Mango Sunburn: Prevention and Treatment
Introduction
Mangoes are delicious and nutritious fruits, but they can be susceptible to sunburn, which can damage the fruit and reduce its marketability. Sunburn occurs when the sun’s rays are concentrated on the fruit’s surface, causing it to become dry, shrunken, and discolored.
Causes of Mango Sunburn
Mango sunburn is caused by a combination of factors, including:
- High temperatures: Mangoes are particularly susceptible to sunburn when temperatures exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).
- Moisture: Water droplets or other liquids on the fruit’s surface can act like magnifying glasses, intensifying the sun’s rays and causing sunburn.
- Sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can also lead to sunburn.
Symptoms of Mango Sunburn
Sunburned mangoes typically exhibit the following symptoms:
- Dry, shrunken, and necrotic (dead) areas on the fruit’s surface
- Tan to brown discoloration, with darker edges
- Bleed around the affected area
Prevention of Mango Sunburn
There are several methods that can be used to prevent mango sunburn:
Chemical Treatments:
- Spraying mangoes with a 5% solution of kaolin, magnesium carbonate, or calamine can deflect radiation and UV rays, reducing sunburn.
Physical Barriers:
- Paper bags: Covering developing mangoes with paper bags can protect them from direct sunlight, but they should be removed during rain to prevent disease.
- Plastic caps: Plastic caps can also be used to cover mangoes, but they may trap moisture and promote fungal growth.
- Plastic “mango hats”: These hats are lined with wool treated with beneficial bacteria and copper compound, which helps prevent sunburn and disease.
Cultural Practices:
- Planting in shaded areas: Planting mango trees in areas with partial shade can reduce sun exposure.
- Pruning: Pruning trees to remove excess foliage can improve air circulation and reduce the risk of sunburn.
- Watering management: Avoiding overwatering and ensuring proper drainage can help prevent water droplets from accumulating on the fruit’s surface.
Treatment of Mango Sunburn
Unfortunately, there is no cure for mango sunburn once it has occurred. However, the following measures can help minimize the damage:
- Remove affected fruit: Removing sunburned mangoes from the tree can prevent the spread of disease.
- Improve cultural practices: Implementing the preventive measures described above can help reduce the risk of future sunburn.
- Use sunscreen: Applying sunscreen to mangoes can provide some protection from the sun’s rays.
Conclusion
Mango sunburn is a common problem that can impact the quality and yield of mango crops. By understanding the causes and symptoms of sunburn, and by implementing effective prevention and treatment strategies, mango growers can minimize the damage caused by this condition.
