Landscape, Ornamentals, Nursery, & Turf Edition - Rutgers Plant and Pest Advisory

Fruit IPM Updates Week of 3/30/2026

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 14:03:12 GMT

Tree Fruit Phenology Update

Tree fruit phenology is progressing across New Jersey, with development in southern counties remaining slightly advanced and northern regions beginning to catch up. Overall, the 2026 season is showing a more compressed phenology window than typical. Warm temperatures this week significantly advanced phenology.

In apples, most varieties have reached tight cluster across the state, with early varieties in southern counties at pink bud. In pears, most varieties are at early white bud to popcorn, with Asian pears more advanced and approaching bloom. Peach varieties have reached pink bud across New Jersey, with nectarines near or in bloom in South Jersey.

Apples

Apple Phenology Update

Apple phenology continues to progress across New Jersey. Observations indicate that northern counties are primarily at tight cluster, while southern counties are at pink bud in early varieties.

This stage marks a critical transition in disease management, particularly for apple scab, powdery mildew, and cedar apple rust, as well as key insect management timings.

Phenology Dates by County (earliest varieties)

County	Green Tip	Tight Cluster	Pink Bud
Cumberland	3/22	3/28	4/3
Gloucester	3/22	3/28	4/3
Burlington	3/22	3/28	4/2
Mercer	3/22	3/28	4/2
Middlesex	3/22	4/1	TBD
Monmouth	3/22	TBD	TBD
Hunterdon	3/22	TBD	TBD
Morris	3/26	TBD	TBD
Warren	3/30	TBD	TBD
Sussex	3/31	TBD	TBD
Bergen	3/22	4/1	TBD

Figure 1: Pink Lady apple variety in pink bud. Gloucester County, NJ. Photo by Katrina DeWitt

Apple Scab

Models

Apple scab models are available through NEWA and RIMpro. These models currently indicate that ascospore maturity is increasing and will continue to rise rapidly over the next several days. Apply fungicides before infection events.

Current Update using the Upper Deerfield Station

~13% maturity on April 1
~15% on April 2
Forecasted to reach 25–40% by April 4–8

Management Considerations

Now that we have reached the tight cluster stage, it is important to select fungicides that target both apple scab and powdery mildew. Manzate is ineffective against powdery mildew. Keep in mind that powdery mildew prefers warm, dry conditions and does not require rainfall to infect. For farms in southern counties that have reached pink stage, it is important to begin targeting cedar apple rust. Manzate is effective against cedar apple rust.

Manzate + single-site fungicide
DMI (FRAC 3) for high pressure
Vangard (FRAC 9; not effective on cedar apple rust)
FRAC 7 (save Aprovia for summer; not effective on cedar apple rust)
Axios (great for scab and powdery mildew; novel FRAC 52)
FRAC 11 (save for summer)
Topsin (limited uses; consider saving for summer; FRAC 1; not effective on cedar apple rust)

Monitor:

NEWA models
Weather/wetting events
Phenology

Early control is critical to avoiding season-long pressure.

Insect Update

Ambrosia Beetle:

Ambrosia beetles have been detected in Burlington, Salem, Gloucester, and Middlesex counties
Activity has not yet been observed further north at this time
Observed activity is low and is not a concern

Continue monitoring traps, particularly in stressed or newly planted blocks, as activity may increase with warming temperatures.

Mating Disruption Timing:

Codling moth (CM) mating disruption should be applied around pink
Growers should begin preparing materials and planning applications now

Summary

Apple phenology is progressing across New Jersey, with northern counties at tight cluster and southern counties at pink bud in early varieties
This stage marks a critical period for apple scab and powdery mildew management, as well as key insect timings
Apple scab ascospore maturity is increasing (~13–15%) and is forecasted to reach 25–40% over the next several days, increasing infection risk
Fungicide applications should be applied prior to infection events, with materials selected to target both scab and powdery mildew
In southern counties at pink, begin targeting cedar apple rust

Pears

Pear Phenology Update

Pear phenology has advanced rapidly across southern New Jersey over the past week. Observations made on April 2 indicate that most European pear varieties are now at early white bud, following cluster separation but prior to petal show, with some blocks progressing into popcorn stage.

Asian pear varieties are more advanced, with many blocks at popcorn stage and approaching bloom.

Figure 2. White bud/popcorn. Asian pear variety phenology. Salem County, NJ. Photo by Katrina DeWitt.

Pear Psylla

Pear psylla activity has been variable across southern New Jersey. Observations from April 2 indicate differences by county:

Salem County: adults and eggs observed
Gloucester County: none observed
Burlington County: no activity observed to date
Mercer County: no activity observed to date

Overall pressure remains relatively low in many orchards. This is likely due, in part, to recent oil applications, particularly where oil was combined with materials such as Esteem, which can suppress egg laying and early population development.

At this stage (white bud to popcorn):

Continue monitoring for adults, eggs, and the onset of nymph hatch
Use beating trays to assess adult activity
Examine developing shoots and leaves for egg presence

Management considerations:

In blocks without prior applications, or where psylla is present, consider a pre-bloom insecticide application
Consider applying particle films such as dormant oil or Surround to deter egg laying
With pre-bloom insecticide applications, softer materials should be used to avoid harming pollinator or beneficial insect populations
In blocks where adults are present at low pressure, insecticide options include Esteem (up to 2 applications 14 days apart), Centaur, or Aza-Direct
In blocks where adults are present at high pressure (more than 4 adults per beating tray), insecticide options include Bexar, Assail, or AgriMek
Insecticides should be applied prior to bloom, as use during bloom is restricted due to pollinator protection

As bloom approaches (particularly in Asian pears):

Avoid applications that may impact pollinators
Management focus will shift to early nymph control post-bloom

Pear Diseases

Fire Blight and Early Season Management

As pears approach bloom, fire blight risk will increase significantly, especially given the recent wet conditions and continued rainfall through the weekend. These conditions are favorable for bacterial spread and infection.

As bloom approaches:

Begin planning for antibiotic applications, particularly if warm and wet conditions persist
Kasumin may be used at bloom and petal fall
Streptomycin and oxytetracycline remain key options, particularly post-bloom
Rotate chemistries to support resistance management

Pear Scab

RIMpro modeling for pear scab in Upper Deerfield has indicated low infection risk to date, but conditions are rapidly becoming more favorable for infection.

The primary infection model shows maturing ascospores present and available, with multiple wetting events occurring from late March through early April. These rain events are driving spore release and infection potential, with additional infection periods forecasted in the coming days.

From white bud to popcorn:

Protective fungicide programs should now be in place and maintained, particularly ahead of rain events
Applications of mancozeb or ziram tank-mixed with Procure, Cevya, or Vangard are effective options for scab control
Applications should be made prior to rainfall events, as infections occur during wetting periods
If 2 inches or more of rainfall occur following an application, a follow-up spray should be considered to maintain protection

As we move toward bloom:

Continue programs targeting pear scab, rust diseases, and Fabraea leaf spot
Particular attention should be paid to Asian pear varieties, which are further advanced and at greater risk

Summary

Observations from April 2 indicate most European pears are at early white bud, with some at popcorn stage
Asian pears are at popcorn and approaching bloom
Pear psylla activity remains variable across counties, with adults and eggs observed in Salem County
Reduced pressure in some blocks is likely due to oil applications, with or without Esteem
Where oil was not applied, or psylla is present, pre-bloom insecticide applications should be considered
Insecticide applications must be completed prior to bloom to protect pollinators
Recent and continued rainfall is increasing disease pressure, particularly for pear scab and fire blight
Fungicide programs should be actively maintained, with reapplication needed after significant rainfall (2 inches or more)
Fire blight risk will increase rapidly as bloom approaches, so antibiotic programs should be prepared

Continued scouting is critical over the next 7–10 days as phenology and pest pressure accelerate.

Peaches

Peach Phenology

Peach varieties across New Jersey were observed at the pink bud stage this week. Nectarines are more advanced, with the majority observed near or in bloom in South Jersey. Development is progressing steadily and will continue as temperatures warm.

Brown Rot

Blossom infections from the brown rot fungus can occur whenever pistils are exposed, and favorable environmental conditions are present.

Infections can occur during any wetting period when temperatures are between 41 and 86°F. Optimum conditions occur with wetting and temperatures in the mid-70s. During extended wetting periods (several days or more), blossoms can be infected regardless of temperature. Infections under suboptimal conditions are generally less severe.

Blossoms and fruitlets remain susceptible until the pistil desiccates, which occurs sometime between petal fall and shuck split.

Management Considerations

Fungicides used for control at the blossom blight stage should not overlap with fungicides used in the pre-harvest stage of brown rot
Try to save fungicide options with low pre-harvest intervals for later in the season
Bravo Weather Stik + single-site fungicide
Vangard (applied at pink stage)
Rovral (applied at full bloom)
Flint Extra (applied at petal fall)

Initiate coverage for blossom blight starting at pink for short-petaled varieties and at 5–10% bloom for showy flowers. Refer to the NJ Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide for recommended materials and rates.

Insect Update

Mating Disruption Timing:

Oriental fruit moth mating disruption should be applied at pink
Growers should begin preparing materials and planning applications now

Scale:

Oil applications may be safely applied up to pink on peach
Oil can be applied alone or in combination with insecticides, including Centaur, Sivanto Prime, and Esteem

Green Peach Aphid:

Scouting should begin at pink stage
Thresholds for treatment are 1 colony/tree in nectarines or 2–3 colonies/tree in peaches

Summary

Observations indicate peaches are at pink bud across New Jersey, with nectarines more advanced and approaching or in bloom in South Jersey
Development is progressing steadily and will accelerate with warming temperatures
Brown rot infection risk is present whenever blossoms are exposed under wet conditions, particularly between 41–86°F
Blossoms remain susceptible through petal fall to shuck split
Fungicide programs should be initiated at pink to early bloom, depending on flower type, while avoiding overlap with pre-harvest materials
Oriental fruit moth mating disruption should be applied at pink; growers should prepare materials now
Oil applications for scale can be made up to pink and may be tank-mixed with labeled insecticides
Green peach aphid scouting should begin at pink, with treatment thresholds of 1 colony/tree in nectarines and 2–3 colonies/tree in peaches

Continued scouting and timely applications will be critical over the next 7–10 days as phenology advances.

