News

West central Michigan small fruit update – June 22, 2021

Published on June 22, 2021
West Michigan received a substantial amount of rain during the past five days, alleviating the spring drought that affected fruit crops for the past weeks.
Southwest Michigan fruit update – June 15, 2021

Published on June 15, 2021
Strawberry harvest continues. Sweet cherry harvest is beginning.
West central Michigan small fruit update – June 8, 2021

Published on June 8, 2021
Drought conditions continue affecting small fruit growth and development in west central Michigan despite scattered rain showers and some localized thunderstorms.
Southwest Michigan fruit update – June 8, 2021

Published on June 8, 2021
With the heat and lack of rain, some crops are beginning to show drought stress. Irrigation is important to maintain fruit and plant growth.
Southwest Michigan fruit update – June 1, 2021

Published on June 1, 2021
Last week’s rains were welcomed by the fruit crops, but more is needed to reverse this season’s lack of moisture.
Southwest Michigan fruit update – May 25, 2021

Published on May 25, 2021
With the warm weather came rapid fruit development. Water stress is showing up as a result of the lack of rain in southwest Michigan.
Periodical cicadas are emerging: Should Michigan fruit growers be concerned?

Published on May 24, 2021
Brood X of the periodical cicada can soon be found throughout the Midwest including parts of southern Michigan. They may become a nuisance, but don’t expect any significant fruit crop injury.
West central Michigan small fruit update – May 18, 2021

Published on May 18, 2021
Weather conditions are improving and warm temperatures are arriving, but drought conditions remain unchanged.
Southwest Michigan fruit update – May 18, 2021

Published on May 18, 2021
Tree fruit crops are beginning to size, making load assessments easier this week. So far, most crops survived the April freezes well.
High heat during blueberry bloom: Great for pollination, as long as it doesn’t get too hot

Published on May 18, 2021
Warm, sunny days promote blueberry pollinator activity but beware of temperatures approaching 95 degrees Fahrenheit in the next week.