Community

Gainesville mango festival proceeds despite tough growing season, UF expert says

A mango-themed community festival took place in Gainesville on Saturday, even as a University of Florida tropical fruit specialist noted this year’s season was shorter and less fruitful than usual. Extension agent Jeff Wasielewski said a winter freeze damaged trees and killed young fruit early in the season, and a prolonged dry period then led to powdery mildew attacking mango flowers. The combination pushed the season earlier than normal and left far less fruit on trees by the time of the event.

Sources: WCJB TV20