Apple Scab Update

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 21:45:34 GMT

Apple Scab Update

Apple scab models are currently forecasting potential infection periods from March 31st-April 2nd. This is based on a green tip date of March 22nd which was observed across the state aside from the most northern counties. Conditions may be optimal for further scab infection events on April 5th-6th. Model outputs are most accurate within 48-72 hours of the date in question,which should be kept in mind when making management decisions. It will be critical for growers to keep an eye on the models to make timely management decisions for optimal disease control. If you have recently applied copper, you will be covered for this infection period. Other effective options include Manzate at 3 lb/A + Syllit at 1.5 pt/A or Manzate at 3 lb/A + Vangardat 3-5 oz/A.

NEWA

The Network for Environment and Weather Applications (NEWA) offers forecasting models for numerous disease and insect pests on a variety of crops including apple scab. This model allows you to select your own weather station or one closest to your farm to get real time information on when apple scab infections may occur. This allows you to make informed management decisions and apply effective fungicides prior to an infection event, which is the ideal timing for optimal disease control. Once you have selected your weather station, you can enter the date you noted green tip on your earliest variety (this will be 3/22 for the majority of NJ this year).

First, you will see the ‘Ascospore Maturity Summary’ chart. This will give you information on ascospore maturity, daily ascospore discharge, and cumulative ascospore discharge. Right now, the most important number to pay attention to is the daily ascospore discharge. The higher the daily ascospore discharge, the more severe the infection event will be. If the daily ascospore discharge is greater than 10%, there will be a significant scab infection event and fungicides should be applied prior to this event for management. If the daily discharge is above 20%, there will be an extreme infection event, and the most efficacious fungicides (DMI + Manzate) should be applied before the infection for control.

The next chart will be the ‘Infection Events Summary’. This will tell you if the weather conditions are optimal for apple scab infection. It includes weather data and tells you if there will be an infection event with the readouts ‘Yes’, ‘Combined’, or ‘No’. This information should be compared with the daily ascospore discharge to determine what efficacy of fungicide should be used for a given infection period.

Apple Scab Management Considerations

If you have not applied copper yet, it should be applied before this upcoming potential infection period March 31st-April 2nd

Copper applied after ½” green can cause phytotoxicity and fruit finish concerns

If you have already applied copper, since this is a low-risk infection period, Manzate at 3 lb/A + Syllit at 1.5 pt/A or Manzate at 3 lb/A plus Vangard at 3-5 oz/A would be sufficient management options

Keep in mind, powdery mildew control begins at tight cluster and cedar apple rust control begins at pink

The DMI fungicides should be saved for tight cluster and later timings since they are some of the best options for powdery mildew and cedar apple rust

Multiple Pest Alerts in nursery, landscape, Christmas tree – boxwood blight, ambrosia beetle, white pine weevil, clearwing borers, and Phytophthora management

Tim Waller — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 18:53:28 +0000

In response to the increased air temperature highs and averages, accumulating growing degree-days, increasing soil temperatures, and expected rainfall and overcasts days the following pest alerts have been generated for boxwood blight, ambrosia beetle, white pine weevil, and clearwing borers. Oomycete/Phytophthora treatment considerations are also listed at the bottom of the posting.

Stay informed:

Sign up for the 2026 – Rutgers Ornamental IPM Program – click here to sign up
Program is free, but registration is required – Registration includes:
- Site visit to your ornamental nursery/farm from Rutgers agents
- Delivered printed IPM resources (Guides, factsheets, bulletins)
- Free pheromone & sticky trap kit + guidance on setup/monitoring (for commercial nursery/greenhouse and Christmas tree farms)
- Access to live bi-weekly webinars (Zoom)
- (First session TUESDAY 4/14 @ 12PM)
- Every Second and Fourth, Tuesday, April through September

Boxwood Blight: high potential for new /spreading infections this week in Southern NJ

[pictorial tri-fold] Common Boxwood Pests and Diseases (click-here). This includes Box Tree Moth images. Print the PDF out double-sided, then fold.

If you suspect Boxwood Blight and would like to have this verified – please contact the Rutgers Plant Diagnostic Laboratory (click here) for sample submission instructions

Boxwood Blight Risk Assessment as of 3/30/2026
Region	Location	CODE	MON	TUE	WED	THU	FRI	SAT
Region	Location	CODE	30-Mar	31-Mar	1-Apr	2-Apr	3-Apr	4-Apr
Southern	Upper Deerfield	NJ50	Very Low	Low	Very Low	Infection Risk	Very Low	Infection Risk
Southern	Vineland	NJ73	Very Low	Low	Very Low	Infection Risk	Low	Infection Risk
Southern	Millville	KMIV	Very Low	Very Low	Low	Infection Risk	Very Low	Infection Risk
Southern	Bridgeton	D4116	Very Low	Low	Very Low	Infection Risk	Very Low	Infection Risk
Southern	Mays Landing	G4661	Very Low	Very Low	Very Low	Low	Very Low	Infection Risk
Central	Howell / Freehold	NJ10	Very Low	Low	Very Low	Low	Very Low	Low
Central	Princeton	F0303	Very Low	Low	Very Low	Low	Very Low	Low
Central	Somerville	F6261	Very Low	Low	Very Low	Low	Very Low	Low
Northern	High Point	NJ59	Very Low	Low	Very Low	Very Low	Very Low	Very Low
Northern	Randolph	AU137	Very Low	Low	Very Low	Very Low	Very Low	Very Low
Northern	Belvidere	E7133	Very Low	Low	Very Low	Low	Very Low	Low
Please check your local boxwood blight risk at (https://uspest.org/risk/boxwood_app)

It is time to begin protective fungicide applications in boxwoods throughout the state if you have not already done so.
If BWB is important to your business – Use the USPEST – PUSH Alerts – (click here) – to setup weekly email alerts.
Please visit the USPEST.ORG Boxwood Blight Risk Model – CLICK HERE TO CHECK YOUR LOCAL PREDICTIONS)

Fungicides;

You very well may have these materials already applied as ‘cover-sprays’ – But – be mindful that protectant fungicides loose efficacy the more rain (or overhead irrigation) they are subjected to, and reapplication may be warranted.
ROTATE between Fungicide Resistance Action Committee (FRAC codes) to avoid this pathogen becoming resistant to specific chemicals

Format: [FRAC code]: Chemical name (Trade names * no endorsement implied, other options exist)

[M05]: Chlorothalonil (Daconil WS)
[M05 + 1] Chlorothalonil + Thiophanate methyl (Spectro 90WDG)
[11] Trifloxystrobin + [7] Fluopyram (Broadform)
[11] Trifloxystrobin + [3] Triadimefon (Armada 50WDG)
[M03] Mancozeb
[12] Fludioxonil (Medallion WDG)
[3] Tebuconazole (Torque)BW

Approaching boxwood blight season – 2026 (threat this week in Central and Southern NJ)

Ambrosia beetle adult flight will VERY LIKELY occur this week throughout most of NJ.

Consider using pyrethroids in your production areas if this pest has been a regular problem OR there are water stressed (typically flooded / slow draining) plants.

(generic) Ambrosia Beetle Flight Predictions – as of 3/30/2026
Region	Location	Metric	MON	TUE	WED	THU	FRI	SAT	SUN	MON	TUE	WED
Region	Location	Metric	30-Mar	31-Mar	1-Apr	2-Apr	3-Apr	4-Apr	5-Apr	6-Apr	7-Apr	8-Apr
Southern	Millville	High Temp [ºF]	69	78	82	55	71	77	75	59	59	58
		Low Temp [ºF]	57	62	50	45	58	57	47	40	41	43
		Average [ºF]	63	70	66	50	64.5	67	61	49.5	50	50.5
		High at/above 70ºF	FALSE	TRUE	TRUE	FALSE	TRUE	TRUE	TRUE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE
		Avg at/above 65ºF	FALSE	TRUE	TRUE	FALSE	FALSE	TRUE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE
		Adult flight risk	Probable flight				Potential flight

Central	Freehold	High Temp [ºF]	71	80	83	48	67	75	75	59	58	58
		Low Temp [ºF]	57	63	45	42	58	52	46	40	41	42
		Average [ºF]	64	71.5	64	45	62.5	63.5	60.5	49.5	49.5	50
		High at/above 70ºF	TRUE	TRUE	TRUE	FALSE	FALSE	TRUE	TRUE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE
		Avg at/above 65ºF	FALSE	TRUE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE
		Adult flight risk	Probable flight				Potential flight

Northern	Hackettstown	High Temp [ºF]	70	77	75	47	65	75	69	57	58	57
		Low Temp [ºF]	55	60	45	39	54	49	42	36	38	39
		Average [ºF]	62.5	68.5	60	43	59.5	62	55.5	46.5	48	48
		High at/above 70ºF	TRUE	TRUE	TRUE	FALSE	FALSE	TRUE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE
		Avg at/above 65ºF	FALSE	TRUE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE	FALSE
		Adult flight risk	Potential flight				Minor risk
Air temperatures: Weather Underground (https://www.wunderground.com/) and NEWA: (https://newa.cornell.edu/)
Compiled by Waller. T. 3/30/2026 [twaller@njaes.rutgers.edu]

Contact insecticides:

Pyrethroids [3A]: –thrins (bifenthrin, permethrin, etc.) – Pyrethroids longer lasting residual activity is why these materials are so effective against ambrosia beetles.
Systemic insecticides DO NOT WORK

Ambrosia Beetle Borers of Nursery Plants

White Pine Weevil (WPW) may have already emerged during the last heat wave, but if not, it will very likely occur this week throughout NJ.

