By Clint Thompson Early bird registration is underway for next year’s Alabama Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (AFVGA) annual conference and tradeshow, scheduled for Feb. 4-6, 2026, in Gulf Shores, Alabama. The cost for early bird registration is $175 and closes Dec. 31. Regular registration is $225. The conference will be held at The Lodge at Gulf State Park in …
Minimal, Scattered Freeze Injury Expected on Southeast Alabama Crops
By Clint Thompson Fruit and vegetable growers in Southeast Alabama were subjected to sub-freezing temperatures earlier this week. Neil Kelly, Alabama regional Extension agent in Southeast Alabama, expects minimal damage from the few hours of low temperatures, which varied from field to field. “I don’t think the freeze (this week) is going to be terribly rough on us. It dipped …
Specialty Crop Grower Magazine: Auburn University Focused on Artificial Intelligence
By Clint Thompson Editor’s Note: This is the third article in a series featuring land-grant universities and plans to prepare for technological advancements. Auburn University and its College of Agriculture recognize the value of artificial intelligence (AI) and its role in helping farmers be more efficient and sustainable in their crop production. This was highlighted during the university’s AI Symposium …
Action Required? Strawberry Growers Brace for Early-Season Cold Snap
By Clint Thompson Potential sub-freezing temperatures in the Southeast the first of next week has strawberry growers contemplating an important decision early in the growing season – apply row covers or do nothing. Temperatures are expected in the high 20s in some locations, which could impact young strawberry plants, says David Lawrence, regional Extension agent in central Alabama. “I see …
Alabama Christmas Tree Farms Preparing for Holiday Rush
By Clint Thompson It is never too early to start preparing for the Christmas holidays; whether you’re a home owner or a Christmas tree producer. According to Jeremy Pickens, Alabama assistant Extension professor in horticulture at Auburn University, Christmas tree farmers are in the final stages of preparation with farms expected to be flooded with visitors in the upcoming weeks. …
Drought Monitor Update: Extreme Conditions Spreading Across Southeast Region
Drought conditions are worsening and expanding across most of the Southeast region. According to the Oct. 23 release of the U.S. Drought Monitor, extreme drought is present in western Alabama, southern Georgia and northern Florida. While most of Alabama is experiencing some level of drought conditions, the driest part of the state is in the western part of the state. …
Drought Monitor Update: Extreme Dry Conditions Spreading Across Southeast
By Clint Thompson Another week, another period of prolonged dry weather across the Southeast. According to the Oct. 16 release of the U.S. Drought Monitor, extreme drought is being observed in West Alabama, Southwest Georgia and North Florida. Extreme drought in Alabama is seen in all or parts of Marengo, Wilcox, Dallas, Perry, Hale, Greene, Sumter, Pickens, Tuscaloosa and Bibb …
Technology Helps Protect Farming Equipment From Theft
By Clint Thompson Technological advancements provide Alabama fruit and vegetable growers an extra layer of security to protect against theft. During this time of year, tractors and farming equipment are vulnerable to theft since they are often left in fields or orchards for extended periods. But technology, like GPS, allows producers to always know where their property is even if …
AFVGA Presenting Grow Forward Award at Next Year’s Conference
By Clint Thompson The Alabama Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (AFVGA) is seeking participants for the Grow Forward Award; a new award that will be presented at next year’s AFVGA Annual Conference on Feb. 4-6 in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Blake Thaxton, AFVGA Executive Director, said this award highlights both established producers and emerging growers. “It’s an award, but it’s more …
Drought Monitor Update: Dry Conditions Worsening Across Southeast Region
By Clint Thompson The most recent release of the U.S. Drought Monitor reflects worsening drought conditions across Alabama, Georgia and Florida. The driest conditions in Alabama are in the western part of the state. Extreme conditions are seen in Marengo, Dallas, Perry, Hale, Greene, Pickens, Tuscaloosa and Bibb counties. Severe conditions are seen in other areas of those counties as …



















