University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is advising blueberry growers on management steps they need to implement during September.
Producers should scout for algal stem blotch disease, while also monitoring and managing leaf diseases. For those farming operations, continue monthly through-irrigation or banded bed applications of a phosphorous acid product.
Insect control is also important. Growers should scout for flea beetles, larval citrus root weevil (pull out dead or dying plants and examine the roots and surrounding soil/bark), larval flatheaded borer, chilli thrips and spider mites. Producers should apply suggested control measures if necessary.
Weed management is also key for blueberry producers. Growers should apply a pre-emergence herbicide for cool season weeds and then tank mix with a post-emergence herbicide if weeds are at a density that hinders bush growth.