Factors leading to this post include increased air temperatures and climbing growing degree-days (WPW adult movement and egg laying is around 7-58 growing degree-days (GDD50)), and most importantly rising soil temperatures as this pest typically begins movement with soils hovering around 50F. All of these factors lead to WPW movement this week and growers may wish to utilize a preventative, long lasting residual spray (pyrethroids) to target adults before they begin egg laying in the upper canopy.

So we have:

Within the GDD window for adult movement and egg laying (~58 GDD50)
Soil temperatures in NJ are at or above 50F.
Increased air temperatures and insect mobility

*White Pine Weevil (Pissodes strobi) – as of 3/30/2026*
Region	Location	CODE	METRIC	MON	TUE	WED	THU	FRI	SAT
Region	Location	CODE	METRIC	30-Mar	31-Mar	1-Apr	2-Apr	3-Apr	4-Apr
Southern	Upper Deerfield	NJ50	GDD₅₀	81	98	117	117	117	118
			High Temp [ºF] (Average)	69 (63)	78 (70)	82 (66)	55 (50)	71 (64.5)	77 (65)
			24hr Average – Soil TEMP [ºF]	54	<- (This will change over time / no prediction available)
Central	Freehold / Howell	NJ10	GDD₅₀	68	83	100	100	100	100
			High Temp [ºF] (Average)	70 (64)	80 (71.5)	83 (64)	48 (45)	67 (62.5)	75 (63.5)
			24hr Average – Soil TEMP [ºF]	55	<- (This will change over time / no prediction available)
Northern	HACKETTSTOWN	G5633	GDD₅₀	59	72	89	89	89	89
			High Temp [ºF] (Average)	69 (62)	77 (68.5)	75 (60)	47 (43)	65 (59.5)	75 (62)
			24hr Average – Soil TEMP [ºF]	54	<- (This will change over time / no prediction available)
USPEST.ORG – Model: simple average/growing degree-day, Min: 50F – Max: 95F, NMME forecast
GDD Forecast: 7-month NMME based seasonal climate forecast (USPEST.ORG) – Subject to change regularly = Check Often
Air temperatures: Weather Underground (https://www.wunderground.com/) and NEWA: (https://newa.cornell.edu/)
Soil temperatures (10cm): https://www.greencastonline.com/tools/soil-temperature
Compiled by Waller. T. 3/30/2026 [twaller@njaes.rutgers.edu]

Chemical Controls for WPW at this stage of the season:

Chemical insecticides against white pine weevils during the spring period are only effective when adults are feeding & before females lay eggs. Arial sprays only need to be applied to cover the terminal leaders at the tops of trees. Pyrethroids sprayed on the bark can have an effective residual of up to 3-weeks. Included within this group of insecticides include bifenthrin (e.g., Onyx), permethrin (e.g., Astro) & cyfluthrin (e.g., Tempo). Since an extended egg-laying duration occurs with this pest, a second application may be recommended.

White Pine Weevil: Overwintering Adults Become Active in March & April

Clearwing borers: Be prepared to manage these pests in the coming weeks.

If you are a commercial grower signed up for the 2026 Rutgers Ornamental IPM program (click here to register), please contact twaller@njaes.rutgers.edu for clearwing pheromone trap kits.

Clearwing Borer Flight (GDD model) as of 3/30/2026
Events / Pests	Southern NJ		Central NJ		Northern NJ
	UPPER DEERFIELD (NJ50)		HOWELL (NJ10)		RANDOLPH (AU137)
	Date	DDs	Date	DDs	Date	DDs
* START *	1-Jan	0	1-Jan	0	1-Jan	0
* NOW *	29-Mar	76	29-Mar	64	29-Mar	71
Lilac / Ash Borer (Podosesia syringae)	18-Apr	149	30-Apr	151	5-May	153
Dogwood Borer (Synanthedon scitula)	19-Apr	154	1-May	158	6-May	161
Lesser peach tree borer (Synanthedon pictipes)	12-May	362	21-May	352	25-May	352
Rhododendron borer (Synanthedon rhododendri)	23-May	516	1-Jun	515	5-Jun	513
Greater peach tree borer (Synanthedon exitiosa)	27-May	583	5-Jun	584	9-Jun	578
USPEST.ORG – Model: simple average/growing degree-day, Min: 50F – Max: 95F, NMME forecast
Forecast: 7-month NMME based seasonal climate forecast (USPEST.ORG) – Subject to change regularly = Check Often
Compiled by Waller. T. 3/30/2026 [twaller@njaes.rutgers.edu]

CLICK HERE – Please visit the Rutgers Ornamental IPM program website for more information on this group of pests

Identifying Clearwing Moth Borers in Pheromone Traps

Early season management of Phytophthora, Pythium, Phytopythium should be initiated throughout NJ in sensitive plant species, areas with known histories of disease, and in Christmas tree plantations.

Oomycide Considerations in Ornamentals – (Phytophthora, Pythium, Phytopythium)
Prepared by T. Waller – Rutgers Cooperative Extension – 2026 for use in New Jersey
FRAC	Risk of pathogen resistance	Active ingredient	Tradename examples*	(Review each specific label) Notes	Translocation Movement in plant
P07	Low	Phosphonates. Aluminum tris (O-ethyl phosphonate)	Areca, Aliette, generic fosetyl-Al	See label. Foliar and drench/soil reapplication interval is 30d or greater. Do not apply group P07 and copper-based fungicides within 14d of one another	Fully systemic – xylem and phloem mobile (amphimobile)
P07	Low	Phosphonates. Mono-and di- potassium salts of phosphorus acid	Alude, Reliant, Rampart, K-Phite 7LP	See label. Generally, soil drench minimum reapplication interval is 30d and foliar applications, less than. Do not apply group P07 and copper-based fungicides within 14d of one another	Fully systemic – xylem and phloem mobile (amphimobile)
40	Low to Medium	Dimethomorph, Mandipropamid	Stature SC, Micora	See label. Foliar, drench, soil directed, and chemigation applications.	Translaminar systemic – local translocation
40 + 45*	Medium + High*	Dimethomorph + ametoctradin*	Orvego	See label. Foliar, drench, soil directed, and chemigation applications.	Translaminar systemic – local translocation
49	Medium to High	Oxathiapiprolin	Segovis	See label for use restrictions and tank-mix compatibility.	Xylem mobile systemic – translocation upwards (acropetal)
11	High	Fenamidone	Fenstop	See label: Now labeled for outdoor nurseries. Reapplication interval is 28d	Xylem mobile systemic – translocation upwards (acropetal)
43	Medium	Fluopicolide	Adorn	See label. Foliar, drench, and chemigation applications. No more than 2 applications per crop cycle. Minimum reapplication interval – 14d.	Xylem mobile systemic – translocation upwards (acropetal)
4	High	Mefenoxam	Subdue Maxx, Subdue GR, generic Mefenoxam	See label. Typically, spring and fall drench applications with total allowable of 6lb/A/year (Subdue Maxx). Foliar, drench, soil directed, soilless media incorporation, and chemigation applications. See label for minimum reapplication intervals for drench applications (ranging from 3 weeks to 4 months). Mefenoxam resistance has been detected in the USA.	Xylem mobile systemic – translocation upwards (acropetal)
21	Medium to High	Cyazofamid	Segway-O, Celoxid SC	See label. Minimum reapplication interval 14 – 21d. No more than 2 applications per crop cycle. Applied as drench or soil directed.	Protectant – no systemic activity
BM02	Unknown (likely low)	Biologicals	Rhapsody (bacteria), Root Sheild Plus (fungi)	See label. Reapplication interval typically very rapid at 3-10d.	Antagonistic – hinders pathogen colonization of host tissues
–	–	Quaternary ammoniums	KleenGrow, Uptake, Physan 20, Green Shield	See label. Typically used in sanitation efforts, irrigation maintenance (biofilms), and some labels allow for application to plant surfaces. Phytotoxicity concerns are rate and label specific. Generally considered broad spectrum fungi/bacteria/oomycete pesticides.	Direct contact – varying residual activity, no systemic activity
–	–	Hydrogen dioxides	Zerotol, Oxidate

PESTICIDE USE DISCLAIMER. THE LABEL IS THE LAW . The Rutgers Plant and Pest Advisory is not intended for homeowners. Recommendations and considerations given herein are designed to be specific to the state of New Jersey, even though it may be broadly applicable across multiple geographic areas. A pesticide applicator is legally bound by the labeling found on and with the pesticide container in their possession. Before using a pesticide, check and always follow the labeling distributed with the product at the point of sale for legally enforceable rates and restrictions. New Jersey notes. 1. Private and commercial applicators must be certified AND possess a valid applicator license to make applications or supervise the use of ANY* EPA-registered pesticide (*as required NJAC 7:30; limited exemptions exist). 2. Only certified applicators possessing a valid New Jersey applicator license may purchase restricted use pesticides (RUPs). 3. Pursuant to NJ S1016, neonicotinoids can only be applied in agricultural settings. Commercial applications in outdoor, non-agricultural settings (i.e. landscapes) is prohibited, with no pest-specific exceptions, as of the printing of this document. In addition to the pesticide chemistries and Mode of Action (MoA) listed in this document, others may be commercially available. It is understood that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Rutgers Cooperative Extension is implied. THE LABEL IS THE LAW. Cooperating Agencies: Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and Boards of County Commissioners, Rutgers Cooperative Extension, a unit of the Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, is an equal opportunity program provider and employer.

