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MANGOES FESTIVAL
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Thailand's tropical climate is perfect for high quality and abundant mango growth. As well as the
long tropical rainy season from July to October, Thailand's equally long dry season from November to
March gives the mango tree its much needed protection from bacteria and fungus. It is significant that the
mango season occurs towards the end of the dry season, and just months before a new rainy season.
When the country's tropical heat reaches its height in April and May, the mangoes ripen.
The mango tree is indigenous to Southeast Asia, and once grew wild from the Indian state of
Assam all through the region to the Philippines, and is now cultivated in these same areas. The tree is an
evergreen, although it only bears fruit once a year. The trees will grow to a height of 18 meters (60 feet),
but many are topped for easier harvesting of the fruit. It has a long life cycle and is a sturdy tree which is
not particular about soil. These characteristics, along with the delicious fruit, make it a favorite for Thais
to plant in their yards. The full grown mango tree is thick with large, deep green, leathery leaves, with
roots that grow very deep in the soil.
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