COVID-19 continues to be a major concern for produce farmers and consumers. We’ve put together a new tab labeled “COVID-19 Resources” which includes a number of resources from Clemson, SC Dept. of Agriculture, SC Farm Bureau, and Carolina Farm Stewardship Association. Additions are being made regularly, so check back often.
Also, AgriSafe is offering a webinar this afternoon titled “What Ag Producers Need to Know About COVID-19.” If you are interested in participating, click here.
Coastal
Zack Snipes reports, “Amid the COVID-19 outbreak the weather has really helped out our crops here in the Lowcounty. Strawberries are pushing out with great flavor and size after a break the past few weeks. Tomatoes are still being planted and look great with the warm sunny weather we have had. Winter and early spring crops are being harvested and look beautiful right now. I have seen some brassica fields beginning to bolt with the longer days and warming weather so get them out of the fields soon. If you are having trouble selling produce consider contacting LauraKate McAllister to be put on the SC Dept of Ag “Find Local Farm Fresh Food During COVID-19” list.
Clemson Extension will be posting on social media and the Home Garden Information Center about this webpage so your farm will want to be highlighted there. Clemson Extension is here to help everyone through this time so feel free to reach out to us.”
Strawberries are coming along in the Lowcountry. Photo from Zack Snipes.
Tomatoes are being planted and look good so far. Photo from Zack Snipes.
Midlands
Justin Ballew reports, “The weather was beautiful last week and crops in the field are developing fast. Some of our strawberry growers have begun picking. Once yields pick up a little, most are still planning to have U-pick, with some precautions. Early reports are that sales have been good despite concerns that coronavirus would hurt demand. Spider mites have still been showing up, so keep scouting regularly. The drier weather last week slowed disease down, but moisture is returning to the forecast this week, so don’t let up on spray programs.”
Strawberry picking has begun in the midlands. Photo from Justin Ballew.
Pee Dee
Tony Melton reports, “Started planting Butterbeans and snap beans to beat the heat. Also planting Squash and other cucurbits from seed. There aren’t enough strawberries right now to meet the demand as everyone wants the first strawberries.”
Upstate
Kerrie Roach reports, “Upstate peaches are bursting with blooms and many apple varieties are starting to show silver and even green tip stages. We are excited about the season and are continuing to monitor temperatures. More rain again today.”
Stages of apple blooms. Photo from https://blogs.cornell.edu/jentsch/tree-phenology-dates-and-degree-day-events/
Peach blooms at Bryson’s Orchard in Long Creek, SC. Photo from Reba Butts.
