By Clint Thompson One Florida specialty crop industry leader believes there has been no letup in the spike in input costs. That’s why Aaron Troyer, Florida potato farmer and chairman of the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association, insists growers ensure that what is being grown matches the demand for it. “Make sure your budget is in order and make sure …
Alternative to Lack of Oryzalin Herbicide for Fruit Producers
By Clint Thompson Specialty crop producers need to be wary this spring of supply issues with regards to Oryzalin, a popular herbicide. None is being manufactured, according to Wayne Mitchem, N.C. State Extension associate and Southern Region Small Fruit Consortium coordinator. He discusses the impact that a lack of the product will mean for some fruit farmers. “The thing about …
Input Availability a Growing Concern for Specialty Crop Producers
By Clint Thompson Planning for future crops means preparing now for some specialty crop producers. In an era when supply availability is uncertain, growers need to consider the ramifications of delaying supply purchases that will be needed in the future. They may not be able to purchase the supplies at all. Farmers like Greg Collier are not just vying for …
UF/IFAS to Host Annual Farm Safety Day
The 31st annual Southwest Florida Farm Safety Day is scheduled for Friday, May 6 and Saturday, May 7 at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Southwest Florida Research and Education Center in Immokalee, Florida. The educational event is designed to emphasize the importance of farm and equipment safety. The deadline for registration is Friday, April 22. …
Improved Prices for Florida Tomatoes
By Clint Thompson The prolonged period of decreased prices for Florida tomatoes may be nearing an end. Growers should be encouraged by an uptick in prices in recent weeks. Michael Schadler, manager of the Florida Tomato Committee and executive vice president of the Florida Tomato Exchange, describes the change in momentum that has shifted in producers’ favor. “A month ago, …
Spanish Version of Blueberry App a Benefit for Florida Industry
By Clint Thompson A new Spanish version of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Blueberry Growers Guide app will benefit a plethora of workers within the industry. Doug Phillips, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) blueberry Extension coordinator, discusses its importance. “There’s a lot of growers, farm managers, field crew where English …
Budgeting for Specialty Crop Success
By Clint Thompson At a time when input prices are historically high and availability a serious concern for specialty crop producers, growers need to ensure budgeting is a priority for the spring season. Jessie Rowan, Alabama regional Extension agent, who specializes in commercial horticulture and farm and agribusiness management, discusses the importance of understanding and planning for the different expenses. …
Alabama Extension Economist: Hard to Say How Long High Input Prices Will Continue
By Clint Thompson One Alabama Extension economist believes it is unreasonable to predict how much longer input prices will remain at historically high levels. That’s why Adam Rabinowitz wants specialty crop producers to focus on profits and not yields entering this production season. “These input prices, we’re sitting here scratching our heads looking at these prices going up. It’s not …
UGA Extension Pecan Specialist: Know Your Costs of Production
By Clint Thompson Lenny Wells’ words of wisdom to potential pecan producers is simple: Know your costs of production. The University of Georgia Extension pecan specialist stresses to growers interested in starting their own orchards to familiarize themselves with input costs. “It was expensive before, but now with the increase in input costs, like everything, it’s gone way up. As …
Copper Applications: What to Know for North Florida Watermelon Producers
By Clint Thompson A better understanding of copper applications could provide North Florida watermelon producers a safer management plan in producing their crop this season. Mark Warren, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension agent in Levy County, wants to better educate producers about the different forms of copper and its potential impact on watermelon plants. …