Crop Management

Breeding, energy, shelf life will drive future of storage

What might fruit storage look like in the future? Several experts shared their thoughts with FGN. Randy Beaudry, a horticulture professor at Michigan State University, said storage technology has pushed fruit about as hard as... more »

MRLs could pose trade barrier for U.S. fruit exports

Market pressures are forcing growers to be more aware of the impacts of maximum residue levels (MRLs) on their product. Without attention to detail, they could be locked out of markets in the global food... more »

Finalized Clean Water Rule released amid ag pushback

Agriculture groups were critical of the anticipated impact of new rules expanding the definition of protected waterways recently issued by EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. According to the administration of President Barack... more »

Controlling cherry leaf spot in orchards with existing symptoms

Cherry leaf spot is the most important fungal disease of tart cherries in Michigan. The leaf spot fungus, Blumeriella jaapii, typically infects leaves and symptoms first appear on upper leaf surfaces as small, purple spots.... more »

Excessive rain promotes Phytophthora diseases in raspberries, strawberries

In a rainy year, there is a higher risk of diseases caused by Oomycetes, also called “water molds,” especially Phytophthora species, which thrive in waterlogged soils and areas with standing water for periods of time.... more »

Weather ideal for start of downy mildew in grapes

Downy mildew, caused by the oomycete Plasmopara viticola, has gotten off to a good start in 2015 due to copious rainfall, moderately warm temperatures and high relative humidity over the past weeks. Downy mildew was... more »

PMA gathers industry leaders to address produce safety policy

Produce Marketing Association officials convened leaders of the fresh produce industry, regulatory officials, and esteemed members of academia for a Produce Safety Policy Conference in Washington D.C. Topics discussed during the event were the Food... more »

UD researcher finds potential cause of hollow heart disorder in watermelons

Hollow heart disorder in watermelons affects growers throughout the United States and threatens the marketability of the fruit, which can lead to monetary losses.Trying to find a cause and possible solution for the disorder, the... more »

New study shows benefits of crop rotation

A study authored by Michigan State University (MSU) Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences assistant professor Lisa Tiemann is the first of its kind to show that crop rotations, in isolation from other management... more »

Maxwell Norton, director of UCCE in Merced County, to retire after 36 years

Maxwell Norton, UC Cooperative Extension director and advisor in Merced and Mariposa counties, plans to retire on July 1. Norton, who specializes in tree fruit, grapes and farmland preservation, has served Merced County growers for... more »

Current Issue

On-farm AI: Water, farm, labor research guide decisions

Data collection tool expands farm management

Carmel Valley winegrapes: Parsonage Village Vineyard

IFTA Yakima Valley tour provides orchard insights

IFTA recognizes tree fruit honorees

Pennsylvania recognizes fruit industry professionals

Fresh Views 40 Under 40

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