56th Annual Convention
Florida watermelons
Whitefly Damage on Cucurbit leaves
Unique silvering of the leaves is the characteristic symptom induced by feeding of immature stages of silver leaf whitefly which releases a toxin inducing the unique pattern on the leaves.
Fusarium wilt had major impact on watermelons
There were about 1,500 additional acres planted this year in North Florida following last year’s bumper crop and high prices. However, fusarium wilt disease had a major impact on this year’s crop.
Florida producing high volumes of watermelons
Watermelon supply in the U.S. market has been nearly 6% below the average of 2019-2023 during the same period.
Gummy stem blight challenges Florida growers
Gummy stem blight causes lesions on leaves and stems and leads to defoliation. The disease favors warm, wet conditions.
Whitefly infestations observed in Florida
Whiteflies are responsible for transmitting multiple viruses, including cucurbit leaf crumple virus and cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus.
Aggressive downy mildew infection in Florida and Georgia
Extension specialists want growers to have a heightened alert and to intensify scouting when we indicate alerts for any of these diseases or other pests.
Florida watermelons face disease threats
Recent excessive rains in North Florida have impacted the region’s watermelon crop. Growers could soon face the potential buildup of diseases. Downy mildew, Powdery mildew, and Gummy stem blight have been reported in the last few weeks.
