Ever spotted a strange foam blob on a plant stem? It might be the ootheca of the Chinese mantid—a nonnative predator capable of hatching hundreds of young. Learn how to identify this egg mass, what mantids eat, how big they get, and why they’re both fascinating and formidable in the garden.
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.
A quiet spring afternoon led to a surprising backyard encounter with a yellow-bellied sapsucker. Follow along as Sue Watts shares observations of its unique feeding habits, its seasonal migration, and the minor impact these woodpeckers have on trees in the South Carolina Botanical Garden.
“The Lily-of-the-Valley Shrub (Pieris japonica) is a beautiful evergreen with delicate, bell-shaped flowers that brighten shady gardens in early spring. Learn how to plant, water, and prune this slow-growing, deer-resistant shrub. Explore the best white and pink flowering cultivars and get expert tips on keeping your shrub healthy year-round.”
Spinach seedlings are emerging in this thriving growing bed! 🌱 These direct-seeded plants are pushing through the plastic mulch, showing strong germination and healthy growth. Spinach prefers soil temperatures between 45-75°F, with an optimal range around 70°F, but germination declines once temperatures exceed 85°F. Suitable for various soil types across South Carolina, spinach thrives in a pH range of 6-7. With proper conditions, this grower will be harvesting fresh salad greens in just 30 days!
“Spring is here in South Carolina! Strawberry picking is beginning, peaches are entering shuck split, and growers are monitoring spider mites due to dry, windy conditions. Get region-specific crop updates, pest alerts, and important grower resources, including a cut flower survey, upcoming events, and the latest SC Grower Exchange Podcast.”
Did you know that native trees play a crucial role in supporting bees? While flowers are often the first choice for pollinator-friendly gardens, trees provide abundant pollen and nectar sources for South Carolina’s 500+ native bee species. If you’re adding a tree to your landscape, choose a native species to help pollinators thrive. This guide highlights five bee-friendly trees—including magnolia, redbud, and serviceberry—that also support birds and other wildlife. Read on to learn which trees are best for attracting pollinators to your garden! 🌿🐝
Leafy greens are nutritional powerhouses, loaded with vitamin C, folate, and antioxidants—but they often get a bad reputation, especially among kids and picky eaters. Whether you’re looking to boost your health, manage calories, or add variety to your meals, this guide shares easy and delicious ways to enjoy spinach, kale, arugula, and more. Plus, learn how to avoid high-calorie salad pitfalls and keep your greens safe with food safety tips. Read on for simple strategies to make leafy greens a staple in your diet!
This month’s Grower Spotlight features Bush-N-Vine Farm in York, SC. Owned by Bob Hall, this farm grows a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, and greenhouse crops while expanding its CSA program and retail locations. Discover how Bush-N-Vine continues to innovate in South Carolina agriculture.
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!
