Weekly Berry Call â April 24, 2012
Weekly Berry Call – April 24, 2012 Participants: Heather Faubert (Rhode Island), Frank Caruso (UMASS/East Wareham), Dale Riggs (Stephentown, Eastern NY), Sonia Schloemann (UMASS Amherst), Mike Fargione (Highland, Hudson Valley Region/Ulster), Laura McDermott (Eastern NY/Upper Hudson/Lower Adirondack), Jeff Miller (Oriskany, Oneida County), Dan Welch (Auburn, Cayuga County), Cathy Heidenreich (Western NY/Finger Lakes region/Geneva), Marvin Pritts (Finger Lakes region/Ithaca), Molly Shaw (Owego, South Central region), Colleen Cavagna (Belmont, Allegany County), Kathy Demchak, Pennsylvania State University, University Park), Pam Fisher, OMAFRA, (Ontario, Canada/Simcoe), Kevin Schooley, NASGA/OBGA (Ontario, Canada/Kemptville), Guest speakers: Kerik Cox, Greg Loeb, Cornell NYSAES‐Geneva, NY Growing conditions: (courtesy Scaffolds Vol. 24(7), April 23, 2012) Current DD accumulations 43°F 50°F (Geneva 1/1–4/2/12): 402 212 (Geneva 1/1–4/2/2011): 142 53 (Geneva "Normal"): 206 94 (Geneva 1/1–4/9 predicted): 423 217 (Highland 1/1–4/2/12): 508 268 (Highland 1/1–4/2/11): 177 66 NY NASS WEATHER, Week ending April 22, 2012 This is the first edition of the New York “Weather and Crops” for the 2012 season. The New York Agricultural Statistics Service looks forward to working with the Agricultural Weather Information Service, National Weather Service personnel, Agricultural Extension agents, USDA Farm Service Agency agents, and independent volunteer observers who collectively make this report possible. WEATHER: High pressure controlled the weather April 15th through April 17th. Temperatures were above normal during the period with highs on April 16th in the 80’s to lower 90’s. A cold front tracked through the region early on April 17th and a reinforcing cold front tracked through late on the 17th and early the 18th. High pressure built into the region from Canada with cooler temperatures on the 18th. Temperatures were below normal on the 18th with highs in the 50’s. Then, high pressure built east of the region by the 19th and 20th helping to bring back warm temperatures to the region on south to southwest winds. Temperatures warmed back up into the 70’s on the 19th through the 21st. Low pressure tracked into the region on the 21st with locally heavy rain. Rainfall amounts across the region were between a half inch and 2 inches. FRUIT: Apples were 95 percent half-inch green to pink, 89 percent full bloom, and 25 percent petal fall. Peaches were 95 percent half-inch green to pink, 85 percent full bloom, and 70 percent petal fall. Pears were 95 percent half-inch green to pink, 90 percent full bloom, and 52 percent petal fall. Sweet cherries were 95 percent full bloom and 39 percent petal fall. Tart cherries were 98 percent full bloom and 74 percent petal fall. In Ontario County, fruit trees, strawberries, and grapes continued to be stressed due to the fluctuation of temperature from the previous few weeks. In Albany County, apples and pears were in bloom. In Broome County, blossom mortality was the concern after unseasonably warm temperatures brought on early blossoms and last week had cold temperatures. Early strawberries have suffered a 50 percent loss and sweet cherries a 100 percent loss due to freezing. In Dutchess County, last week’s temps caused fruit tree blossoms to drop early. In Long Island, bud break began last week, similar to 2010.
Reports from the Field University of Rhode Island/East Wareham Blueberries in bloom; possible frost injury observed; brown slits in sides of blossoms, brown anthers. Winter moth feeding is still an issue for the next couple of weeks. 2.5 to 4” of well needed rain received Sunday. University of Massachusetts/East Wareham Two significant changes: 1) weather warmer, cranberry growers have been able to sleep at night without needing to frost protect and 2) significant rainfall 1.5” outer Cape; 3 to 3.5” westward from coast. Severe fire threat reduced. Much needed. Crops still 3‐4 weeks ahead of schedule from early spring warm up. Even later varieties of cranberries are greening up now. Typical cranberry bloom is expected in mid‐June; projections now are for end of May. Earliest blueberry varieties coming into bloom.
