Confused by terms like variety, cultivar, hybrid, or PVP? This blog breaks down how plants are identified and named, and what legal protections like patents and trademarks really mean for growers, breeders, and gardeners.
A swollen, distorted blackberry shoot may be the result of a stem gall caused by the blackberry gall midge. These galls form when larvae burrow into the stem, triggering abnormal growth. Learn how to identify this pest, understand its life cycle, and take steps to manage damage in your blackberry patch.
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.
Coastal Region – Brad Fowler Blossom end rot can be a major problem throughout the summer for tomatoes and squash. Provide adequate and consistent moisture to help mitigate the issue. Summer...
Brighten up shady garden spaces with astilbe. This guide covers everything from selecting cultivars to watering, pruning, and managing pests and diseases.
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.
Learn whether plants like basil, marigolds, and citronella truly repel mosquitoes, and how polyculture and beneficial predatory insects can help manage garden pests. Discover effective pest control strategies for your garden.
Explore the significance of botanical names in plant classification and taxonomy. Learn why scientific names are essential for accurate identification and how they reflect global plant relationships.
Rainy conditions this week could bring increased disease pressure to South Carolina crops. Disease outbreaks such as cucurbit downy mildew and fusarium wilt are already making an impact, especially on melons and cucurbits. Stay proactive with disease management and keep an eye on crops like blueberries, blackberries, and sweet potatoes. Explore region-specific updates and expert advice from Clemson Extension specialist.
Understand the differences between standard soil tests and soilless media analysis. Find out which test is right for your gardening needs and ensure optimal soil health.
In this month’s Grower Spotlight, we visit Gurosik’s Berry Plantation in North Augusta, SC. Since 1981, Clyde and Marilyn Gurosik have been growing strawberries, blackberries, and other local produce. The farm offers a fun U-pick experience, along with fresh flowers and delicious produce at their farm market.
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.