Salem County Agronomy Twilight Meeting-1 (May 1, 2026)

Ramandeep Kumar Sharma — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 17:24:04 +0000

SALEM COUNTY AGRONOMY TWILIGHT MEETING-1

Date & Time: May 1, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
(Program starts at 5:00 PM; please arrive a few minutes early)

Location: Rutgers Cooperative Extension Office, 51 Cheney Rd., Woodstown, NJ 08098

Registration:
Call: 856-769-0090
Email: molly.english@salemcountynj.gov

Credits Applied For:

CORE: Basic Safety and Handling
1A: Agricultural Plant
10: Demonstration / Research
PP2: Private Applicator
11: Animal (Livestock) Pest Control

Topics & Speakers:

The 3R’s of Pesticide Use: Resistance, Rotation, and Regulation
Speaker: Janine Spies, Rutgers Cooperative Extension
The Endangered Species Act Changes to Pesticide Labels
Speaker: William J. Bamka, Rutgers Cooperative Extension
Nitrogen from Air to Soil using Sunlight
Speaker: Joseph R. Heckman, Rutgers University
Agronomist’s Field Guide to Drought Resilience
Speaker: Ramandeep Sharma, Rutgers Cooperative Extension

Fruit IPM Updates Week of 3/23/26

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 19:37:05 GMT

Tree Fruit Phenology Update

Tree fruit phenology is progressing across New Jersey, with development in southern counties remaining slightly advanced and northern regions beginning to catch up. Overall, the 2026 season is showing a more compressed phenology window than typical. Cooler weather this weekend should help slow development.

In apples, green tip for Pink Lady was observed around March 22 across both southern and some northern regions, with Honeycrisp following around March 26. In pears, swollen buds were observed around March 11, with green clusters reaching by March 26 in southern New Jersey. Peach varieties in southern New Jersey were observed at the swollen bud stage this week.

Apples

Green Tip Dates by County

County	Green Tip Date (earliest varieties)
Cumberland	3/22
Gloucester	3/22
Burlington	3/22
Mercer	3/22
Middlesex	3/22
Monmouth	3/22
Hunterdon	3/22
Morris	TBD
Warren	TBD
Sussex	TBD
Bergen	TBD

Apple Scab

Models

Apple scab models are available through NEWA and RIMpro. Apply fungicides before infection events when discharge exceeds thresholds (10–20%).

Current Update

~2% ascospore maturity (March 25)
~7% by March 31
~10% by April 1
Low cumulative discharge (~1–4%)

Management Considerations

Copper can be applied now but avoid after ½” green.

Manzate + single-site fungicide
DMI (FRAC 3) for high pressure
Vangard (FRAC 9)
FRAC 7 (save Aprovia)
Axios (save for later)
Syllit (avoid if resistance)
FRAC 11 (save for summer)
Topsin (limited uses)

As we move toward tight cluster:

Rapid ascospore increase
Higher infection risk with rain

Monitor:

NEWA models
Weather/wetting events
Phenology

Early control is critical to avoid season-long pressure.

Scouting Calendar

Use as a scouting guide only (not for spray timing).

Green tip: March 22–26
Ascospore maturity: 2–7% increasing

Key Points

Minimal difference between North and South Jersey
Green tip ~March 22
Prepare for scab infection events
Build fungicide rotation now

Pears

Pear Phenology Update

Pear phenology is progressing, with swollen buds observed around March 11 and green clusters observed on March 26 in southern New Jersey.

Pear Psylla

Pear psylla activity has begun in southern New Jersey, with variability across counties:

Salem County: adults and eggs observed
Gloucester County: eggs observed
Burlington County: no activity observed to date

These observations indicate that egg laying is underway in the southernmost regions and will likely progress north with warming temperatures. Reports from surrounding regions also suggest psylla activity is increasing.

At this stage:

Continue monitoring for eggs and early nymphs
Use beating trays to assess adult activity
Examine buds and developing shoots for egg presence

Dormant oil applications should be applied where possible to deter psylla egg laying and suppress early populations. Timely applications are especially important in areas where activity has already been observed.

At green cluster:

Oil is often combined with an insecticide to target migrating adults
In lieu of oil, particle films such as Surround may be used starting at swollen bud and continuing through bloom

Materials such as Esteem, Centaur, and Sivanto Prime may also be incorporated, depending on timing and pressure.

Figure 1. Adult pear psylla laying eggs at swollen bud. Photo by Janine Spies.

Pear Diseases

Fire Blight and Early Season Management

Dormant copper applications should be applied for fire blight and pear scab suppression, but no later than green tip if fruit russet is a concern. Where copper has already been applied, early-season risk is likely reduced.

As bloom approaches:

Begin planning for antibiotic applications
Kasumin may be used at bloom and petal fall
Other options include streptomycin and oxytetracycline for post-bloom use

Rotating chemistries is important for resistance management.

Pear Scab

RIMpro modeling for pear scab in Upper Deerfield indicates low infection risk at this time, with infection values remaining below threshold levels. Despite recent wetting events, limited ascospore maturity is restricting infection potential.

Growers who have applied dormant copper are likely adequately protected under current conditions. Protective fungicide programs should begin at the cluster bud stage, particularly as we approach tighter cluster and bloom, when risk will increase.

Materials such as Ziram or EBDC formulations provide effective protection. At white bud, include materials effective against pear scab, rust diseases, and Fabraea leaf spot. Particular attention should be paid to rust on Asian pear varieties.

Dormant urea applications may also be used, where appropriate, to help reduce overwintering inoculum.

Summary

Pear psylla activity has begun in southern New Jersey, with adults and eggs observed in Salem County and eggs in Gloucester County
Dormant oil applications should be applied to suppress egg laying and early populations
Copper applications should be completed by green tip where russet is a concern
Pear scab risk is currently low based on RIMpro modeling
Fungicide programs for pear scab should begin at cluster bud as risk increases
Dormant urea may be used to reduce overwintering inoculum

Continued scouting will be important over the next 1–2 weeks as both insect and disease pressure increase with advancing phenology.

Peaches

Peach Phenology

Peach varieties in southern New Jersey were observed at the swollen bud stage this week. Development is progressing steadily and will advance with warming temperatures.

Figure 2. Peach Swollen Bud. Photo by Janine Spies.

Brown Rot

Blossom infections from the brown rot fungus can occur whenever pistils are exposed and favorable environmental conditions are present.

Blossoms and fruitlets remain susceptible until the pistil desiccates, which occurs sometime between petal fall and shuck split.

Scale Insects

Oil applications may be safely applied up to pink on peach.

Oil can be applied alone or in combination with insecticides including Centaur, Sivanto Prime, and Esteem.

Visit to Clover Valley Farm – April 11

Claudia Gil Arroyo — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 04:00:20 +0000

Field trip to Clover Valley Farm

Saturday, April 11, 10am

SOUTH JERSEY CALIBRATION GROWERS MEETING

Janine Spies — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 01:02:26 +0000

March 25, 2026
2:30 pm – 6:00 pm
Rutgers Agricultural Research & Extension Center
121 Northville Road
Bridgeton, NJ

Program

Program Chair
Janine Spies, Rutgers Cooperative Extension
Statewide Program Leader in Fruit IPM

2:30 – Registration

3:00 – Welcome and Introductions

3:15 – Airblast Sprayer Calibration Techniques
Chris Lovenduski, Central Jersey Equipment

4:15 – Early season management in peaches
Anne Nielsen PhD, Professor & Extension Specialist in Entomology

4:45 – Light fare & refreshments (Pre-registration required)

5:00 – Coverage Counts: How to make the most of a pesticide application
Karly Regan PhD, Certis Biologicals

5:30 – Pesticide Safety and Regulations for Specialty Crops
Janine Spies PhD, Rutgers Cooperative Extension

6:00 – Pesticide Recertification Credits and Adjourn. Attendees must be present for the entire program in order to apply for NJDEP credits.

THE FOLLOWING NJDEP PESTICIDE RECERTIFICATION CREDITS WILL BE AWARDED

4 CAT-10 4 CAT-1A 3 CAT-3A 4 CORE 4 PP2

Click here to register: South Jersey Calibration Event Registration – Fill out form

PRE-REGISTRATION BY March 18, 2026

Registration cost per person is $10. Cash or check (made payable to Rutgers The State University) will be collected at the door.

If you have any questions please contact Janine Spies: (352)-231-6330, janine.spies@rutgers.edu

NORTH JERSEY CALIBRATION GROWERS MEETING

Janine Spies — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 01:01:14 +0000

March 24, 2026
2:30 pm – 6:00 pm
Snyder Research & Extension Farm
140 Locust Grove Road
Pittstown, NJ

Program

Program Chair
Janine Spies, Rutgers Cooperative Extension
Statewide Program Leader in Fruit IPM

2:30 – Registration

3:00 – Welcome and Introductions

3:15 – Airblast Sprayer Calibration Techniques
Chris Lovenduski, Central Jersey Equipment

4:15 – Importance of Calibration for Optimal Pest Control and Resistance Management
Kaitlin Quinn, Rutgers Cooperative Extension

4:45 – Light fare & refreshments (Pre-registration required)

5:00 – Coverage Counts: How to make the most of a pesticide application
Karly Regan PhD, Certis Biologicals

5:30 – Pesticide Safety and Regulations for Specialty Crops
Janine Spies PhD, Rutgers Cooperative Extension

6:00 – Pesticide Recertification Credits and Adjourn. Attendees must be present for the entire program in order to apply for NJDEP credits.

THE FOLLOWING NJDEP PESTICIDE RECERTIFICATION CREDITS WILL BE AWARDED

4 CAT-10 4 CAT-1A 4 CAT-3A 5 CORE 4 PP2

Click here to register: North Jersey Calibration Event Registration – Fill out form

PRE-REGISTRATION BY March 18, 2026

Registration cost per person is $10. Cash or check (made payable to Rutgers The State University) will be collected at the door.

