By Clint Thompson What was inevitable has now become reality for North Florida watermelon producers – downy mildew disease in this year’s crop. Bob Hochmuth, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) regional specialized Extension agent in Live Oak, Florida, confirmed the presence of the disease in Levy County during his weekly email alerts. “It’s something that …
Florida Tomato Conference Set for Sept. 7
Florida tomato producers and industry leaders can mark their calendars for Wednesday, Sept. 7. The Florida Tomato Conference will be held at the LaBelle Civic Center in LaBelle, Florida. The Florida Tomato Institute will present industry and research updates. There will also be a session highlighting a food safety workshop/T-GAP renewal. The event will start at 9 a.m. and conclude …
Florida Farmer Defends Livelihood
By Clint Thompson At a time when farmers need support more than ever, one Florida farmer is forced to defend their livelihood against political attacks from environmental activists. These attacks could impact the future of agriculture. “I was very blessed and privileged to have a dad who served in World War II, Battle of the Bulge. One of the things …
Sweet Corn Challenges in Florida
By Clint Thompson Florida’s sweet corn producers are feeling the pinch of various factors affecting consumer demand this season; most notably, the inflationary prices and colder spring weather up north. Both contributed to suppressed prices for the state’s growers, says Tori Rumenik, commodity service and supply chain manager for the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association. “Our product goes to retail. …
Disease Update for North Florida Watermelons
By Clint Thompson Downy mildew disease has yet to make an appearance in North Florida watermelons this year. Bob Hochmuth, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Regional Specialized Extension agent in Live Oak, Florida, hopes it remains that way. “We’re keeping a really close eye on (downy) because that’s the next one that if we don’t …
Florida’s Blueberry Production: May Management Tips
Harvests may be nearing an end for Florida’s blueberry producers, but management should continue during May. University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) recommends that growers monitor for leaf diseases like rust, anthracnose, Septoria, target spot and Phyllosticta. Florida’s blueberry producers should continue with insecticide sprays for spotted wing drosophila to protect against any remaining ripe fruit …
Mite Pressure Varies Across Florida
Mite pressure is increasing in various fields across Florida, according to the South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline. Two-spotted spider mites have increased significantly on late-season tomatoes, eggplant and okra around Homestead, Florida. They are also impacting ornamental nursery and tropical fruit trees. Broad mites are also observed in corn, tomato, squash and okra. Broad mites have also been persistent …
Florida Blueberry Grower: We’re Getting Squeezed
By Clint Thompson Florida blueberry producers continue to feel the sting of increased imports from Mexico. What should have been a profitable year for those growers who had a crop this season was anything but. It was due to Mexican blueberries stealing the marketing window away from Florida blueberry growers, believes Florida farmer Ryan Atwood. “Considering as little of volume …
Blackberry Field Day: Attendees Can Tour Orchard at UF/IFAS on May 25
Florida specialty crop farmers interested in producing blackberries can attend the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) blackberry field day at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC). UF/IFAS faculty from Gainesville and from the center — along with a scientist from the University of Arkansas — will present updated findings at the meeting, from …
Pepper Weevil Impact in Florida
High populations of pepper weevil are being reported in various fields across South Florida, according to the South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline. Populations are high in all locations across the Southwest Florida region. Some younger plantings may not be harvested at all due to most fruit being infested. Adult pepper weevils are feeding on buds and flowers. The same …