Altitudinal relocation alters growth and nutrient allocation of young mango cultivars: implications for climate-resilient orchard systems

Shifting fruit production to higher elevations is a key climate-adaptation strategy to mitigate the impacts of rising temperatures in tropical regions. However, empirical field evidence regarding early tree physiological responses to such shifts remains scarce. This study evaluated the vegetative growth dynamics and leaf nutrient allocation of four commercial mango (Mangifera indica L.) cultivars (Jingdong, Guifei, Jinhuang, and Tainong No. 1) grown at two contrasting altitudes (450 and 1,050 m a.s.l.) in Honghe County, China. Standardized fertilization and irrigation regimes were applied at both sites. Leaf nutrient concentrations were determined using Mid-Infrared (MIR) spectroscopy calibrated against primary chemical analysis (n = 48). At 450 m, scion height and stem diameter increments were significantly greater, driven by warmer temperatures and higher vapor pressure deficit (VPD) (Multiple Linear Regression, R2 = 0.87). Conversely, leaf nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) concentrations were significantly higher at 1,050 m across all cultivars. These findings suggest that higher elevations promote enhanced nutrient retention and utilization efficiency rather than rapid biomass dilution. Within a circular agricultural framework, moderate upslope relocation acts as a potent spatial adaptation strategy. By aligning crop physiological requirements with natural altitudinal gradients, producers can reduce the linear flow of synthetic inputs, optimize internal nutrient cycling, and develop more resource-efficient, climate-resilient orchard systems.