Travel to Costa Rica with other Berry Growers in December 2022!

The Costa Rica Agritourism and Cultural Study Tour, hosted by Laura McDermott and organized by Explorations by Thor, an international travel company that specializes in agricultural tours, is scheduled for December 3-11, 2022. Don’t miss this opportunity to travel, learn and relax with other farmers. It will be a blast!

This one-of-a-kind guided excursion is an educational and entertaining way to visit another country, update your understanding of what’s happening in our industry, and network with fellow berry production and agritourism professionals. Friends and family with an interest in agriculture are also welcome. The tour includes a full itinerary, plus hotels, most meals, and in-country transportation. Guests will visit a wide variety of Costa Rican agriculture, and still have time for cultural highlights.

The trip is designed specifically for members of the berry and agritourism industry. Participants need to arrange their own transportation into San Jose International Airport (SJO) on December 3 and out of Liberia Guanacaste Airport (LIR) on December 11. Hotel rooms, most meals, transportation, bilingual guides, tours/technical visits, and gratuities for driver and guide are all included. Estimated pricing of $2,450 is based on double occupancy, per person.

On December 3, we’ll stay at the San Jose Hilton. Tours begin on day two. Here’s a look at the full itinerary:

On day two, we’ll visit a coffee plantation and a chocolate factory near San Jose, and enjoy some downtime in the city.

On day three, we’ll head out early to Irazu Volcano, the highest active volcano in the country. If the weather is clear, we’ll be able to see the Caribbean Sea from the crater’s rim. 

While in the highlands we’ll visit a berry farm that is growing blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and Aztec gooseberries or goldenberries. After lunch, we’ll visit a berry producers’ marketing co-op, and then continue to visit the Center for Tropical Agronomy Research & Education (CATIE). We’ll tour the botanical garden and enjoy a presentation about agritourism enhancement at CATIE. We’ll end at the Hotel Suerre in Guapiles, in the heart of the banana-growing region of Costa Rica.

On day four, we’ll visit Costa Rica’s “green dam,” the largest hydroelectric dam in Central America and the second-largest infrastructure project, after the Panama Canal, in Central America. Costa Rica obtains nearly 100 percent of its electricity from renewable sources such as wind, solar, geothermal, and hydroelectric. Meet with representatives and discuss how the dam is connected to the agriculture community.

We’ll visit a local farmer who has developed a side business of taking foreigners on farm tours. We will also stop at a papaya farm and meet with a former Dole agritourism director. 

On day five, we’ll enjoy a pineapple tour in the morning. After lunch, we’ll travel to and take a guided walk through La Paz Waterfall Gardens, one of the best eco parks in Costa Rica. The group will travel to a strawberry farm dedicated to agritourism in Fraijanes, and dine at a local’s home that evening. We will stay at the Hotel Martino in Alajuela that night.

On day six, we’ll depart for Guanacaste and the best beaches in Costa Rica! Enroute, we’ll visit a large-scale farm of palm oil, sugarcane, dragon fruit, rice and quarter horses. We’ll follow it with a barbecue lunch, and touring a commercial rice mill on the way to the Bosque del Mar hotel on the Pacific Ocean.

On day 7, the group will visit Hacienda El Viejo and take a guided wildlife tour boat ride in the wetlands. The evening will be free, for you to explore on your own.

On day 8, we’ll have free time to relax by the beach or take in any optional activities in the area, which include catamaran snorkel and sail, sportfishing, and ziplining. Or visit Flamingo beach via your guide and driver to do some shopping and enjoy lunch on the town. A farewell dinner in Hermosa Beach will round out the entire tour.

Participants need to arrange their own transportation into San Jose International Airport (SJO) on December 3 and out of Liberia Guanacaste Airport (LIR) on December 11. Hotel rooms, most meals, transportation, bilingual Guide(s), tours/technical visits, gratuities for driver and guide are all included.  Estimated pricing is based on double occupancy, per person - $2,450.

Reservation/payment deadlines: $250 nonrefundable deposit due by August 1, 2022; the remainder is due by October 15. The single supplement is $575.

Minimum capacity of 20 people must be met. Technical visits are subject to change, but replacements of equal value will be arranged. Full covid vaccination and a valid passport is required of participants.

Space is limited! Register soon to reserve your spot.  For more information, please contact Laura McDermott, lgm4@cornell.edu.  For specific tour information and help with air travel, contact Explorations by Thor, info@explorationsbythor.com, 859.459.0500.

Join Us for the 2022 Berry Session at the Empire State Producers EXPO

The Empire State Producers EXPO, January 11-13, is right around the corner. Due to the surge in covid cases, the 2022 Berry Session have been moved online. This session is scheduled for Wednesday, January 12, and will run from 8:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A mix of researchers, growers, and business owners will share their findings over the course of four sessions.

Visit the Producers EXPO website to see registration and pricing information. To register for the Berry Sessions only, fill out the form and pay via PayPal ($55) here.

8:45–10:15 a.m.

The first Berry Session of the day focuses on containerized berry production. Dr. Neil Mattson (Cornell University) will go over the trends in commercially-grown greenhouse strawberries, and their applicability to Northeastern farms. Senior Extension Associate Kathy Demchak (Penn State University) will review her research on container-growing strawberries and caneberries.  

