The SC Grower Exchange Podcast

The SC Grower Exchange Podcast

By: Clemson Extension Horticulture Program

Language: en-us

Categories: Leisure, Home, Garden

Join Clemson Extension Horticulture Agents for a weekly chat about what is going on in the fruit and vegetable fields around the state of South Carolina. Agents will discuss crops, weather, insects, diseases, weeds, and anything related to fruit and vegetable production. These timely updates will keep growers abreast and ahead of the game.

Episodes

The SC Grower Exchange: October 20, 2025
Oct 21, 2025

On this episode, Justin and Brittney bring us another Grower Spotlight. Brittney tells us about Mcleod Farms, a multi-generational operation in McBee, SC. The farm, now run by Kemp and Spencer Mcleod, has been a family run farm since 1916. Since the beginning, peaches have been a major part of their operation, and they have since expanded into many more crops and even some agritourism. Tune in to find out all the offerings Mcleod Farms brings to the PeeDee region. Justin, Sarah and Brittney also share some stories of spooky pests out in the field!

Duration: 00:15:01
The SC Grower Exchange: October 6, 2025
Oct 06, 2025

On this episode, all we do is talk about how dry it is and how many diamondback moths are in the field…kidding, kidding! Although it sometimes feels like those are the only things going on, we actually did discuss a few more things happening around the state. Agents are on board for regional updates as well as a deeper discussion on “Strawberry Season”. Andy, Justin, and Zack tell us about the in-line fumigation work they have been doing with farms across the state. Rob and I join in to discuss things to look for before and during planting to ens...

Duration: 00:48:22
The SC Grower Exchange: September 22, 2025
Sep 22, 2025

We’re doing things a little bit different around here, but hopefully that means you get even more out of this podcast! Join us as we revamp things and add some new segments that will allow us to take a deeper dive into things and maybe not repeat so much of what’s on the SC Grower Blog. One of the features that we have on both the blog and the podcast is our monthly ‘Grower Spotlight’. Each month, an agent chooses a farm or grower that they want to share about. We’ve included those here on the podcast pr...

Duration: 00:23:51
The SC Grower Exchange: August 25, 2025
Aug 25, 2025

On today’s episode, we hear from agents around the state and discuss weather woes from the field. Excessive moisture is an issue for most of the state, making field conditions less than ideal for growers prepping fields for new plantings. Justin and Briana bring us this month’s Grower Spotlight. Tune in the hear about Walker Miller and The Happy Berry. We wrap things up with a “Dad Joke” from Zack.

Duration: 00:21:51
The SC Grower Exchange: August 18, 2025 - Deep Dive on Climate Smart, Cover Crops, and Soils with Lacy Barnette
Aug 18, 2025

In this month's deep dive, Rob Lasts chats with Horticulture Team Extension Associate, Lacy Barnette. They discuss topics including the Climate Smart Grant, the use of cover crops, reduced tillage, mulching, and the benefits of these practices for South Carolina fruit and vegetable production.

Duration: 00:18:11
The SC Grower Exchange: July 28, 2025
Jul 28, 2025

Today’s show comes to you from the comfort of our air-conditioned offices because it’s getting too hot for plants AND people out there! Agents give crop updates from around the state and discuss the heat and weather conditions. Combatting the heat can be a challenge, so we share a few things to consider when the temps are way up there. Justin and Anna Sara share a grower spotlight with us featuring Phil Sandifer and Sons Farm located in Barnwell and Bamberg Counties. We wrap up with a dad joke from Zack. This one is pretty good but you’...

Duration: 00:40:31
The SC Grower Exchange: July 16, 2025 - Clemson Agribusiness FarmGate program with Kevin Burkett
Jul 16, 2025

For this deep dive, Justin Ballew and Kevin Burkett discuss the Farm Gate program. This annual survey collects data on specialty crop acreage and yield to help calculate the total economic value of the fruit and vegetable industry. Learn how data is collected, how the reports are utilized, and where to find them.

www.clemson.edu/extension/agribusiness/resources/farmgate


Duration: 00:22:16
The SC Grower Exchange: July 14, 2025
Jul 14, 2025

On today’s episode, Zack, Anna Sara, Andy, Rob and Sarah share a brief crop report from across the state. Hot weather is the common theme, and the heat can bring issues to growers. We discuss some pests and diseases being seen, and also chat briefly about some pesticide considerations when the temperatures are on the rise. Make sure you check out the SC Grower Blog to see some of the photos we discussed in the episode. Oh, and Zack has a “Dad Joke”… Sorry

Duration: 00:18:51
The SC Grower Exchange: June 30, 2025
Jun 30, 2025

Agents Sarah, Rob and Anna Sara discuss what’s happening in the field and have a conversation about seasonal woes, including pest and disease issues. The group chats about some control measures the growers can take in order to reduce pathogen spread in fields as well as cover a few important points about correct identification and pest control. Anna Sara shares some facts about the critter lurking in the blueberry bush from Zack’s Question of the Week photo. Tune in!