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Weekly Berry Call – April 24, 2012 Stephentown, Eastern NY Received only 0.7” rain Sunday. First early domestic strawberries blooming. HT DN with green fruit. Blueberries in pink bud; frost predicted for weekend (Friday PM). In the process of laying out row covers in preparation. University of Massachusetts/Amherst Some early strawberries and blueberries in bloom; currants and gooseberries bloom to fruit set. Everything 2‐3 weeks ahead still. Good rain received over the weekend 2‐3”. Hudson Valley region/Ulster County/Highland Received 1.5 – 2” rain over the weekend both sides of the Hudson River. Blueberries and strawberries in bloom. Some strawberry blossoms (50% or less) with black centers – frost damage. Gooseberries in bloom. Eastern NY/Upper Hudson/Lower Adirondacks Capital District rainfall amounts were 0.7” where Dale is to 4” in other parts of the area. Dusting of snow fell in northern end of the region. Blueberries approaching bloom, currants in bloom. Oneida County/Oriskany Blueberry crop was light last season; looking very good so far this season. Strawberries are not as far along here as elsewhere. Some Wendy’s with black centers in blooms (frost damage). Cayuga County/Auburn Received 2‐4” snow Sunday PM into Monday AM; melted now. Western NY/Finger Lakes region/Geneva Received 4 to 6” snow; mostly melted now. Strawberries: Wendy’s in bloom. Jewel flower buds starting to be visible deep in crowns. Blueberries: early varieties in bloom. Currants and Gooseberries: grape to bloom. Some frost damage reported to blackberries. Finger Lakes region/Ithaca Eight inches of snow here, persisting through today; surrounding areas received 10 inches, still persisting. South Central Region/Owego No report. Allegany County/Belmont 10” of snow on the ground and still coming this morning! Pennsylvania State University/College Station Temperatures have cooled down and we appear to be stuck in a dangerous state where strawberries are between bloom and green fruit; blueberries from bud to bloom. Blackberries showing frost damage. Some growers received sufficient snow cover to protect berries, others no. Getting ready to set up SWD monitoring traps; sending out supplies to local CCE offices. Ontario, Canada/Simcoe Things moved quickly the past week with the added warmth; now cold, wet rainy. Some snow in the eastern part of the province. Blueberries, apples, saskatoons (Juneberries), currants, cherries in bloom. Strawberries matted rows under row cover in bloom; plasticulture under row cover green fruit. Some high tunnel problems due to recent weather/winds. Those not yet skinned OK; others with plastic on may have experienced problems. Ontario, Canada/Kemptville 4” of snow but melted by mid‐afternoon yesterday (40 degrees); cooled back down now. Strawberries – a few buds just emerging from crowns now. Blueberries in tight bud stage. 23C forecast for the weekend could be trouble but not a lot of frost damage observed/reported up to this point.
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Weekly Berry Call – April 24, 2012 Guest Speaker – Dr. Kerik Cox, Tree Fruit and Small fruit Pathologist, Cornell What to Think About Diseases in This Most Strange of Seasons So Far? Root rots: no immediate concern – not cool weather pathogens; these fungi really need warmth and water (i.e. flooding) to proliferate; none of that this season so far! If you’re experiencing plant death at this point more likely to be attributable to abiotic factors (last season’s flooding for example; or frost/cold injury from open winter). That said; if you have a history of these diseases in your plantings and rain continues consider application(s) of either Prophyt or Phostrol for disease management. Cane diseases: In terms of disease development if you were able to put on a delayed sulfur spray you are probably in good shape. Mummyberry: Good news on this front‐ early warmth prompted development then cold weather arrested spore release. If you got on 1‐2 sprays at ¼” GT and blocked shoot bight stage, further infection (bloom) probably arrested for the season. Conditions now optimal for ejection with rain, but infection ability compromised by cold temperatures; spores likely to dry and die before fungal enzymes facilitating infection may be activated. Foliar diseases: probably at an all‐time low – conditions not very favorable for development. Some shoot tip blights may develop as result of frost/cold injury to shoots. Blossom diseases: Botrytis, Anthracnose may develop (conditions permitting) as frost damaged tissues provide excellent infection courts for these fungi. A protectant/reach back application may be in order such as Rally, Indar, Pristine or Switch which all offer both forward and reverse kickback activity. Discussion Spotted Wing Drosophila Reminder: Free SWD webinar this Friday 1 PM EDT by Dr. Greg Loeb, Cornell University. To register: [email protected]. G. Loeb: First observation of SWD larvae in June bearing strawberries (North Carolina). No adults trapped yet from field where this was observed; SWD adults have been trapped in other areas of the state already this season. No unusual as larvae are sometimes observed before any adults are trapped (unfortunately). Some adult SWD have already been trapped on LI as well but no fruit infestations. No