In most instances, only scattered plants are being affected in any particular field, although there have been some isolated cases where losses have been moderate to high. There has been one isolated report of southern blight affecting tomatoes. The problem has coincided with warming soil temperatures. Growers continue to combat spider mites on tomatoes and cucurbits in several locations. A number of growers are reporting the highest levels in several years.
Broad mites continue to increase and some fields are reaching low to moderate levels of infestation.
Cucumber beetles are being reported on a number of crops and are of concern on leafy vegetables to damage to foliage and subsequent loss of quality. Field sanitation is one of the most important tactics in vegetable pest and disease management. Remember back only a few years ago, that only by universal cooperation among growers were we able to survive the whitefly and Gemini-virus situation. The best thing that growers can do for themselves and their neighbors is to clean up crop residues promptly after harvest. Contact the Hendry County Extension for more information.