Duration: 00:34:22
The SC Grower Exchange: June 16, 2025
Jun 16, 2025

This week, the agents chat about the recent rainy weather and what that means for all the crops coming to market. The agents also get into a good conversation about orchard herbicides and give some great advice on a few products. We finish the episode highlighting JMac Farms.

Duration: 00:25:24
The SC Grower Exchange: June 15, 2025 - Post-harvest Handling with Dr. Karin Albornoz
Jun 15, 2025

In this month's deep dive, Zack Snipes chats with post-harvest handling specialist Dr. Karin Albornoz about her research projects.  They chat about how growers can prevent water loss in post-harvest handling, which will save them lots of money and preserve many of the nutritional benefits of the crop.  They specifically discuss leafy greens, red druplets in blackberries, and fresh-cut watermelons.

Duration: 00:33:19
The SC Grower Exchange: June 2, 2025
Jun 02, 2025

The theme for the last few weeks has been “weather related issues”… From hail to heavy rains following dry conditions, the weather has been giving growers a hard time this season. Agents from across the state share field conditions and crop updates. Also, in this episode, we are joined by Dr. Tony Keinath, who shares some issues on a few crops that are starting to emerge following these heavy rain events. If you are growing potatoes or cucurbit crops, you’ll want to listen in to learn about some signs and symptoms that might be popping up in your fields.<

Duration: 00:49:19
The SC Grower Exchange: May 19, 2025
May 20, 2025

Rain, hail, heat…must mean summer is on the way. Warm temperatures bring all sorts of weather conditions to the field, and the agents are discussing some of the issues that have come from them. Excessive moisture has put an end to some strawberry production, while others are seeing a second flush in their season. Join the discussion on what the determining factors are in moving forward or moving on. Andy and Zack join us “live from the field”, Phillip, Sarah and Justin share updates from around the midlands, and we hear about our May “Grower Spotlight”. Listen to the end to...

Duration: 00:16:48
The SC Grower Exchange: May 15, 2025 - Harvesting Retirement of a Career through Outstanding Service
May 15, 2025

On this episode, Anna Sara interviews the newly retired Dr. Gilbert Miller. You may recognize him from a previous podcast, drip irrigation workshop or most notably, his work with watermelon research. Join us to learn about Dr. Miller’s career with Clemson as an agent and researcher spanning 45 years of service. Anna Sara chats with ‘Gilbert’ about his early career and the path that led him to this profession. Learn more about his research and career accomplishments, as well as his personal background and retirement plans. Thank you, Dr. Miller, for your years of service and congratulations on your retire...

Duration: 00:43:31
The SC Grower Exchange: May 5, 2025
May 05, 2025

Agents from all regions of the state share a report from the field this week. We’ve said it before, but this time we mean it…Things are getting busy! Peaches are coming to harvest, strawberries are plentiful, and vegetables are ready…

With the busy season comes plenty of opportunity for pest issues. Agents bring up issues that growers should be scouting for, and discuss the crazy weather some areas got last week. Sarah and Justin cover the question of the week, and Zack gets us ready for the week with a dad joke. Tune in!

Duration: 00:28:01
The SC Grower Exchange: April 21, 2025
Apr 22, 2025

On this episode, we have reports coming from all 4 regions of the state. Strawberries and warm weather are definitely the trend this week. Weather across the state has also been quite windy and dry, causing some sand blasting in crops. We discuss some of that damage and what it might look like in the field, as well as other issues to look out for as the weather warms up. Christiana shares with us about Atkinson Farms, our grower highlight for the month. 

And…let’s not forget about the return of the dad joke with Zack! Tune in fo...

Duration: 00:26:48
The SC Grower Exchange: April 7, 2025
Apr 07, 2025

You’d be hard pressed to find a roadside produce stand that doesn’t have a few buckets of strawberries for sale (unless they’ve sold out for the day) around the state. Juicy red fruit has been hitting the market, and reports from across the state indicate good yield so far. Andy makes us aware of a new bacterial issue showing up in the upstate and some symptoms to look for. Peaches and blueberries are moving along, and it looks like it is going to be another heavy yielding year for both crops. Andy and Sarah hit on some p...

Duration: 00:21:47
The SC Grower Exchange: March 24, 2025
Mar 24, 2025

In this episode, we dive into Spring! Along with warm weather and pollen come strawberries, which is the beginning of a very busy season. While we have seen some pretty warm temperatures around the state, night temperatures have dropped several times, causing growers to choose whether to use row covers in their strawberry fields or not. Agents discuss the strawberry crop and share some things to consider if using those covers on these cooler nights. Peaches are moving along across the state as well. Blooms are giving way to leaves, and things are getting busy in the orchards as...

Duration: 00:22:53
The SC Grower Exchange: March 15, 2025 - Managing Twospotted Spider Mite and more with Dr. Tom Bilbo
Mar 15, 2025

In this month's deep dive, Zack chats with Clemson's strawberry and vegetable entomologist, Dr. Tom Bilbo. They go into great detail on how to manage the twospotted spider mite using IPM and how Dr. Bilbo's research is unique to South Carolina.  

