By Clint Thompson University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) researchers are continuing their studies in paper mulch with respect to watermelon production in the Southeast. Its development is important for a region that depends heavily on watermelon production. Bob Hochmuth, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Regional Specialized Extension agent in Live Oak, …
Specialty Crop Grower Magazine: Optimizing Federal Food Program Spending Benefits U.S. Growers
By Frank Giles America’s farm and food policy is a complicated business. It is a constantly shifting landscape, especially under President Trump’s tariff-driven approach. To stay up to date on these matters, I recommend following the work of Daniel Munch, economist for the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF). He has spoken at a couple of AgNet Media events and always …
Specialty Crop Grower Magazine: School Cafeterias Offer New Markets for Growers
The Last WordBy Hugh E. Weathers Two areas in which specialty crop growers often tell us they want more assistance with are finding new markets and scaling up production. In South Carolina, we’re rolling out a new market opportunity called Certified SC Cafeteria. I think it will address both of these grower needs. Certified South Carolina, our state’s agricultural branding …
Ponds Drying Up: Increased Drought a Concern for Alabama Growers
By Clint Thompson Increased drought in North Alabama has farmers concerned about decreasing pond levels. Ponds are a major source of irrigation during the production season. But the lack of rain this fall has caused those sources to dry up considerably, says Eric Schavey, regional Extension agent in Northeast Alabama. “They’re down because the water table is so low. We’re …
Suwanee Valley Watermelon Institute Informs Growers Ahead of 2026 Season
By Clint Thompson North Florida watermelon growers are in the planning stages for next year’s crop in the Suwanee Valley region. That made Thursday’s Suwanee Valley Watermelon Institute in Fanning Springs, Florida, especially important. University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) researchers highlighted trendy topics that producers must consider, a little more than two months away from …
Georgia Growers Tour Brazil’s Citrus Industry
A recent tour of Brazilian citrus provided Georgia growers with valuable information on how to capitalize on production amid huanglongbing (HLB) disease. Lindy Savelle, executive director of the Georgia Citrus Association and owner of JoNina Farm, was one of seven producers who attended the week-long tour this fall. One of the main observations was Brazil’s strong production despite the prevalence …
‘Frustrating Times’ for Georgia Pecan Growers
By Clint Thompson Pecan harvests are not panning out like Georgia growers expected and hoped for this harvest season. Lenny Wells, University of Georgia (UGA) Extension pecan specialist, said the crop was ‘light’ early into the harvest season. Georgia pecan grower Randy Hudson believes Georgia yields will fall below 100 million pounds this year. “We’ve had a beautiful harvest season. …
Action Required? Strawberry Growers Brace for Early-Season Cold Snap
By Clint Thompson Potential sub-freezing temperatures in the Southeast the first of next week has strawberry growers contemplating an important decision early in the growing season – apply row covers or do nothing. Temperatures are expected in the high 20s in some locations, which could impact young strawberry plants, says David Lawrence, regional Extension agent in central Alabama. “I see …
Florida Strawberry Growers Ready to Turn the Page
By Clint Thompson Florida strawberry growers are ready to turn the page following last year’s season. Hurricane Milton’s impact in the region in early October 2024 led to a challenging production year, says Nick Wishnatzki, public relations director at Wish Farms in Plant City, Florida. “All the growers in Florida are ready to turn the page from last year. It …
November Management Tips for Blueberry Growers
The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences offers management tips for blueberry growers in November. Growers should monitor and manage leaf diseases, especially in evergreen systems. As far as insect pests, producers should begin monitoring for blueberry gall midge and spray recommended insecticides when adults are seen. If traps are not being implemented, spray right before floral …



















