By Clint Thompson It is too early to forecast what Georgia’s pecan crop will yield for the upcoming season. Lenny Wells, University of Georgia Extension pecan specialist, believes the estimated pounds for this harvest season could fall between 2021’s crop (88.6 million pounds) and 2022’s crop (125.5 million pounds). But it is still an estimation at this point. “We’re so …
U.S. Drought Monitor: Dry Conditions in North Alabama, Georgia
Rainfall in early-to-mid June has helped alleviate much of the dry conditions experienced across the Southeast, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Only a small portion of the west coast of Florida is abnormally dry. Those counties include Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee and a small part of Collier in southern Florida. Alabama’s northern counties are in need of …
Phytophthora a Concern for Georgia Melon Farmers
By Clint Thompson South Georgia watermelon producers should be wary of an uptick in disease pressure following heavy rainfall in recent weeks. University of Georgia Extension vegetable plant pathologist Bhabesh Dutta highlights the two diseases that has his attention and should be the focus of growers moving forward. “Our growers have already been alerted about downy mildew, phytophthora,” Dutta said. …
Disaster Declaration Key for Georgia Peach Producers
By Clint Thompson A natural disaster declaration for 18 Georgia counties by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is vital assistance for peach producers impacted by the mid-March freeze. Chris Butts, executive vice president of the Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, discussed how important this declaration is for his growers who suffered near 100% loss. “What the declaration does …
Persistent Rains Hurting Georgia Watermelons
By Clint Thompson Georgia’s watermelon harvests started later than normal this year. Amid the current persistent wet weather, they also could be shorter this year. Ty Torrance, University of Georgia Cooperative Extension vegetable agent for Colquitt, Tift and Worth counties, discussed the current outlook facing the state’s watermelon producers. “It’s falling apart is what it feels like,” Torrance said. “Everybody …
What to Do About Pepper Diseases in Georgia
By Bhabesh Dutta Anthracnose in pepper is caused by a fungal group of pathogens belonging to mainly Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and C. acutatum. TWO TYPES OF ANTHRACNOSEAnthracnose in pepper is a common issue that pepper growers face, particularly after sun scalding of fruits. This type of anthracnose is called “secondary anthracnose” as the fungal pathogen needs some kind of injury to …
Pumpkin Plantings Under Way Across North Georgia
By Clint Thompson Pumpkin plantings have begun in North Georgia. One farmer is hopeful for another successful season that can maybe take some of the sting out of a disappointing peach year. Drew Echols, owner of Jaemor Farms in north Georgia, provided his outlook for the upcoming season which started with last week’s initial plantings. “Pumpkins are one of those …
Georgia Watermelon Producer: Expected Gap for Volume
By Clint Thompson Georgia’s delayed start to the watermelon season means an expected gap could hit the market this week in the Southeast. Greg Leger, owner of Leger & Son, Inc, in Cordele, Georgia, said he will not begin harvesting until next week, which is in line with the scenario most growers are facing. “I’m looking at the (June) 12th …
Georgia Industry Expert: Just Because It’s Cheap Doesn’t Make it Better
By Clint Thompson The specialty crop sector would be challenged to find a company more passionate and devoted to the future and sustainability of its farmers than those affiliated with Lewis Taylor Farms. Bill Brim, co-owner of the farming operation in Tifton, Georgia, has long advocated for the American farmer and against unfair trade which has negatively impacted producers across …
Specialty Crop’s Importance to Georgia
By Clint Thompson Georgia’s specialty crop sector remains vital to the state’s economy. Its value continues to grow in importance, according to Ben Campbell, associate professor in the University of Georgia (UGA) College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Ag and Applied Economics Department. “Specialty crops are a big player in the Ag industry. You think of greenhouses, you think of …