covering it. You want the seed to be secure as this will ensure the seed gets proper moisture and humidity. 

Step 4:

Place the wrapped seed in the plastic bag, and loosely close it. Label the bag with the date so you can track its progress.

Step 5:

Place the seed in a dark location like a cabinet. If you do have a grow light that works just fine. The key is to keep the seed moist at all times with proper humidity. 

Next Steps: 

Once your mango seed has sprouted (usually in 1-2 weeks) you'll need to plant it in a 4-6" pot with well-draining potting soil (any general-purpose potting soil works great). We recommend a terra cotta pot, but any pot will do, and place it in a bright sunny location. Mangos need six or more hours of bright light a day to grow properly.

Below: May 18th

Below: May 27th

Below: The seed germinated to this point within 2 weeks

Below: We planted the Mango seed in a 4" terra-cotta pot with a potting mix

We'll be documenting our process of planting our mango seed to show you how to do it, so in the mean time, get your seeds started and follow along with us!

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