If you have any questions please contact Kim Crommelin: (908)-788-1338, kfrey@co.hunterdon.nj.us

Networks to Reduce Risk Field Trip – April 11

Claudia Gil Arroyo — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 19:21:12 +0000

Field trip to Clover Valley Farm

Saturday, April 11, 10am

ALERT: Be prepared to manage White Pine Weevil in conifers early next week

Tim Waller — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 17:27:27 +0000

With increasing temperatures, it is plausible that a critical treatment window for controlling White Pine Weevil (WPW) will be present early next week, throughout many areas of NJ. Factors leading to this post include increased air temperatures and climbing growing degree-days (WPW adult movement and egg laying is around 7-58 growing degree-days (GDD50)), and most importantly rising soil temperatures as this pest typically begins movement with soils hovering around 50F. All of these factors lead to the possibility of WPW movement early next week and growers may wish to utilize a preventative, long lasting residual spray (pyrethroids) to target adults before they begin egg laying.

So we have:

NJ will be within the GDD window for adult movement and approaching egg laying (7-58 GDD50)
Soil temperatures in some areas may be close to 50F.
Increased air temperatures and insect mobility

*White Pine Weevil (Pissodes strobi)* – potential for emergence as of 3/6/2026
Region	Location	CODE	METRIC	FRI	SAT	SUN	MON	TUES	WEDS
Region	Location	CODE	METRIC	6-Mar	7-Mar	8-Mar	9-Mar	10-Mar	11-Mar
Southern	Upper Deerfield	NJ50	GDD₅₀	0	0	9	13	18	31
			High Temp [ºF] (Average)	49 (43.5)	52 (50.5)	63 (52)	67 (45)	71 (62)	71 (60.5)
			24hr Average – Soil TEMP [ºF]	47.1	<- (This will change over time / no prediction available)
Central	Freehold / Howell	NJ50	GDD₅₀	0	0	4	6	9	17
			High Temp [ºF] (Average)	42(39)	49(48)	62(51.5)	69(56.5)	74(63)	70(59)
			24hr Average – Soil TEMP [ºF]	40.7	<- (This will change over time / no prediction available)
Northern	HACKETTSTOWN	G5633	GDD₅₀	0	0	3	3	6	17
			High Temp [ºF] (Average)	41(37.5)	47(45.5)	61(49.5)	69(55)	76(63)	68(55)
			24hr Average – Soil TEMP [ºF]	34.1	<- (This will change over time / no prediction available)
USPEST.ORG – Model: simple average/growing degree-day, Min: 50F – Max: 95F, NMME forecast
Forecast: 7-month NMME based seasonal climate forecast (USPEST.ORG) – Subject to change regularly = Check Often
Air temperatures: Weather Underground (https://www.wunderground.com/) and NEWA: (https://newa.cornell.edu/)
Soil temperatures (10cm): https://www.greencastonline.com/tools/soil-temperature
Compiled by Waller. T. 3/6/2026 [twaller@njaes.rutgers.edu]

In the state of NJ, the control window against feeding white pine weevil adults *typically* occurs in March & April. Adults over-winter in the duff beneath trees. The adults will often crawl or sometimes fly to the top terminal leaders of pine, spruce, or Douglas-fir trees. Eastern white pine & Norway spruce species are the most severely attacked & the death of the terminal leaders of these trees will often occur.

Treatment timing is critical with this pest and controlling the adult female before egg laying is necessary. Apply preventative sprays (e.g., pyrethroids) only to the terminal leaders during this time. Before mating & egg laying, adults will feed by chewing holes within the central leader & cause a characteristic pitch flow that becomes white in color when dry. Then females will lay eggs in new cut-out holes within the top 12 inches of the leader just below the terminal bud.

Chemical Controls:

Chemical insecticides against white pine weevils during the spring period are only effective when adults are feeding & before females lay eggs. Arial sprays only need to be applied to cover the terminal leaders at the tops of trees. Pyrethroids sprayed on the bark can have an effective residual of up to 3-weeks. Included within this group of insecticides include bifenthrin (e.g., Onyx), permethrin (e.g., Astro) & cyfluthrin (e.g., Tempo). Since an extended egg-laying duration occurs with this pest, a second application may be recommended.

When given enough time, a preventative systemic such as imidacloprid (e.g., Merit) can be applied as a soil injection or drench during the previous fall season (October or November) to control the early spring feeding period of adults. It can also be effective against the early instar larvae. This approach may only be economically viable when a few select trees can be targeted having a history of this pest.

Overall, the best integrated controls are achieved with a combination of well timed insecticide treatments against spring feeding adults & the mechanical removal of infested terminal leaders before summer adult emergence occurs.

^Adapted from this excellent resource written by Steve Rettke: click here – “White Pine Weevil: Overwintering Adults Become Active in March & April”

Stay informed – ORNAMENTAL IPM PROGRAM

Sign up for the 2026 – Rutgers Ornamental IPM Program – click here to sign up
First webinar 4/14/26
Program is free, but registration is required – Registration includes:
- Site visit to your ornamental nursery/farm from Rutgers agents
- Delivered printed IPM resources (Guides, factsheets, bulletins)
- Free pheromone & sticky trap kit + guidance on setup/monitoring (for commercial nursery/greenhouse and Christmas tree farms)
- Access to live bi-weekly webinars (Zoom)
- (First session TUESDAY 4/14 @ 12PM)
- Every Second and Fourth, Tuesday, April through September

Early Season Tree Fruit Pest Control in 2026

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 22:01:06 GMT

Dormant Oil Sprays: In recent growing seasons, San Jose scale and white peach scale populations have been causing increasing amounts of damage. These pests create a superficial spotted injury caused by crawler stage feeding on the skin of apples and peaches, making the fruit unmarketable. In severe infestations, heavy crawler populations feeding on the sap of tree limbs can cause severe dieback. Scale overwinter on the limbs of trees asimmature crawlers under their protective waxy covering. In the spring when temperatures begin to rise, they respire through this covering. Dormant oil sprays are your first line of defense as they work to coat the protective covering of the scale and prevent respiration. Dr. Anne Nielsen’s lab found that another effective option at the delayed dormant timing is Centaur at 34.5 oz/A.

European red mite is another pest of concern that can be targeted at this stage. These mites feed on the foliage of tree fruit causing a bronzing symptom. Feeding from this pest can reduce fruit quality and tree vigor. European red mites overwinter in orchards as eggs. These eggs begin to hatch just prior to pink through bloom in apples. Dormant oil efficacy improves the closer you are to egg hatch for this pest so an application should be timed for green tip-half inch green in apple.

Pear psylla typically become active and begin laying eggs in NJ in mid-late March. Nymph stage pear psylla feed on the sap of pear trees and excrete honeydew which causes black sooty mold on fruit making it unmarketable. This pest also injects a toxin into the leaves as it feeds causing the leaves to blacken and eventually leads to defoliation. Dormant oil works to deter pear psylla from laying eggs and acts as a first line of defense against this pest.

Proper coverage with dormant oil is essential for it to work properly. Due to this, dormant oil should be applied as a full block spray instead of alternate row middle. It is important to ensure your sprayer is properly calibrated and that you are using a sufficient spray volume. Dr. Brett Blaauw from the University of Georgia found that 100 gal/A is a sufficient volume for coverage IF the trees are properly pruned prior to the dormant oil application (see University of Georgia factsheet). It is possible to achieve almost 100% coverage by making multiple dormant oil applications. This strategy is optimal because it also allows you to target both scale and mites at their optimal timings. One application can be made early on when temperatures first begin to rise above 51°F to target scale and a second application can be made between green tip and ½” green to target mites and continue controlling scale. An oil application at ½” green combined with Esteem at 4-5 oz/A will also provide control of aphids including wooly apple aphid. Wooly apple aphid populations have been becoming more prevalent in NJ apple orchards in recent years, likely due to dry end of summer conditions and pyrethroid use flaring populations. The first place this pest will begin to pop up will be pruning cuts so be sure to keep an eye out as the season progresses since early action is critical for effective control.

Dormant oil application rates depend on the phenological stage and the crop you are spraying. Typically, oil is recommended at a 2% rate or 2 gallons of dormant oil per 100 gallons of spray mix. You can perform concentrated sprays of 6 gallons of dormant oil per 100 gallons of spray mix in pome fruit based on the dilute volume of 300 gallons per acre (amount generally considered to cover a mature semi dwarf apple to the point of drip). In stone fruit, a concentrated spray would include 4 gallons of dormant oil per 100 gallons of spray mix based on the dilute volume of 200 gallons per acre (amount generally considered to cover a mature peach tree to the point of drip). Oil can safely be applied up to the pink stage of tree fruit, but the rate should be dropped the closer you get to this stage. For example, in pome fruit a full rate can be applied up to ½” green, this rate should be halved up to tight cluster and then halved again up to pink.

When applying dormant oil, it is important that you do not make an application within 2 days of the temperature dropping below 32°F. Another important consideration is that oil should not be applied within 2 weeks of Captan due to phytotoxicity concerns. There are other insecticides that can be mixed with dormant oils to target these pests; however, results are variable on whether the addition of these insecticides improves efficacy over oil alone.

Dormant Season Copper Sprays: Fire blight can be targeted at the dormant stage using copper as your first line of defense. The copper targets cankers caused by fire blight and reduces the amount of bacterial inoculum present in the field. Early season copper sprays can also be effective against apple scab if some green tissue is present in the bud. Copper should not be applied after ½” green due to concerns with phytotoxicity and fruit russeting. If tank mixing copper with dormant oil, extra precaution should be taken to ensure there is no risk of freezing temperatures since this can exacerbate issues with phytotoxicity and injure the tree.

The bacteria causing fire blight can only survive inside of living tree tissue. The winter is an optimal time to remove infected branches since the sap is not flowing, this reduces the risk of spreading the inoculum to your next cut. Removing the cankers caused by this disease where most of the bacteria are surviving will reduce your inoculum levels and make this disease easier to manage during the spring. It is a good practice to flag limbs that were infected with fire blight in the previous season to make the cankers easier to find when it comes time to prune. Pruning crews should be trained to look for sunken, dark, cracked areas on the tree bark that may be cankers. A knife can be used to peel away the tree bark to confirm the presence of the canker. If it is in fact a canker, the sapwood will be brown. You can continue peeling the bark away until you find the margin of the canker where the sapwood is still healthy and green. The pruning cut should be made at least 8 inches below the canker to ensure no inoculum is left behind in the tree. All canker prunings should be removed from the orchard since they can still act as a source of inoculum if left behind on the orchard floor.

