UF Scientists Trying to Control Avocado Pathogen

Dan Fruits, Research

University of Florida experts are trying to find ways to prevent Laurel Wilt, the pathogen endangering the state’s $100 million-a-year avocado industry, from spreading. They recently took their data to California to talk with scientists, growers, and regulators there. AgNet Media’s Taylor Hillman talked with Jonathan Crane, UF/IFAS professor of horticultural sciences and tropic fruit extension specialist, about the disease …

National Watermelon Day

Dan Fruits, This Land of Ours

Cathy Isom tells us a lot of different ways of celebrating a refreshing and sweet summertime fruit. That’s coming up on This Land of Ours.     Which fruit is made up of 92% water, refreshing, sweet, and is a summertime staple at picnics and outdoor cookouts?  Why, yes, of course, it’s watermelon. And today is the perfect day to …

UF Scientists to Help California, Florida Growers Control Dangerous Avocado Pathogen

Dan Florida, Fruits, Industry News Release

University of Florida experts know all too well about laurel wilt, the pathogen endangering the state’s $100 million-a-year avocado industry – and they’re trying to find ways to prevent it from spreading. Now, they’re taking their data to California to talk to scientists, growers, and regulators. Faculty from the UF/IFAS Tropical Research and Education Center are in California this week …

National Peach Month

Dan Fruits, This Land of Ours

Cathy Isom tells us about a month-long celebration for one of the greatest tasting fruits. That’s coming up on “This Land of Ours.”     August is National Peach Month. Eat them right off the tree, sliced in cream, make peach cobbler with ice cream or you can even blend them in delicious smoothies or slushies. It doesn’t matter how you …

Agricultural Chemical Use Survey Results Released

Dan Field Crops, Fruits, Industry News Release, Specialty Crops, Vegetables

The 2016 Agricultural Chemical Use Survey collected data about pesticide use and pest management practices on acres planted to 28 different vegetable crops. NASS conducted the survey among producers in 19 states, focusing on the states that were major producers of the surveyed crops. (Fig. 1) In California, NASS collected data for 23 crops, the most number of crops selected …

FFVA Announces Class 7 of Emerging Leader Development Program

Dan Florida, Fruits, Vegetables

The Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association (FFVA) has selected 10 up-and-coming agriculture industry leaders to participate in its Emerging Leader Development Program for the coming year. The 2017-2018 Class 7 members are Myles Basore, TKM Bengard; Maria Cavazos, R.C. Hatton; Catherine Cellon, Duda Farm Fresh Foods; Philip Grigsby, Premier Ag Finance; Brent Johnson, DuPont; Frankie Montalvo, Glades Formulating Corp.; Justin …