The Response of Avocado and Mango to Soil Temperature1

Abstract

Mexican avocado seedlings and grafted ‘Irwin’ mangos grown under soil temperatures of 21, 27 and 32°C responded differently. The soil temperature statistically influenced the growth of the avocado seedlings but not the mangos. A soil temperature range of 21 to 27° was best for the growth of the avocado seedlings but temperatures greater than 27° reduced growth. The number of growth flushes was greater at 27° than either 21 or 32°. The avocado seedlings were tall and upright at 21° and were short and spreading at 32°.The mineral composition of both the avocado and the mango leaves changed with soil temperatures. The content of N and P in avocado and mango leaves was highest at 32° and lowest at 27°. The K content of the avocado leaves increased with temperature, but the Fe and Zn content decreased. In the mango Mg and Fe content was highest at 27° and lowest at 21°. Calcium content of the mango leaves decreased with soil temperature.