10:45 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

The second Berry Session reviews blueberry production. Researchers from the United States Department of Agriculture will present on the latest breeding efforts, and Dr. Thierry Bescanon (Rutgers University) will discuss the best approaches to manage weeds in blueberry plantings. Liz Machoff (Empire Drip Supply, and the NYSBGA board president) will explain the principles of water acidification in drip irrigation. The session will close with a meeting hosted by the New York State Berry Growers Association.  

1:30–2:15 p.m.

The third Berry Session is dedicated to the economics and sustainability of berry crop production. Business owner David Duda (Dudas Blues, and an NYSBGA board member) will discuss the role of value-added products in his business. Dr. Kris Park (Cornell University) will review a New York State pricing survey of berry growers, and provide economic insights. Dr. Heather Grab (Cornell University) will share her findings on balancing pollinator care and weed management in strawberries.  

2:45–4:00 p.m

The fourth Berry Session explores lesser-known berries and nut crops that are suitable for the Northeast. Ph.D. Candidate Samantha Bosco (Cornell University) will share her knowledge of nuts as a crop and food source. Dr. Iago Hale (University of New Hampshire) will discuss the characteristics of hardy kiwifruit when grown as a commercial crop. Coming down from Northern NY, Dr. Mike Davis will present on juneberries, and grower Duane Smith will provide a summary of his experience growing honeyberries.

View the rest of the EXPO sessions below.

Join Cornell CCE for a Fall Strawberry Workshop

Wagoner Bees and Produce, 11137 Wayne Rd., Fillmore, NY

October 20, 2021, 5:30–7:30 PM

Come join Cornell CCE Western NY for an on-farm discussion of winter preparation for strawberry beds, and a demonstration of a solar-powered harvester. Bring a dug-up strawberry plant with you for a hands-on diagnostic exercise. 

1.0 DEC credits are available in categories 10, 1a, 21, 22, and 23.

This workshop is FREE to attend! Pre-registration is requested; email Anya Osatuke at aco56@cornell.edu or call/text 607-752-2793 with your name, phone number (if available), and number of attendees.
 
AGENDA
 
5:30 PM | Welcome and Introductions & NYS DEC Credit sign-up –Lynn Bliven, CCE Allegany
 
5:40 PM | Planting Tour and Harvester Demonstration – Deb Wagoner, Wagoner Bees and Produce, Fillmore, NY

Grower-led discussion of weed control techniques including types of plastic mulch and how they are used to prevent weed infestation in strawberry systems. Irrigation scheduling and a labeling system used for cultivar tracking will also be covered.  Demonstration of mechanized strawberry harvester.
 
6:00 PM | Weed Control – Bryan Brown, NYS IPM
Fall weed control options for new and established strawberry plantings. Cultural weed control options for actively fruiting dayneutrals. Brief review of differences in herbicide applications when growing on plasticulture vs. open field.
 
6:30 PM | Fall Troubleshooting – Anya Osatuke, CCE Harvest NY
Review of common late-fall pests, pathogens, and abiotic disorders in June-bearing and dayneutral strawberries. Hands-on diagnosis of strawberry crowns that growers bring to the workshop.
 
7:00 PM | Fertility Management – Anya Osatuke
Comparison of best practices for fertilizing and renovating dayneutrals and June-bearing strawberries. Overview of differences in applying N, P, and K fertilizer between field culture and plasticulture.
 
7:20 PM | Winter Mulch Application – Anya Osatuke
Review of the seasonal factors determining when to apply a winter mulch to a strawberry planting. Overview of seasonal and site factors affecting the timing of winter mulch removal in the spring.
 
7:30PM | Adjourn

2021 Berry Production Workshop

September 15, 2021, Kennedy
October 5, STEPHENTOWN
4:00pm-6:00pm

2021 season review of SWD management techniques
Free; register here.

Note: Due to severe weather, the Stephentown workshop was postponed until October 5. Sign up using the link above, then join us at The Berry Patch, 15589 State Rt. 22, Stephentown.

Join researchers, growers, and expert speakers for a two-hour review of Spotted Wing Drosophila (SWD) management techniques. We’ll cover the basics of SWD monitoring of adult and larvae populations and also discuss implementing a pesticide program.

This free program will focus on what has been learned about designing an exclusion netting support system that provides long-term control of SWD and maximum utility for berry farmers.

Exclusion netting is being used on field blueberries where it controls SWD while also excluding birds and moderating impacts of hail and heavy rain. Raspberries and strawberries also benefit from exclusion netting on the sides of high tunnels.

1.5 DEC credits available in categories 1A, 10, and 22.

AGENDA - STEPHENTOWN

4:00 pm | Welcome, Introductions & NYS DEC credit sign-up – Laura McDermott, CCE ENYCHP

4:05 pm | Brief Overview of SWD – Laura McDermott, CCE ENYCHP . Insect monitoring, fruit infestation monitoring, insecticide management and cultural management techniques will be discussed.

