Phylloxera is an aphid-like insect that is native to the Eastern US. It has two distinct life forms: the root form, which feeds on the roots, can stunt growth and eventually lead to vine death. The foliar form of the insect causes galls on vine leaves (Figure 1) and is overall less concerning. The root…Read more about Managing Grapevine Phylloxera[Read More]
Miranda Purcell
The most important time of the year for fruit disease control in grapes is from pre-bloom to 4-5 weeks past fruit set. The potential for fruit infection drops significantly 4-5 weeks post-bloom. Important diseases to control during this time include black rot, downy mildew and powdery mildew. Fruit of the most commonly planted varieties is…Read more about Critical Period for Disease Management in Grapes[Read More]
Mancozeb can still be used in grapes during the 2025 growing season. However, the EPA has proposed to cancel the use of mancozeb in grapes in the future. The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) is conducting a re-registration review of many multi-site fungicides, including ziram, thiram, captan and now mancozeb. The proposed cancellation…Read more about Update on Mancozeb Use in Grapes[Read More]
The EPA is enacting new requirements for agricultural pesticide applicators. An increasing number of pesticide labels require applicators to utilize an online system called Bulletins Live! Two to determine if additional pesticide use limitations are required to protect threatened or endangered species or habitat based on 1) application location 2) pesticide product and 3) application…Read more about New EPA Requirement for Pesticide Application[Read More]
Interested in planting brambles? Here’s what you need to know! What are brambles? Bramble crops are from the genus Rubus and include blackberries and raspberries. Brambles are among the easiest fruit crops to grow, and the fruit is in high demand due to its exotic flavor and high nutritional value. Brambles can be planted in…Read more about Interested in Planting Brambles?[Read More]
Join Veterans in Farming and Purdue University for a Grape Planting Workshop followed by a wine tasting on June 3rd at The Rejoicing Vine Winery in Indianapolis, IN. Come see what it takes to cultivate grapes and operate a winery! Learn from Purdue viticulture specialist Miranda Purcell all about grape planting and growing techniques for…Read more about Veterans Grapevine Planting Workshop[Read More]
The 2023-2024 Midwest Fruit Pest Management Guide is still up-to-date with the addition of an addendum which can be found on the last pages of the pdf available for download below. The addendum lists important updates to pesticide labels, pesticide trade names, and crop uses for small fruit and tree fruit. Download here: https://edustore.purdue.edu/id-465-w.html Download…Read more about 2025 Midwest Fruit Pest Management Guide Update[Read More]
Michigan State University is hosting an all-day educational event designed for both current and aspiring spray drone operators. This event combines expert-led discussions with hands-on demonstrations, providing valuable insights into optimizing drone-based chemical applications. Where: Michigan State University Saginaw Valley Research and Extension Center (3775 S. Reese Road, Frankenmuth, MI 48734) When: 29 April 2025….Read more about MSU Spring Spray Drone Fly-in | April 29[Read More]
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 about From the Editor[Read More]
Learn about tree fruit management from Dr. Peter Hirst, Purdue, and disease management from Dr. Melanie Lewis Ivey, The Ohio State University, on Wednesday, April 30th at 6:30 PM at Kercher’s Sunrise Orchards (19498 CR 38 Goshen, IN 46526). To register, call 574-533-0554 or email Mark Evans (mevans@purdue.edu).