Organic onion production in Georgia is nothing new. But the data is lacking for farmers who are trying to expand and be more efficient in their operations. That is why Tim Coolong, associate professor in the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, is studying organic onion production. “Onions have been grown conventionally for decades. That system, I feel like …
Beware of Fungicide Resistance When Managing Downy Mildew Disease
Fungicide resistance remains a concern for Florida vegetable farmers trying to manage downy mildew disease. Scientists like Gary Vallad, a Professor of Plant Pathology at the University of Florida/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, implore producers not to be too reliant on one specific fungicide. It can lead to resistance issues. “Orondis is one that is kind of the …
Natural Habitat for Birds, Safe Produce Co-exist?
With an interest in wildlife while possessing an expertise in food safety, Kristin Woods is concerned about risks bird populations have on fruit and vegetable production in the Southeast. “It is possible to do both, have safe produce and maintain habitat for birds and other wildlife. But it really is an area we need more research in to know how …
Hemp Testing Expected More Frequently in 2021
Some Georgia hemp producers were victimized this year by having their crop’s THC level exceed 0.3 level. Subsequently, the hemp was destroyed, which was the case for 11 producers. Tim Coolong, associate professor in the University of Georgia (UGA) College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and leader in hemp research at UGA, said he heard farmers in east Georgia who …
UF Blueberry Breeder on Sentinel Variety: It Can Make You Money
The University of Florida’s (UF) newest blueberry variety possesses the quality all growers want in the Sunshine State. “It can make you money,” said Patricio Munoz, UF blueberry breeder. Munoz emphasized the attributes that make the Sentinel variety highly sought after from Florida farmers. “We can go around to yield, quality and everything but, yes, this one can make you …
Sneak Peek: January 2021 VSCNews Magazine
By Ashley Robinson The January issue of VSCNews magazine will be the blueberry grower’s handbook heading into the 2021 season. Chilli thrips are a growing threat for blueberry growers. Without proper management of the pest, overall plant vigor and yields can be affected. Oscar Liburd, a professor at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) in …
The Top Reasons Why We Believe in Florida Citrus
Fifteen years into the fight against HLB, growers keep learning and producing fruit and will continue to do so.
Will 2021 Be Any Different?
This year was a season unlike any other for produce farmers in the Southeast. Not only did COVID-19 strike at the worst time, but lingering international trade issues with Mexico resulted in diminished market prices for producers like Tifton, Georgia farmer Bill Brim. If something isn’t done soon, 2021 will be no different than 2020. “We’ve been fighting Mexico since …
Florida Farmer Looking Forward to 2021
Florida farmers are used to adversity. Between occasional hurricanes, unpredictable market prices and challenging international trade from competitors like Mexico, no season is stress free in the Sunshine State. “It’s not an easy profession. It seems like more paperwork, more everything all the time; more disease, more pests, more regulations,” said Florida blueberry producer Ryan Atwood. “You throw the (coronavirus) …
A Southern Fir Christmas Tree is on the Horizon for Ornamental, Timber Industries
By Mark Czarnota for CAES News During the holiday season in the U.S., more than 20 million freshly cut Christmas trees are sold every year, with fir trees topping the most-desired list. Unfortunately growers cannot meet the needs of consumers, and every year, there is a shortage of trees, primarily due to the incredible losses of susceptible firs — including …