How to successfully sow and grow a mango seed in a pot.

1. Seed Preparation:  Seed Extraction:  Start with a ripe mango. After consuming the fruit, remove the large stone. Clean out all the pulp and let it dry for a day or two.  Opening the shell:  Carefully use a knife to open the shell. Inside you will find the royal seed. Make sure the seed looks healthy and has no damage or mold.
2. Germination :  Paper Towel Method:  Dampen a paper towel by squeezing out excess water. Wrap the mango seed in the damp towel. Place the wrapped seed in a plastic bag or container, keep it in a warm place. Check the seed regularly to make sure the paper towel remains moist and to see if it has germinated.
3. Pot Selection and Planting:  Choosing the Right Pot:  Opt for a large pot, at least 10 to 12 inches in diameter, with ample drainage holes.  Soil Requirements:  Use a well-draining potting mix, preferably with a combination of perlite and organic compost.  Sowing : If you germinated the seed using the paper towel method, when the roots are a few inches long, it is ready to be planted. Sow the seed shallowly, with the prominence (ridge) facing up. For those who prefer direct sowing in the pot without pre-germination, insert the seed with the ridge facing up and cover it lightly with soil.
4. Watering, light and fertilization: Watering : Water consistently, making sure the top layer of soil can dry out between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot.  Light : Mangoes love sunlight. Place the pot in a location where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. If you are in a region with strong sunlight, afternoon shade may be beneficial.  Fertilization : A few weeks after sowing, start using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and be careful not to overfertilize.
5. Transplanting and pruning:  Transplanting : As the tree grows, it may outgrow its pot. Consider changing to a larger pot when you see roots coming out of the drainage holes.  Pruning : Regular pruning of your mango will help maintain its size, especially when grown in a pot. Focus on creating a balanced crown and remove any dead or unhealthy branches.

Conclusion:

Growing a mango in a pot brings the joy of tropical gardening to even the smallest of spaces. Although you may have to wait a few years before seeing the fruits, the process of growing the tree is rewarding in itself. With care and patience, you can enjoy the lush beauty of a mango, and possibly its sweet fruits, right from your balcony or patio.