Drought-like conditions that were widespread across the Southeast have dissipated in recent weeks, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. The only remaining dry conditions in Florida are located along the west coast. Severe dry conditions start as far north as Levy County and stretch southward to Manatee, Sarasota and De Soto counties. Abnormally dry conditions are also observed as far …
Grower Calls for H-2A Fix, Labor Reform
By Frank Giles There’s a farm labor crisis facing American agriculture. Adam Lytch was among the growers who took that message to Washington, D.C., on May 31 to testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Lytch, regional manager at L&M Farms, called on lawmakers to consider comprehensive immigration reform that recognizes the needs of farmers who grow the domestic food supply. …
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 …
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 …
Looming Problem: Whiteflies a Potential Concern for Fall Vegetable Producers
By Clint Thompson Alabama vegetable producers already thinking about their crop for next fall should be ready to combat whiteflies, says Andre da Silva, Alabama Extension vegetable specialist. Da Silva focused on whitefly management during a recent webinar. He believes the environmental conditions will be conducive for populations to be high this summer. “We are probably going to have a …
UGA Research: Another Option in Managing Fusarium Wilt?
By Clint Thompson A five-county University of Georgia (UGA) Extension research project is yielding positive results regarding the management of fusarium wilt disease. The research from the South Georgia counties of Berrien, Cook, Crisp, Wilcox and Turner has potentially provided another tool in the toolbox for watermelon growers challenged with this annual problem. Extension agents have researched various rootstocks and …
Increase Fungicide Sprays: More Rain Means Higher Probability of Disease
By Clint Thompson Increased rainfall in Georgia means specialty crop producers should be increasing their fungicide applications. Tim Coolong, associate professor in the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, cautions growers about the disease potential in areas of increased moisture. “It’s the same ol’ thing where drought for most vegetable growers, drought isn’t really that bad of …
Sneak Peek: June 2023 Specialty Crop Industry Magazine
The June issue of Specialty Crop Industry Magazine puts the spotlight on Lipman Family Farms which is celebrating 75 years. It prioritizes people, which includes its large workforce and the desires of consumers it serves. The company has navigated through various economic challenges, which includes rising input costs, especially labor. Elyse Lipman, chief executive officer of Lipman Family Farms, discusses …