Duration: 00:52:16
The SC Grower Exchange: March 10, 2024
Mar 10, 2025

Agents from all regions of the state share crop reports from the field today. It seems we are all gearing up for strawberry season. Some takeaways that were highlighted include when to cover and what pests to keep an eye out on. Blueberries and peaches are moving right along as well. It won’t be long before folks will be baking pies and cobblers! Justin shares with us a brief update on some trial work and chats with Anna Sara about her question of the week photo. Tune in to learn about an interesting arachnid you probably have living in...

Duration: 00:23:28
The SC Grower Exchange: February 24, 2025
Feb 24, 2025

We are emerging out of a chilly spell and into a week that looks to be warm and sunny for most areas of the state. Agents Zack, Brittney, Andy and Sarah share updates from each region of the state. The theme of this episode is definitely weather and what to expect with the condition changes in the upcoming days. Peaches, strawberries, and greens are the crops we are looking at the most this week, and things are starting to really move in the fields. Justin shares with us an update on disease issues found in a kale trial and...

Duration: 00:21:42
The SC Grower Exchange: February 10, 2025
Feb 10, 2025

On today’s episode, we hear a field update from Zack in the coastal region and Rob and Sarah from the midlands. It seems we all have whiplash, plants included, from the above-average temperatures. Join us to hear about how crops are recovering from the cold temperatures and adjusting to this “false spring.” It may be February, but things are getting pretty busy out there! Strawberries, greens and peaches are the main topics of conversation today. Justin shares with us some information on our recent question of the week from the SC Grower Blog, and Zack wraps up this episod...

Duration: 00:15:41
The SC Grower Exchange: February 3, 2025
Feb 03, 2025

Welcome back listeners! Join us as we catch up on wintry weather and things happening in the field. The theme of the day seems to be strawberry issues and cold-damaged crops. Agents from around the state discuss some of the disease issues coming from the strawberry fields as well as plant health. The state experienced some bitter cold back in January, and most areas are seeing signs out in the field. Brassica crops may be showing some reddening leaves and stunted growth. Join in to hear updates from all regions of the state as well as a brief climate-smart...

Duration: 00:25:25
The SC Grower Exchange: December 15, 2024 - Vegetable Crop Breeding with Sandra Branham
Dec 15, 2024

In this Deep Dive episode, Sandra Branham, Assistant Professor of Vegetable Breeding and Genetics, talks about breeding vegetable crops to meet the unique needs of growers in South Carolina.

Duration: 00:21:04
The SC Grower Exchange: November 25, 2024
Nov 25, 2024

In this “Thanksgiving Week Edition” of the SC Grower Exchange, agents from the midlands and coastal region share field updates. We have a seasonal “question of the week” from Justin Ballew, and the gang shares their favorite Thanksgiving side dish and pie flavor. It seems like sweet potato sides are a crowd favorite, but there is some debate on marshmallow vs. pecan toppings.

Duration: 00:11:16
The SC Grower Exchange: November 18, 2024 - South Carolina Citrus with Justin Ballew and Zack Snipes
Nov 18, 2024

Justin Ballew and Zack Snipes talk about citrus in South Carolina, including citrus greening, cold tolerance, and a few dad jokes.

Duration: 00:31:39
The SC Grower Exchange: November 11, 2024
Nov 11, 2024

It’s November…What holiday season are you in? Do you jump straight into Christmas cheer, or do you wait for the turkey to have his time to shine? It seems we’ve got several agents still stuck on Halloween (maybe because of the leftover candy)!

No matter what you’re celebrating, there’s no denying it’s strawberry growing season. Agents from across the state share what they are seeing in the fields. This has started as a bumpy season for strawberries so far, with disease issues emerging from the nurseries and more arising from the field after...

Duration: 00:22:23
The SC Grower Exchange: October 28, 2024
Oct 28, 2024

On this episode, agents from all regions of the state weigh in on the upcoming strawberry season, including cultural practices and pesticide treatments for growers to pay attention to. With plants going in the ground, there are a lot of things to look for early on that could help with issues that could show up later in the season. Planting practices, water and preventative treatments are some of the best tools we have to ensure a good season. Leafy greens are being harvested in good volume across the state. Black rot and some diamondback moth damage are found for...

Duration: 00:22:29
The SC Grower Exchange: October 7, 2024
Oct 08, 2024

Agents from all regions of the state report on the impact of Hurricane Helene and current field conditions. While the scale of the damage varies across the state, most areas and crops have been affected by wind damage. Pecans seem to have been hit particularly hard, and some crops required replanting due to water damage. Check out the SC Grower blog for pictures and more updates from the field.

Duration: 00:21:57
The SC Grower Exchange: September 17, 2024 - Neopestalotiopsis in Strawberries with Dr. Guido Schnabel
Sep 17, 2024

In this month's deep dive, Rob last meets with Dr. Guido Schnabel to discuss the fungal plant pathogen neopestalotiopsis, tips for minimizing the effects of the disease, management options and strategies, and much more.

