Recent Posts
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As we near that magical chill hour cut off date of February 15th we once again find ourselves talking about what to do about low chill. Last season (2015 – 2016) was historically low and this season is not shaping up to be much better.
Posted in: General -
From what I have been told, there may be a shortage of oxytetracycline products this year, due to the use of this antibiotic in Florida for potential control of citrus greening. All of this is occurring at a time in which we can expect ideal conditions for bacterial spot development (warm to hot and wet…
Posted in: Pathology -
In reviewing the weather forecasts for the next 15 days or so, I am concerned about bacterial spot development. The current warm temperatures are certainly increasing bacterial numbers, and any temperature above 65 F is sufficient for multiplication. Temperatures in the upper 70s or lower 80s provide perfect conditions for bacterial multiplication and disease development. …
Posted in: Pathology -
On February 2nd neither Beauregard Lee or Punxatawney Phil saw there shadow meaning that there would be an early spring. Well since then we have had 110 chill hours which is more than we received in any of the past 4 years. So where will we be on the 15th to finish out this winter. I could make a guess…
Posted in: General -
The 2016 Middle Georgia Peach Update is coming up soon. The meeting will be held on Groundhog Day. February 2nd at the Fort Valley Farm Bureau building on highway 49. The meeting will begin at 10:00 a.m and finish with lunch at 12:00 p.m.
Posted in: General -
The possibility of a chlorothalonil (Bravo and generics) shortage came up at the Savannah Fruit and Vegetable Meeting last week, and though it is not expected to be as short as last year, that is still a real concern. Abound is always a good replacement for chlorothalonil, and it would definitely give equivalent if not…
Posted in: Pathology -
The unusually warm fall has had quite a few agricultural impacts. The Packer noted today that Florida strawberry volumes have really been set back by the warmth (link). The season started early, but the heat is stressing the plants, which causes a reduction in the number of berries set. I’ve also had some calls from…
Posted in: General