With tensions high during the coronavirus crisis, move to allow fruit into U.S. raises alarm. See what some are saying about it.
Japanese Beetles Active in Georgia Vineyards
According to the UGA Extension Viticulture Blog, Japanese beetles are starting to become more widespread in west Georgia vineyards. University of Georgia entomologist Brett Blaauw says the pests are only beginning to emerge but expects the populations to increase exponentially over the next few weeks. “In large enough numbers, Japanese beetles can be a severe pest of grapes during the …
Pepper Weevils a Problem for Vegetable Growers Again
By Clint Thompson Pepper weevils are once again a problem for pepper growers in the Southeast. Weevils are a problem wherever present, whether it is in high populations or low populations. “Anytime you have pepper weevil it’s a problem and in very low populations because of the contamination. High populations can cause fruit abscission. It can hurt your yields considerably. …
Georgia Budget Cuts Include Five Farmers Market Locations
By Clint Thompson Unless changes are made by the Georgia Legislature to the Department of Agriculture’s proposed budget cuts, five state farmers market locations could soon become business casualties. Locations in Augusta, Cordele, Macon, Savannah and Thomasville are on the list to be cut. Julie McPeake, Georgia Department of Agriculture Chief Communication Officer, said the proposal has been sent to …
Fire Ant Swarms a Danger to Hemp
By Clint Thompson Hemp producers in the Southeast need to be mindful of fire ants. They will damage the stems of hemp plants if not treated, said Katelyn Kesheimer, Auburn University Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist. “My phone has been ringing off the hook with fire ant problems the last seven days, really. A couple of weeks ago, we had …
USMCA Set to Enter Into Force July 1
By Clint Thompson The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) will enter into force July 1. Unfortunately, it’s still without much protection for vegetable and specialty crop producers, according to economists and industry leaders. Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association President Mike Joyner hopes that will change soon. “When Congress passed USMCA, we unfortunately did not get the provisions we were hoping for …
Understanding Nitrogen Needs of Plants From Fertilizers
Jagathi Kamalakanthan, agronomistNCDA&CS Agronomic Services Division919-733-2655 RALEIGH — Gardening can provide much needed physical activity and emotional well being to balance the effects of social distancing associated with the COVID -19 pandemic. Many people turn to their lawns and gardens to relieve stress and enjoy nature. If you are working in your yard, following are some helpful agronomic tips for …
FFVA President: CFAP Payment Amount Falls Short
By Clint Thompson The Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) will bring much-needed relief to farmers impacted by COVID-19. Unfortunately, the funds allocated per farmer is not enough, says Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association (FFVA) President Mike Joyner. “Florida agriculture was just crushed by the pandemic. A lot of our members have had some really, really big losses. When that direct …
Fresh Citrus Opportunities Florida Growers Should Not Miss
Looking to plant something new? Here is some of the lower-hanging fruit.
Meeting meat demand with plant proteins
By Jaya Joshi As the world population keeps growing, so does the pressure to feed everyone without increasing carbon footprints. By 2050, the world population is predicted to increase to 9 billion people, and the demand for meat is expected to rise by 73 percent. Meeting this demand would require an additional 160 million tons of meat per year. Are we …