Duration: 00:13:24
The SC Grower Exchange: September 16, 2024
Sep 16, 2024

The weather is cooling down a bit, and things are drying out (except for the areas affected by a somewhat surprising tropical storm). Andy, Christiana, Rob, and Sarah share updates from the fields. We are switching gears from summer to fall crops and keeping an eye out for pest and disease issues that could pop up. Growers from all over the state are preparing for strawberry season as well. Justin joins in to share the “Question of the Week” pick. Tune in to find out what’s happening in the fields and learn a little more about Justin’s slithery...

Duration: 00:11:17
The SC Grower Exchange: September 3, 2024
Sep 03, 2024

We cover updates from all regions of the state in this episode. Agents share how crops are currently performing and give some tips for future ones. Tune in to hear about how we are moving into the next season of growing. Strawberry growers will be especially interested in checking out some of the latest blog posts about important updates regarding a dramatic neopestalotiopsis outbreak that has greatly affected nurseries and suppliers. We cover some follow-ups to the blog post and share pointers for those who plan to grow strawberries this season. Justin shares with us the agent pick for “Qu...

Duration: 00:33:01
The SC Grower Exchange: August 19, 2024
Aug 19, 2024

In our last episode, we discussed the anticipation of inclement weather from TS Debby. Today, agents join in to discuss the aftermath of the storm and share some resources for growers affected by the heavy rains many parts of the state experienced. If you were affected by the storm, there are also resources available on the SC Grower Blog. In the field this week, we are winding down many crops just in time to prepare for another season to ramp back up. Agents share their outlook on this as well as some pointers for preparing your fields for the...

Duration: 00:16:01
The SC Grower Exchange: August 15, 2024 - Weed Management with Dr. Matt Cutulle
Aug 15, 2024

On this month’s deep dive, Extension agent Zack Snipes chats with Dr. Matt Cutulle about weed management in South Carolina. They discuss how cutting edge science and the modernization of agriculture is attracting non-typical students to the agriculture field. Dr. Cutulle gives some insight into how to change our mindset when managing problem weeds.

Duration: 00:31:53
The SC Grower Exchange: August 5, 2024
Aug 05, 2024

As South Carolina prepares for the arrival of potentially heavy rains from “Debby,” agents provide some good reminders for growers in the wake of the storm. It looks as if many areas will be affected by the storm, and we will have updates on the aftermath in the next episode. For now, we have reports from all regions of the state as far as crops and the issues we are seeing in the field right now. Justin shares an update on our goldenberry venture and chats with other agents about what we saw growing this plant as a trial this...

Duration: 00:21:42
The SC Grower Exchange: July 22, 2024
Jul 22, 2024

Agents from all regions of the state report on weather and field conditions. It seems we are finally starting to get some good rain across the state, and with that comes disease pressure. During the dog days of summer, we really must be vigilant in scouting for issues in our crops. Christiana and Zack remind growers that strawberry season is near, and it is a great time to consult with your local extension agent as to what varieties will work best for your operation, as well as form a backup plan in case nurseries are short on plants. Justin...

Duration: 00:24:11
The SC Grower Exchange: July 15, 2024 - Managing Diamondback Moths with Tom Bilbo
Jul 15, 2024

This month, Justin Ballew meets with Research & Extension Specialist Tom Bilbo (Vegetable & Strawberry Entomology) to discuss managing diamondback moth in brassica crops with mating disruption.

Duration: 00:20:21
The SC Grower Exchange: July 8, 2024
Jul 08, 2024

This week, agents discuss weather, pest and disease reports from the Pee Dee, Midlands, Coastal and Upstate regions of the state. It seems we have all gotten a good bit of rain following a very dry spell. With moisture brings new disease issues and an urgency to scout and keep a close eye on summer crops. Join us to hear about the insects that we are finding and how to best handle them, as well as get an outlook on the crops coming to harvest soon. Along with our updates from the field, Justin shares with us the “Question of...

Duration: 00:15:56
The SC Grower Exchange: June 24, 2024
Jun 24, 2024

A common theme for today’s episode is the HEAT and lack of rain. Agents from around the state report little to no precipitation and very warm temperatures, which shouldn’t come as a surprise to any South Carolinians. While dry weather keeps some issues at bay, it does bring on others. Reports from the coast, midlands and upstate are shared, and we discuss some commonalities in issues we are seeing in vegetables and some fruit crops. Justin shares the “Question of the Week” from a photo submitted by Zack.

Duration: 00:23:15
The SC Grower Exchange: June 17, 2024
Jun 17, 2024

In this week’s episode, agents from the Midlands and PeeDee area give updates from the field. It seems across the board we could use some rain and relief from the heat… It’s not even officially Summer yet?! Agents encourage growers to scout fields closely as insect pressure is high, and there are plenty of them out in the fields. Disease pressure will likely rise a bit if temperatures stay hot and humid. Justin shares with us a “Question of the Week” pic sent in by Rob. Tune in to find out about his interesting find on a pecan leaf

Duration: 00:13:33
The SC Grower Exchange: June 15, 2024 - Fusarium Wilt in Watermelon with Dr. Tony Keinath
Jun 15, 2024

In this deep dive episode, Commercial Horticulture Agent Rob Last talks with Professor of Plant Pathology Research and Extension Vegetable Pathologist Dr. Anthony Keinath and discusses recent observations and tips for dealing with fusarium wilt in watermelons.

