It's a bumper year for mealybugs and aphids
Spring scouting reports from Michigan greenhouses indicate there are lots of mealybugs and aphids on the prowl. Mich. St. Univ. entomologist David Smitley reports mealybugs have been found mostly on ipomea, but they can feed on many other plants. Aphid problems have been found on ipomea, peppers, Asparagus sprengeri, spikes, digitalis, shasta daisy, gerbera, dusty miller and licorice plant. Because these 2 pests are closely related, Smitley said the same insecticides are effective on both. Best products to use, according to Smitley, are systemic insecticides absorbed by the roots, including Marathon, Discus, Celero, Safari, Aria and Flagship.
OFA to manage other organizations, events
OFA plans to identify and pursue opportunities to manage other organizations and events. The goal of this action, said OFA pres. Doug Cole, is to help unify the industry, ensure efficient use of resources and help OFA stakeholders (members, Short Course trade show attendees and exhibitors, etc.) succeed. Cole stressed that OFA's focus is still on its members. OFA exec. dir. John Holmes said OFA has received inquiries from state, regional and nat'l. associations about managing their organizations and events. Cole said this is an opportunity for OFA to fulfill its mission to support and promote the industry.
Handle plants properly upon arrival
How you handle starter plant material when it arrives is critical to success of the crop. Univ. of Mass. ext. floriculture specialist Tina Smith offers these guidelines. Open and unpack boxes immediately and check physical condition. Inspect for root/foliar diseases and insects. Water plug trays thoroughly with plain water and check plants 2-3 times daily for drying. After the initial watering, apply a general fertilizer (50-60 ppm nitrogen) at every other irrigation. Allow plants to acclimate to greenhouse conditions for 24-48 hours before transplanting. Water plugs thoroughly 2-3 hours before transplanting to aid in tray removal.
Americans need to eat more veggies
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that most Americans are not eating enough fruits and vegetables. Findings from its Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System show that in 2005 about 27% of adult Americans ate vegetables 3 or more times a day and 33% ate fruit 2 or more times a day. Less than 11% of Americans meet USDA guidelines for both. To encourage more people to consume fruits and vegetables, CDC along with Produce for Better Health Foundation and other health groups launched a new initiative, Fruits & Veggies -- More Matters. This program replaces the 5 A Day campaign.
Fuchsia rust found in Maryland
Maryland growers should be on the lookout for fuchsia rust. Univ. of Md. Co-op. Ext. reports that the disease caused by Pucciniastrum epilobii was found in a large greenhouse operation. The suspected source is plug trays containing infected fuchsias shipped from Pennsylvania. Md. Dept. of Ag. plant diagnostic lab notified Pa. Dept. of Ag. of the disease discovery. Univ. of Md. Co-op. Ext. said the disease is not a regulatory issue but one of quality and consumer protection.
Worth a visit
The 12-month Solutions Source series provides solutions to the challenges growers face today. This month: shrinking markets. Only on GreenBeam.com.
|
Fine Americas, Inc. offers you a complete range of plant growth regulators to improve your crop quality and increase profit margins. Contact your distributor today.
Think... Maverick™ Geraniums for proven performance on the bench and in the garden! To order, call your favorite supplier. Bred by Goldsmith.
Superior elle plug technology makes plug production economical, efficient, and environmentally friendly. Call today about our virus-indexed 35mm perennial and hosta elle plugs. 1-888-WALTERS (925-8377)
|
