A lack of adequate soil moisture could make an already challenging situation for Florida citrus growers worse. It is imperative that producers keep applying irrigation amid any prolonged dry period, says Chris Oswalt, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) citrus agent. Oswalt noted that many citrus-producing regions in Florida have had little, if any, rain in …
Where’s the Chill? Cold Temperatures Needed for Strawberry Production
By Clint Thompson It felt like spring during November in Northeast Alabama. That was not ideal if you are a strawberry producer needing cold temperatures so the plants will go dormant. But that’s the scenario that growers faced, not only in Alabama, but also throughout the Southeast region. Eric Schavey, regional Extension agent in Northeast Alabama, discussed the situation facing …
Pecan Quality, Prices Down This Year
By Clint Thompson Pecan production is down this year across the Southeast; mostly due to adverse weather conditions. Steady summer rains led to scab disease development, while the current dry period led to lighter pecans than expected. Also disappointing this year are the uneven market prices growers are receiving for this year’s crop. Georgia pecan farmer Randy Hudson discussed the …
South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline: Caterpillar Infestation Update
Caterpillar pressure varies across southern Florida, according to the South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline. Overall worm pressure varies from low to high in southwest Florida. It mostly depends on location, crop and date of planting. Scouts indicate that sweet corn fields experienced low to moderate, but constant pressure from fall armyworm on young and silking corn. Beet armyworm laid …
Strawberry Management: Spray Intervals for Neopestalotiopsis Tighten in Wet Conditions
By Clint Thompson Strawberry growers normally do not have to be as aggressive with their fungicide sprays in the fall. That mindset changes, however, with Neopestalotiopsis (Neo). Phil Brannen, University of Georgia (UGA) Cooperative Extension fruit disease specialist, said growers can not wait as long between fungicide sprays if they have the disease present in their fields. “Generally, if it’s …
Upon Further Review: Freeze Protection Methods Work Well for Cold-Hardy Citrus Producers
By Clint Thompson Upon further review, citrus trees in the cold-hardy citrus region of South Georgia, North Florida and South Alabama appeared to have fared well following the Nov. 10-11 freeze event. Mary Sutton, University of Georgia (UGA) assistant professor and citrus Extension specialist, needed a few extra days to look over some of the trees in her area following …
Specialty Crop Grower Magazine: Sweet Grown Alabama Helping Producers Achieve Success
By Frank Giles Editor’s Note: This article is part of a series featuring state marketing programs across the Southeast. While Sweet Grown Alabama considers itself a “new kid on the block” among state marketing programs, it has garnered a considerable following since its inception in 2019. Today, more than 500 farms, markets, product makers, stores and restaurants have joined the …
N.C. State Extension Agent Emphasizes Food Safety
By Clint Thompson Food safety should remain at the forefront of minds of fruit and vegetable producers. That’s a point of emphasis for Elena Rogers, N.C. State Extension Area Specialized Agent in fresh produce food safety. She believes growers should acclimate themselves to the dangers posed by food-borne illnesses so the risks can be mitigated on the farm and at …
Clemson Extension Agents Provide Weekly Crop Updates
Clemson Extension agents provide updates in The South Carolina Grower this week about the status of various crops being produced throughout the state. Coastal Region Zack Snipes Midlands Rob Last Daniel Lyon Upstate Andy Rollins Sponsored ContentNew Syngenta Varieties Offer Grower SolutionsFebruary 1, 2026Attribute® II Technology Adds More Flexibility and Strength to Sweet Corn Pest ManagementJanuary 1, 2026Nuseed Carinata Covers …
Christmas Come Early: Tree Farms Sell Out Quickly
By Clint Thompson Christmas season starts earlier and earlier. No longer are people waiting until after Thanksgiving to decorate their homes for Christmas. And as we saw this year, no longer are some stores waiting until November to offer Christmas lights and decorations for sale. That mindset can also be seen on Christmas tree farms as well. While Thanksgiving Day …



















