Asian bean thrips (ABT) continue to be problematic for vegetable producers in South Florida. According to the University of Florida/IFAS, populations are increasing consistently across the region. Reports from the Homestead region indicate Asian bean thrips are the predominate species, though have decreased from 100% ABT to 70% ABT and 30% F. palmi. Other thrips species are increasing north of …
The Challenges of Controlling Silk Flies in Florida Sweet Corn
By Julien Beuzelin Corn silk flies are the most damaging insects of sweet corn in southern Florida. Adults of three species(Euxesta stigmatias, Euxesta eluta and Chaetopsis massyla) are commonly observed in commercial fields where they lay eggs on sweet corn silks. Maggots feed on silks and kernels before leaving the ear and falling onto the soil surface, under which they …
Strength in Numbers for ‘We Believe in Florida Citrus’ Movement
Learn more about initiative that shines a light on the positives happening for the Sunshine State’s signature crop.
$15 Minimum Wage? Potential Increase Would Impact Southeast Producers
The Biden Administration’s push for a $15 minimum wage would have significant ramifications for farmers who utilize the H-2A program. Veronica Nigh, economist with American Farm Bureau, discusses the financial impact a higher minimum wage would have on Southeast vegetable and specialty crop producers. “The H-2A program stipulates you have to pay the highest wage of (either) the state minimum …
Seed Facility: Bayer Opens Distribution Center in South Georgia
A new fruit and vegetable seed distribution center will provide seed to Southeast produce farmers in a timely and efficient fashion. Bayer Vegetable Seeds announced the opening of its new distribution center in Valdosta, Georgia, located about 10 minutes from the Georgia-Florida state line. It will provide access to its Seminis branded large seed portfolio. Currently, the distribution center is …
Whitefly Numbers Increasing in Florida Vegetables
According to today’s release of the South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline, whitefly numbers are increasing in some older tomato fields across the southwest Florida region. As many as 5 to 10 whiteflies per leaflet have been detected. Whiteflies are also present in high numbers in cucumbers, squash and eggplant. They are beginning to show up in some young tomato …
Cold Temperatures Slow Growth of Florida Blueberries
Florida blueberries are normally in peak pollination season this time of the year. But that isn’t the case this season, however, says Ryan Atwood, who lives in Mount Dora, Florida and is one of the state’s blueberry leaders. “We’re starting to get some flower emergence. Normally by now we’re in peak pollination season. I don’t think we’re there yet in …
Blueberry Imports a Complement to Southeastern Producers?
The Blueberry Coalition of Progress and Health contends that imports of blueberries do not take away markets from southeastern growers but complements their production. It made its case to the International Trade Commission (ITC) on Jan. 12 during a virtual hearing and continues to believe there is a big enough “blueberry pie” for all parties to benefit from. “That’s why …
Phony Peach Prevalence in Southeast
By Ashley Robinson Peach trees are plagued by several different diseases throughout the growing season. But one disease is causing noticeable losses within orchards in Georgia. Phony peach disease, caused by the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa, has been challenging for growers ever since its first detection in 1885 near Marshallville, Georgia. Recently, growers across the southeast have reported an increase in …
Florida Blueberry Producer: Data Makes the Case for Us
A decision could come soon for Southeast blueberry growers hoping to find relief from seasonal imports causing harm to their farming operations. The International Trade Commission (ITC) heard the American Blueberry Growers Alliance Case in early January. Now, it will formulate a recommendation for President Biden to decide how to move forward. “I think the data makes the case for …