By Clint Thompson Georgia’s specialty crop sector remains vital to the state’s economy. Its value continues to grow in importance, according to Ben Campbell, associate professor in the University of Georgia (UGA) College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Ag and Applied Economics Department. “Specialty crops are a big player in the Ag industry. You think of greenhouses, you think of …
Early Start to Hurricane Season?
By Clint Thompson An early start to the hurricane season is not out of the question for the Southeast. In fact, it could be expected for the region considering how warm the ocean waters are currently in the Gulf of Mexico. Pam Knox, University of Georgia Extension agricultural climatologist, highlights what fruit and vegetable producers should expect from this year’s …
Programs Providing Assistance for 2022 Natural Disasters
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack recently announced two programs that collectively provide $3.7 billion in assistance to crop and livestock producers who sustained losses due to natural disasters like Hurricanes Ian and Nicole in 2022. They are the Emergency Relief Program (ERP) and Emergency Livestock Relief Program. To participate in the programs, producers should have or be prepared to have the following forms …
North Florida Melon Producers Benefitting from High Market Demand
By Clint Thompson North Florida watermelon growers are in prime position to reap the benefits of the current market demand. Bob Hochmuth, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Regional Specialized Extension agent in Live Oak, Florida, explains how his region’s producers want harvests to remain fruitful as long as possible. “With the demand so strong, South …
Sakata Seed Focused on Florida and the Southeast
Working with growers in Florida and the Southeast has been a critical element in Sakata Seed America’s success. The focus on these regions has resulted in producing vegetable varieties bred to perform in the southern climate and soil types. The Fort Myers Research Station is home to a breeding hub for three of the company’s most important crops — tomato, …
North Florida Melon Producers Reaping Benefits of High Demand
By Clint Thompson North Florida watermelon growers are in prime position to reap the benefits of the current market demand. Bob Hochmuth, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Regional Specialized Extension agent in Live Oak, Florida, explains how his region’s producers want harvests to remain fruitful as long as possible. “With the demand so strong, South …
Blueberry Management Options for June
Florida blueberry producers just completed their harvests for the 2023 season. But plans are already being made for the ’24 crop. Disease and pest management are key to a successful season next year. University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences scientists encourage growers to scout for algal stem blotch. If farmers observe the disease, they should prune out …
Agricultural Water and Regulatory Updates for Produce Growers
By Camila Rodrigues Food-safety regulations are constantly evolving to ensure food is safe and free from harmful contaminants. One area that has received increased attention in recent years is water used in food production and processing. Water is an essential component for the production of raw agricultural commodities. It is used to irrigate crops, clean equipment and facilities, and wash …
Gowan Seed Company
Red Garnet This triploid watermelon is a Gowan exclusive! It weighs 16-20 pounds and matures in 83 to 84 days. It has a preferred dark-green crimson stripe exterior, deep-red interior and a strong rind proven to be a commercial success for 45-count bin shipping. It is a prolific yielder! IR: Fon: 0, 1 Redemption XR This 80-day bicolor Sh2 sweet …
NOAA Forecasts Near-Normal Hurricane Season for 2023
National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasters with the Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service, predict near-normal hurricane activity this year. NOAA’s outlook for the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, which lasts from June 1 to Nov. 30, predicts a 40% chance of a near-normal season, a 30% chance of an above-normal season and a 30% chance of …