Duration: 00:17:31
The SC Grower Exchange: May 28, 2024
May 28, 2024

In this episode, Zack, Anna Sara, Andy, Sarah and Justin share an update on what’s happening in the fields across the state. We are entering into the peak season for many fruits and vegetables, and with that comes plenty of pest and disease issues to talk about. The group discusses potential virus issues on squash plants, fertility concerns, crops coming to harvest and cover a pest that has been causing some big issues in peaches. Justin shares with us the answer for our “Question of the Week” from last week. Tune in to learn more about the issues we are...

Duration: 00:19:25
The SC Grower Exchange: May 15, 2024 - Post-Harvest Handling with Dr. Karin Albornoz
May 15, 2024

In this episode of SC Grower Exchange, Clemson Extension agent Zack Snipes interviews Clemson’s new post-harvest handling specialist, Dr. Karin Albornoz.  They discuss easy ways to improve post-harvest handling of produce, for any size farm or garden and what that can mean for the environment and your bottom line. Dr. Albornoz also casts her vision for her research path and how she, along with growers, can reduce food loss and optimize profitability for decades to come.

Duration: 00:34:19
The SC Grower Exchange: May 13, 2024
May 13, 2024

Tune in as Zack, Andy, Brittney, Philip, and Sarah share crop updates from around the state. Zack shares with us that cucurbit downy mildew has been found and confirmed in the coastal region of the state. If you suspect you have downy mildew, please reach out to your extension agent so we can get confirmation and report any outbreaks. The peach crop is heavy this year, and harvest has begun. Strawberries are still being harvested, but production has slowed as pest and disease pressure rises. Vegetable crops are looking good with just a few issues so far. Justin discusses...

Duration: 00:28:48
The SC Grower Exchange: April 29, 2024
Apr 29, 2024

Brittany, Ann Sara, Rob, Philip and Sarah share agent field updates. Overall, crops are looking good, but we cover a few pests that are starting to emerge that growers will want to keep an eye out for. The group mentions the importance of using selective insecticides when beneficial or predatory insects are present, as well as being mindful of proper pest ID to determine whether treatment is necessary. Justin shares an update on diamondback moth, pecan and citrus trials and shares with us the question of the week pick, which was hoverfly larvae.

Duration: 00:15:06
The SC Grower Exchange: April 15, 2024 - Irrigation with Dr. Gilbert Miller
Apr 15, 2024

In addition to today's field update, tune into this month’s deep dive as Clemson Extension Agent Zack Snipes interviews Dr. Gilbert Miller, a Clemson researcher at Edisto Research and Education Center. Dr. Miller will give insight on how to irrigate crops properly, how soil type impacts irrigation frequency and duration, and how to properly fertigate fields.

Duration: 00:31:19
The SC Grower Exchange: April 15, 2024
Apr 15, 2024

As temperatures warm up, we are seeing an increase in disease and insect pressure. Agents from the Midlands, Coastal and Upstate Regions share what’s happening in the fields this week. Wet weather has led to an increase in gray mold throughout some strawberry fields, and we have seen an uptick in spider mite populations. Peaches are loaded and gearing up for a busy season. The coastal region is moving right along with crops including tomatoes that are already being strung. Justin gives us an update on trials and introduces the question of the week which was a submission fr...

Duration: 00:17:52
The SC Grower Exchange: April 1, 2024
Apr 01, 2024

It’s a full house today on the SC Grower Exchange. Our agents give reports from all regions of the state. Strawberries are looking good, but we continue to see mite infestations. As new crops are going in, don’t forget to check them for mites as well. Vegetable transplants are in the ground, so now is the time to scout those fields and keep a close eye on any issues that may pop up. It looks like we will have a good peach year if we can escape a cold snap in the next two weeks. The crop is h...

Duration: 00:18:54
The SC Grower Exchange: March 18, 2024
Mar 18, 2024

This week we introduce our newest fruit and vegetable agent, Anna Sara Hill, who covers Allendale, Hampton, Barnwell and Bamberg Counties. Agents give updates on the strawberry crop as well as peaches and greens. A frost/freeze warning is in effect for tonight for the midlands and upstate. Lacy Barnette gives a climate smart update.

Duration: 00:27:13
The SC Grower Exchange: March 15, 2024 - Sclerotinia White Mold with Dr. Anthony Keinath
Mar 15, 2024

This week, Justin Ballew takes a deep dive with Extension Vegetable Pathologist Dr. Anthony Keinath on Sclerotinia White Mold, its effect on different crops across South Carolina, and much more.

Duration: 00:33:12
The SC Grower Exchange: March 4, 2024
Mar 04, 2024

Many agents join this week's podcast to share observations and recommendations on topics like the incoming strawberry bloom, blueberries and peaches, leafy greens transplants, and much more. This episode also features an introduction from Commercial Horticulture Agent, Brittney King, questions and answers on wildflowers, and more dad jokes from Zack.


