Fruits

California melon growers prepare for July 4 demand

California watermelons, cantaloupes, honeydews and mixed melons will arrive in grocery stores in time for the Independence Day holiday, an important marketing window melon growers and shippers strive to meet each season. “It is critical... more »

Fresh produce import inspection fee changes proposed

Imported produce fees may see changes. The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is proposing altering the regulations governing the inspection and certification of imported fresh fruits, vegetables and other products. The proposed changes, announced on... more »

Great Bear Vineyards’ biologicals focus

As the owner of Great Bear Vineyards, which will complete transitioning all grapes to organic production this year, Marcus Meadows-Smith relies on biological products to help control disease and pests. He’s not just a user... more »

Tree fruit, berries, grapes receive USDA market promotion funds

Apples, cherries, pears, cranberries, table grapes and watermelons are among the commodities receiving federal funds for promotion and market development funding. The funding is part of $300 million allocated to 66 U.S. organizations under the... more »

Washington Apple Commission taps Florida tomato leader as new head

The new head of the Washington Apple Commission (WAC) returns to the Evergreen State after working for the business interests of Florida tomato growers. Michael Schadler, executive vice president of the Florida Tomato Exchange (FTE),... more »

Cornell University, USDA break ground on new grape research facility

A groundbreaking ceremony was held for a new state-of-the-art USDA grape research facility on the Cornell AgriTech campus, which was hosted by USDA's Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life... more »

Invasive spotted lanternfly confirmed in Michigan

The invasive spotted lanternfly has been found in a Michigan county. Michigan officials have confirmed the state’s second detection of the invasive spotted lanternfly (SLF) in Monroe County. SLF is a destructive pest that feeds... more »

OSU South Centers to host Crop, Soil & Water Field Night on July 25

Drones and inputs will be part of a Crop, Soil & Water Field Night to be hosted by Ohio State University (OSU). The OSU South Centers Soil, Water, and Bioenergy program will host the July... more »