Harvest time is near. Peanut maturity clinics are underway. Some late-March planted peanuts showed ready, and have been dug and picked. Many of the peanuts were planted from mid-April and on. Most of them are showing true to the normal maturity on the peanut maturity board. It is always good to check maturity for individual fields to determine the optimum digging dates. Growers are welcome to attend the scheduled maturity clinics or call for an appointment at other times. We have seen an increase in the moths flying and caterpillars in some fields, so keep an eye on those fields that are nearing harvest. Some fields have been treated for caterpillars – remember the threshold for treatment in peanuts is 4 to 8 caterpillars per foot of row. If you have questions or concerns, we would be glad to visit about it.
Some of the early planted cotton in the county has been defoliated already. With the recent hot temperatures, open bolls are really increasing in many fields. Silverleaf whitefly numbers seem to be holding steady in maturing cotton plants, but can still be an issue in younger cotton. Timely defoliation and harvest decisions can make a difference in cotton quality and quantity.
Fall vegetable planting is in full swing. Peppers, cucumbers, collards, sweet corn and snap beans are some, just to name a few. Below is a picture of a sweet corn variety trial that was planted two weeks ago in Worth County.
As always, if we can help you, please let us know – Worth County Extension. We look forward to hearing from you. We hope you all have a good and safe Labor Day Weekend!