need for immediate panic but people should be monitoring… Discussion of trap materials: What are the best traps? Homemade, Contech? G. Loeb: 16 oz clear plastic cup with 4mm holes (12 equally spaced) drilled with Dremel tool just below the rim. Apple cider vinegar used as bait. Contech traps may have too few holes to allow sufficient attractant odor to escape cup – observed to be perhaps not as efficient in trapping. R. Isaacs from University of Michigan reports yeast attractant better than apple cider vinegar but much more difficult to work with. K. Demchak: The containers I used that have been more durable were called "deli soup containers" ‐ they are a heavier plastic than drink cups, have a heavier rim at the top, and the lid holds on really tight. If you check out this site, there is a photo of the containers I used on the right. http://www.mrtakeoutbags.com/store/sbt‐soup‐deli‐containers.html I got the 32‐oz size, which is way bigger than I needed, not sure if the 16‐oz ones would be tall enough to avoid spilling.... Anyway, we drilled 2 holes across from each other below the heavier rim that you see at the top, which helped with durability, and just ran the wire through before putting the lid on. I used electric fence wire (14 gauge, I think) for hanging the trap, which won't rust. This was the cheapest place I could find ‐ it's the same source our dining halls order these from. S. Schloemann: Some folks seem to think that a clear red cup is good: Here's a source from Glen Koehler in Maine: The exact product is Hefty Style Clear Colors Cups, red, 18 fl. oz. Made by Pactiv Corporation, Lake Forest IL. SKU 13700 11612. http://heftybrands.pactiv.com/products/plates‐bowls‐cups‐and‐cutlery/hefty‐designer‐plates‐bowls‐platters‐ and‐cups.aspx
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Weekly Berry Call – April 24, 2012 More SWD trapping information: Making a Spotted Wing Drosophila Trap – Hannah Burrack, North Carolina State University (video) Checking a Spotted Wing Drosophila Trap – Shawn Banks, North Carolina State University (video) Problem observed in strawberry planting (R. Gast, Franklin County/Malone) Transplants were set in spring of 2010. They looked good that year but, later in the growing season last year, he evidently started to see symptoms similar to what he is seeing again this spring. The plants are coming up green, but soon die back, turning a sickly green with leaves that appear pitted or chewed, what appears to be some sort of rust, and stunted growth. It looks to me like there may be more than one fungus at work here. Varieties in the planting include Cavendish and Jewel. Note that we are still very early in the season here, and that the season itself has come unusually early; 2 to 3 weeks ahead of normal. Any ideas what the problem is?
M. Pritts suggests it is probably cyclamen damage – early and severe but this year’s dry, warm winter was conducive for such an outbreak. Sample sent to lab for confirmation. D. Riggs indicated she has observed slight cyclamen damage already this season both in the field and high tunnel. Could it be foliar nematode (Aphelenchoides fragariae) damage? Description from UC Davis IPM: The foliar nematode is a parasite of aboveground plant parts and may be endo‐ or ectoparasitic. Symptoms caused by A. fragariae are sometimes called spring crimp, spring dwarf, or strawberry crimp; these names may be misleading as nematodes and associated symptoms may be present during seasons other than spring. Other symptoms include: stunted growth, reddened leaves, small curled or crinkled leaves (crimp) pictured above right, deformed buds and flowers, and a reduction in flowering and fruiting. Distorted foliage closely resembles the damage caused by cyclamen mites. Recent research conducted in California on Chandler, Douglas, Fern, Pajaro, and Selva cultivars indicates that a reduction in flowering and fruiting may more reliably distinguish a foliar nematode infestation from insect infestations, which produce leaf symptoms similar to those described above. There are no reported below ground symptoms with this species. Left:
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Weekly Berry Call – April 24, 2012 Aphelenchoides fragariae on strawberry. From: McKenry, M.V. and P. A, UC Davis Nematology. More information: http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/r734200111.html Brown slits in sides of blueberry flowers mentioned during reports: Could it be carpenter bee damage (brown slits) plus frost injury (brown stamens)? See carpenter bee damage right from Cornell Berry Diagnostic tool. For more information on carpenter bees: (http://www.fruit.cornell.edu/berrytool/blueberry/flowersfruits/BBfl owerchewing.htm) Question from K. Schooley on yellowing of strawberry leaves – (Photos below) Grower reported problem with leaf yellowing – wondering if it was caused by leaving straw on too long? (And yes, the yellowing was present before the snow cover…) Discussion suggested appearance of leaves highly reminiscent of herbicide damage (Round Up perhaps)? Kevin will check with grower to see if any applications were made in the vicinity (it appeared to be somewhat if an edge effect). Also possible that straw has residues that may be causing symptoms. P. Fisher inquired if Chateau was used ‐ Chateau was applied last fall.