Be sure to also visit scgrower.com to view upcoming meetings, events, and additional field updates.

Duration: 00:26:24
The SC Grower Exchange: February 19, 2024
Feb 19, 2024

Agents and specialists this week discuss fertilizer tips for the upcoming strawberry crop, liquid fertilizer crystallization, and recent peach updates. We also get some answers from the past week's blog Q&A from Tom Bilbo and Justin Ballew on blueberry pruning and fava beans.

Duration: 00:21:34
The SC Grower Exchange: February 15, 2024 - with Clemson Extension's Climate-Smart Team
Feb 15, 2024

Rob Last is joined by Jhessye Moore-Thomas and Lacy Barnette, who work for Clemson Extension on the Climate-Smart Grown in SC project. Listen to this new interview series to learn more about the work they do to support leafy greens farmers, the role of Climate-Smart in South Carolina, and much more. To learn more about the Climate-Smart Grown in SC project, visit climatesmartsc.org.

Duration: 00:20:07
The SC Grower Exchange: February 5, 2024
Feb 06, 2024

The SC Grower Exchange Podcast is back for 2024, and agents this week dive into a variety of topics, including the current spring plantings across the state and strawberry, peach, blueberry, and brassica field updates. Tune in for fertigation and plant hygiene tips, updates on the citrus cold tolerance trials at Sandhills REC, and much more.

Duration: 00:17:53
The SC Grower Exchange: December 4, 2023
Dec 04, 2023

Tune in this week as we wrap up the year and discuss the impacts of colder weather, crop preparations, some holiday traditions, and more.

Duration: 00:16:37
The SC Grower Exchange: November 20, 2023
Nov 20, 2023

Tune in this week for updates on Thanksgiving crops across the state. Agents also discuss the drier weather, timely spray recommendations for pests, prepping for peaches and blackberries, research trials at Sandhills REC, their green of choice for Thanksgiving, and more.

Duration: 00:16:14
The SC Grower Exchange: November 6, 2023
Nov 06, 2023

Be sure to visit scgrower.com to check out our upcoming fall events. This week, agents give field updates regarding the cooler, drier weather, pests seen out in the field, testing at the Sandhills REC, and much more.

Duration: 00:11:54
The SC Grower Exchange: October 30, 2023
Oct 30, 2023

Join us this week as agents discuss fall crop updates, the impacts of recent warm weather, and some Halloween plans.

Duration: 00:14:23
The SC Grower Exchange: September 25, 2023
Sep 25, 2023

This week, agents discuss the Fall crop transition around the state, pest identification, the current muscadine crop, herbicide updates, and much more.

Duration: 00:14:35
The SC Grower Exchange: August 25, 2023
Aug 25, 2023

Tune in this week the hear agents discuss various nutrient deficiencies seen in fruit and vegetables, the incoming muscadine crop, caterpillar pests, updates on insecticide trials, and research at the Coastal Research and Education Center.

Duration: 00:19:15
The SC Grower Exchange: July 31, 2023
Jul 31, 2023

Tune in this week to hear agents discuss the summer season wrapping up, hot weather and spotty rain, phytophthora observations, the incoming muscadine crop, blackberry and tomato diseases, and much more.

Duration: 00:15:05
The SC Grower Exchange: July 17, 2023
Jul 17, 2023

This week, agents give field crop updates and discuss early and late summer crops, the impacts of the hot and humid weather across the state, drip recommendations, muscadine observations, and much more.

Duration: 00:22:32
The SC Grower Exchange: June 30, 2023 - with Dr. Anthony Keinath
Jun 30, 2023

This week, Dr. Anthony Keinath joins the podcast to discuss his field research on downy mildew in cucurbits and other plant and vegetable pathology work with Justin Ballew.

Duration: 00:32:13
The SC Grower Exchange: June 20, 2023
Jun 20, 2023

The summer season is in full swing, and agents discuss peach improvements, state-wide summer crop updates, effects of upcoming weather, trials and tests for various pests, and much more.

Duration: 00:18:22
The SC Grower Exchange: May 25, 2023
May 25, 2023

Be sure to visit scgrower.com to register for upcoming Field Days! Field updates discussed by agents this week include an outlook on the slower peach season, diseases seen around the upstate, effects of the cold damage from earlier this year, protecting berries from birds, shifting weather, and much more.

Duration: 00:24:35
The SC Grower Exchange: April 24, 2023
Apr 24, 2023

This week, agents from around the state discuss the summer crops starting up, more recommendations for controlling diseases in strawberries, the upcoming peach crop, and much more. We also welcome a new area Horticulture agent, Briana Naumuk, and hear about some of the research at the Charleston REC from Tom Bilbo, and potential abiotic factors causing scorching and scarring on fruit and vegetable leaves from Rob Last.

