This year’s Citrus & Specialty Crop Expo has a lot to offer vegetable producers.
A session on pest management will cover challenges growers face in fields, including whitefly-transmitted viruses, thrips, pepper weevils and more. Talks on biopesticides and nematode management with reduced-risk nematicides and cover crops will also be presented.
The specialty crop seminars will discuss in depth how to optimize production in plasticulture. One presentation will cover nutsedge management in vegetable beds. With the growing interest in soil health, another presentation will be given on what happens to the soil microbial community when fumigants are applied. An additional talk will feature the “ditch effect” and how to mitigate the challenge and reduce yield variability.
The recent outbreak of cyclospora is a reminder of the importance of food-safety protocols. In a food-safety presentation, growers will learn where they need to be paying the most attention in their programs.
A panel discussion will provide guidance on how growers can tap into cost-share dollars for application of compost and/or biochar, along with other conservation opportunities.
The specialty crop seminars will conclude with presentations on alternative crops, including bamboo, fruit and nuts. Check out the full agenda here.
The event’s trade show will provide grower attendees a chance to see the latest in products and services they need to produce a crop. It’s also an excellent setting to network with peers.
The Citrus & Specialty Crop Expo is scheduled for Aug. 12-13 at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center and adjoining Luminary Hotel in downtown Fort Myers.