Australian mango company Seven Fields is launching two new varieties in 2016: Lady Jane and Lady Grace, both grown in the Northern Territory by world renowned mango breeder Ken Rayner.
Seven Fields Managing Director Richard Byllaardt says the mangoes have been bred to solve a lot of the common issues of the popular Kensington Pride variety.
“Ken has been breeding mangoes for over 30 years and was looking to breed a mango with the great flavour and taste of a Kensington Pride mango, but one which was less prone to disease and with a better and longer shelf life,” he says.
“He bred both of these varieties 20 years ago, but it has taken this long for him to be satisfied they tick all the boxes.”
Lady Jane and Lady Grace look similar in appearance, with Mr Byllaardt describing them as having “a beautiful natural red blush”. In comparison to the Kensignton Pride, and other popular varieties, these two mangoes are not susceptible to sap burn, have a longer shelf life and an excellent flavour.
Mr Byllaardt says initial crops of the Lady Jane and Lady Grace are being grown in Australia, from young trees.
“As they are young trees there will be a small crop in October 2016, with the first large commercial crop available for sale in October 2017.”
Currently there is 40 acres of Lady Jane and another 10 acres scheduled to be planted in 2016, along with 50 acres of Lady Grace.
Seven Fields and commercial marketing partner Biogold International have also set up trials with growers in Spain and South Africa, with the first overseas commercial plantings expected to be in late 2016.
Mr Byllaardt says there are also in the process of getting approval to grow trees in the USA, South America and Morocco.
“The plan is to be able to grow the two new varieties at strategic locations in both the northern and southern hemisphere, so we can offer a 12 month supply window to all of our customers.”
He says the initial commercial harvests if the Lady Jane and Lady Grace will be sold in Australia, with international markets following once they have more experience with the post-harvest management of both varieties.