4:20 pm | Overview of Exclusion Netting – Dale Ila Riggs, The Berry Patch, and Ted Storozum, TekKnit, Quebec. Brief review of work undertaken and effectiveness of netting in open field and high tunnel systems. Discussion of adaptations made to netting material and the need for structural design.

4:50 pm | Structural Considerations When Installing Exclusion Netting – Chris Callahan, University of Vermont, and Paul Lucas, Gintec, Ontario, CA. The past two seasons has provided lots of new information about designing the support structure for Exclusion Netting. Gintec owner Paul Lucas has played a critical advisory role in this portion of the project and has decades of experience with protected agriculture systems. Cost information for the SWD exclusion netting and structure will be included. 

5:20 pm | Exclusion Netting on Fall Raspberries – Dale Ila Riggs, The Berry Patch. Research on using field netting for fall raspberries and incorporating it into a high tunnel system.

5:30 pm | Views from Other Growers – TBD. Growers that have adopted exclusion netting will share their successes and struggles with the netting. 

5:45 pm | Hands-On Removal of Netting – Attendees will watch and assist with removal of netting panels to better understand the requirements and ease of using netting. Netting storage and winter care will be discussed.

6:00 pm | Adjourn

AGENDA - KENNEDY

4:00 pm | Welcome and Introductions & NYS DEC credit sign-up – Anya Osatuke, CCE Harvest NY.

4:05 pm | Brief Overview of SWD – Greg Loeb, Cornell University. Insect monitoring, fruit infestation monitoring, insecticide management and cultural management techniques will be discussed

4:20 pm | Overview of Exclusion Netting – Greg Loeb and Stephen Hesler, Cornell University. Brief review of work undertaken and effectiveness of netting in open field and high tunnel systems. Discussion of adaptations made to netting material and the need for structural design.

4:50 pm | Structural Considerations when Installing Exclusion Netting – Stephen Hesler, Cornell University, and John Abers, Abers Acres. The past two seasons has provided lots of new information about designing the support structure for Exclusion Netting, but every farm is unique and Abers Acres owner will discuss how they installed the netting. Cost information about the SWD exclusion netting and structure will be included. 

5:20 pm  |  Exclusion Netting on Fall Raspberries – Greg Loeb, Cornell University. Research on using field netting for fall raspberries and incorporating it into a high tunnel system.

5:30 pm | Views from Other Growers – TBD. Growers that have adopted exclusion netting will share their successes and struggles with the netting. 

5:45 pm | Hands-On Removal of Netting – Attendees will watch and assist with removal of netting panels to better understand the requirements and ease of using netting. Netting storage and winter care will be discussed.

6:00 pm | Adjourn

A Final Farewell

By Elizabeth Malchoff, President of the New York State Berry Growers Association

Paul Baker, the New York State Berry Growers Association executive secretary for more than a decade, passed away May 26, 2021, as a result of injuries sustained during an automobile accident. Paul was a friend and fierce champion of agriculture in New York State and the country. He was exceptional at juggling priorities as well as job requirements. Paul also served as executive director of the New York State Horticultural Society and Ag Affiliates.

Paul was instrumental in securing meetings with critical state legislators that assisted in securing funding and policy changes imperative to the agricultural community. He was very well spoken and could articulate the message in such a way that he was able to bring relevance on any topic to any audience. This gift made him an invaluable asset as a representative of the agricultural community. Paul enjoyed playing the devil’s advocate and encouraged us to grow our understanding of the opposition’s views, to be better prepared to face such challenges.    

During the time of inception of the Farmworker Fair Labor Practices Act, Paul recommended and facilitated meetings with legislators that were in favor of reducing the overtime threshold, and insisted that we, as industry representatives, be allowed to have a seat at the table when discussing the changes to the labor laws affecting farmers. I believe, based on Paul’s recommendation and the combined persistence of our conversations with legislators across the board, that the wage labor review board was adopted. This board is critical because it allows growers to have a representative present at future discussions. Without Paul’s ideas and recommendation, this review board might not have been part of the policy change.  

Paul was an intrical part of the Becker Forum. He hosted, led discussions, and secured speakers for grower awareness. A few years ago, Paul was asked to help develop this event as a way for growers to stay updated and informed of legislative policy changes, and discuss the more difficult bureaucratic regulations. Paul knew growers struggled in this area, and it was his attempt to support the grower in some of the more challenging aspects of commercial farming. Through his contacts, he brought in important speakers that could answer the growers’ questions and hear their concerns directly, ranging from legislators to Ag& Market reps. He even planned grower-based panels to facilitate raw and genuine grower discussions and education. Many growers that I know made it a priority to attend this event, because it offered so much value and education that the growers otherwise would struggle to find. Thanks to Paul’s knowledge of agriculture and his constant monitoring of our legislative environment, both state and federal, he was able to create the most effective and relevant grower-based meeting available.

Paul had his finger on the pulse with state and federal policy. He worked tirelessly at scouring the political landscape, keeping us updated on various state and federal policy discussions and potential changes. He had an uncanny ability to connect with people and understand the words not spoken, giving him invaluable insight into where various parties stood on the issues. Without his guidance, these organizations would not have been as effective in securing funds for research or influencing policy changes as they have been. A great portion of the success of the NYSBGA, the NYS Horticultural Society, and Agricultural Affiliates is due to Paul and his relentless efforts as a steward of the agricultural industry of New York State as a whole.

