IPM of Stone Fruits Virtual Field Day Module
Project description and objectives:
This project will teach fruit growers how to implement an IPM program specifically designed for stone fruit (peach, nectarine, and plum) growers. A video module will be developed to add to the UF/IFAS Virtual Field Day web site (http://vfd.ifas.ufl.edu). Video production will be done at the demonstration orchard at NFREC-SV.
The objective is to develop a virtual field day module as a means of teaching IPM techniques for stone fruit crops. The modules will capture hands-on demonstrations and discussion regarding the IPM components. Appropriate IPM EDIS/documents will be linked to the module on the virtual field day site.
The virtual field module will include discussion regarding insect and disease management since detection and management of insects and diseases are often linked.
Topics will include:
1. Seasonal scouting techniques
2. Timing of certain IPM strategies
3. Basics of good spray techniques
4. Common insects in deciduous fruit in Florida
- cat-facing insects (stink bugs and other plant bugs)
- plum curculio and use of Tedders Traps for detection
- scale insects
- peach tree borer and lesser peach tree borer
- spider mites
- sharpshooters
5. Common diseases in deciduous fruit
- brown rot
- bacterial leaf spot
Project leaders:
Robert Hochmuth, Multi County Extension Agent/Statewide Small Farms Coordinator, North Florida Research and Education Center, Suwannee Valley
Dr. Russ Mizell, Professor and Entomology Specialist, North Florida Research and Education Center, Quincy
Dr. Pete Anderson, Professor and Deciduous Fruit Specialist, North Florida Research and Education Center, Quincy