Growing mangoes in your backyard and supporting mango farmers are both great for us in Hawai'i.

A big mango tree, planted in a far corner to block the baking pau hana sun and shade your roof, will keep your home cool. Sidewalks are more pleasant with the shade of a mango tree arching overhead.

Think mango trees are too big? Grow a small variety, talk to one of our expert growers about the right mango for your yard. Here are some other tips:

SITE SELECTION: Think before you plant. Study your garden. Look at shade and sun patterns. Dig down and figure out what kind of soil you have. Mangoes need good drainage. They are sweeter in dry areas.

PRUNING: Pruning mangoes regularly by a professional is key. Prune lightly every year after fruiting is pau. Keep low branches. Aim to let light into the middle of the tree for more uniform fruiting.

Anyone can whack a mango, but pruning thoughtfully to make low, bearing pickable branches is akamai. Pruning to retain shade is also smart.

PANIC PRUNING: People often let mango trees get really big, and the fruit goes to waste and then they panic. They may feel too old to safely pick the fruit, and their kids won't help. Then someone knocks on the door with chainsaw in hand and a cheap quote. Never hire this person — sorry — and find a professional arborist who appreciates mangoes, understands how they grow and can custom-prune your tree.

OTHER SOLUTIONS: You get tired of raking up the leaves and keeping them out of the street and your neighbors' garden. Remember: trees don't make rubbish, people do. The mango leaves are an asset. Rake them up and use them for compost or orchid and anthurium potting media.

Too wet? Grow a new variety, or new mango relative from a wet place.

Live in a rental? Grow it in a big pot. Frankie's Nursery has four varieties of dwarf mango trees. They actually can grow to 20 to 25 feet tall.

Join us at the Hale'iwa Farmers' Market on Aug. 30, when the theme will be mangoes. There will be a mango recipe contest and all kinds of mangoes. Other locally farmed crops and tasty treats are available at this new market, which my farmer buddies and North Shore friends tell me is totally worth the drive.