Southeast

AI may help UF researchers identify crop-destroying nematodes

Parasitic nematodes cause $125 billion in agricultural damage around the world each year, but University of Florida scientists hope to alleviate some of that destruction. To do so, UF researchers will use artificial intelligence (AI) to... more »

North Carolina reimbursing employer expenses for quarantined farmworkers

North Carolina employers that have farmworkers with valid H-2A visas who must be quarantined during the 2021 growing season due to COVID-19 will be able to apply for assistance to offset quarantine expenses. A total... more »

Mississippi blueberry crop may see effects of cold, wet weather

Mississippi’s early spring bout of bad weather came at a critical time for producers of blueberries, the state’s largest commercial fruit crop. Blueberries can be easily damaged by cold weather, but the timing of mid-February’s... more »

UF scientists use AI technology to breed better-tasting strawberries

A tastier strawberry may come from a computer. New University of Florida research shows artificial intelligence can help scientists breed more flavor into the fruit. Consumer panels are the tried-and-true method for UF researchers to... more »

North Carolina grants support farm innovation

Over the past six years, nearly 250 family farms have gotten a kick-start from NC AgVentures for their efforts to increase profits through new and innovative agricultural projects. NC AgVentures is a North Carolina State... more »

Florida growers respond to hearing on effects of imports on Southeast

The Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association released a statement regarding the International Trade Commission’s April 8 hearing on the "Effect of Imports on the U.S. Cucumber and Squash Industries, with a Focus on the Southeast."... more »

2021 North Carolina strawberry season under way

April signals the start of strawberry season in North Carolina, and local growers are optimistic about the 2021 season and anticipate a crop that should last through Memorial Day. “The recent hard frost kept strawberry... more »

South Carolina farmers excited for 2021 growing season

After a difficult year, South Carolinians can look forward to the simple pleasures of juicy red strawberries, sweet watermelons, refreshing cucumbers, ripe peaches, fresh butter beans, vibrant basil and many other South Carolina crops. It’s... more »