Heavy rains last week alleviated some of the abnormally dry conditions in North Florida. But Central and South Florida remain moderately dry as are South Georgia and South Alabama. Moderate dry conditions are still being experienced in the Florida Panhandle from Escambia County eastward to Madison County. Levy and Marion counties are also moderately dry, which stretches as far south …
Inputs a Major Concern for Potato Producers
By Clint Thompson Potato producers are not immune to the supply chain woes befallen other specialty crops. Kam Quarles, Chief executive officer of the National Potato Council, discusses the issues that are concerning to the potato sector. “For this past year, it’s been a really tight market. I think the challenge going forward is in regard to inputs. Fertilizer prices …
Thrips Pressure Expected to Increase in South Florida
Thrips pressure is expected to increase in South Florida vegetable fields. Growers are reminded to monitor populations and implement management tactics early, according to the South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline. This is especially important for commodities that are vulnerable to viruses vectored by thrips. Populations are reportedly low in central Florida, though they are expected to increase as the …
Blueberry Damage? What to Look for Following Freeze Event
Sub-freezing temperatures this past weekend across the Southeast put the region’s blueberry crop at risk for damage. Alabama Extension reminds producers what to look for when surveying their crop for damage symptoms. “To find out if the blueberry flower buds have been damaged by frost you can cut through the bud several hours after a freeze and look for browning …
Nematodes Expected to be a Problem Again for Florida Specialty Growers
By Clint Thompson Another spring production season means another year of nematode management required for Florida’s specialty crop producers. Johan Desaeger, assistant professor of entomology and nematology at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, discusses why growers should always be wary of the microscopic worm-like pests. “They’re a problem every …
GFVGA: Freeze Event Timing Was Horrible
By Clint Thompson Georgia’s peach and blueberry crops were impacted by the sub-freezing temperatures felt across the state this past weekend. A few more days are needed, though, before growers know the extent of the potential damage, said Chris Butts, executive vice president of the Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (GFVGA). “South Georgia blueberries got cold but those (farmers) …
Whitefly Pressure Varies Across Florida
Whiteflies are increasing to high levels in Southwest Florida, which is normal this time of year. It is especially true for older tomato plants and melon crops, according to the South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline. However, population levels are much lower in other areas, including in tomato and squash plants in central Florida. Whiteflies have only been observed occasionally …
Pecan Production in Georgia: Estimated 70 Million Pounds in 2021
By Clint Thompson Pecan production in Georgia was half of what it was the year before but still more than most predicted. University of Georgia Cooperative Extension pecan specialist Lenny Wells discusses the total for the 2021 crop. “From the assessments that have come in, I’m hearing 70 million to 75 million pounds, which is a good bit more than …
UF/IFAS Extension Agent: Begin Fertilization for North Florida Watermelons
By Clint Thompson The production season continues for the bulk of North Florida watermelon plants that survived the sub-freezing temperatures this past weekend. Growers need to consider their fertilizer options, especially following the recent rain events. “Most of their fertilizer that was in the bed preplant and even whatever they may have put out in their transplant solution is gone …
Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training in Florida
Few tickets are still available for the upcoming in-person Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training scheduled for March 23 in Belle Glade, Florida. The training is a one-day course for produce growers and packers who fall under the Food Safety Modernization Act’s Produce Safety Rule. For more information and registration Click Here! There is also a training scheduled for March 30 …