Pest Control
Soft spray effect: Michigan vineyard’s disease management pesticide test
A Michigan winegrape grower is trialing softer pesticides that could lead to additional sustainable efforts not only in his state but also in other U.S. wine-growing regions. Shady Lane Cellars, based in Suttons Bay, Michigan,... more »
Specialty crop funding increase by Senate committee budget proposals
The U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry has released legislative text detailing proposals for a massive budget reconciliation package that dials back some House-approved changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The... more »
Michigan Viticulture Field Day scheduled
In late July, Midwest winegrape growers will converge in southwest Michigan to participate in two educational events that are designed to show growers and winemakers the latest developments in growing and processing. The annual Michigan... more »
UGA trials examine watermelon variety performance
With consumers going from seeded to seedless watermelons and desiring darker rinds and smaller size melons, breeders are upping their game and producing better varieties that aren’t seeded, too big or light- skinned and possess... more »
Cherry grower Cherry Ke promotes specialty ag through social media
Growing cherries in a region known as the “Cherry Capital of the World,” tree fruit grower Talon Felker is a social media influencer who’s on a mission to promote Michigan’s specialty crops. Through his social... more »
Sensory help: Equipment tech saves water in orchards
Because managing irrigation can be difficult, Extension researchers are developing equipment that can improve water flow management to more efficiently irrigate fruit and vegetables. By helping growers reduce pest and disease spraying, the sensors being... more »
Michigan Apple Committee announces 2025 research projects
The Michigan Apple Committee (MAC) has approved funding for 10 research projects that address challenges growers face in producing apples. For 2025, the board allocated $249,995 for the projects that range from studying lenticel breakdown... more »
IFTA recognizes industry leaders
At their western New York conference, members of the International Fruit Tree Association (IFTA) honored individuals for their contributions to the horticulture industry. Growers, horticulturists, researchers and Extension personnel received recognition during a business meeting... more »