Economic Feasibility of Small-Scale Specialty Mango Production in South Florida

Abstract

The local food movement and sustainable food production are gaining considerable interest in south Florida. Both of these innovative approaches to local farming warrant taking another look at mango production in South Florida. This research provides information than may aid farmers in the decision to invest in specialty mango production in South Florida. The primary objective of this study was to determine the potential profitability of a 1- to 2-acre small-scale specialty mango grove in south Florida. Data on production, costs, and returns were collected from Mumbai Farm, a private mango farm in south Florida. The grove consists of 1.5 acres, and it has not been used for agricultural activities
during the past 20 years, providing the opportunity to quickly certify it as an organic grove. The project includes budgets, market observations, horticultural practices, and new mango cultivars for niche markets. It was assumed that the farmer would market their production via local markets and specialty wholesale.