Welcome to the first issue of the 2025 Facts for Fancy Fruit newsletter! I am excited to help carry on the tradition of providing timely, research-based information to fruit growers across the state. With all the crazy weather across the state this week, I know we are all dreaming of the day we can pick[Read More…]
Miranda Purcell
Spotted Lanternfly Identification, Control, and Management Plus Spotted Lanternfly Effects on Indiana Vineyards Saturday, April 12th 1-3 PM at Owen Valley Winery (491 Timber Ridge Rd Spencer, IN 47460) Click here for more information. Tree Fruit Success for Home & Small Farm Wednesday, April 30th at 6:30 PM at Kercher’s Sunrise Orchards (19498 CR 38[Read More…]
Spotted Lanternfly Identification, Control, and Management Plus Spotted Lanternfly Effects on Indiana Vineyards Join Owen County Soil and Water, Indiana DNR, Purdue Extension and Owen Valley Winery on Saturday, April 12th 1-3 PM at Owen Valley Winery (491 Timber Ridge Rd Spencer, IN 47460) to learn about the invasive Spotted Lanternfly and the effects it[Read More…]
A population of spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) was first identified in Indiana in July 2021 in Switzerland County. Since then, populations have been found in Huntington, Elkhart, St. Joseph, Delkab, Porter, Allen and Noble counties. Many of these newly found sightings have been on tree of heaven (it’s preferred host) along rail lines, and it[Read More…]
Tissue analysis is the most reliable means of determining plant nutritional status. Combined with soil testing, tissue analysis can help pinpoint the source of problems and determine what measures may be needed to ensure proper nutrition of the crop. Tissue analysis samples should be collected at the appropriate time to give the most meaningful results.[Read More…]
Shoot Thinning The optimum shoot density is 5-6 shoots per foot of row. Thinning to this density can help reduce shading, adjust the crop, lower the risk of disease and improve spray penetration. The optimal time for shoot thinning is before the shoots reach 12 inches. Removing the shoots may be more difficult once they’ve[Read More…]
The Blueberry Growers of Indiana 2024 Annual Meeting will be held on Monday, June 17 at Blueberry Ranch (54743 Buckeye Road Mishawaka, IN 46545). The farm tour will begin at 4:00 PM EST. The main part of the meal, along with drinks and paper products will be supplied. Please bring a side dish or dessert[Read More…]
A new episode of the Strawberry Chat podcast is available. In this episode, we talked with Dr. Marvin Pritts from Cornell University. We discussed the new edition of the Strawberry Production Guide for the Northeast, Midwest, and Eastern Canada. Dr. Marvin introduced us to the plasticulture day-neutral strawberry product system he has been researching recently.[Read More…]