In this deep dive episode, Commercial Horticulture Agent Rob Last talks with Professor of Plant Pathology Research and Extension Vegetable Pathologist Dr. Anthony Keinath and discusses recent observations and tips for dealing with fusarium wilt in watermelons.

In this episode, Zack, Anna Sara, Andy, Sarah and Justin share an update on what’s happening in the fields across the state. We are entering into the peak season for many fruits and vegetables, and with that comes plenty of pest and disease issues to talk about. The group discusses potential virus issues on squash plants, fertility concerns, crops coming to harvest and cover a pest that has been causing some big issues in peaches. Justin shares with us the answer for our “Question of the Week” from last week. Tune in to learn more about the issues we are seeing in the fields as well as what the latest Q W photo is.

In this episode of SC Grower Exchange, Clemson Extension agent Zack Snipes interviews Clemson’s new post-harvest handling specialist, Dr. Karin Albornoz.  They discuss easy ways to improve post-harvest handling of produce, for any size farm or garden and what that can mean for the environment and your bottom line. Dr. Albornoz also casts her vision for her research path and how she, along with growers, can reduce food loss and optimize profitability for decades to come.

Tune in as Zack, Andy, Brittney, Philip, and Sarah share crop updates from around the state. Zack shares with us that cucurbit downy mildew has been found and confirmed in the coastal region of the state. If you suspect you have downy mildew, please reach out to your extension agent so we can get confirmation and report any outbreaks. The peach crop is heavy this year, and harvest has begun. Strawberries are still being harvested, but production has slowed as pest and disease pressure rises. Vegetable crops are looking good with just a few issues so far. Justin discusses our pick for “Question of the Week,” which was the periodical cicada.

Brittany, Ann Sara, Rob, Philip and Sarah share agent field updates. Overall, crops are looking good, but we cover a few pests that are starting to emerge that growers will want to keep an eye out for. The group mentions the importance of using selective insecticides when beneficial or predatory insects are present, as well as being mindful of proper pest ID to determine whether treatment is necessary. Justin shares an update on diamondback moth, pecan and citrus trials and shares with us the question of the week pick, which was hoverfly larvae.

In addition to today's field update, tune into this month’s deep dive as Clemson Extension Agent Zack Snipes interviews Dr. Gilbert Miller, a Clemson researcher at Edisto Research and Education Center. Dr. Miller will give insight on how to irrigate crops properly, how soil type impacts irrigation frequency and duration, and how to properly fertigate fields.

As temperatures warm up, we are seeing an increase in disease and insect pressure. Agents from the Midlands, Coastal and Upstate Regions share what’s happening in the fields this week. Wet weather has led to an increase in gray mold throughout some strawberry fields, and we have seen an uptick in spider mite populations. Peaches are loaded and gearing up for a busy season. The coastal region is moving right along with crops including tomatoes that are already being strung. Justin gives us an update on trials and introduces the question of the week which was a submission from Rob.

It’s a full house today on the SC Grower Exchange. Our agents give reports from all regions of the state. Strawberries are looking good, but we continue to see mite infestations. As new crops are going in, don’t forget to check them for mites as well. Vegetable transplants are in the ground, so now is the time to scout those fields and keep a close eye on any issues that may pop up. It looks like we will have a good peach year if we can escape a cold snap in the next two weeks. The crop is heavy, so thinning will be necessary. Also, agents are seeing diamondback moths around the state, so caterpillar trials will be underway soon. Justin and Sarah discuss the pick for “Question of the Week” which was the shothole borer.

This week we introduce our newest fruit and vegetable agent, Anna Sara Hill, who covers Allendale, Hampton, Barnwell and Bamberg Counties. Agents give updates on the strawberry crop as well as peaches and greens. A frost/freeze warning is in effect for tonight for the midlands and upstate. Lacy Barnette gives a climate smart update.

This week, Justin Ballew takes a deep dive with Extension Vegetable Pathologist Dr. Anthony Keinath on Sclerotinia White Mold, its effect on different crops across South Carolina, and much more.