Gopher Mango: A Modern Florida Innovation

Introduction

Gopher mango is a relatively recent cultivar developed by mango enthusiasts Jenny and David Burd of Naples, Florida. Known for its appealing flavor and attractive appearance, it has garnered interest among mango growers and connoisseurs.

Origins and Growth Regions

Originating in Naples, Florida, the Gopher mango is a product of dedicated cultivation by the Burds. While specific details about its parentage are not widely documented, its development in Florida’s subtropical climate suggests it is well-suited for similar environments.

Unique Characteristics

The Gopher mango produces medium-sized, oval to kidney-shaped fruits that develop a beautiful red and yellow coloration upon ripening. The flesh is yellow, somewhat firm, and fiberless, offering a pleasant eating experience. The fruit’s flavor is described as a medium-bodied Indochinese-hybrid type, appealing to those who favor a balance between sweetness and complexity.

Flavor Profile

Gopher mangoes provide a delightful medium-bodied flavor characteristic of Indochinese-hybrid varieties. This flavor profile balances sweetness with subtle complexity, making it enjoyable for fresh consumption and various culinary applications.

Season and Productivity

The Gopher mango is a mid-season variety, with fruit typically ripening from late June through July. While the tree has demonstrated moderate production levels thus far, its consistent fruiting during the mid-season adds value to growers seeking to extend their mango harvest period.

Growth Habit and Tree Characteristics

• Growth Habit: The Gopher mango tree exhibits vigorous, upright growth with an open canopy, necessitating adequate space for optimal development.
• Tree Size: Large, requiring sufficient room for its expansive growth habit.
• Disease Resistance:
  • Highly resistant to anthracnose
  • Moderately susceptible to rotting fungi
  • Requires proper cultural practices for disease management

Cultivation Considerations

Given its vigorous growth and large tree size, the Gopher mango requires:

• Ample space for growth
• Appropriate pruning practices
• Proper irrigation
• Good drainage
• Disease management strategies

Conclusion

The Gopher mango is a promising addition to the array of mango cultivars available to growers and enthusiasts. Its attractive fruit, balanced flavor, and disease resistance make it a noteworthy choice for those seeking a mid-season mango variety. With appropriate cultivation practices, the Gopher mango can be a rewarding option for both commercial orchards and home gardens.

Mango Characteristics

• Taste: Indochinese-hybrid
• Sweetness: Good
• Sourness: Mild
• Fiber: None
• Fruit Size: Medium
• Eaten Green: No
• Production: Moderate
• Season: Mid
• Growth Habit: Vigorous
• Tree Size: Large
• Disease Resistance: Good
• Seed Type: Monoembryonic