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Weekly Berry Call – April 24, 2012 Frost protection What follows is a synopsis of yesterday’s e‐mail discussion (among some call in members and others). K. Demchak: Hi Everyone. We have this forecast for snow in the western part of PA (and NY ‐ not sure about you Pam and Kevin in Ontario?). Some growers are wondering whether to frost protect or not. Theoretically, the snow would protect the blossoms as long as its temperature is above 30... Growers are asking if they should overhead irrigate or not where they have open blossoms, but I'm wondering whether that would just melt the snow off and if we have much wind (which is also forecast), just do more damage. My inclination is not to frost protect, BUT, if the plants are just wet, and there isn't as much snow as is forecast, we could have damage from evaporative cooling. I know we can't say for sure since this is probably new territory for us, but I'd appreciate any thoughts on what is best to do. M. Pritts I don't think protection is warranted. Snow provides insulation, and unless it goes down into the mid‐20s, plants should not be at risk. Low temperatures are forecast only for the low 30's, and plants should be just fine at those temperatures. By the way, Ithaca received 8 inches last night. K. Schooley: We had 3 plus inched of snow overnight. Strawberries look good so far but we still have most of the fruit buds coming out of the crown. If you could guarantee snow I wouldn't think about irrigating but forecasts these days are not the most reliable J. Shenk I have heard in the past that copper sulfate can affect the way the frost forms on the flowers. I do not know if this is valid or not, but if it is would this be a time when it might get the blooms through the cold? K. Demchak The intent is for the copper sulfate to inhibit growth of ice‐nucleating bacteria, but in studies we did some years back, it didn't do much, and with this weather, I can't imagine it would stick or do much good. C. Heidenreich The forecast for later in the week is for temperatures below 32 in many areas ‐ if the snow cover is gone by then would protection of open blooms be warranted? M. Pritts Probably so but I haven't seen any forecasted lows below 30F for around here. K. Demchak So, it seems the best plan is to not do anything, but have the irrigation ready to go, and if the snow melts off AND the temp looks like it’s going to drop below critical temps, be ready to irrigate as long as your system can apply enough to protect in forecast wind speeds. Next thought is whether nozzles are likely to be frozen or clogged with snow or ice which could be... K. Schooley Does anyone have experience with Desikote for frost protection? I am getting some for a trial shortly. And from today’s discussion: If wind is associated with frost events‐ irrigate to protect or no? If winds are much over 7 ‐8 mph just don’t bother frost protecting. Not even in conjunction with row cover? Most larger growers (8‐10 acres or more) do not find row cover feasible and use only overhead. Growers with smaller acreage may use both together. Monitoring dew point is really important in terms of deciding when to irrigate. Growers should put out 2 or 3 data loggers (digital thermometers) to monitor conditions directly in their own plantings. However they need specific fact sheets/instructions on what to buy, how to assemble and use equipment. If too complicated a process the growers are not willing to use it. Probes (or better bare thermocouple wires) may be put directly into flower receptacles to monitor temperatures there. Omega Engineering Inc. (located in Connecticut) (http://www.omega.com/) 1‐888‐826‐6342 was mentioned twice as company selling digital thermometers; along with providing sales and service assistance. Call them and indicate what you need the system for and they will assist with parts selection and assembly information. System a couple of years ago ran roughly $200. North Carolina State University has a video: Using a Digital Thermometer to Guide Your Decisions in Frost and Freeze Events (Video)
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Station
Hudson Valley Albany Glens Falls Poughkeepsie Mohawk Valley Boonville Champlain Valley Plattsburgh St. Lawrence Valley Canton Massena Great Lakes Buffalo Wales Niagara Falls Rochester Watertown Central Lakes Dansville Geneva Honeoye Ithaca Penn Yan Syracuse Warsaw Western Plateau Hornell Almond Dam Elmira Franklinville Jamestown Eastern Plateau Binghamton Cobleskill Morrisville Norwich Oneonta Coastal Bridgehamton New York
Weather Data for Week Ending Sunday, April 22, 2012 Growing Degree Days Temperature (oF) Base 50o 1/ Dep. Dep. High Low Avg from Week Season from Week Norm Norm
Precipitation (Inches) 1/ Dep. Dep. from Season from Norm Norm
91 87 91
30 27 38
59 56 62
+12 +10 +13
74 55 85
87 61 108
+73 +54 +85
1.22 1.25 0.16
+0.52 +0.55 -0.68
1.36 1.31 0.44
-0.84 -0.84 -2.05
81
24
50
+8
29
33
+27
0.97
-0.08
1.25
-2.18
84
26
53
+8
42
51
+43
0.44
-0.26
0.62
-1.42
83 86
27 28
51 51
+7 +7
31 35
33 43
+27 +36
0.16 0.63
-0.54 0.00
0.88 1.22
-1.19 -0.73
82 84 82 87 86
31 29 30 31 24
53 52 53 55 52
+7 +8 +6 +8 +8
44 37 42 53 47
55 39 51 66 54
+41 +33 +35 +49 +47
