What to Plant Under Mango Tree

If you have a mango tree in your garden or backyard, you may be wondering what to plant underneath it. Planting under mango trees has several benefits such as increasing soil fertility, creating a cool and shaded atmosphere, reducing soil erosion, and providing a habitat for beneficial insects and wildlife. The ideal plants to grow under a mango tree are ones that can tolerate some shade, minimal direct sunlight, and hot and dry conditions. Here are some suggestions:

1. Ground Covers

Ground covers are low-growing plants that spread quickly and provide a dense covering over the soil. They help to retain moisture, prevent soil erosion, and add organic matter to the soil. Some suitable ground covers to plant under a mango tree include:

Creeping Thyme: A fragrant herb that tolerates drought, heat and some shade.

Creeping Charlie: A fast-growing plant with small violet flowers that does well in partial shade.

Periwinkle: A low-maintenance plant that can grow in full shade and spreads quickly.

Asian Jasmine: A hardy vine that can grow in partial shade and creates a dense ground cover.

2. Herbs

Herbs are a great option to grow under mango trees as they have medicinal and culinary uses, provide attractive foliage and flowers, and are low-maintenance. Here are some herbs that can grow well under a mango tree:

Lemongrass: A medicinal and culinary herb that thrives in hot and humid conditions and can tolerate some shade.

Mint: A cool and refreshing herb that grows well in moist soil and partial shade.

Basil: A popular herb used in cooking that prefers some shade and moist soil.

Garlic: A medicinal herb that can grow in partial shade and improves soil fertility.

3. Fruit Trees

Planting fruit trees under mango trees can provide additional sources of food and create a diverse and self-sustaining ecosystem. Fruit trees that can grow under mango trees include:

Papaya: A fast-growing tropical fruit tree that can tolerate partial shade and hot and dry conditions.

Guava: A hardy fruit tree that can grow in full sun to partial shade and produces fleshy fruit.

Pineapple: A tropical fruit plant that can grow in partial shade and produces a sweet and tangy fruit.

Dwarf Citrus Trees: Small fruit trees that can be grown in pots and can handle partial shade.

In conclusion, planting under mango trees can be beneficial for the soil, the tree, and the environment. Choose plants that can tolerate some shade, minimal direct sunlight, and hot and dry conditions. Ground covers, herbs, and fruit trees are great options to consider for a diverse and sustainable garden.