By Clint Thompson Citrus producers in the Cold-Hardy Citrus Region must be mindful of citrus rust mites (CRM) amid the warm, humid climate in the region. Mary Sutton, University of Georgia (UGA) assistant professor and citrus Extension specialist, implores growers in North Florida, South Georgia and South Alabama to be proactive in managing the populations which are currently high. “They …
UGA Vegetable Specialist Researching Okra
By Clint Thompson Vegetable research was the subject of a recent Extension agent training at the University of Georgia (UGA) Tifton Campus. One crop that Ted McAvoy, UGA Extension vegetable specialist, is currently focusing on is okra. He spoke about its significance for Georgia growers. “It’s the first time and I’m very excited about it. When I interviewed with the …
UGA Studying Anthracnose’s Impact in Cucurbits
By Clint Thompson University of Georgia (UGA) research into anthracnose’s impact in cucurbits has one scientist studying disease resistance from multiple angles. “My part of the research is screening cucumber and watermelon varieties for resistance against anthracnose. There’s already resistant varieties for anthracnose race 1,” said Ted McAvoy, UGA Extension vegetable specialist. “If that’s the race we have, they should …
Industry Leader’s Belief in UGA Grand Farm: We Have to Have It
By Clint Thompson The opening of the University of Georgia (UGA) Grand Farm in early May provides hope to specialty crop producers that innovative technologies could one day replace costly labor expenses that are negating potential profits. One fruit grower believes in its mission and helped provide legislative support for the research site, located adjacent to the Perry Fairgrounds. “I …
Grand Farm Groundbreaking: UGA Perry Site to House Innovative Research
By Clint Thompson The groundbreaking for the University of Georgia (UGA) Grand Farm was held on Friday in Perry, Georgia. Located adjacent to the Perry Fairgrounds, the 250-acre research site will serve as a breeding ground for ag innovation. Ag research, representing row crop commodities to specialty crops, and companies from across the world, will help put Georgia on the …
UGA Vegetable Entomologist: Diamondback Moth Populations Difficult to Control
By Clint Thompson Vegetable producers must be wary that diamondback moth is being observed in high populations across South Georgia. Stormy Sparks, University of Georgia (UGA) Cooperative Extension vegetable entomologist, highlighted the insect and its impact. “Diamondback moth has popped up. It can pop up or disappear this time of year. It’s not controlled by temperatures as much as a …
What to Plant: UGA Pecan Specialist Highlights Three Varieties Growers Should Plant
By Clint Thompson Variety selection may be the most important choice a Southeast pecan producer makes in their quest to remain sustainable. The variety’s production, combined with a resistance or high tolerance to scab disease, makes it an invaluable choice for growers trying to navigate high input costs and low market prices. University of Georgia (UGA) Cooperative Extension pecan specialist …
UGA Recognition: Patrick Conner Named One of Eight NAI Senior Members
The National Academy of Inventors (NAI) selected eight University of Georgia (UGA) researchers, including Patrick Conner, as 2025 NAI Senior Members, surpassing its own record of five inductees set last year. UGA now has 24 Senior Members overall. Conner, a professor of horticulture in the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, is recognized for leadership in pecan and muscadine …
UGA Research: New Planting Approach in Vidalia Onions
By Clint Thompson University of Georgia research in Vidalia onions has yielded a new approach to planting the crop. Ted McAvoy, University of Georgia Extension vegetable specialist, wants growers to maximize their area to produce more plants per acre. Because of the threshold of the recommended spacing between plants, McAvoy offered an alternative method. “Most all of the work that’s …
UGA Extension to Host Vidalia Onion Meeting
The University of Georgia (UGA) Cooperative Extension will host the Vidalia Onion Crop and Disease Update on Thursday, Feb. 13, at the Vidalia Onion and Vegetable Research Center in Lyons, Georgia. The meeting will start at 10 a.m. and conclude at 1 p.m. The agenda will include a crop update, variety trial walk-through and disease management update provided by UGA …