0.51 0.74 0.47 0.70 0.62
-0.19 -0.17 -0.30 +0.07 +0.01
1.00 1.07 1.05 1.01 0.89
-1.08 -1.74 -1.30 -0.89 -0.92
88 87 87 87 87 90 80
30 30 28 32 31 31 27
57 53 54 55 56 56 50
+11 +8 +8 +10 +10 +9 +8
57 47 49 52 57 57 36
72 50 54 55 69 69 39
+57 +38 +41 +47 +57 +54 +35
0.57 0.78 0.69 0.60 0.46 0.51 0.67
-0.13 +0.08 -0.01 -0.10 -0.24 -0.29 -0.17
0.97 1.14 1.34 1.25 0.91 0.76 1.13
-1.09 -0.99 -0.82 -0.87 -1.22 -1.69 -1.37
85 89 81 81
28 28 29 30
52 55 51 52
+8 +9 +9 +9
35 48 30 36
36 62 30 36
+30 0.69 +0.06 +52 0.51 -0.12 +28 0.76 -0.02 +30 0.77 -0.14
1.12 0.83 1.43 1.13
-0.82 -1.12 -0.98 -1.67
83 84 81 85 86
31 29 28 29 30
56 55 53 55 57
+11 +11 +9 +10 +13
50 49 39 37 51
58 54 41 37 53
+50 +47 +36 +30 +47
0.40 0.98 0.56 0.39 0.56
-0.36 +0.21 -0.20 -0.40 -0.28
0.94 1.12 1.28 0.98 1.47
-1.32 -1.30 -0.95 -1.45 -1.03
77 85
39 50
59 65
+12 +13
65 105
76 170
+69 +122
0.02 0.42
-0.89 -0.49
0.48 1.03
-2.45 -1.73
1/ Season accumulations are for April 1st to date. Weekly accumulations are through 7:00 AM Sunday Morning
The information contained in this weekly release is obtained in cooperation with Cornell Cooperative Extension, USDA Farm Service Agency, the National Weather Service, Agricultural Weather Information Service and other knowledgeable persons associated with New York agriculture. Their cooperation is greatly appreciated.
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Reports from the Field University of Rhode Island/East Wareham Blueberries in bloom; possible frost injury observed; brown slits in sides of blossoms, brown anthers. Winter moth feeding is still an issue for the next couple of weeks. 2.5 to 4” of well needed rain received Sunday. University of Massachusetts/East Wareham Two significant changes: 1) weather warmer, cranberry growers have been able to sleep at night without needing to frost protect and 2) significant rainfall 1.5” outer Cape; 3 to 3.5” westward from coast. Severe fire threat reduced. Much needed. Crops still 3‐4 weeks ahead of schedule from early spring warm up. Even later varieties of cranberries are greening up now. Typical cranberry bloom is expected in mid‐June; projections now are for end of May. Earliest blueberry varieties coming into bloom.
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Weekly Berry Call – April 24, 2012 Stephentown, Eastern NY Received only 0.7” rain Sunday. First early domestic strawberries blooming. HT DN with green fruit. Blueberries in pink bud; frost predicted for weekend (Friday PM). In the process of laying out row covers in preparation. University of Massachusetts/Amherst Some early strawberries and blueberries in bloom; currants and gooseberries bloom to fruit set. Everything 2‐3 weeks ahead still. Good rain received over the weekend 2‐3”. Hudson Valley region/Ulster County/Highland Received 1.5 – 2” rain over the weekend both sides of the Hudson River. Blueberries and strawberries in bloom. Some strawberry blossoms (50% or less) with black centers – frost damage. Gooseberries in bloom. Eastern NY/Upper Hudson/Lower Adirondacks Capital District rainfall amounts were 0.7” where Dale is to 4” in other parts of the area. Dusting of snow fell in northern end of the region. Blueberries approaching bloom, currants in bloom. Oneida County/Oriskany Blueberry crop was light last season; looking very good so far this season. Strawberries are not as far along here as elsewhere. Some Wendy’s with black centers in blooms (frost damage). Cayuga County/Auburn Received 2‐4” snow Sunday PM into Monday AM; melted now. Western NY/Finger Lakes region/Geneva Received 4 to 6” snow; mostly melted now. Strawberries: Wendy’s in bloom. Jewel flower buds starting to be visible deep in crowns. Blueberries: early varieties in bloom. Currants and Gooseberries: grape to bloom. Some frost damage reported to blackberries. Finger Lakes region/Ithaca Eight inches of snow here, persisting through today; surrounding areas received 10 inches, still persisting. South Central Region/Owego No report. Allegany County/Belmont 10” of snow on the ground and still coming this morning! Pennsylvania State University/College Station Temperatures have cooled down and we appear to be stuck in a dangerous state where strawberries are between bloom and green fruit; blueberries from bud to bloom. Blackberries showing frost damage. Some growers received sufficient snow cover to protect berries, others no. Getting ready to set up SWD monitoring traps; sending out supplies to local CCE offices. Ontario, Canada/Simcoe Things moved quickly the past week with the added warmth; now cold, wet rainy. Some snow in the eastern part of the province. Blueberries, apples, saskatoons (Juneberries), currants, cherries in bloom. Strawberries matted rows under row cover in bloom; plasticulture under row cover green fruit. Some high tunnel problems due to recent weather/winds. Those not yet skinned OK; others with plastic on may have experienced problems. Ontario, Canada/Kemptville 4” of snow but melted by mid‐afternoon yesterday (40 degrees); cooled back down now. Strawberries – a few buds just emerging from crowns now. Blueberries in tight bud stage. 23C forecast for the weekend could be trouble but not a lot of frost damage observed/reported up to this point.