As a person, Paul was one of these people that was just easy to talk to. He was always calm and collected, but never afraid to tell it like it is. He was always supportive and encouraging, even if the encouragement was not what you wanted to hear. He was never afraid of a difficult conversation and flourished in a debate. It was like he knew what the opposition was thinking and countered before they could attack. He was always professional and respectful, so difficult conversations were less uncomfortable and more productive. He would also check us, when we started getting into too much “grower talk,” and would constantly remind us that we needed to discuss topics on the level of our audience to be more effective. He would often give subtle tips and feedback after a legislative meeting, on what we could improve or say to be more effective in the next meeting. He genuinely cared, and full-heartedly fought for, the agriculture community. He was an invaluable asset whose knowledge and presence are irreplaceable. The agricultural community has lost a huge champion whose void will be felt for years to come.

Berry Disease Snapshot: Mycosphaerella Leaf Spot of Strawberry

By David Strickland and Kerik Cox

Cornell AgriTech

Disease Snapshot: Mycosphaerella Leaf Spot of Strawberry (Bird’s Eye Spot, White Spot)

Causal Pathogen: Mycosphaerella fragariae

When to watch for it: Year round

First line of defense: Plant disease-free nursery stock

Summary:

Infections can occur on fruit (black seed), petioles, stolons, and leaves. Foliar lesions first appear as irregular purple spots on both the upper and lower surfaces of the leaf. Lesions develop a brown to white center as they mature, with a rusty brown border surrounding the necrotic area of the lesion. Severe infection on a susceptible cultivar will kill the leaf as lesions coalesce over the entire surface. Symptom expression varies by cultivar, temperature, and strain of M. fragariae. M. fragariae can overwinter as lesions on living leaves under snow cover, as conidia from overwintering dense masses of mycelia (sclerotia), and as sexually recombinant ascospores. Conidia from sclerotia are rain-dispersed from dead leaves in the field in the early spring, and ascospores are disseminated by wind. Virtually all parts of the plant are susceptible regardless of age, but lesions are most severe on middle-aged leaves. Severely infected plants are less likely to survive the winter, and those that do will have a reduced number of flowers in the spring.

Resistance reports have varied by state, and resistant cultivars may or may not be an effective means of disease control. Removing dead plant matter before winter will reduce inoculum carry over between seasons.  Fungicide applications are recommended for plantings with susceptible varieties in the early season to eliminate overwintering inoculum.

Berry Disease Snapshot: Blueberry Powdery Mildew

By David Strickland and Kerik Cox
Cornell AgriTech

Disease Snapshot: Blueberry Powdery Mildew

Causal pathogen: Microsphaera vaccinii

When to watch for it: July through season’s end

First line of defense: Use of resistant cultivars

Summary:

The signs of M. vaccinii infection do not typically appear until midsummer, when white fungal growth appears on the upper leaf surface. Leaf reddening may occur as chlorotic spots with reddish borders, and the leaf surface may become puckered. This reddening may be mistaken for symptoms of red ringspot virus (RRSV) infection but can be distinguished by the presence of water-soaked areas on the leaf’s lower surface opposite the chlorotic areas. If left uncontrolled, blueberry powdery mildew may lead to premature defoliation and a long-term reduction in bush productivity.

The planting of resistant cultivars is the best option for management of powdery mildew. Fungicide applications should begin just after petal fall, which targets primary inoculum. If these infections are managed early, an epidemic can be avoided. Suggested products are oils (e.g. stylet oils) or sterol biosynthesis inhibiting fungicides such as propiconazole (on 14-day intervals). Remember that fungicide products containing sulfur should not be applied within a 2-week period of an oil product application due to the potential for phytotoxic effects. Postharvest burning of infected leaf matter has not been shown to decrease the incidence of disease in subsequent years.

Have You Renovated Your Strawberries?

The early strawberry season has ended, and although we might have been a little disappointed with the size—Cornell researchers theorize that this was because of frost and a very dry spring—most of our member farms were satisfied with their crop yields, if not the profusion of SWD that came on strong after a brief delay.

If you grow June-bearing strawberries, crop renovation is an essential, yet often overlooked, task—especially with the population of SWD still. Remember to remove leftover fruit, which can be a breeding ground for the pest, cut back on mowing if the hot temperatures persist, and cover the crowns with ½ inch of soil.

For a step-by-step guide to renovating strawberries, visit the Cornell blog.

Berry Disease Snapshot: Rhizopus Rot of Strawberry (Leak)

Soft, collapsed strawberries that begin to mold can be a sign of rhizopus rot.

By David Strickland and Kerik Cox
Cornell AgriTech

Berry Disease Snapshot: Rhizopus Rot of Strawberry (Leak)

Causal pathogen: Rhizopus stolonifer, R. sexualis

When to watch for it: During the fruit-ripening period

First line of defense: At harvest, rapidly cool harvested fruit below 45°F

Summary:

Primarily a postharvest rot, Rhizopus rot may also occur in the field on ripe fruit. Modern storage and shipping have reduced this disease’s incidence worldwide, but it may readily appear if fruit are not cared for properly. Fruits infected with Rhizopus spp. appear slightly discolored, gradually turning light brown. The fruits rapidly soften and collapse, allowing their juices to leak out. Under humid conditions, white fluffy mycelium with large black sporangia appear. Rhizopus spp. can successfully overwinter on leftover plant material and in soil.

