Challenging Weather Impacting Alabama Watermelon Producers

Clint ThompsonAlabama, Watermelon

By Clint Thompson Alabama’s watermelon crop is on pace for a normal, average year, according to one producer. Jeremy Sessions, who farms 50 acres in Grand Bay, Alabama, said he should be ready to harvest by June 10. This comes despite challenging weather conditions throughout the growing season. “Everything looks pretty good. Early, we had some tough growing conditions. They …

Rain Effect: Disease Management Critical for Georgia Watermelon Producers

Clint ThompsonGeorgia, Watermelon

By Clint Thompson Disease management in Georgia watermelons is currently a challenge considering how saturated fields are amid excessive rains this spring. The crop is susceptible to multiple diseases, and many farmers are unable to access the fields to apply much needed fungicides. Ty Torrance, University of Georgia Cooperative Extension vegetable agent for Colquitt, Tift and Worth counties, discussed the …

Powdery Mildew Observed in North Florida Watermelons

Clint ThompsonFlorida, Watermelon

By Clint Thompson Powdery mildew disease has been observed in North Florida watermelons. Bob Hochmuth, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Regional Specialized Extension agent in Live Oak, Florida, confirmed the disease’s presence in an email this week, though most fields have not yet shown signs of the disease. “The disease is in its initial stages …

Not Again: Fusarium Wilt a Recurring Concern for Florida Watermelon Producers

Clint ThompsonFlorida, Uncategorized

By Clint Thompson Fusarium wilt disease is once again rearing its ugly head in Florida watermelons this year, according to one University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) researcher. Nick Dufault, a plant pathologist with the UF/IFAS, noted in a blog that while little can be done now to manage the disease, it is still vital for …

Attention Watermelon Producers: Be Alert for Increased Rindworm Feedings

Clint ThompsonFlorida, Watermelon

By Clint Thompson Rindworm activity has yet to be reported in North Florida’s watermelon crop. But increased feedings are expected in the upcoming weeks, believes Bob Hochmuth, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Regional Specialized Extension agent in Live Oak, Florida. Hochmuth reported in his weekly email on Sunday that growers should continue to scout for …

Bacterial Leaf Spot Confirmed in North Florida Watermelon Crop

Clint ThompsonFlorida, Watermelon

Disease detection picked up over the previous week in North Florida watermelons. As observations of bacterial leaf spot and Alternaria leaf spot have been confirmed, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is advising growers to scout fields more closely as a result. “Based on field visits last week, I see the greater concern and recommendation to be …

Disease Management Options for North Florida Watermelons

Clint ThompsonFlorida, Watermelon

By Clint Thompson While disease incidences have been minimal so far in North Florida watermelons, growers would be wise to plan accordingly, says Bob Hochmuth, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Regional Specialized Extension agent in Live Oak, Florida. Hochmuth said in his weekly email that only gummy stem blight has been observed in the Suwanee …

New Study Shows Key Strategies for Merchandising Watermelon

Clint ThompsonFlorida, Watermelon

The National Watermelon and Promotion Board (NWPB) has announced the release of its most recent consumer research and Marketing Guide that will arm producers with information to make strategic decisions and build awareness of the opportunities within the watermelon industry. The study is entitled, “Watermelon Attitudes and Usage Research.” It delves into consumer thought patterns centered around watermelons. Its focus …

What’s Next? Management Tips for North Florida Watermelon Producers

Clint ThompsonFlorida, Watermelon

By Clint Thompson Watermelon plants are in the ground throughout North Florida. Growers are now tasked with ensuring their plants are protected and cared for over the next couple of months. Bob Hochmuth, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Regional Specialized Extension agent in Live Oak, Florida, provides some management tips for producers. “We want to …

UF/IFAS Extension Agent: North Florida Watermelon Acres Up At Least 10%

Clint ThompsonFlorida, Watermelon

By Clint Thompson North Florida watermelon producers have the majority of this year’s crop in the ground … and there is a lot of it following a substantial increase in acres. “I think the consensus is there is an increase in acreage in this vicinity. Exactly how much? It seems like it’s 10% more,” said Bob Hochmuth, University of Florida …