LATEST POSTS
-
Question of the Week – Luffa Gourd
What crop is this? This is a luffa gourd (Luffa aegyptiaca). A similar species, (Luffa acutangula) is sometimes also called Chinese okra because of its okra-like shape and pronounced ribbing of its fruit. Both are members of the cucurbit family. Luffas may be harvested for eating while still tender, though the species pictured is very…
-
Weekly Field Update – 11/4/24
The weather remains dry with no real relief in sight. Strawberry planting has finished up and the condition of plantings is mixed. Disease levels are low from the dry weather, while insect levels are variable. See details below. Keep an eye on the Upcoming Events tab periodically so you don’t miss anything. Also, check out…
-
Question of the Week – Joro Spider
What kind of large, colorful spider is this? This is the invasive joro spider (Trichonephila clavata). Joro spiders are native to East Asia and were first found in Northern Georgia in 2014. Since then, they have been spreading across the Southeast and are common in the Upstate of South Carolina and making their way into…
-
Weekly Field Update – 10/28/24
Conditions remain dry across the state requiring lots of irrigation for fall crops. Strawberry planting is winding down as the last few plant shipments arrive. Insect and disease issues are variable across the state. See details below. Keep an eye on the Upcoming Events tab periodically so you don’t miss anything. Also, check out the…
-
Question of the Week – Sandblasting
Why does this tomato appear scarred on one side but normal on the other? This tomato is scarred on the side facing the prevailing winds. It was found on the outside row, next to a dirt drive row and an open field. It had also not rained in quite a while, so it was very dusty and…
-
Weekly Field Update – 10/21/24
Fall weather has arrived and strawberry planting is in full swing. Conditions have been dry across the state since Hurricane Helene. Diseases and insects are showing up in places as the fall growing season progresses. See details below. Keep an eye on the Upcoming Events tab periodically so you don’t miss anything. Also, check out…