Protective broad-spectrum fungicides can be used to control Rhizopus rot in the field. Rhizopus spp. can only infect wounded fruit, so a vigilant insecticide program to manage fruit-feeding insects is encouraged. At harvest, Rhizopus rot is best controlled by rapidly cooling berries and maintaining storage temperatures below 45°F.

How to Improve U-Pick Berry Operations Based on Customer Satisfaction

By Zoey Yang, MS candidate in the Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management
Cornell University

During the summer of 2019, Cornell researchers conducted a study sponsored by the NYS Berry Growers Association. The study examined customer satisfaction at u-pick berry operations across farms in Upstate New York. This study aims to give some ways to not only improve sales performance for berry farms but also bring better experiences for customers.

U-pick is a direct marketing channel where customers can harvest fruit and vegetables by themselves, often paying a lower price and receiving fresher products. Crops, such as berries, that need intensive labor are well-suited for u-pick operations. Even though customer satisfaction has been studied in several fields, there are a very few studies focusing on the berry industry especially in u-pick operations. The goal of this study was to provide farmers with more marketing insights using customer satisfaction tools.

Participating Farms

Among the six farms participating in the study, two of them were strawberry farms; one, blueberry-only; and three, both strawberry and blueberry. Customer satisfaction surveys were given to u-pick customers among six berry farms from beginning of June to the end of August, as needed given the different harvesting times for strawberries and blueberries. Customers were asked to rate their overall satisfaction and individual satisfaction attributes, using a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being poor and 5 being excellent. Questions about amount spending, purchase intension, demography, and other variables were also included in survey.

The number of usable surveys was 312. The results are shown in Table 1. Overall customer satisfaction for all farms was very high (4.71), with 225 customers rating the overall satisfaction 5 (excellent), 82 rating it 4 (very good). Only 5 surveys rated it below 4.  Twenty-two percent of customers were first-time customers, and 83.9% and 98.7% of customers responded, yes, they would visit this farm again this year and next year respectively. One hundred percent would recommend the farm to their friends.  Average spending was $26.58.

Analyzing 14 different attributes into meaningful and usable information can be difficult. Therefore, the individual customer satisfaction attributes were analyzed in a way to group them into 3 general satisfaction factors that are described as experience, retailing and convenience. Table 2 shows the individual attributes into each of the factors and average score of each factor.

Researchers then looked at the relationship between these grouped satisfaction factors and the amount that customers spent at the farms. Differences between the farms, berry type, weather and demographic variables were controlled for.

Study Results

From the results, grouped factors experience and convenience are significantly important. One rating point higher in experience and convenience is associated with $3.14 and $ 5.17 more on the customers’ spending respectively. Even though attributes of retailing are significant in customer satisfaction studies such as winery, they are not in this study. One potential reason is because there are not many variations of retailing attributes in the data set. Another one may be related to the nature of u-pick operation. In New York wineries, wine tasting rooms are the major source of wine sales and highly dependent on the services of staffs. However, u-pick operations do not need many staff services. Therefore, retailing attributes may not impact sales of u-pick on berry farms. 

After analyzing each attribute separately, we also find among experience attributes, “Taste of u-pick berries” and “Information upon entry” are significant and positively affect amount spent. One score higher in “Taste of u-pick berries” transfers to $2.68 higher in spending. As for “Information upon entry, the effect is $2.57 higher with respect to amount spent. “Ease of parking” and “Farm location” are significant attributes to convenience and one score higher is associated with $3.67 and $2.81 higher in amount spending respectively. In addition, the control variables, education and male are statistically important to amount spent. Customers visiting in the strawberry season spent $8.87 more than those visiting in blueberry season. Graph 1 shows these results.

Study Recommendations

Given evidence from the analyses, this study suggests that u-pick berry operations should pay attention to the attributes that effect experience and convenience. For example, farm customers usually used Google searches or recommendations from their family and friends when selecting the farm.  Using social networks such as YouTube and Instagram to advertise and provide information will link this information with the significant attributes “Information upon entry” and “Farm location” together. In addition, signs such as directions to the farms should be clear to customers upon arrival. When customers arrive at the U-pick operation, information related to parking, amenities, picking directions and berries should be explained by signs or farm staff. Showing a story or history about the farm could be a bonus to generate a more satisfied customer experience. Meanwhile, maintaining good quality berries is always important. Ensuring a high quality of berry could not only affect the berry price but also the generation of word of mouth advertising. Implication suggestions for berry farms can be adjusted to suit for all types of u-pick operations.

“Smart Marketing” is a marketing newsletter for extension publication in local newsletters and for placement in local media. It reviews elements critical to successful marketing in the food and agricultural industry.  Please cite or acknowledge when using this material.  Past articles are available at:  Smart Marketing.

