“Why White Lime is Applied on Mango Trees: Benefits and How to Use It Effectively”

If you’ve ever walked along streets or through gardens, you may have noticed tree trunks coated with white paint or lime. While many assume it’s purely decorative, this practice has significant scientific and horticultural benefits—especially for fruit-bearing trees like mango. For home gardeners, understanding the purpose of this white coating can help protect and strengthen your trees.

Protection Against Pests and Termites
The primary reason for applying white lime on mango trees is pest control. Lime acts as a natural barrier against termites, ants, and other insects that bore into tree trunks. The coating prevents pests from reaching the bark, keeping the tree healthy and its trunk intact.

Shield Against Sun Damage
During summer, intense sunlight and heat waves can harm delicate tree bark, especially on young mango trees. White lime reflects sunlight, reducing trunk temperature and preventing the bark from cracking. This protection not only preserves the tree’s health but also prolongs its life.

Reducing Fungal Infections
Excess moisture in tree bark during the rainy season can encourage fungal growth. Lime absorbs moisture, preventing fungal infections from spreading. A lime-coated trunk ensures proper nutrient circulation and keeps the bark strong and healthy.

Enhancing Tree Strength and Longevity
A protected trunk allows the tree to maintain a strong foundation. The lime coating safeguards the outer bark while giving new bark time to develop. This process strengthens the tree, supports long-term fruit production, and boosts resilience against external diseases.

Should You Apply Lime to Potted Plants?
Gardeners often wonder if lime can be used on potted plants. For large mango saplings or grafted trees in pots, lime can be applied to the main trunk. However, avoid applying lime to small, delicate plants, as their bark is too fragile. Mixing a small amount of lime into the potting soil can supplement calcium, but trunk coating should be reserved for woody stems.

Best Time and Method to Apply Lime
The ideal time to apply lime is late winter or early summer. First, dissolve lime in water and let it sit for 24 hours. Adding a small amount of blue vitriol (copper sulfate) enhances its effectiveness. Using a brush, coat the trunk from the base up to 2–3 feet in height.

With this simple practice, your mango trees can stay protected, healthy, and productive, ensuring strong growth and abundant fruit for years to come.