Author: Anna Sarah Hill

SC crop harvests rise with pest and disease pressure.

This week’s SC Fruit & Vegetable Field Report highlights rising pest pressure from pickleworm, sunscald concerns in melons, and widespread disease across cucurbits, tomatoes, and peaches. Discover region-specific updates from agents across the state, plus timely recommendations for insect and disease control, scouting tips, and postharvest handling. Don’t miss out—protect your yield and stay ahead of seasonal challenges.

Last week’s storms left SC fields soggy, boosting foliar diseases and root rots just as heavy watermelon and tomato harvests roll in. Growers are rotating fungicides, battling bacterial spot, leaf-footed bugs, stink bugs, and blossom-end rot while blueberries, muscadines, and late strawberries progress. Regional agents share detailed crop conditions and control tips.

Rainy weather is contributing to rising disease pressure as blueberries, blackberries, peaches, cucurbits, and potatoes hit peak harvest. Learn what’s being seen across each region of South Carolina, and get fungicide and scouting recommendations to protect your crops. Don’t miss this week’s episode of the SC Grower Exchange Podcast for more timely tips.

The SC Fruit and Vegetable Field Report for May 19, 2025 highlights disease concerns, mechanical damage, and the approaching harvests of blueberries, blackberries, cucurbits, tomatoes, and peppers. Stay informed on crop health across the Coastal, Midlands, and Upstate regions.

Thunderstorms, hail, and ongoing drought shaped this week’s field report. Strawberry root rot, spider mites in high tunnels, and rising insect pressure are top concerns. Stay informed with updates from Clemson Extension agents across South Carolina.

From ancient legends and royal gardens to modern-day U-pick farms, strawberries have captured hearts across time and cultures. Discover the sweet story behind this beloved fruit and its global journey.

Dry weather continues across South Carolina, prompting concerns about mites and moisture-related diseases. Read regional crop updates, pest alerts, and learn about a time-sensitive grant opportunity for growers affected by natural disasters.

Strawberries are in full swing across South Carolina, and peaches and blueberries are coming on strong. With warm weather and rain in the forecast, disease pressure is increasing. Read the latest statewide and regional crop updates, pest alerts, and field observations from Clemson Extension agents in this week’s SC Fruit and Vegetable Field Report.

Spring is off to a warm, dry start in South Carolina. Strawberries are coming in, spring crops are booming, and pest pressure—especially spider mites—is on the rise. Get region-specific updates, timely grower alerts, and info on Clemson Extension’s new cut flower grower needs assessment in this week’s Field Report.