Brooks (mango)

Brooks (mango)

Brooks is a popular variety of mango that originated in Florida, United States. It is known for its sweet and juicy flavor, making it a favorite among mango lovers worldwide.

History

The Brooks mango was developed by Laurence Zill, a renowned horticulturist, in the early 20th century. It is a cross between the 'Haden' and 'Pirie' mango varieties. The mango was named after Edward F. Brooks, a former director of the Subtropical Experiment Station in Homestead, Florida.

Characteristics

The Brooks mango has a medium to large size, with an oval shape and a slightly flattened appearance. The skin of the mango is green when unripe, turning into a vibrant yellow color with red blushes when fully ripe. The flesh is fiberless, smooth, and golden yellow in color. It has a sweet and aromatic flavor, with hints of citrus and tropical notes.

Cultivation

Brooks mango trees are vigorous and can grow up to 30 feet in height. They are known for their ability to adapt to various soil types, but they thrive best in well-drained, fertile soil. The trees require full sun exposure to produce high-quality fruits.

The mangoes typically ripen from June to July in Florida, but the exact ripening period may vary depending on the climate and growing conditions. The fruits are usually harvested when they reach full maturity and have a yellow color with red blushes.

Uses

Brooks mangoes are primarily consumed fresh, either on their own or in various culinary preparations. They are often used in smoothies, salads, salsas, and desserts. The sweet and juicy flesh of the mango makes it a popular choice for making mango juice and sorbets.

Availability

Brooks mangoes are widely available in Florida and other tropical regions where mango cultivation is prevalent. They are also exported to different parts of the world, allowing mango enthusiasts to enjoy their unique flavor and taste.