LATEST POSTS
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Question of the Week – Spider Wasp
In this battle, who is the aggressor and who is the victim? In this battle, the wasp is the aggressor and the spider is the victim. The predatory spider wasp, in the family Pompilidae, stings and paralyzes this golden silk orb-weaver spider (Trichonephila clavipes) to provide a food source for its larva. Once the wasp…
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Two-spot Cotton Leafhopper/Cotton Jassid Insecticide Recommendations For Okra and Eggplant in South Carolina
By Tom Bilbo, Extension Entomologist As reported recently in SC Grower Weekly Updates, we have found our first adults of the two-spot cotton leafhoppers (TSCL)(Amrasca biggutula) in vegetables in SC for 2026. The first (below right) was found on a sticky card in a zucchini field at Coastal REC in Charleston on 7/23/26. The second…
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South Carolina Field Update (August 17, 2026): Triple-Digit Temps Expected as Strawberry Prep Begins
We’re in store for possibly the hottest week of the summer. Take precautions to protect yourself and workers from heat stress. Fall crops are off to a good start, and preparations for strawberries are beginning. Key Takeaways for Growers This Week Lowcountry Report Anna Sara Hill Midlands Report Rob Last Sarah Scott Upstate Report Andy…
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July Grower Spotlight – Chattooga Belle
Where is Briana visiting this week? Chattooga Belle Farm is a 200-acre farm located in Long Creek. The farm has a variety of produce throughout the seasons, including apples and peaches, muscadines, scuppernongs, table grapes, and blueberries. They also have a variety of exotic fruits, such as persimmons, pawpaws, mayhaws, arctic kiwis, and figs. You…
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South Carolina Field Update (August 10, 2026): Two-Spotted Cotton Leafhopper Found
Thunderstorms brought rain to parts of the state last week, while others had a chance to dry out. Disease pressure has increased due to recent moisture. The two-spotted cotton leafhopper was found in Charleston last week. Keep an eye out for this pest and report any sightings to your local Extension Agent. South Carolina farmers…
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Question of the Week – Bee Fly
What kind of bee is this? Though this looks like a bee, it is actually a fly, a bee fly (family Bombyliidae). But you’ll have to let it land in order to see the difference. If you look closely, you’ll see it has only one pair of wings, whereas bees have two pairs. Their similar…
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