Extreme cold temperatures were experienced across the state on December 23-24th 2022 (Figure 1). Temperatures ranged from -10- -5° F across most of the state with temperatures dipping below -10°F in some areas. Since then, there have been some additional cold events, such as 7° F on January 31-February 1 and 12° F on March[Read More…]
Miranda Purcell
Dr. Janna Beckerman, Professor and Extension Plant Pathologist in the Dept. of Botany and Plant Pathology joined our discussion to talk about Spring Diseases and Management. Our discussion focused on Anthracnose fruit rot and Botrytis fruit rot. Janna described the biology of the pathogens and provided cultural and fungicide recommendations for managing these diseases. You[Read More…]
A Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) population was found in Huntington, Indiana. This is the second population in the state in addition to what was found in Vevay, Indiana in July 2021. It is possible for SLF to be anywhere in Indiana. At this time of year, the insects are at their most recognizable stage as colorful[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…]
Now is the time to start thinking about leaf removal in grapevines. Cluster zone leaf removal can lower risk of disease, increase spray penetration and even improve fruit quality. The period immediately after bloom to 3 weeks post-bloom is the most effective time for leaf removal. Leaf pulling after this time can increase the risk[Read More…]
Pesticide Drift Grapes are particularly sensitive to growth regulator herbicides, such as 2,4-D and dicamba, which are widely used in corn and soybean production. These products can injure the vines, significantly reduce yields and contaminate the fruit even at extremely low rates. The most common symptoms of pesticide exposure include distortion of leaves and stunting[Read More…]
As of March 2022, Indiana has one known county with a confirmed Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) population: Switzerland County (Figure 1). Penn State University has created a SLF egg hatch prediction map that estimates the emergence of the first SLF instar based on temperature conditions (Figure 2). Please note: this map does not show where SLF[Read More…]
Shoot thinning is a canopy management practice that involves removing shoots in the grapevine canopy to reduce shoot density and help balance vegetative and reproductive growth. Potential benefits of shoot thinning: Improved air circulation Improved sunlight penetration Reduction of disease pressure Increased spray penetration *shoot thinning and positioning not only affects the current season’s growth,[Read More…]
Participate in the 2022 Office of the Indiana State Chemist (OISC) Pesticide Clean Sweep Project, which is designed to collect and dispose of suspended, canceled, banned, usable, opened, unopened or just unwanted pesticides (herbicides, insecticides, rodenticides, fungicides, miticides, etc.). This is a great opportunity to legally dispose of unwanted products at little or no cost.[Read More…]