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Weekly Berry Call – April 24, 2012 Guest Speaker – Dr. Kerik Cox, Tree Fruit and Small fruit Pathologist, Cornell What to Think About Diseases in This Most Strange of Seasons So Far? Root rots: no immediate concern – not cool weather pathogens; these fungi really need warmth and water (i.e. flooding) to proliferate; none of that this season so far! If you’re experiencing plant death at this point more likely to be attributable to abiotic factors (last season’s flooding for example; or frost/cold injury from open winter). That said; if you have a history of these diseases in your plantings and rain continues consider application(s) of either Prophyt or Phostrol for disease management. Cane diseases: In terms of disease development if you were able to put on a delayed sulfur spray you are probably in good shape. Mummyberry: Good news on this front‐ early warmth prompted development then cold weather arrested spore release. If you got on 1‐2 sprays at ¼” GT and blocked shoot bight stage, further infection (bloom) probably arrested for the season. Conditions now optimal for ejection with rain, but infection ability compromised by cold temperatures; spores likely to dry and die before fungal enzymes facilitating infection may be activated. Foliar diseases: probably at an all‐time low – conditions not very favorable for development. Some shoot tip blights may develop as result of frost/cold injury to shoots. Blossom diseases: Botrytis, Anthracnose may develop (conditions permitting) as frost damaged tissues provide excellent infection courts for these fungi. A protectant/reach back application may be in order such as Rally, Indar, Pristine or Switch which all offer both forward and reverse kickback activity. Discussion Spotted Wing Drosophila Reminder: Free SWD webinar this Friday 1 PM EDT by Dr. Greg Loeb, Cornell University. To register: [email protected]. G. Loeb: First observation of SWD larvae in June bearing strawberries (North Carolina). No adults trapped yet from field where this was observed; SWD adults have been trapped in other areas of the state already this season. No unusual as larvae are sometimes observed before any adults are trapped (unfortunately). Some adult SWD have already been trapped on LI as well but no fruit infestations. No need for immediate panic but people should be monitoring… Discussion of trap materials: What are the best traps? Homemade, Contech? G. Loeb: 16 oz clear plastic cup with 4mm holes (12 equally spaced) drilled with Dremel tool just below the rim. Apple cider vinegar used as bait. Contech traps may have too few holes to allow sufficient attractant odor to escape cup – observed to be perhaps not as efficient in trapping. R. Isaacs from University of Michigan reports yeast attractant better than apple cider vinegar but much more difficult to work with. K. Demchak: The containers I used that have been more durable were called "deli soup containers" ‐ they are a heavier plastic than drink cups, have a heavier rim at the top, and the lid holds on really tight. If you check out this site, there is a photo of the containers I used on the right. http://www.mrtakeoutbags.com/store/sbt‐soup‐deli‐containers.html I got the 32‐oz size, which is way bigger than I needed, not sure if the 16‐oz ones would be tall enough to avoid spilling.... Anyway, we drilled 2 holes across from each other below the heavier rim that you see at the top, which helped with durability, and just ran the wire through before putting the lid on. I used electric fence wire (14 gauge, I think) for hanging the trap, which won't rust. This was the cheapest place I could find ‐ it's the same source our dining halls order these from. S. Schloemann: Some folks seem to think that a clear red cup is good: Here's a source from Glen Koehler in Maine: The exact product is Hefty Style Clear Colors Cups, red, 18 fl. oz. Made by Pactiv Corporation, Lake Forest IL. SKU 13700 11612. http://heftybrands.pactiv.com/products/plates‐bowls‐cups‐and‐cutlery/hefty‐designer‐plates‐bowls‐platters‐ and‐cups.aspx
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Weekly Berry Call – April 24, 2012 More SWD trapping information: Making a Spotted Wing Drosophila Trap – Hannah Burrack, North Carolina State University (video) Checking a Spotted Wing Drosophila Trap – Shawn Banks, North Carolina State University (video) Problem observed in strawberry planting (R. Gast, Franklin County/Malone) Transplants were set in spring of 2010. They looked good that year but, later in the growing season last year, he evidently started to see symptoms similar to what he is seeing again this spring. The plants are coming up green, but soon die back, turning a sickly green with leaves that appear pitted or chewed, what appears to be some sort of rust, and stunted growth. It looks to me like there may be more than one fungus at work here. Varieties in the planting include Cavendish and Jewel. Note that we are still very early in the season here, and that the season itself has come unusually early; 2 to 3 weeks ahead of normal. Any ideas what the problem is?