Guidelines for PYO Farms during the COVID-19 Pandemic

From Cornell University:

U-Pick is a critical direct marketing approach for many of our farms and provides customers with a unique connection to fresh produce grown close to home. In light of what we understand about the spread of COVID-19, new management practices will be needed to protect your farm team and your customers. This document provides recommended practices and communication strategies for U-Pick operations for the 2020 season.

These actions will help protect you and your team as well as reassure customers that you are taking steps to protect them and the produce you grow.

Read the article here. Then download a printable version of Cornell’s “Best Management Practices for U-Pick Farms during the COVID-19 Pandemic” that you can share with your staff.

Looking for information on protecting staff and customers in your farm store? Read these articles from NYS Ag and Markets.

1. Guidance for Cleaning Retail Food Stores (issued in conjunction with the New York State Department of Health)

2. Guidance for Home Delivery 

3. Guidance for Protecting Vulnerable Populations 

Berry Disease Snapshot: Black Root Rot of Strawberry

By David Strickland, Kerik Cox
Cornell AgriTech, Geneva, NY

Black Root Rot of Strawberry

Causal agent: many soil-borne fungal species, abiotic factors

When to watch for it: During the growing season

First line of defense: Good soil health maintenance practices

Summary:
A disease complex, black root rot does not have one specific cause. It may be caused by injurious environmental conditions such as freezing or waterlogged soils, root-lesion nematodes, and/or various soil-borne fungal pathogens alone or in combination. The disease has been observed on plants grown in soils with a high clay content. The most prevalent symptoms of black root rot are death of feeder rootlets, deterioration of structural roots, and declining plant vigor.

Maintenance of soil health is the best control against black root rot. Soil compaction reduces soil aeration, promoting conditions conducive to disease development. Poor irrigation practices and waterlogged soil does the same. Chemical fumigation of the soil is not recommended as the causal agent may not be fungal.

Western New York Berry Update

Western New York Berry Update

April 3, 2020

By Esther Kibbe

Western New York Berry Specialist, Cornell Cooperative Extension

April 3, 2020

Strawberries

New leaves are starting to push under the straw. With no extended cold in the forecast, research has shown that it is better to remove straw early, if leaves are emerging, rather than basing it on the calendar. Consider getting out there to rake it off soon.

This is also the time to apply preemergent herbicides against annual weeds. Chateau or Devrinol can be used. Aim, Axxe and Gramoxone are options as more weeds emerge, or against winter annuals, but should be applied with a shielded sprayer.

Strawberry leaves emerging from the crown.

Blueberries

Depending on microclimate, buds are just swelling to early green-tip. If you haven’t already, this is the time to go after cane diseases (Phomopsis, Botrytis, Fusicoccum) with a delayed dormant spray of lime sulfur or copper. Several fungicides are also labeled for these, but I would save them unless you are dealing with a severe, recurring level of infection.

As you finish pruning, be sure to cut out any diseased canes and gall wasp galls. Start planning your spring herbicide applications. Blueberries have many herbicide options—the best choice depends on what your weed issues are.

Blueberry buds are between bud-swell and early green tip.

Raspberries

Still looking pretty dormant. Copper, dormant oil or lime sulfur sprays can be applied for cane blights. This is the time to get started on weed control: Devrinol, Surflan, Sinbar for preemergent weeds (annuals), Axxe for post-emergent broadleaves, and Poast or Fusilade for perennial grasses.

Cornell & NYSBGA In-Depth Strawberry Substrate Workshop Sets Growers Up for Success

By Esther Kibbe
Western New York Berry Specialist, Cornell Cooperative Extension

Thirty growers and extension professionals spent three days in February learning about growing strawberries in soil-less (substrate) production systems. The workshop was held in Ithaca and funded by the NYSBGA and organized by the association and Cornell extension and professors.

In-depth lectures in the mornings were followed by greenhouse tours and hands-on activities in the afternoons. The workshop was taught by Dennis Wilson of Delphy, a UK- and Netherlands-based agronomy and education company. His many years of experience working with strawberry substrate growers made him confident in his recommendations of types of containers, substrate mixes, irrigation rates, and fertility protocols.

Dennis noted that almost all strawberry production in the UK has moved to substrate systems, but the fruit-quality improvement means that more than 90 percent of strawberries in the stores are grown in the UK, compared to 50 percent 25 years ago. While converting to substrate production isn’t for everyone, growers in Europe find that in addition to better-quality fruit, they are able to increase yields, harvest efficiency, and attract more labor, compared to soil-bases systems.

Cornell’s horticulture professor Neil Mattson and his team put together a great practical portion for the workshop, using plants and systems set up for graduate student Jonathan Allred’s research on strawberries’ light requirements. Workshop participants practiced measuring “drip” and “drain,” electrical conductivity, pH, and moisture levels in the substrate. There were samples of different types of substrate and media to touch and compare and plants and runners for planting demonstrations—and a chance for growers to try it themselves.

About half of the workshop participants had no experience growing crops in substrate, and the rest had experience ranging from one year to thirty years. All reported that they found the content relevant, and most said they would continue or start growing berries in substrate in the future. One participant commented, “This program was excellent and answered many questions I have been asking for years. Really appreciate the handouts and the clear presentation style, and the time and patience spent on questions.” Participant feedback was extremely positive overall, and most are looking forward to future trainings and tours related to substrate production.

