LATEST POSTS
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Question of the Week – Root Collar Excavation
Why are the roots of this peach tree exposed? One of the biggest disease issues peach growers in South Carolina face is Armillaria Root Rot (ARR). The main reason this disease is so challenging is that we currently do not have a foolproof option for controlling its spread. The best and most effective way, researchers…
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South Carolina Field Update (April 20, 2026): Near-Record Heat Brings Sun Scalding Issues In Strawberries
As strawberry harvest is in full swing, sunscald has appeared on berries across the state. Issues with powdery mildew and spider mites are also still active. While we are all anxiously awaiting the rain forecast for this weekend, remember that rain can easily damage ripening strawberries. Be ready to sanitize fields. Check out this recent…
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April Grower Spotlight – Baxley Family Farms
Where is Andy visiting this week? Andy is visiting Baxley Family Farms in Georgetown, SC. Baxley Family Farms is a multi-generation operation focused on raising cattle, row crops, and local produce with a deep commitment to conservation and responsible land stewardship. Their on-farm market, Black Mingo Produce, offers fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, eggs, and dairy…
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South Carolina Field Update (April 13, 2026): Insects Are Up, Disease Is Down As Drought Continues
Dry, dusty conditions continue as near-record heat sets in this week. Though overall disease pressure is low, powdery mildew is appearing in multiple crops. The weather conditions are allowing insects and mites to thrive. Clemson Extension agents have been working hard the past year writing a cut flower manual. The new manual will be available…
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Question of the Week – Cold Injury
What happened to these strawberry leaflets? Although the tops of these strawberry leaves look perfectly fine, their undersides are discolored and bronze. The culprit? Cold damage. Only showing up on the underside of the leaf because, as the covers were pulled over the plants, the leaves were folded over. Leaves that came in direct contact…
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South Carolina Field Update (April 6, 2026): Crops Look Good So Long As the Irrigation is Running
Despite the forecast for a stormy Easter, most of the state remains dry after receiving very little rain. Strawberry picking is wide open in the Lowcountry and Midlands and is beginning in the Upstate. Disease remains low, though some dry-weather-related insect and mite problems are emerging. Key Takeaways for Growers This Week The latest episode…
The South Carolina Grower 