Author: Tom Bilbo

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.

Spring is here, and crops are thriving across South Carolina! In this week’s SC Fruit and Vegetable Field Report (March 17, 2025), get the latest updates on strawberries, peaches, spring greens, cucurbits, and more. Learn about regional pest activity, disease management, and upcoming agricultural events. Also, if you’re a cut flower grower, share your insights in Clemson Extension’s needs assessment to help improve industry resources. Read more for expert recommendations and field insights!

What is on the head and back of this leaffooted bug? The oblong, white objects on this leaffooted bug (Leptoglossus oppositus) are eggs of a parasitoid fly (Trichopoda pennipes), which will hatch...

What is on this zucchini stem? These are eggs of a leaffooted bug (Leptoglossus spp.) found on a zucchini stem in a field in Charleston. Several species occur in SC that show up in fruiting...

The Pee Dee region is expecting rain from a potential tropical weather system this week. Fall crops are growing well with fairly low disease pressure. Caterpillar populations are climbing in places....

The coastal region and Pee Dee saw lots of rain and flooding in places from Tropical Storm Debby last week. As field conditions improve this week, please document any crop or infrastructure impacts...

What is the tiny critter on the petal of this strawberry bloom? This picture shows a tobacco thrips (reduced wing form) crawling out of a strawberry flower at Clemson’s Coastal REC in Charleston....