New York State Berry Industry Competitive Analysis

This document research group of Dr. Miguel Gómez at Cornell University’s Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, in collaboration with the New York State Berry Growers Association, presents this bulleted analysis of the berry industries in New York State, as well as detailed figures supporting the analysis.

Berry Disease Snapshot: Angular Leaf Spot of Strawberry

By David Strickland and Kerik Cox

Cornell AgriTech, Geneva, NY

Disease: Angular Leaf Spot of Strawberry

Causal pathogen: Xanthomonas fragariae

When to watch for it: Year round

First line of defense: Purchase disease-free stock

Summary:

Angular leaf spot of strawberry has been introduced to major production areas by the importing of infected plant material. The bacterial pathogen, X. fragariae, is very resistant to desiccation and can survive adverse conditions for extended periods in or on dead plant matter both in transit and in the field. The pathogen cannot overwinter freely in soil, which implies that one key cultural control is the removal of old strawberry plant matter before new fields are planted.

Young, vigorous plants are more likely to be infected during the spring when temperatures remain around 68°F during the day and when the leaf wetness is prolonged by rain or sprinkler irrigation. Symptoms begin as water-soaked lesions that enlarge but are delimited by veins, creating characteristic angular spots. During moist periods, viscous bacterial ooze may be visible on the undersides of infected leaves, which dries to a white film. Severe infections will result in the death of the leaf.

Preventing the introduction of X. fragariae on transplants has proven to be more effective than chemical control measures. If absolutely necessary, applications of streptomycin sulfate and oxytetracycline have been shown to be effective protectants in the early season. Applications of copper ammonium carbonate and cupric hydroxide have also been effective protectants in 6 day intervals. However, greater than 7 applications risks the development of severe phytotoxic symptoms. For organic production, the use of hydrogen peroxide at its highest labeled rate is suggested if disease pressure is severe.

A: Bacterial lesions observed on the underside of an infected strawberry leaf. In direct (transmitting) light, the lesions are transparent. Unlike in B: where the lesions are a different shade of green in reflected light, which is a characteristic feature for identification. C: the underside of a severely infected strawberry leaf.

Finalists Announced for Grow-NY $3 Million Global Food and Agriculture Business Competition

Empire State Development and Cornell University’s Center for Regional Economic Advancement have announced the inaugural 18 finalists for Grow-NY, a food innovation and agriculture technology business challenge focused on enhancing the emerging food, beverage, and agriculture innovation cluster in Central New York, the Finger Lakes, and the Southern Tier.

“The Grow-NY competition has attracted a group of diverse, innovative entrepreneurs who are ready to focus on finding new ways to further transform New York State’s world-renowned food and agricultural industry,” Governor Cuomo said. “Through efforts like Grow-NY, we are continuing to bolster these regional economies and foster statewide growth in this critical industry.”

In all, 199 applicants hailed from North America, Europe, Central America, Africa, the Middle East, and New Zealand, as well as hundreds of inquiries from food and agriculture startups. In the U.S., 23 states were represented, including 112 entries from New York. Females comprised 32 percent of applicants, and among those who indicated an ethnicity, 46 percent were non-white.

The finalists represent the top 10 percent of submissions, as determined by a panel of 30 independent judges comprising the spectrum of food, beverage, and agriculture businesses and academics. Grow-NY will award a total of $3 million in prize money to seven winners. This includes a $1 million top prize, two $500,000 prizes, and four $250,000 prizes.

The 18 finalists are:

• AgVoice, Norcross, Ga. — Enables food and ag workers to use management tools on-the-go

• Capro-X, Ithaca, N.Y. — Upcycles dairy waste into valuable biofuels and bioplastics

• Combplex, Ithaca, N.Y. — Eliminates pests that threaten the health of honeybee hives

• Dropcopter, Syracuse, N.Y. — Leverages drones to pollinate crops and increase crop yield

• Halomine, Ithaca, N.Y. — Creates antimicrobial solutions to ensure food safety

• Independent Barley & Malt, Litchfield, Mich. — Growing new supply chains to provide world-class malt for the craft food and beverage market

• Livestock Water Recycling, Alberta, Canada — Modernizes manure management to improve yield and sustainability.

• Nuravine, New York, N.Y. — Maximizes indoor and greenhouse crop yield via water nutrient solutions

• Paragon Pure, Princeton, N.J. — Creates flavors, colors and nutrients protected within whole grain rice flour

• Perfect Granola, Victor, N.Y. — Crafts locally-sourced granola for NY schools while giving back

• Radical Plastics, Beverly, Mass. —Developed a patented catalyst technology that renders conventional plastics biodegradable

• RealEats America, Geneva, N.Y. — Delivers fresh, healthy meals, while minimizing food waste

• Re-Nuble, Rochester, N.Y. — Transforms food waste into organic nutrients as a sustainable alternative to mineral salts

• Simply Good Jars, Philadelphia, Pa. — Expands access to fresh and healthy foods via high-tech vending machines

• Slate Chocolate Milk, Boston, Mass. — Crafts better chocolate milk in cans, for adults

• Tiliter, Munich, Germany — Identifies products at supermarket checkouts with AI—no bar code needed

• Varcode USA, Naperville, Ill. —Monitors temperature changes of products using high-tech barcodes

• Whole Healthy Food (Healthy Baby), Ithaca, N.Y. — Develops new food ingredients with therapeutic benefits

The finalists will pitch their ideas and business plans at the Grow-NY Food and Ag Summit on Nov. 12 and 13 at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center. Tickets, sponsor, exhibition and volunteer information is available at https://growny.splashthat.com.

