By Clint Thompson Southwest Alabama’s pecan crop is still feeling the effects of Hurricane Sally in 2020. That is a big reason the crop is expected to be down this year, according to Bryan Wilkins, Alabama Extension research associate. “We’re probably somewhere around 2, 2.5 million pounds, maybe a little more, if we make it through this drought,” Wilkins said. …
Upon Further Review: Grafting Tomato Plants Benefits Growers Long Term
By Clint Thompson Grafting tomato plants may be an expensive venture for commercial growers, but they will be the ones laughing at the end, capitalizing with fruit when supply is limited. Jacob Kelley, Alabama regional Extension agent, encourages his producers to adopt the practice to help overcome diseases that are prevalent in South Alabama. “A lot of these diseases and …
Farmers Be on Alert for Corn Earworm
By Clint Thompson Alabama sweet corn producers should be mindful that corn earworm populations are spiking and pose a threat to their crop. Katelyn Kesheimer, Auburn University assistant professor and Extension specialist, talked about the insect and described what growers are seeing this year. “It was hit or miss depending on if you got hit with some of those major …
Grape Producers Be Wary of SWD, Sour Rot
By Clint Thompson Southeast grape producers should be mindful that the time is now to manage spotted wing drosophila (SWD) flies. Doing so will help suppress sour rot in grapes that are susceptible. Brett Blaauw, assistant professor at the University of Georgia (UGA) College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, noted in the UGA Extension Viticulture Blog, that the flies are active …
Alabama Producers Switching to Fiber Hemp
By Clint Thompson Hemp production has hit a crossroads in Alabama this year. The number of hemp producers in the state has decreased dramatically since when the crop was first produced. However, more growers are starting to transition to producing the crop for fiber hemp instead of floral hemp. Katelyn Kesheimer, Auburn University assistant professor and Extension specialist, discussed the …
Watermelon Quality Essential for Alabama Growers
By Will Jordan Watermelon harvests continue in Alabama. Some growers are winding down, while others have more crop to pick. It is important that producers ensure the highest quality for consumers. The best practices for increasing sweetness levels for that signature watermelon flavor is clouded by some misconceptions. Andre da Silva, Alabama Extension vegetable specialist, shares some insight.
Sweet Grown Alabama Day a Success
By Clint Thompson Sweet Grown Alabama Day on Saturday provided the state’s specialty crop producers an outlet to market their product and connect with the state’s consumers. The second annual event emphasized the importance of consumers buying and supporting local farmers, says Aisling Fields, Sweet Grown Alabama assistant director. “With it being our second year, Sweet Grown Alabama Day was …
North Alabama Rains Prompt Growers to Apply Fungicides
By Clint Thompson Recent rain events in North Alabama have prompted specialty crop producers to increase their fungicide applications. Eric Schavey, regional Extension agent in Northeast Alabama, said rainfall in the region has been sporadic in some areas and non-existent in others. But the increased moisture in certain areas has forced growers to apply fungicide sprays to control potential diseases. …