News

Michigan specialty crop harvest advances

Peach and pear harvest has been completed in northwest Michigan, while the harvest of early season apples continues.

The latest progress report from USDA says McIntosh apple harvest is winding down in the southeast, going strong in west central and the Ridge, and just beginning in the northwest.

In the west-central region, color, size and firmness are reportedly good to excellent.

But crop loads are said to be lighter because of frost in early May.

Grape harvest should be beginning soon, with warm conditions helping maturity.

Carrot and potato harvest continue across major growing areas as weather allowed.

Growers are encouraged to be vigilant in scouting for late-season diseases like late blight, which was found in Montcalm County potatoes last month.