More Than Rainguage Filled

June 19, 2009

Ready to pick fruit, especially fruit held a little longer on the plant for local markets, really took up the water earlier in the week. Coming off a weekend of heavy rainfall beginning last Friday evening with episodes on Saturday and Sunday. This week started off in the 90's and some fruit were "cooking".

By weeks end the temperatures have continued in the mid 90's but, we are back to normal or near normal with fruit ripening, firmness, and flavor.

Received word from my friend Dr. Dan Horton, entomologist with Uiversity of Georgia. Stink bug numbers are jumping, especially orchards next to small grains or in open fields. Stink bug control can be more difficult than other insects. Check out the Southern Region IPM Guides for the different tree fruits and small fruits. Chemical effectiveness rating are provided. Be sure in addition to ratings and chemical rates, check re-entry and pre-harvest intervals.