By Clint Thompson Georgia’s blueberry farmers have their share of seasonal challenges. Some federal assistance is needed if growers are going to remain sustainable. Russ Goodman, a Georgia blueberry grower and state representative, communicated those pleas of assistance to AgNet Media prior to the recent Farm Bill listening session in Newberry, Florida. “We just need protection from unfair trade, and …
In the Field: Clemson Extension Agents Provide Crop Updates
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. Statewide Tom Bilbo reports, “Cyclamen mites are another pest mite of [possible] concern for South Carolina growers and you should know what to look for as I have confirmed their presence on several farms …
Georgia Blueberries Expected Sooner Than Normal
By Clint Thompson Georgia blueberries are expected to be ready for harvest earlier than normal this year. One producer believes it is due to the warm temperatures the region experienced in February. Albert Wildes, who operates 50 acres in Alma, Georgia, said harvests should begin within the next two weeks for his crop. “I have not started harvesting. There’s just …
UF/IFAS Receiving Favorable Comments with Blueberry Growers Guide App
By Clint Thompson The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Blueberry Growers Guide phone app has drawn rave reviews from the people who need it the most – Florida’s blueberry producers. Doug Phillips, UF/IFAS blueberry Extension coordinator at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, discussed the app, which started a couple of years ago. “I …
North Carolina Blueberry Growers Gather for Annual Open House
By Frank Giles The North Carolina Blueberry Council presented its 57th annual open house and trade show on Jan. 10–11 in Fayetteville. The event drew area growers to learn about the latest research from North Carolina State University (NC State) and to check out the latest products and services available on the trade show floor. Bill Cline, NC State entomologist …
Giving Blueberries a Boost to Continue Consumption Growth
By Frank Giles The Florida Blueberry Growers Association hosted its annual short course in Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida, in October. The meeting featured educational sessions ranging from optimizing pollination and marketing to chilli thrips control and new varieties. Growers were in good spirits at the meeting, despite impacts from Hurricane Ian. While some growers further south in the state took a hard …
Promotion and Marketing Critical to Florida Blueberry Industry’s Success
By Frank Giles The Florida Blueberry Growers Association hosted its annual short course in Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida, in October. The meeting featured educational sessions ranging from optimizing pollination and marketing to chilli thrips control and new varieties. Growers were in good spirits at the meeting, despite impacts from Hurricane Ian. While some growers further south in the state took a hard …
Considerations for Blueberry Farmers Following Hurricane Ian
University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences blueberry specialists issued considerations for blueberry producers amid Hurricane Ian. High winds and heavy rains can cause significant damage and plant stress to blueberry fields. Below are some considerations for growers dealing with the aftermath from Hurricane Ian. Blueberries are sensitive to flood injury. Check fields for surface water drainage. Make …
Alabama Blueberry Producers had ‘Outstanding’ Year
By Clint Thompson Blueberry producers in the southwest part of Alabama had a better production season than some of their contemporaries in neighboring states. According to Jacob Kelley, Alabama regional Extension agent, blueberry growers in southwestern Alabama, including Mobile, Baldwin, Washington, Clarke, Monroe, Conecuh, Escambia and Butler counties, had an “outstanding” crop. The biggest advantage Alabama producers had over Florida …
Aftermath of Freeze on Georgia Blueberries
By Clint Thompson The aftermath of last spring’s freezing temperatures on Georgia’s blueberry crop was devastating. Crops were lost. Revenue that was counted on was never realized. Estimates were that more than 54 million pounds were lost as a result of the March 12-13 freeze event. The crop loss affected more than just growers themselves. Chris Butts, executive vice president …