The years-long drought in California and warmer winters are resulting in fruit that’s roughly one to one-and-a-half the size of normal fruit. This fruit is quite a bit sweeter than normal, but unfortunately for fruit farmers, simply isn’t selling.

This summer, fruit is a little bit smaller and probably tastes a bit better, too. 


The ongoing drought in California, now in its fourth year, is partially to blame for smaller peaches, mangoes and plums. Irrigation restrictions are forcing farmers to use substantially less water than usual, sometimes up to 20 to 30 percent less than in years past. 


Less water means smaller fruit.


The winter, which was particularly short and warm, was likely a determinative factor when accounting for this year’s runt crop and its increased sweetness. 


The size of most of Ameri