Duration: 00:36:48
The SC Grower Exchange: April 10, 2023
Apr 10, 2023

This week, agents from around the state discuss the Spring crop season, including peach production, strawberry updates and disease prevention, leafy greens, corn, blueberries, watermelon transplanting, and much more.

Duration: 00:27:38
The SC Grower Exchange: March 27, 2023
Mar 27, 2023

This week, agents discuss the rain and freeze damage on various fruits and what they've seen in grower's fields around the state.

Duration: 00:16:10
The SC Grower Exchange: March 13, 2023
Mar 13, 2023

This week, agents discuss the quick cold weather shift and its effect on fruit and vegetable production. Matt Cutulle and Brian Ward also join to discuss weed science in the coastal region. Be sure to also check out the blog this week with detailed field reports from around the state.

Duration: 00:15:53
The SC Grower Exchange: February 27, 2023
Feb 27, 2023

This week, agents from around the state discuss the effects of February’s above-average temperatures, fungicide rotation recommendations, field samples from local growers, scouting for spider mites in strawberries, and much more.

Duration: 00:16:04
The SC Grower Exchange: February 13, 2023
Feb 13, 2023

Tune in this week to hear Sarah, Justin, Zack, and Bruce discuss chill hours for peaches, tips for the upcoming strawberry crop, and more. Dr. Tom Bilbo, Clemson Research & Extension Specialist for Vegetable & Strawberry Entomology, also joins the podcast to talk about what he's working on and seeing out in the field.

Duration: 00:19:49
The SC Grower Exchange: January 30, 2023
Jan 30, 2023

The SC Grower Exchange Podcast is back for 2023! Tune in this week to hear Sarah, Zack, Rob and Philip discuss a relatively new disease of strawberries for SC, neopestalotiopsis, as well as field conditions following a rainy week around the state. 

Duration: 00:17:25
The SC Grower Exchange: November 21, 2022
Nov 21, 2022

With Thanksgiving around the corner, collards, turnip greens, kale, and brassicas look good across the state. Agents also discuss the cooler weather, citrus growing, their green of choice for Thanksgiving, and more.

Duration: 00:12:42
The SC Grower Exchange: November 7, 2022
Nov 17, 2022

This week, agents from around the state give early November crop updates.

Duration: 00:14:57
The SC Grower Exchange: October 24, 2022
Oct 24, 2022

This week, agents discuss the cooler weather around the state, strawberry plantings, tips for low-potassium soil, robotics for weed control, and much more.

Duration: 00:16:18
The SC Grower Exchange: October 10, 2022
Oct 10, 2022

This week, agents provide field updates with regard to Hurricane Ian's impact on fall crops and discuss spray management, irrigation schedules, and more.

Duration: 00:16:34
The SC Grower Exchange: September 26, 2022
Sep 30, 2022

Fall crops are here, and agents from around the state give updates from the field. Gilbert Miller also joins to talk about his role as an Extension Vegetable Specialist at the Edisto Research and Education Center, pumpkin production in the midlands, and much more.

Duration: 00:41:34
The SC Grower Exchange: August 15, 2022
Aug 16, 2022

This week, agents give field updates on the mid-August fruit and vegetable crop. Peach season has begun to wrap up, and agents discuss Fall season crops including pecans, muscadines, butterbeans, okra, and more. Be sure to register for Clemson & UGA Extension's Joint Strawberry Preplant Meeting on scgrower.com

Duration: 00:15:03
The SC Grower Exchange: August 1, 2022
Aug 01, 2022

It's the dog days of summer, and crops across the state are feeling the heat. Agents give some quick updates on the recent weather and the approaching end of the summer season. Don't forget to register for the Clemson & UGA Extension Joint Strawberry Preplant Meeting at scgrower.com.

Duration: 00:12:58
The SC Grower Exchange: July 18, 2022
Jul 19, 2022

This week, Kevin Burkett from Clemson Extension's Agribusiness Team joins to discuss the work and projects his team provides. Agents also give field crop updates regarding peach varieties, trials with grafted peppers, diseases in cucurbits, and last week's Watermelon Field Day.

Duration: 00:21:20
The SC Grower Exchange: July 11, 2022
Jul 11, 2022

Tune in this week for a quick field update from agents around the state. Summer fruit and vegetable production is in full swing, and preparation for fall crops will begin soon.

Duration: 00:15:49
The SC Grower Exchange: June 20, 2022
Jun 20, 2022

The mid-June field updates are in, and agents from around the state discuss diseases currently being found in summer fruit and vegetable crops, the impacts of recent weather, herbicide carryover issues in soil, and more.

Duration: 00:27:13
The SC Grower Exchange: June 6, 2022
Jun 06, 2022

Agents give field updates from around the state for the beginning of June, discussing wilt in tomatoes, staying vigilant on field checks with variable weather, and much more.

Duration: 00:23:28
The SC Grower Exchange: May 23, 2022
May 23, 2022

Agents from around the state give field updates on late May fruit and vegetable crops. Agents also discuss how the warm and dry weather has impacted crops, pest and disease spread, and the potential for more rain this week.

