Author: Justin Ballew
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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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South Carolina Field Update (August 3, 2026): Heavy Rain Falls as Planting Continues
Some areas received several inches of rain over the weekend, while others barely saw any. As planting for fall crops continues, insect pressure remains high. The rain is likely to increase disease pressure in the coming days. South Carolina farmers can receive a $100.00 stipend for completing a short survey on the 2026 Farmers Market Price…
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Not Every Fruit Rot on Pepper is Anthracnose
From Clemson Plant Pathologists Tony Keinath and Alam Rahman Take-home message: Before you run up a large spray bill, be sure that the problem you’re spraying for really is anthracnose. Three outbreaks of green fruit anthracnose on peppers have been confirmed in South Carolina in 2026 (so far). Outbreaks are on commercial conventional bell pepper…
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Question of the Week – Choanephora
What kind of caterpillar is on this okra leaf? This caterpillar-looking thing is not a caterpillar at all. It is, in fact, a small okra pod that is infected with the fungus Choanephora cucurbitarum. This pathogen is also common in squash, cukes, and eggplant. This is a very common issue in okra, especially after rain. I was…
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South Carolina Field Update (July 27, 2026): Fall Planting Has Begun
The rain forecast last week never really materialized, as most places received only a few light showers. This week looks to be another hot one. Growers have begun planting crops for fall harvest. Disease pressure remains high across the state. Key Takeaways for Growers This Week Statewide Report Tony Keinath, Extension Plant Pathologist Lowcountry Report…
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Question of the Week – Wheel Bug
What is this mean-looking critter? The wheel bug (Arilus cristatus) is one of the most recognizable assassin bugs. It may be a mean-looking critter with a scary family name, but the wheel bug is beneficial. This unique insect is named after its gear-like “wheel” along its back. As one of the largest assassin bugs, it…
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South Carolina Field Update (July 20, 2026): Scout for Two-Spot Cotton Leafhopper
Last week was hot and humid, though it looks like we may get some slightly lower temps this week. We’re on high alert for the two-spot cotton leafhopper, as it was found in SC about this time last year. So far, there have been no confirmed sightings. Key Takeaways for Growers This Week Statewide Report…
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July Grower Spotlight – Coosaw Farms
Where is Anna Sara visiting this week? Anna Sara is visiting a farm that was founded in 1983 during an agricultural depression by a man with a big vision. Mr. Bradley O’Neal and his wife, Louise, wanted to build a long-lasting legacy that would outlive the family and benefit the public by providing flavorful, nutritious,…
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South Carolina Field Update (July 13, 2026): Rain Brings An Increase in Disease
Over the last week, most of the state received rain from afternoon storms. Disease has increased as a result. Watermelons and peaches are still coming in with good quality and volumes. Other crops are finishing early due to the heat. Key Takeaways for Growers This Week Lowcountry Report Anna Sara Hill Zack Snipes Midlands Report…
The South Carolina Grower 