According to the Thursday’s release of the U.S. Drought Monitor, dry conditions are slowly diminishing in Florida, especially in the southern part of the state. While most counties, including Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, Hendry, Collier and Glades are still abnormally dry, none are in a moderate drought. Other counties that are partially abnormally dry include Polk, Hardee, Manatee and Sarasota in …
When Will it End? Pallet Shortage Continues
By Clint Thompson One of the most challenging aspects of vegetable production this season doesn’t appear to be ending anytime soon. In fact, it may only worsen when South Florida’s fall production comes back online. The idea of a pallet shortage was unfathomable for producers prior to the COVID-19 global pandemic. But it’s a continuing problem with no end in …
North Florida Melon Season Nearing End
By Clint Thompson Watermelon harvests are nearing an end in North Florida. It’s time to take stock of how production went this season as 80% to 90% of the region’s crop has been harvested. Bob Hochmuth, UF/IFAS Regional Specialized Extension agent in Live Oak, Florida, said farmers were satisfied with how this year transpired. “Prices really dictate their happiness. For …
Growing Calabaza: Crop Perfect for Summer Gardening in Florida
MIAMI-DADE, Fla. – Attention Florida vegetable producers and homeowners: Don’t let the summer go by without trying your hand at producing the calabaza. New crop on the block, Calabaza Pumpkin in Florida is the latest video led by Geoffrey Meru, a vegetable geneticist at the UF/IFAS Tropical Research and Education Center. The video guides homeowners and interested growers with the background …
Tomato, Food Safety Workshop to be held on Sept. 8 in LaBelle, Florida
There will be a tomato and Food Safety Workshop on Wednesday, Sept. 8. The workshop and T-GAP Renewal will be held at the LaBelle Civic Center in LaBelle, Florida. The Florida Tomato Institute will present industry and research updates during the morning session from 9 a.m. to noon. The afternoon will consist of new product presentations by select sponsors and …
4Rs Key to Nutrient Management
By Clint Thompson Nutrient management in Florida’s vegetable and specialty crop fields is a process. In fact, if growers don’t implement the 4Rs strategy – right rate, right source, right placement and right timing – they risk not applying the right amount and losing essential nutrients to the environment. “By just having a seasonal number, let’s say the fertilizer recommendation …
Wet Summer? July Through September Could Receive More Rain Than Normal
According to the University of Georgia Extension Climate and Agriculture Blog and National Weather Service, July through September is expected to better wetter than normal due to the active tropical season. It has already been a wet June for parts of Georgia. According to the University of Georgia Weather Network, Tifton, Georgia received 4.88 inches from June 1 to June …
Mechanization, AI Key to Producers’ Future
By Clint Thompson Southeast vegetable and specialty crops are engaged in a long-term struggle against seasonal imports. While imports from countries like Mexico don’t appear to be dissipating anytime soon, growers must find ways to cut costs to remain sustainable. One tool in the production toolbox is mechanization. If machines can be developed that can perform required tasks like harvesting, …
FFVA Supports Reintroduction of The Defending Domestic Produce Production Act
The Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association (FFVA) applauded The Defending Domestic Produce Production Act, which was reintroduced in the U.S. Senate on Wednesday as S. 2080 by Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Rick Scott (R-FL). The bill was reintroduced in the U.S. House as H.R. 3926 by Representatives Vern Buchanan (R-FL) and Al Lawson (D-FL). The bill includes 32 co-sponsors …
Limiting Nematodes: Cover Crops Effective Management Option
By Clint Thompson The time in between production seasons provides Florida vegetable producers a chance to manage nematodes. While cover crops improve the soil quality and health in preparation for the upcoming growing season, they can also help reduce nematode reproduction; if growers implement cover crops that are poor hosts. “It’s basically got to be a decision a grower makes …