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Florida tomato producers are facing a proposed assessment rate increase for tomatoes produced in the state, from $0.025 cents to $0.035 cents, per 25-pound carton. This comes as a recommendation from the Florida Tomato Committee and would increase the assessment rate for 2023-2024 and subsequent fiscal periods. The proposed rate would remain in effect indefinitely unless it is modified, suspended …
By Clint Thompson Florida blueberry producers hope to remain sustainable now and into the future. That is why Thursday’s Florida Blueberry Growers Association spring meeting and field day at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Plant Science Research and Education Center in Citra, Florida, was so important. UF/IFAS researchers and graduate students provided vital information …
Weekly Field Update Clemson Extension agents provide updates in The South Carolina Grower this week about the status of various crops being produced throughout the state. Coastal Region Zack Snipes Midlands Phillip Carnley Sarah Scott Pee Dee Brittney King Upstate Briana Naumuk
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced loan interest rates for March 2024, which became effective March 1, 2024. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans provide important access to capital to help producers start or expand their farming operation, purchase equipment and storage structures or meet cash flow needs. “I encourage our lenders and borrowers alike to work with …
It is the heart of Florida’s artichoke season. When consumers go to the grocery store, they want this favorite to be ripe and fresh. But the vegetable has a short shelf life – about two days at 62 degrees, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) experts say. UF/IFAS researchers are using genetics to preserve artichokes an …
By Maegan Beatty Last week, the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) hosted an online program to discuss new technologies in commercial crop production. Gilad Freund is an Extension faculty member located in Mop Hahar, Israel. Freund discussed new innovative technologies that are being utilized in the blackberry industry throughout Israel. These new technologies are meant …
By Clint Thompson Fungicide applications for pecan scab disease are more effective when implemented on a regular schedule. However, that is easier said than done for pecan producers, believes Tim Brenneman, a plant pathologist with the University of Georgia. “The bottom line is the best way to save money on sprays would be to not spray in the dry periods …
By Clint Thompson This year’s strawberry season has reminded Florida growers about the danger of too much water. “Any berry that gets wet, you’re going to start getting botrytis on it. It doesn’t matter if it’s a strawberry, blackberry, blueberry; whatever berry it is, it’s going to start to rot,” said Matt Parke, farm manager of Parkesdale Farms in Plant …
By Frank Giles There have been two major forces driving innovation in specialty crop agriculture. No. 1 is the challenge growers have in sourcing a dependable workforce to grow and harvest crops. No. 2 is the push to become more efficient and profitable by reducing production costs. Robotics and automation are developing rapidly with promises to help growers address those …
By Maegan Beatty Agriculture Future of America (AFA) and the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) recently held their 2024 Sustainability Institute in San Diego, California. Over 50 student delegates from across the nation gathered to connect with industry professionals and discuss recent innovations and challenges in sustainability. The institute consisted of a keynote speech by Carlos Suarez who represented …