M. Pritts suggests it is probably cyclamen damage – early and severe but this year’s dry, warm winter was conducive for such an outbreak. Sample sent to lab for confirmation. D. Riggs indicated she has observed slight cyclamen damage already this season both in the field and high tunnel. Could it be foliar nematode (Aphelenchoides fragariae) damage? Description from UC Davis IPM: The foliar nematode is a parasite of aboveground plant parts and may be endo‐ or ectoparasitic. Symptoms caused by A. fragariae are sometimes called spring crimp, spring dwarf, or strawberry crimp; these names may be misleading as nematodes and associated symptoms may be present during seasons other than spring. Other symptoms include: stunted growth, reddened leaves, small curled or crinkled leaves (crimp) pictured above right, deformed buds and flowers, and a reduction in flowering and fruiting. Distorted foliage closely resembles the damage caused by cyclamen mites. Recent research conducted in California on Chandler, Douglas, Fern, Pajaro, and Selva cultivars indicates that a reduction in flowering and fruiting may more reliably distinguish a foliar nematode infestation from insect infestations, which produce leaf symptoms similar to those described above. There are no reported below ground symptoms with this species. Left:
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Weekly Berry Call – April 24, 2012 Aphelenchoides fragariae on strawberry. From: McKenry, M.V. and P. A, UC Davis Nematology. More information: http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/r734200111.html Brown slits in sides of blueberry flowers mentioned during reports: Could it be carpenter bee damage (brown slits) plus frost injury (brown stamens)? See carpenter bee damage right from Cornell Berry Diagnostic tool. For more information on carpenter bees: (http://www.fruit.cornell.edu/berrytool/blueberry/flowersfruits/BBfl owerchewing.htm) Question from K. Schooley on yellowing of strawberry leaves – (Photos below) Grower reported problem with leaf yellowing – wondering if it was caused by leaving straw on too long? (And yes, the yellowing was present before the snow cover…) Discussion suggested appearance of leaves highly reminiscent of herbicide damage (Round Up perhaps)? Kevin will check with grower to see if any applications were made in the vicinity (it appeared to be somewhat if an edge effect). Also possible that straw has residues that may be causing symptoms. P. Fisher inquired if Chateau was used ‐ Chateau was applied last fall.
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Weekly Berry Call – April 24, 2012 Frost protection What follows is a synopsis of yesterday’s e‐mail discussion (among some call in members and others). K. Demchak: Hi Everyone. We have this forecast for snow in the western part of PA (and NY ‐ not sure about you Pam and Kevin in Ontario?). Some growers are wondering whether to frost protect or not. Theoretically, the snow would protect the blossoms as long as its temperature is above 30... Growers are asking if they should overhead irrigate or not where they have open blossoms, but I'm wondering whether that would just melt the snow off and if we have much wind (which is also forecast), just do more damage. My inclination is not to frost protect, BUT, if the plants are just wet, and there isn't as much snow as is forecast, we could have damage from evaporative cooling. I know we can't say for sure since this is probably new territory for us, but I'd appreciate any thoughts on what is best to do. M. Pritts I don't think protection is warranted. Snow provides insulation, and unless it goes down into the mid‐20s, plants should not be at risk. Low temperatures are forecast only for the low 30's, and plants should be just fine at those temperatures. By the way, Ithaca received 8 inches last night. K. Schooley: We had 3 plus inched of snow overnight. Strawberries look good so far but we still have most of the fruit buds coming out of the crown. If you could guarantee snow I wouldn't think about irrigating but forecasts these days are not the most reliable J. Shenk I have heard in the past that copper sulfate can affect the way the frost forms on the flowers. I do not know if this is valid or not, but if it is would this be a time when it might get the blooms through the cold? K. Demchak The intent is for the copper sulfate to inhibit growth of ice‐nucleating bacteria, but in studies we did some years back, it didn't do much, and with this weather, I can't imagine it would stick or do much good. C. Heidenreich The forecast