Duration: 00:22:16
The SC Grower Exchange: April 25, 2022
Apr 25, 2022

This week, Sarah and Rob give updates on the current peach, strawberry, and blueberry crops. Dr. Matt Cutulle also joins to discuss spring weed control.

Duration: 00:33:39
The SC Grower Exchange: April 11, 2022
Apr 11, 2022

Agents from around the state discuss the effects of the inconsistent spring weather and the soon-to-be-planted summer crops. Guinn Wallover also joins the call this week to discuss her role as a Water Resources Extension Agent for the coastal district, and how she helps growers, communities, and municipalities with water resource management.

Duration: 00:18:20
The SC Grower Exchange: March 28, 2022
Mar 28, 2022

This week, agents discuss the extent of cold-weather damage from earlier this month on the peach, strawberry, and vegetable crops around the state.

Duration: 00:13:47
The SC Grower Exchange: March 14, 2022
Mar 15, 2022

This week, agents from around the state assess damage from the previous weekend's freezing temperatures. Fruit trees and berries are likely to sustain damage at these temperatures and time will tell to what extent. Dr. Juan Carlos Melgar joins in to tell us how cold weather can cause damage to a crop. 

Duration: 00:23:48
The SC Grower Exchange: February 28, 2022
Mar 11, 2022

This week, agents discuss late February weather changes, tissue testing the upcoming Lowcountry strawberry crop, Southern Region Small Fruit Consortium, and spraying and pruning peaches around the upstate.

Duration: 00:14:24
2022 Clemson Small Fruits Production Growers Meeting with Bruce McLean and Andy Rollins
Feb 22, 2022

Bruce McLean hosts Clemson, Georgia, and NC State Extension agents from across the southeast to talk about small fruit production. Gerard Krewer, Mark Hoffmann, Karen Blaedow, and Andy Rollins present on blueberry, blackberry, muscadine, and bunch grape production for 2022.

Duration: 02:43:13
The SC Grower Exchange: February 14, 2022
Feb 15, 2022

Agents from around the state give mid-February updates on SC crops. Warm temperatures mean it's time to start applying those Boron applications to strawberries. Strawberry plants don't seem to be establishing as well this year for some. Will our season be a good one? Also, Bruce Mclean talks to us about pruning blueberries and shares some resources for pruning videos online. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_fglEl9mVo

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wkFhMwoiUDQ

Duration: 00:38:57
The SC Grower Exchange: January 31, 2022
Feb 07, 2022

The SC Grower Exchange is back for 2022! Agents from around the state provide crop and growing updates for late January. White peach scale, cold damage to brassica crops and nutrient uptake, strawberry progression are all covered in this episode. Will Lever from the SCDA gives us an update on the new Produce Safety Rule and shares with us how farmers can connect with SCDA for more information. 

Duration: 00:25:05
CUltivate SC Grower Series: Update on Clemson Heat-tolerant Butterbean Project with Bruce McLean
Jan 19, 2022

Bruce McLean hosts a presentation covering Clemson's Heat-tolerant Butterbean Project, and answers grower's questions as part of the CUltivate SC Grower Series.

Duration: 00:41:11
CUltivate SC Grower Series: Cover Cropping with a Purpose with Zack Snipes
Nov 11, 2021

Bruce McLean hosts Zack Snipes, Clemson Extension Area Horticulture for the Lowcountry, for a presentation on all things cover crop-related in South Carolina, as part of the CUltivate SC Grower Series.

Duration: 00:57:00
The SC Grower Exchange: October 19, 2021
Oct 19, 2021

Vegetable Weed Science professor, Dr. Matt Cutulle, discusses Fall weed management and proactive tips for growers across the state.

Duration: 00:19:54
CUltivate SC Grower Series: Early Season Strawberry Disease Management with Dr. Guido Schnabel
Sep 28, 2021

Bruce McLean hosts Dr. Guido Schnabel, Clemson Professor of Plant Pathology for Fruit Crops, for a presentation on early-season disease management for strawberries in South Carolina, as part of the CUltivate SC Grower Series.

Duration: 00:38:31
The SC Grower Exchange: September 22, 2021
Sep 24, 2021

Agents give field updates around the state for the beginning of the Fall season.

Duration: 00:22:00
CUltivate SC Grower Series: Fall Weed Management with Dr. Matt Cutulle
Sep 08, 2021

Dr. Matt Cutulle gives the Fall Weed Management update for South Carolina, as part of the CUltivate SC Grower Series.

Duration: 00:38:11
CUltivate SC Grower Series: 2021 Muscadine Crop Update with Bruce McLean
Sep 08, 2021

Bruce McLean gives the 2021 Muscadine Crop Update and Muscadine Insect Talk for South Carolina, as part of the CUltivate SC Grower Series.

Duration: 01:10:24
The SC Grower Exchange: August 24, 2021
Aug 24, 2021

Listen in on the weekly round-up of what is happening across the state of SC with fruit and vegetable production, hear each agent's most obscure diagnostic problem from this season, and find out the latest information from Clemson Vegetable Specialist, Dr. Brian Ward's, most recent research projects.

Duration: 00:28:51