All finalists will receive:

• Dedicated mentorship from a hand-selected business advisor;

• Additional pitch training to hone their live pitches for the judges;

• An expenses-paid, three-day business development trip to the Grow-NY region for up to two finalists per team; and

• Networking introductions, business tours with potential partners, and valuable appointments for finalist team representatives.

Judges will base award decisions on the following five criteria:

• Viability of Commercialization and Business Model – the potential for the entrant to generate revenue and maintain a cost structure that allows for a competitive and sustainable business, demonstrate technological readiness, or innovate to fulfill its value proposition;

• Customer Value – the degree to which the entrant is providing something for which customers are willing to pay, and addressing a substantial market;

• Food and Agriculture Innovation – the extent to which the entrant is pushing what’s considered state-of-the-art in the food and agriculture industries, and contributing to Upstate NY’s status as a global leader in innovation in these markets;

• Regional Job Creation – the potential for creating high-quality jobs in the Grow-NY footprint; and

• Team – the quality and completeness of the team and its readiness to deliver.

Empire State Development is providing funding for the Grow-NY competition through its Upstate Revitalization Initiative, and Cornell University’s Center for Regional Economic Advancement is administering the competition. The winner will be required to make a positive economic impact in the Grow-NY region, which features counties within Central NY, the Finger Lakes, and the Southern Tier of New York State. The winning business will help contribute to job growth, connect with local industry partners and contribute to a thriving economy.

To learn more about the finalists, mentors and judges, and to see full schedule of Grow-NY events, please visit grow-ny.com.

Managing Strawberry Fruit Rots with Biopesticides

A special thank-you to Dr. Kerik Cox for sharing this article in our May newsletter. Because we just didn’t have enough space to run all of his informative graphs, we’re including the remainder here. Refer to your print newsletter to read the text of the article in its entirety.

Figure 3. Mean percent incidence of Botrytis fruit rot at harvest in October 2018 in a day-neutral planting of ‘Albion’ strawberries with application timings using ‘NEWA’ or on a ‘Calendar’ schedule for organic (green) and conventional (orange) fungicide programs. Values represent means and standard errors of six plots. Columns denoted by the same letter for plots under “cover” (low tunnels) or “uncovered” are not significantly different (P < 0.05) according to the LSMEANS procedure in SAS 9.4 with an adjustment for Tukey’s HSD to control for family-wise error.

Figure 4. Mean percent incidence of Botrytis fruit rot at harvest in October 2018 in a day-neutral planting of ‘Albion’ strawberries planted on open plastic (cover) or under low tunnels (no cover) for calendar timings (yellow 7-10 days) and NEWA strawberry fruit rot systems (blue “High” risk). Values represent means and standard errors of six plots. Columns denoted by the same letter capital (plots under tunnels) or lowercase (uncovered plots) are not significantly different (P < 0.05) according to the LSMEANS procedure in SAS 9.4 with an adjustment for Tukey’s HSD to control for family-wise error. 

Cornell Small Fruit Survey Needs Your Input

Are you interested in diversifying your farmers’ market, farm stand, or CSA offerings with specialty fruit crops? Have you ever thought about growing currants, kiwiberries, goji berries, beach plums, or other “unusual” fruits?

Cornell University needs your input to help guide a project that aims to develop growing recommendations and enterprise budgets for unusual fruit crops in New York. Fill out their online survey now through May 31, 2019.

The Opioid Epidemic and Agriculture

The truth about opioids in the United States is sobering: no corner of the country remains untouched by the epidemic. With access to prevention, treatment, and support services sorely lacking in rural areas, these regions are now surpassing cities in rates of death from opioid overdose. Suzanne Flaum, Gleaning Assistant for Cornell Cooperative Extension of Orange County writes, “Recent reports show that those who work in occupations with higher rates of injury (farming, construction, roofing, etc.) where workers are less able to take time off to heal are more likely to medicate acute or chronic pain symptoms with opioids, leading to increased likelihood of addiction.”

The American Farm Bureau Federation and the National Farmers Union conducted a study in 2017. They found that 74 percent of farmers and farm workers report having been affected by opioid abuse, either by taking (and developing addictions to) these medications themselves, or by knowing someone who has dealt with an addiction. And only 38 percent of those people believe that local care would be effective, affordable, or covered by their health insurance.

If you, a friend, or family member is struggling with opioid use or addiction, CCE Orange County has collected these resources for finding necessary, life-saving help:

• 24/7 HOPELine, NYS Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS): 1-877-846- 7369

• Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS) treatment centers

• Narcotics Anonymous meeting finder

• Nar-Anon meeting finder (support for family or friends of those addicted)

• Expanded Syringe Access Program (ESAP)