If peach leaf curl was not targeted in the late fall at leaf drop, a fungicide application is also effective in the late winter prior to bud swell. Copper, Ziram, and Bravo (Chlorothalonil) are the most effective options at this timing.

Dormant Season Urea Sprays: Dormant season urea sprays are an extremely effective tool to reduce inoculum in orchards with high apple scab pressure. These sprays help to break down the leaf litter more quickly, which isessential for orchard sanitation and reduction of foliar disease inoculum. Urea applications are most effective if applied after leaf drop in the fall, but if you didn’t have a chance to make the application, it is not too late! Urea can be applied to leaf litter in the late winter or early spring using an airblast sprayer with nozzles pointed towards the ground or a boom sprayer at a rate of 40 lb/A in 100 gallons of water. A flail mower can also be used to chop leaf litter,which allows it to decompose more quickly. By using these methods, you can reduce your apple scab inoculum by 80% or more, which will make management easier and more effective during primary scab infection.

South Jersey Calibration Grower Meeting

Janine Spies — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 21:44:10 +0000

March 25, 2026

2:30 pm – 6:00 pm

Rutgers Agricultural Research & Extension Center

121 Northville Road, Bridgeton, NJ

Program

2:30 PM – Registration

3:00 PM – Welcome and Introductions

3:15 PM – Airblast Sprayer Calibration Techniques

Chris Lovenduski, Central Jersey Equipment

4:15 PM – Early season management in peaches

Anne Nielsen PhD, Professor and Extension Specialist in Entomology

4:45 PM – Light fare & refreshments (pre-registration required)

5:00 PM – Coverage Counts: How to make the most of a pesticide application

Karly Regan PhD, Certis Biologicals

5:30 PM – Pesticide Safety and Regulations for Specialty Crops

Janine Spies PhD, Rutgers Cooperative Extension

6:00 PM – Pesticide Recertification Credits and Adjourn

NJDEP Pesticide Recertification Credits are anticipated.

Registration cost per person: $10.

Cash or check (made payable to Rutgers The State University) will be collected at the door.

Pre-register by Thursday March 19.

Click here to register: South Jersey Calibration Event Registration – Fill out form

Program Chair: Janine Spies, Agriculture and Natural Resources County Agent III, Statewide Program Leader in Fruit IPM

If you have any questions please contact Janine Spies: (352) 231-6330, janine.spies@rutgers.edu

North Jersey Calibration Grower Meeting

Janine Spies — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 21:43:45 +0000

March 24, 2026

2:30 pm – 6:00 pm

Clifford E. & Melda C. Snyder Research & Extension Farm

140 Locust Grove Road Pittstown, NJ

Program

2:30 PM – Registration

3:00 PM – Welcome and Introductions

3:15 PM – Airblast Sprayer Calibration Techniques

Chris Lovenduski, Central Jersey Equipment

4:15 PM – Importance of Calibration for Optimal Pest Control and Resistance Management

Kaitlin Quinn, Rutgers Cooperative Extension

4:45 PM – Light fare & refreshments (Pre-registration required)

5:00 PM – Coverage Counts: How to make the most of a pesticide application

Karly Regan PhD, Certis Biologicals

5:30 PM – Pesticide Safety and Regulations for Specialty Crops

Janine Spies PhD, Rutgers Cooperative Extension

6:00 PM – Pesticide Recertification Credits and Adjourn

NJDEP Pesticide Recertification Credits are anticipated.

Registration cost per person: $10.

Cash or check (made payable to Rutgers The State University) will be collected at the door.

Click here to register: North Jersey Calibration Event Registration – Fill out form

Pre-register by Wednesday March 18.

If you have any questions please contact Kim Cromelin: (908) 788-1338, kfrey@co.hunterdon.nj.us

Program Chair: Janine Spies, Agriculture and Natural Resources County Agent III, Statewide Program Leader in Fruit IPM

ALERT – Potential for Ambrosia Beetle flight early next week – if you regularly have issues with this pest – take notice

Tim Waller — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 15:01:56 +0000

The last few seasons we have seen an upswing in ambrosia beetle activity in nursery production, principally in field grown nursery stock of thin barked trees (commonly – dogwood, honey locust, magnolia, maple, redbud, zelkova, styrax, Prunus spp.). Based on evidence from multiple lines of trap collection data throughout the United States, adult female flights appear to be correlated to consecutive days (2-3) of 70F temperatures (highs) with daily average air temps around 65F (max+min/2). That is extremely close to what we will have throughout most areas of NJ early next week, based on 10-day weather forecasts. Note: this is historically very early for treatment of this pest and it will get colder the following days, however, we have missed control opportunities over multiple years so take treatment into consideration if you regularly encounter this pest.

Consider using pyrethroids in your production areas next Monday or Tuesday (weather dependent) if this pest has been a regular problem.

Contact insecticides:

Pyrethroids [3A]: –thrins (bifenthrin, permethrin, etc.) – Pyrethroids longer lasting residual activity is why these materials are so effective against ambrosia beetles.
Systemic insecticides DO NOT WORK

Stay informed:

Sign up for the 2026 – Rutgers Ornamental IPM Program – click here to sign up
First webinar 4/14/26
Program is free, but registration is required – Registration includes:
- Site visit to your ornamental nursery/farm from Rutgers agents
- Delivered printed IPM resources (Guides, factsheets, bulletins)
- Free pheromone & sticky trap kit + guidance on setup/monitoring (for commercial nursery/greenhouse and Christmas tree farms)
- Access to live bi-weekly webinars (Zoom)
- (First session TUESDAY 4/14 @ 12PM)
- Every Second and Fourth, Tuesday, April through September

about – Ambrosia Beetles (Xylosandrus spp.)

Host plants: Hundreds of deciduous, thin-barked species, commonly – dogwood, honey locust, Magnolia, maple, redbud, Zelkova, Styrax, Prunus spp.

Overview:

New Jersey notable species in ornamentals: Black stem borer (Xylosandrus germanus) and Granulate borer (Xylosandrus crassiusculus)
As of 2025, the invasive Redbay Ambrosia beetle (Xyleborus glabratus) is currently in the southern USA, but moving north
Number of generations is subject to debate, often 1-2
Very small, reddish brown to black, cylindrical beetles (2-2.5 mm), entrance/exit holes ~ 1 mm in diameter
Adults overwinter, mate, and lay eggs in sapwood galleries (tunnel system)
Ambrosia beetles create these galleries to grow ‘ambrosia’ fungi, as their sole food source which are transported to new hosts by adults in a specialized structure known as a mycangia
Are attracted to and infest stressed plants that are releasing ethanol
Infestations increase plants’ risk for infection by opportunistic pathogens
Symptoms include sawdust and frass ‘toothpicks’, increased sap production, branch wilting, dieback, bark cracking, and wood staining

Cultural Practices:

Avoid transporting infested plants
Reduce plant stress; particularly water-related stressors such as waterlogged roots (an anaerobic condition) which are more likely to produce ethanol and be attacked
Closely monitor new plantings, especially if planted during adverse climatic periods such as excessive rain, drought, or intense heat
Monitor ethanol baited traps (soda bottle traps, Lindren funnel traps, black panel traps, ethanol-soaked wood bolts) at wood line and within production area

Materials:

Contact insecticides:

Pyrethroids [3A]: –thrins

Systemic insecticides:

None- these beetles feed on ambrosia fungi in galleries, not plant tissue

Biorationals:

Limited efficacy: entomopathogenic – fungi Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium spp.
Research focused on antagonistic fungi, endophytes, ambrosia fungi management and plant defense activators is promising

Critical Target Windows and Pesticide Use Considerations

Once ‘toothpicks’ are observed on a host plant, it is too late to use contact pesticides on that plant
Monitor early spring weather forecasts – evidence that adult flight often occurs after successive (2-3 days) of temperatures above 70ºF
Redbud bloom is a useful plant phenology indicator (PPI)
Use contact insecticides with caution as they can harm beneficial insects

PESTICIDE USE DISCLAIMER. THE LABEL IS THE LAW . The Rutgers Plant and Pest Advisory is not intended for homeowners. Recommendations and considerations given herein are designed to be specific to the state of New Jersey, even though it may be broadly applicable across multiple geographic areas. A pesticide applicator is legally bound by the labeling found on and with the pesticide container in their possession. Before using a pesticide, check and always follow the labeling distributed with the product at the point of sale for legally enforceable rates and restrictions. New Jersey notes. 1. Private and commercial applicators must be certified AND possess a valid applicator license to make applications or supervise the use of ANY* EPA-registered pesticide (*as required NJAC 7:30; limited exemptions exist). 2. Only certified applicators possessing a valid New Jersey applicator license may purchase restricted use pesticides (RUPs). 3. Pursuant to NJ S1016, neonicotinoids can only be applied in agricultural settings. Commercial applications in outdoor, non-agricultural settings (i.e. landscapes) is prohibited, with no pest-specific exceptions, as of the printing of this document. In addition to the pesticide chemistries and Mode of Action (MoA) listed in this document, others may be commercially available. It is understood that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Rutgers Cooperative Extension is implied. THE LABEL IS THE LAW. Cooperating Agencies: Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and Boards of County Commissioners, Rutgers Cooperative Extension, a unit of the Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, is an equal opportunity program provider and employer.

Approaching boxwood blight season – 2026 (threat this week in Central and Southern NJ)

Tim Waller — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 16:37:54 +0000

March weather is always unpredictable, however, if we have sustained periods of increased temperatures (above 50F) and spring rains, boxwood blight (BWB) can become an issue quickly.

