1 FAQ
Frequently Asked QuestionsProblems
Q: Why are the flowers on my mango tree turning black?
A: The fungal disease anthracnose is the most common cause of flowers turning black. The symptoms are small black spots developing on the flowers, stalks and small fruit. Preventative sprays can reduce the risk of infection. Fruitspotting bugs and bacterial flower disease also cause black spots on the inflorescence.
Q: How do I control bacterial black spot?
A: Bacterial black spot invades young leaves and fruit mainly through surface damage caused by wind. Windbreaks reduce wind damage to trees and thus help to control infection. A sustained regular spray program using a recommended fungicide will manage the disease.
Q: Why are the leaves on my mango tree going brown?
A: Leaves turn brown for many reasons but the main cause is the disease anthracnose. Young leaves are particularly susceptible to infection and it is worse in wet conditions. If it is mainly the tips of the leaves turning brown, it is probably fertiliser burn or saline irrigation water. Leafminers tunnelling through leaves can also cause leaves to turn brown.
Q: Why is my new growth wilting?
A: Two insects are the most likely cause of new growth wilting:
The fruitspotting bug sucks sap from new growth, which causes grooves along the length of the new stems, causing them to wilt.
The mango tipborer hollows out the inside of new stems, causing more severe wilting than the fruitspotting bug. If you cut the stem lengthwise, you will find that it is hollowed out, often with a small caterpillar inside.
Q: Why do some fruit never get bigger than an egg?
A: Egg-sized fruit are the result of poor pollination caused by cool night temperatures during flowering. Some of the fruit fall off and others will develop to egg-size. These fruit are commonly called nubbins. If you cut them open, you will find there is no seed.
Q: Why are my fruit splitting?
A: The main reason for fruit splitting is infection by bacterial black spot.
Q: There is a hollow in the fruit. What is that?
A: A hollow in the fruit is an occasional problem in Kensington Pride and some other varieties. The hollow develops at the top of the fruit where it is connected to the stem, and is known as stem-end cavity. It is related to a nutritional imbalance in the tree and to fruit hanging on the tree for too long.
Q: Why do my mangoes stay green?
A: Incorrect ripening practices and high nitrogen levels in the tree are the most common causes of mangoes staying green when ripe. More information
Q: How do I avoid skin browning?
A: Incorrect harvesting and postharvest handling practices cause skin browning. You need to manage your system to minimise skin damage from sap contamination, bumping, dirt, wetness and heat.