Florida is the largest producer of mangoes in the United States.
The first commercial mango orchard in Florida was planted in 1833.[1] Mango growing and breeding was a hobby of wealthy men in South Florida including Henry Ford and Thomas Edison.[2]
As a craft beer industry developed in Florida beers which included mango began to appear.[3] In 2021 Florida was the largest producer of mangoes in the United States.[4]
In the Florida Keys mango season is May-July.[5]
Outside of South Florida frost is an issue with Central Florida providing marginal production with adequate protection.[6]
Variable weather can make the harvest unreliable.[7] South Florida has significant hurricane risk.[8]
The Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables hosts the annual International Mango Festival.[9]
Key West holds an annual Mango Festival,[10] in the Keys a "mango fairy" is said to leave ripe mangoes for people.[5]
Florida is home to a number of mango breeders. In the 21st century the University of Florida has used genetic profiling to improve the industry.[4]