Survey responses will also contribute to the development of a multi-state Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI) preproposal led by University of Georgia, with Rutgers contributing to the weed management component of the project. The goal of this effort is to better understand grower needs and support future research and Extension programming focused on sustainable production practices for these emerging specialty crops.

The survey is brief and should take only a few minutes to complete.

Access the survey here:
Ginger and Turmeric Grower Interest Survey

We encourage participation from growers currently producing ginger or turmeric, as well as those interested in potentially incorporating these crops into their farming operation.

Thank you for your participation and support

Symptoms of heat stress and heat damage including wilting, cupping of leaves, scorching on leaves and stems, and leaf drop.

Heat damage on romaine lettuce. Photo: RF Smith and MD Cahn, U of CA

Increasing irrigation is the best mitigation for most systems. Evaporative cooling allows plants to release heat in the form of water vapor through open pores or stomata on their leaves. When plants are low on water, they will close their stomata to retain turgidity, which in turn prevents evaporative cooling. To compensate for this, increase irrigation to prevent desiccation.

Planting on black plastic mulch should be avoided in the summer, as it will cause overheating. White plastic or metalized mulches are effective alternatives to control weeds, increase soil water retention, and reduce soil temperature. If black mulch is used, a foliar application of kaolin clay can be used as a reflective layer. Work conducted by R.J.G. Taveras at Virginia Tech found that applying 20-40 lb/A of Kaolin clay could maintain soil temperatures 10℉ cooler than black plastic alone.

Shade cloth can be placed over stakes or hoops to reduce soil and air temperature. Work by Dr. Emmalea Ernest at the University of DE found 30% shade cloth optimized benefits of cooling without reducing sunlight too drastically for the majority of vegetable crops.

Finally, avoid fertilizing or applying pesticides when temperatures are consistently above 86℉ to prevent burning the crop. Consult the product’s label for more specific guidance.

Contact your County Agent with concerns or questions. Stay cool!

If your farm or a farm you know qualifies, please complete NJDA’s short form by clicking here — the submission deadline is this coming Monday, 5/18.