for later in the week is for temperatures below 32 in many areas ‐ if the snow cover is gone by then would protection of open blooms be warranted? M. Pritts Probably so but I haven't seen any forecasted lows below 30F for around here. K. Demchak So, it seems the best plan is to not do anything, but have the irrigation ready to go, and if the snow melts off AND the temp looks like it’s going to drop below critical temps, be ready to irrigate as long as your system can apply enough to protect in forecast wind speeds. Next thought is whether nozzles are likely to be frozen or clogged with snow or ice which could be... K. Schooley Does anyone have experience with Desikote for frost protection? I am getting some for a trial shortly. And from today’s discussion: If wind is associated with frost events‐ irrigate to protect or no? If winds are much over 7 ‐8 mph just don’t bother frost protecting. Not even in conjunction with row cover? Most larger growers (8‐10 acres or more) do not find row cover feasible and use only overhead. Growers with smaller acreage may use both together. Monitoring dew point is really important in terms of deciding when to irrigate. Growers should put out 2 or 3 data loggers (digital thermometers) to monitor conditions directly in their own plantings. However they need specific fact sheets/instructions on what to buy, how to assemble and use equipment. If too complicated a process the growers are not willing to use it. Probes (or better bare thermocouple wires) may be put directly into flower receptacles to monitor temperatures there. Omega Engineering Inc. (located in Connecticut) (http://www.omega.com/) 1‐888‐826‐6342 was mentioned twice as company selling digital thermometers; along with providing sales and service assistance. Call them and indicate what you need the system for and they will assist with parts selection and assembly information. System a couple of years ago ran roughly $200. North Carolina State University has a video: Using a Digital Thermometer to Guide Your Decisions in Frost and Freeze Events (Video)
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Station
Hudson Valley Albany Glens Falls Poughkeepsie Mohawk Valley Boonville Champlain Valley Plattsburgh St. Lawrence Valley Canton Massena Great Lakes Buffalo Wales Niagara Falls Rochester Watertown Central Lakes Dansville Geneva Honeoye Ithaca Penn Yan Syracuse Warsaw Western Plateau Hornell Almond Dam Elmira Franklinville Jamestown Eastern Plateau Binghamton Cobleskill Morrisville Norwich Oneonta Coastal Bridgehamton New York
Weather Data for Week Ending Sunday, April 22, 2012 Growing Degree Days Temperature (oF) Base 50o 1/ Dep. Dep. High Low Avg from Week Season from Week Norm Norm
Precipitation (Inches) 1/ Dep. Dep. from Season from Norm Norm
91 87 91
30 27 38
59 56 62
+12 +10 +13
74 55 85
87 61 108
+73 +54 +85
1.22 1.25 0.16
+0.52 +0.55 -0.68
1.36 1.31 0.44
-0.84 -0.84 -2.05
81
24
50
+8
29
33
+27
0.97
-0.08
1.25
-2.18
84
26
53
+8
42
51
+43
0.44
-0.26
0.62
-1.42
83 86
27 28
51 51
+7 +7
31 35
33 43
+27 +36
0.16 0.63
-0.54 0.00
0.88 1.22
-1.19 -0.73
82 84 82 87 86
31 29 30 31 24
53 52 53 55 52
+7 +8 +6 +8 +8
44 37 42 53 47
55 39 51 66 54
+41 +33 +35 +49 +47
0.51 0.74 0.47 0.70 0.62
-0.19 -0.17 -0.30 +0.07 +0.01
1.00 1.07 1.05 1.01 0.89
-1.08 -1.74 -1.30 -0.89 -0.92
88 87 87 87 87 90 80
30 30 28 32 31 31 27
57 53 54 55 56 56 50
+11 +8 +8 +10 +10 +9 +8
57 47 49 52 57 57 36
72 50 54 55 69 69 39
+57 +38 +41 +47 +57 +54 +35
0.57 0.78 0.69 0.60 0.46 0.51 0.67
-0.13 +0.08 -0.01 -0.10 -0.24 -0.29 -0.17
0.97 1.14 1.34 1.25 0.91 0.76 1.13
-1.09 -0.99 -0.82 -0.87 -1.22 -1.69 -1.37
85 89 81 81
28 28 29 30
52 55 51 52
+8 +9 +9 +9
35 48 30 36
36 62 30 36
+30 0.69 +0.06 +52 0.51 -0.12 +28 0.76 -0.02 +30 0.77 -0.14
1.12 0.83 1.43 1.13
-0.82 -1.12 -0.98 -1.67
83 84 81 85 86
31 29 28 29 30
56 55 53 55 57
+11 +11 +9 +10 +13
50 49 39 37 51
58 54 41 37 53
+50 +47 +36 +30 +47
0.40 0.98 0.56 0.39 0.56
-0.36 +0.21 -0.20 -0.40 -0.28
0.94 1.12 1.28 0.98 1.47
-1.32 -1.30 -0.95 -1.45 -1.03
77 85
39 50
59 65
+12 +13
65 105
76 170
+69 +122
0.02 0.42
-0.89 -0.49
0.48 1.03
-2.45 -1.73
1/ Season accumulations are for April 1st to date. Weekly accumulations are through 7:00 AM Sunday Morning
The information contained in this weekly release is obtained in cooperation with Cornell Cooperative Extension, USDA Farm Service Agency, the National Weather Service, Agricultural Weather Information Service and other knowledgeable persons associated with New York agriculture. Their cooperation is greatly appreciated.
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