Melons

Georgia growers need to apply fungicides to curb downy mildew disease

Georgia vegetable farmers should be on alert as downy mildew disease has been spotted in at least three southern Georgia counties this spring. Additional counties could follow as weather conditions remained favorable for the disease... more »

Melon-linked illness outbreak over, contamination source not found

A 10-state outbreak of Salmonella Carrau illness linked to pre-cut melon products appears to be over, government agencies announced last week. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along with the Centers for Disease... more »

Van Groningen growers diversify crop selection

Fourth-generation growers lead Van Groningen & Sons, and with a fifth crop of family in the field, so to speak, the vertical grower-shipper-marketer is prepared to navigate the future of produce. What started as a... more »

Charleston Gray watermelon’s genome sequenced

Summertime is quickly approaching, and Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists and their university colleagues are reporting on genomics research on a traditional summer treat, watermelon. In a long-term study, researchers explored the genetics of "Charleston... more »

Florida Watermelon Association commits $100,000 for research

In March 2019, the Board of Directors of the Florida Watermelon Association (FWA) approved $100,000 to designate toward a research fund, supporting grant initiatives that will focus on research and development within the industry. “Florida... more »

Caito Foods recalls fresh-cut melon clamshells linked to illnesses

Caito Foods is voluntarily recalling a variety of fresh-cut melon products that were distributed in 16 states, saying they’re investigating reports of illnesses linked to the products. The voluntary... more »

Nominees sought for National Watermelon Promotion Board

The watermelon industry is seeking nominations of qualified watermelon producers and handlers for four seats on the National Watermelon Promotion Board. The industry will hold a nominating convention March 10, at 9:30 a.m. in French... more »