Fruits

IFTA tour highlights innovative orchardists

The International Fruit Tree Association (IFTA) annual conference and tours hit the road Tuesday, Feb. 26 to learn from growers near Rochester, New York who have been trying new things in their orchards. The group... more »

Rainier Fruit continues ‘Pears for Pairs’ charity effort

Thanks to the support of Rainier Fruit and hungry pear shoppers, Harris Teeter, Wegmans and Lunds & Byerlys recently made a big difference in their local communities with... more »

Drape Net a viable option for orchard protection

An Australian product for tree fruit crop protection is making inroads to North America. Drape Net is a system for literally draping trees with netting that – similar to more expensive netting systems built into... more »

Black Star Farms names new managing owner

More than just wine is making a mark at Black Star Farms. John Schoelles, having joined the company in late 2017, has moved into the position of Controller, managing finances and information technology. Sherri Campbell... more »

USDA restricts PACA violators in California, New York

The USDA recently sanctioned four produce businesses for failure to pay awards previously ordered under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA), according to a news release. PACA handles disputes involving produce transactions. The disputes sometimes... more »

US Highbush Blueberry Council taking nominations for state leaders

Members of the highbush (cultivated) blueberry industry are now seeking nominees to fill seven U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) state member and alternate positions for the 2020-2022 term. The nomination period will begin on March... more »

Virginia Is deemed ‘ripe’ for berry growing

Virginia is not just for lovers, but for berry growers, too, according Dr. Reza Rafie, Virginia State University (VSU) Extension specialist in horticulture. That’s because after conducting extensive research of berry production across central and southside... more »

Grape Research Alliance elects members to board

The National Grape Research Alliance (NGRA) held its Annual Meeting of Members on Jan. 28, electing Vice Chair Tom Smith of E. & J. Gallo Winery to succeed outgoing Vice Chair Rick Stark of Sun-Maid Growers of California. Its... more »