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By Clint Thompson Whitefly-transmitted viruses were a major focus during the Southeast Regional Fruit and Vegetable Conference in Savannah earlier this month. Squash remains the most vulnerable cucurbit to whiteflies and the viruses they transmit. Cucumber is still the least vulnerable. Some growers utilize yellow squash as a major part of their crop profile. It is not feasible for them …
By Clint Thompson Increased cold temperatures in recent weeks have meant increased chill hours for Alabama’s peach producers. Edgar Vinson, assistant research professor and Extension specialist in the Department of Horticulture at Auburn University, provided an update on how much chill hours have been accumulated, especially amid the current winter storm impacting the Southeast. “It depends on what model you’re …
By Clint Thompson A main topic discussed at the recent Southeast Regional Fruit and Vegetable Conference centered on Neopestalotiopsis (neo) disease in strawberry plants. One of the panelists believes the disease’s impact this year is directly linked to where growers obtained their plants. Phil Brannen, University of Georgia Cooperative Extension fruit disease specialist, discussed the disease’s presence in Georgia fields …
The 2025 Tri-State Fruit & Vegetable Conference is open to fruit and vegetable growers across the Florida Panhandle, as well as the southern regions of Alabama and Georgia. The conference is slated for Tuesday, Jan. 28, at the Jackson County Extension Peanut Hall Auditorium (2741 Penn Ave, Marianna, Fla.). The meeting will begin with registration at 7:15 am (CST) and …
This week’s rainfall should help the Southeast continue to gain needed moisture and overcome its current drought conditions. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, moderate and abnormally dry conditions still cover most of Florida, various parts of Georgia and central and northern parts of Alabama. The driest part of Florida remains in the northern area of the state. Moderate drought …
By Clint Thompson Spotted wing drosophila remains a concern for South Georgia blueberry growers. Ash Sial, University of Georgia (UGA) entomologist, stressed during the blueberry update held in early January that the best approach in managing the pest is not just a reliance on insecticides. Repeated applications of insecticides can lead to resistance and secondary pests. “We recommend against just …
By Clint Thompson It is better for fruit and vegetable organizations to implement a “one voice” mentality in advocating for specialty crop producers to legislative leaders. One of the by-products of the recent Southeast Regional Fruit and Vegetable Conference is that it allowed members from multiple organizations, like the Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, to come together and formulate …
WASHINGTON, DC — Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15), Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, announced the Committee’s vice chair and subcommittee leadership for the 119th Congress last week. Here’s what he had to say: “I’m thrilled to welcome both returning and new subcommittee leadership for the 119th Congress, who will lead with strength, expertise and a shared commitment to advancing the …
By Clint Thompson Pecan season has concluded in Georgia. That means the University of Georgia Extension meetings will soon be held throughout southern and central Georgia. The meetings are slated to start on Jan. 28 in Tattnall County and conclude on March 20 in Dougherty County The complete list of dates and locations include: Jan 28: Tattnall; Jan 30: Appling; Feb 4: Crisp; …
By Clint Thompson Blueberry growers in northern Florida are eyeing freezing temperatures next week and could be implementing freeze protection strategies as a result. According to weather.com, low temperatures in Gainesville, Florida, are expected to drop in the low 30s on Sunday through Wednesday, with 31-degree (Fahrenheit) temperatures expected Tuesday night and Wednesday night. That is a potential concern for …