[pictorial tri-fold] Common Boxwood Pests and Diseases (click-here). This includes Box Tree Moth images. Print the PDF out double-sided, then fold.

If you suspect Boxwood Blight and would like to have this verified – please contact the Rutgers Plant Diagnostic Laboratory (click here) for sample submission instructions

Boxwood Blight Risk Assessment as of 3/2/2026
Region	Location	Station CODE	MON	TUE	WED	THU	FRI	SAT
Region	Location	Station CODE	2-Mar	3-Mar	4-Mar	5-Mar	6-Mar	7-Mar
Southern	Upper Deerfield	NJ50	Very Low	Very Low	Very Low	Infection Risk	Low	Low
Southern	Vineland	NJ73	Very Low	Very Low	Low	Infection Risk	Infection Risk	Infection Risk
Southern	Millville	KMIV	Very Low	Very Low	Low	Infection Risk	Low	Low
Southern	Bridgeton	D4116	Very Low	Very Low	Very Low	Infection Risk	Low	Low
Southern	Mays Landing	G4661	Very Low	Very Low	Low	Infection Risk	Low	Low
Central	Howell / Freehold	NJ10	Very Low	Very Low	Very Low	Low	Low	Low
Central	Princeton	F0303	Very Low	Very Low	Very Low	Low	Infection Risk	Very Low
Central	Somerville	F6261	Very Low	Very Low	Very Low	Low	Infection Risk	Infection Risk
Northern	High Point	NJ59	Very Low	Very Low	Very Low	Very Low	Low	Low
Northern	Randolph	AU137	Very Low	Very Low	Very Low	Very Low	Low	Low
Northern	Belvidere	E7133	Very Low	Very Low	Very Low	Very Low	Low	Very Low
Please check your local boxwood blight risk at (https://uspest.org/risk/boxwood_app)

There is a minor potential for boxwood blight infections this Thursday, Friday, & Saturday throughout Southern and Central NJ. Incoming rains, coupled with warmer temperatures may initiate boxwood blight infections this week. This will likely extend into the following week with anticipated higher temperatures.

It is time to begin protective fungicide applications in boxwoods throughout the state if you have not already done so.
If BWB is important to your business – Use the USPEST – PUSH Alerts – (click here) – to setup weekly email alerts. Create an account, watch the tutorial, and then set up your subscriptions. You select which locations (as many as you like), days you want to receive emails, and what you would like to receive alerts about (BWB and a variety of other pests and diseases). Rutgers is not directly affiliated, however this is an incredible tool.

These advisories are general in nature, change rapidly over time, are site-specific…therefore Someone from your business should be using this risk model daily or set up Push-Alerts (described above) if boxwood is important to your financial stability– In 30 seconds you can have a better idea of boxwood blight (and other pathogens) activity in your immediate area! Please contact Tim Waller if you need help using this service (twaller@njaes.rutgers.edu), we want to help!

If your area is not listed (throughout all of NJ please visit the USPEST.ORG Boxwood Blight Risk Model – CLICK HERE TO CHECK YOUR LOCAL PREDICTIONS)

Fungicides;

You very well may have these materials already applied as ‘cover-sprays’ – But – be mindful that protectant fungicides loose efficacy the more rain (or overhead irrigation) they are subjected to, and reapplication may be warranted.
ROTATE between Fungicide Resistance Action Committee (FRAC codes) to avoid this pathogen becoming resistant to specific chemicals

Format: [FRAC code]: Chemical name (Trade names * no endorsement implied, other options exist)

[M05]: Chlorothalonil (Daconil WS)
[M05 + 1] Chlorothalonil + Thiophanate methyl (Spectro 90WDG)
[11] Trifloxystrobin + [7] Fluopyram (Broadform)
[11] Trifloxystrobin + [3] Triadimefon (Armada 50WDG)
[M03] Mancozeb
[12] Fludioxonil (Medallion WDG)
[3] Tebuconazole (Torque)BW

DISCLAIMER: The label is the law, always refer to it for allowable host crops, use-restrictions, application rates, reapplication intervals, re-entry intervals (REI), and mix compatibility information. Production and pesticide information on this site are for private/commercial pesticide applicators and landscape professionals only, and are NOT for home gardener use. Provided materials represent examples and do not cover all possible control scenarios. Trade-names listed do not imply endorsement and are used as examples only. Please contact your local agent or chemical sales representative for more information or to discuss additional pest management options.

Boxwood Resources

Background on Boxwood Blight pathogen:

Click here for more detailed Boxwood blight posts with many other links and background information

Box Tree Moth – Resources:

Video: Click here for- “Demystifying Box Tree Moth” – HRI
Factsheet: Box Tree Moth: Fact Sheet, Management & Visual Guide
OSU Guide: What to look for with Box Tree (Boxwood) Moth
USDA-APHIS Box Tree Moth : APHIS BTM Landing page
Compliance agreement and information: National Plant Board – Box Tree Moth
- HRI VIDEO – “Box Tree Moth Compliance Agreement Explained”

Produce Safety Rule Training Part of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 20:53:23 GMT

When: Tuesday, March 17, 2026, from 9:30-4:30 PM.

Where: Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Mercer County, 1440 Parkside Ave., Ewing, NJ 08638

Cost: $100.00 (lunch included) as part of registration process you will ask to pay by card. Online ticket Sales end on Friday, March 6, 2026. If paying after the deadline or in person payment must be by check made out to Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey

To sign up and information: https://rutgers.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2tP1FhE34sviJv0

Who Should Attend

Fruit Growers
Vegetable Growers
Growers who have farms that fall under the Produce Safety Rule
Growers who have farms that do not fall under the rule but will in the future.

Benefits of Attending the Workshop

Individuals who participate in this course will gain a basic understanding of:

Requirements in the FSMA Produce Safety Rule and how to meet them.
Fulfills the requirement for at least one supervisor from a farm to complete food safety training at least equivalent to the standardized curriculum recognized by the FDA.
Microorganisms relevant to produce safety.
Where microorganisms may be found on the farm
How to identify microbial risks, practices that reduce risks and how to begin implementing produce safety practices on the farm.
Parts of a farm food safety plan and how to begin writing one
Cleaning and Sanitizing

Areas Covered Under the Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training:

Introduction to Produce Safety
Worker Health, Hygiene and Training
Soil Amendments
Wildlife, Domesticated Animals and Land Use
Agricultural Water (Part I: Pre Harvest Water; Part II: Postharvest Water)
Postharvest Handling and Sanitation
How to Develop a Farm Food Safety Plan

After attending the entire course and submitting the appropriate survey to their trainer at the end of the course, participants will be eligible to receive a certificate from the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) that verifies they have completed the training course. This course fulfills the FSMA Produce Safety Rule training requirement for at least one supervisor per farm is trained by an FDA-recognized Produce Safety Alliance curriculum.

Does your farm fall under the FSMA PSR? Find out at the link below.
https://rutgers.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4IagP1mbPyrp42N

North Jersey Commercial Vegetable Growers Meeting Program and Registration

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 20:29:07 GMT

NORTH JERSEY COMMERCIAL
VEGETABLE GROWERS MEETING

March 11, 2026
8:30 am – 3:00 pm

Harvest Hall, Alstede Farms
100 Route 24
Chester, NJ 07930

Program

Program Chair
Peter Nitzsche, Agriculture and Resource Management Agent
Cooperative Extension of Morris County

8:30 – Registration
Continental breakfast compliments of industry sponsors

9:00 – Welcome and Introductions

9:10 – Vegetable IPM Update
Amanda Quadrel, Senior Program Coordinator – Vegetable IPM, Cooperative Extension

9:40 – Developing a Targeted Worker Training Program for Produce Safety
Meredith Melendez, ANR Agent, Cooperative Extension of Mercer County

10:10 – Update on Farm Service Programs
Kristen Lake, County Executive Director, Farm Service Agency

10:20 – Jersey Fresh Marketing Update
Christine Fries, Coordinator of Agricultural Marketing, Division of Markets, NJ Dept. of Agriculture

10:30 – Strawberry Disease Management: How Environment Changes the Game
Nancy Sharma, Specialist in Fruit Pathology, Cooperative Extension

11:00 – Resistance Management and the Pesticide Label – What You Need to Know
Kate Brown, ANR Agent, Cooperative Extension of Somerset County

11:30 – What is New from Industry

11:40 – Next-Generation Weed Management Innovative Solutions for Specialty Crop Productions
Thierry Besancon is an Extension Specialist in Weed Science for Specialty Crops

12:10 – LUNCHEON (pre-registration required)

1:00 – Updates on Disease Control in Vegetable Crops
Andrew Wyenandt, Specialist in Vegetable Pathology, Cooperative Extension

1:30 – Update on Rutgers/NJAES Agrivoltaics Crops Research
Daniel Ward, Associate Research Professor, Dept. of Plant Biology, NJAES

2:00 – New and Emerging Vegetable Pests
Patricia Prade, Extension Entomologist, Penn State Extension

2:30- Specialty Winter Squash for NJ Growers
David Hlubik, ANR Agent, Cooperative Extension of Burlington County

3:00 – Pesticide Recertification Credits and Adjourn. Attendees must be present for the entire program in order to apply for NJDEP credits

NJDEP PESTICIDE RECERTIFICATION CREDITS ARE ANTICIPATED

North Jersey Veg Meeting Registration 2026 then fax or email to:
Fax: (908) 806-4735
E-mail: kfrey@co.hunterdon.nj.us

PRE-REGISTRATION BY MARCH 4, 2026 REQUIRED FOR LUNCH

Directions:
Harvest Hall, Alstede Farms 100 Route 24, Chester, NJ 07930
Look for the Harvest Hall sign at the entrance to the driveway.
The entrance to the Harvest Hall driveway is directly across the street from Chubb Park ~¼ mile east of the farmstand.

