LATEST POSTS
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South Carolina Field Update (June 29, 2026): Heat For the 4th
It’s going to be a hot week as we prepare for Independence Day. But the weather will be perfect for enjoying some cold watermelon and juicy peaches. Watermelon harvest is going strong with high yields reported. Disease is popping up in places as rain has created favorable conditions. Key Takeaways for Growers This Week Lowcountry…
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Question of the Week – Phytotoxicity
What caused the spots on these watermelon leaves? These mysterious brown spots were observed in several fields that had recently been treated by an airplane. At first glance, the small brown lesions resembled symptoms of a foliar disease. However, several observations suggested a non-pathogenic cause. The spots were only found in fields that had received aerial applications. Within affected fields, the…
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South Carolina Field Update (June 22, 2026): Watermelon Season Is Here
Watermelon harvest is wide open as summer officially begins. Disease and insect pressure have increased since most of the state has received some rain. Sunscald is appearing on some crops with sparse canopies to protect them from the sun. Vascular diseases are becoming a problem in crops across the state. South Carolina farmers can receive…
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Question of the Week – Giant Swallowtail Caterpillar
Which of these two photos shows a caterpillar? Who knew that looking like poop could save your life? The orangedog (or giant swallowtail) caterpillar is a master at disguise, as witnessed in this photo. The photo on the right shows the caterpillar larvae, while the photo on the left shows bird feces. Not only does…
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South Carolina Field Update (June 15, 2026): “Freestone” Peaches Are Coming In
After several days of heat and humidity, the weather will be slightly cooler this week. Insect pressure has increased recently, including caterpillars, false chinch bugs, and stink bugs. Disease pressure has also greatly increased. South Carolina farmers can receive a $100.00 stipend for completing a short survey on the 2026 Farmers Market Price Reports. Clemson…
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June Grower Spotlight – Dorr Farms
Where is Daniel visiting this week? Dorr Farms is a family-owned produce farm in Gable, SC. Owners Maynard and Marie Dorr started the farm in 1996 by building two turkey barns and raising poults for Prestage Farms in Cassatt, SC. In 1999, Maynard started a one-acre garden, and then in 2001, Greg Harvey, a former…
The South Carolina Grower 