By Clint Thompson Sometimes the management of a crop disease or insect requires an integrated approach to achieve full control. Organic sweet potato producers must implement such a strategy to achieve full control of root-knot nematodes. The southern root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) is one of several plant-parasitic nematodes that cause damage to plant roots, according to Alabama Extension. Symptoms below …
Potassium’s Importance in Potatoes
By Clint Thompson Lakesh Sharma, assistant professor in the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Department of Soil, Water and Ecosystem Sciences, cannot stress enough potassium’s importance in potato production. That’s why he is concerned about the current conflict in the Ukraine and its potential impact on the essential nutrient’s availability in the future. “Potassium is not …
Nematode Control in Potatoes
By Clint Thompson Potato producers need to be diligent in applying nematicides. Nematode control is essential every year, especially for farmers in Northeast Florida, says Zane Grabau, assistant professor of nematology at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS). “The main thing is you can’t take a year off from applying a nematicide. If you do, …
UF/IFAS Studying Phosphorous in Tomatoes, Potatoes
By Clint Thompson A renewed focus on phosphorous recommendations by University of Florida/IFAS researchers should help producers be more efficient with their fertilizer applications and reduce its impact on the environment. That’s the goal, says Kelly Morgan, professor and center director at the Southwest Florida Research and Education Center in Immokalee, Florida. “Phosphorous is becoming the largest issue as far …
Avoid Planting Fall Potatoes in Alabama
Alabama farmers and gardeners have planted or are currently planting their fall vegetable crops. One crop that Joe Kemble, Alabama Extension vegetable specialist, says producers need to avoid are fall potatoes. They simply don’t do well in any part of the state, due to the high soil temperatures. “Fall potatoes in Alabama do not do well at all. The reason …
Managing Nematodes in Potatoes
By Ashley Robinson There are a variety of nematodes that damage Florida potatoes. These plant-parasitic nematodes are small, microscopic roundworms that feed on plant tissue, causing severe damage to growers’ crops. To combat nematode populations, researchers at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) have been testing new nematicide products. ONGOING FIELD TRIALS Nematicide application is …
Controlling Late Blight in Potatoes and Tomatoes
By: Ashley Robinson Late blight is an annual problem for potato and tomato growers. New strains of the pathogen, Phytophthora infestans, continue to emerge, becoming more aggressive and often resistant to fungicides. LETHAL PATHOGEN “Late blight is a devastating pathogen,” says Nick Dufault, associate professor of plant pathology at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. “Any …
Hurricane Helene Aftermath: Florida Ag Production Losses Top $40 Million
The agricultural production losses Florida experienced due to Hurricane Helene have an estimated value between $40.3 million and $162.2 million, according to a preliminary report by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Economic Impact Analysis Program (EIAP). The report is based on a diverse set of baseline data and surveys UF/IFAS economists distributed to producers. …
Farmer Following Two Hurricanes: It’s A Lot to Take
By Clint Thompson One major hurricane is enough to devastate a farming operation. How about two in less than a two-week span? It’s enough to rattle any specialty crop producer. L&M Family Farms has farming operations throughout Florida and one in Georgia. It was hit hard by Hurricane Helene when it moved through North Florida and South Georgia on Sept. …
NPC Welcomes DGAC Rejeciton of Potato Interchangeability; Bewildered by Recommendation to Cut Vegetable Consumption
WASHINGTON – The National Potato Council (NPC) has responded to unscientific recommendations by the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC), which encourages Americans to eat fewer starchy vegetables, despite data showing that consumers do not eat enough vegetables. Kam Quarles, NPC CEO, said, “The National Potato Council has commented extensively on all elements of the Dietary Guidelines process, demonstrating the nutritional and …