Articles
Mango cultivars evolution in Mexico
Article number
1415_5
Pages
47 – 52
Language
English
Abstract
The cultivation of mango is of paramount importance for Mexico, notably as the primary global exporter of this fruit.
Mango was introduced in Mexico from the Philippines in 1779 by the Spanish colonizers.
However, it was not until the mid-20th century that mango cultivation became a significant industry in Mexico, with the introduction of the ‘Tommy Atkins’ cultivar, improved production techniques, and expanded markets.
This cultivar was a game-changer for the industry due to its long shelf life, which allowed for extended transportation that opened export markets.
In the following decades, other mango cultivars were introduced to Mexico, including ‘Kent’, ‘Keitt’, and ‘Haden’, which added variety to the industry and expanded the range of flavors and textures available to consumers.
This led to a boom in mango production in the 1970s and 1980s. ‘Ataulfo’ is the main cultivar planted since 2009, due to its greater acceptance in Mexico and for export because its small size, rich flavor, and creamy texture.
In 2022, it was cultivated in over 30% of the area with mango in Mexico.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend toward organic and sustainable mango production in Mexico, as consumers and producers alike prioritize environmental and social responsibility.
Perspectives on the mango industry include the introduction of new mango cultivars into Mexico based on superior traits across a range of climate zones.
Mango was introduced in Mexico from the Philippines in 1779 by the Spanish colonizers.
However, it was not until the mid-20th century that mango cultivation became a significant industry in Mexico, with the introduction of the ‘Tommy Atkins’ cultivar, improved production techniques, and expanded markets.
This cultivar was a game-changer for the industry due to its long shelf life, which allowed for extended transportation that opened export markets.
In the following decades, other mango cultivars were introduced to Mexico, including ‘Kent’, ‘Keitt’, and ‘Haden’, which added variety to the industry and expanded the range of flavors and textures available to consumers.
This led to a boom in mango production in the 1970s and 1980s. ‘Ataulfo’ is the main cultivar planted since 2009, due to its greater acceptance in Mexico and for export because its small size, rich flavor, and creamy texture.
In 2022, it was cultivated in over 30% of the area with mango in Mexico.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend toward organic and sustainable mango production in Mexico, as consumers and producers alike prioritize environmental and social responsibility.
Perspectives on the mango industry include the introduction of new mango cultivars into Mexico based on superior traits across a range of climate zones.
Publication
Authors
S.R. Márquez-Berber, N. Ledesma, G. Almaguer-Vargas, A.V. Ayala-Garay, D.A. Reyna-Izaguirre
Keywords
mango history, ‘Ataulfo’ cultivar, mango perspectives
Groups involved
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