If you have any question please call Kim Crommelin: (908)-788-1338

North Jersey Commercial Fruit Grower Meeting Program and Registration

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 20:28:02 GMT

NORTH JERSEY COMMERCIAL
FRUIT GROWERS MEETING

March 4, 2026
8:30 am – 4:00 pm
Hunterdon County Complex
314 State Route 12, Bldg. 1
Flemington, NJ
Program

Program Chair
Megan Muehlbauer, PhD
Agriculture and Resource Management Agent
Cooperative Extension of Hunterdon County

8:30 – Registration
Continental breakfast compliments of industry sponsors

8:50 – Welcome and Introductions

9:00 – NJDEP’s Pesticide Safety and Regulations
Spencer Kerkhof, Environmental Specialist Pesticide Compliance & Enforcement NJDEP

10:00 – Ambrosia Beetles: How to Manage Them in Tree Fruit Orchards
Monique Rivera PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Entomology, Cornell AgriTech

11:00 – Mycorrhizal Fungi Applications and their Effect on Soil Biology and Tree Health
Megan Muehlbauer PhD, Hunterdon County Agricultural Agent, Rutgers Cooperative Extension

11:30 – Update on Farm Service Programs
Laura LaFevre, County Executive Director, Hunterdon / Somerset Office, Farm Service Agency

11:45 – Jersey Fresh Marketing Update
Joe Atchison III, Assistant Secretary, NJ Dept. of Agriculture
Christine Fries, Coordinator of Agricultural Marketing, NJ Dept. of Agriculture

12:00 – LUNCHEON (pre-registration required)

12:50 – What is New from Industry

1:00 – Peach Variety Updates
Hemant Gohil PhD, Gloucester County Agricultural Agent, Rutgers Cooperative Extension

1:30 – Management Strategies for Scale in Tree Fruit
Anne Nielsen PhD, Extension Specialist in Entomology, Rutgers Cooperative Extension

2:00 – Season Summary and Updates from the Tree Fruit IPM Program
Janine Spies PhD, Agricultural Agent in Fruit IPM, Rutgers Cooperative Extension

3:00 – The Bitter Reality of Bitter Rot in NJ
Kaitlin Quinn North Jersey Fruit IPM Program Associate, Rutgers Cooperative Extension

3:30 – Disease management strategies in apple and peach orchards
Nancy Sharma PhD, Specialist in Fruit Pathology, Rutgers Cooperative Extension

4:00 – Pesticide Recertification Credits and Adjourn. Attendees must be present for the entire program in order to apply for NJDEP credits.

THE FOLLOWING NJDEP PESTICIDE RECERTIFICATION CREDITS WILL BE AWARDED

4 CAT-10 4 CAT-1A 2 CORE 4 PP2

North Jersey Fruit Meeting Registration 2026 then fax or email to:
Fax: (908) 806-4735
E-mail: kfrey@co.hunterdon.nj.us

PRE-REGISTRATION BY February 26, 2026 REQUIRED FOR LUNCH

If you have any questions please call Kim Crommelin: (908)-788-1338

Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers (ASCF) Program: Contact FSA and Reporting Due March 13, 2026

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:13:47 GMT

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is providing $1 billion in Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers (ASCF) Program assistance for specialty crops and sugar, commodities not covered through the previously announced Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program. These one-time bridge payments will help address market disruptions, elevated input costs, persistent inflation, and market losses from foreign competitors engaging in unfair trade practices that impede exports. Specialty crop producers have until March 13, 2026, to report 2025 acres to USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA).

“President Trump has the backs of our farmers, and today we are building on our Farmer Bridge Assistance program with the Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers (ASCF) Program. Our specialty crop producers continue to feel the negative effects of four years under the Biden Administration, suffering from record inflation, a depleted farm safety net, and delayed disaster assistance,” said Secretary Rollins. “President Trump and the entire cabinet are working every day to fight bidenflation and lower prices for consumers. If our specialty crop producers are not economically able to continue their operations, American families will see a decrease in the food they rely on, wholesome and nutritious fruits and vegetables. Putting Farmers First is essential to the Make America Healthy Again movement and we are doing both at USDA by expanding market opportunities and improving the farm economy for all producers. Today’s specialty crop announcement builds on our efforts to improve markets for real food into American schools, institutions, and family dinner tables.”

The Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers Program is authorized under the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act and will be administered by FSA.

Eligible Specialty Crops

ASCF-eligible specialty crops include: (A) Almond, Apple, Apricot, Aronia berry, Artichoke, Asparagus, Avocado (B) Banana, Bean (Snap or green; Lima; Dry edible), Beet (Table), Blackberry, Blueberry, Breadfruit, Broccoli (including Broccoli Raab), Brussels Sprouts (C) Cabbage (including Chinese), Cacao, Carrot, Cashew, Cauliflower, Celeriac, Celery, Cherimoya, Cherry, Chestnut (for Nuts), Chive, Citrus, Coconut, Coffee, Collards (including Kale), Cranberry, Cucumber, Currant (D) Date, Dry Edible Beans and Peas* (E) Edamame, Eggplant, Endive (F) Feijou, Fig, Filbert (Hazelnut) (G) Garlic, Gooseberry, Grape (including Raisin), Guava (H) Horseradish (K) Kiwi, Kohlrabi (L) Leek, Lettuce, Litchi (M) Macadamia, Mango, Melon (All Types), Mushroom (Cultivated), Mustard and Other Greens (N) Nectarine (O) Okra, Olive, Onion, Opuntia (P) Papaya, Parsley, Parsnip, Passion Fruit, Pea (Garden; English or Edible Pod; Dry edible), Peach, Pear, Pecan, Pepper, Persimmon, Pineapple, Pistachio, Plum (including Prune), Pomegranate, Potato, Pumpkin (Q) Quince (R) Radish (All Types), Raspberry, Rhubarb, Rutabaga (S) Salsify, Spinach, Squash (Summer and Winter), Strawberry, Suriname Cherry, Sweet Corn, Sweet Potato, Swiss Chard (T) Taro, Tomato (including Tomatillo), Turnip (W) Walnut, Watermelon

*Dry edible beans and peas covered by FBA will not be eligible for ASCF.

ASCF payments are based on reported 2025 planted acres.

Eligible farmers should ensure their 2025 acreage reporting is factual and accurate by 5 p.m. ET on March 13, 2026. Commodity-specific payment rates will be released by the end of March. Crop insurance linkage will not be required for the ASCF Program. However, USDA strongly urges producers to take advantage of the new One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) risk management tools to best protect against price risk and volatility in the future.

More information on ASCF is available online at www.fsa.usda.gov/fba or producers can contact their local FSA county office.

CHANGE OF DATE AND LOCATION: North Jersey Commercial Vegetable Meeting

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 11:00:46 GMT

CHANGE OF DATE AND LOCATION

FOR THE

NORTH JERSEY COMMERCIAL

VEGETABLE GROWERS MEETING

March 11, 2026

8:30 am – 3:30 pm

Harvest Hall, Alstede Farms

100 Route 24

Chester, NJ 07930

NO CHANGES FOR THE NORTH JERSEY COMMERCIAL FRUIT GROWERS MEETING

DETAILS BELOW

NORTH JERSEY COMMERCIAL

FRUIT GROWERS MEETING

March 4, 2026

8:30 am – 3:30 pm

Hunterdon County Complex

314 State Rt. 12, Building #1

Flemington, NJ

Program Details and Pesticide Credits are Forthcoming

Farm Safety Needs Assessment

Kate Brown — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 16:15:25 +0000

The Rutgers Farm Health and Safety Working Group is conducting a survey to evaluate the priority needs of New Jersey farmers for training and resource development related to safety and health. As a New Jersey farmer, you are invited to complete this survey. Click here to access the survey and learn more.

Participation in this research study is voluntary. If you choose to participate by completing the survey, you will be asked to respond to questions about priority hazards for educational outreach as well as personal preparedness for emergencies, motivations and barriers for improvement, and interest in specific trainings and services. The survey takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete and no information that can identify you will appear in any professional presentation or publication. Responses are anonymous.

SAVE THE DATE: Sprayer Equipment Calibration Workshops for Specialty Crop Growers March 24 & 25

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 17:23:52 GMT

North Jersey Equipment Calibration Grower Meeting

March 24, 2026

3:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Clifford E. & Melda C. Snyder Research & Extension Farm

New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station

140 Locust Grove Road

Pittstown, NJ

South Jersey Equipment Calibration Grower Meeting

March 25, 2026

3:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Rutgers Agricultural Research & Extension Center

121 Northville Road

Bridgeton, NJ

Agenda, Registration and Pesticide Credits will be announced shortly.

Mid-Atlantic Commercial Vegetable Recommendation Guide Available at Select County RCE Offices

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 21:39:49 GMT

Physical, spiral-bound copies of the recently updated 2026/2027 Mid-Atlantic Commercial Vegetable Recommendation Guide are now available at select Rutgers Cooperative Extension offices throughout the state. This publication is updated biennially with research-based information from land-grant university trials as well as knowledge and experience from farmers and other industry members in the mid-Atlantic region. The production guide is intended for use by commercial vegetable growers and includes general production and pest management recommendations, pesticide safety information, and commodity-specific recommendations.

Limited quantities of the guide are available for purchase at the following RCE offices. The cost is $35.00 (including tax) and payable by check made out to Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. Click here to locate your nearest RCE office and access contact information. We strongly encourage you to call in advance to confirm the availability of the guide.

RCE of Atlantic County (Mays Landing)
RCE of Burlington County (Westampton)
RCE of Cumberland County (Millville)
RCE of Hunterdon County (Flemington)
RCE of Mercer County (Ewing)
RCE of Middlesex County (North Brunswick)
RCE of Monmouth County (Freehold)
RCE of Morris County (Morristown)
RCE of Somerset County (Bridgewater)
Rutgers Agricultural Research and Extension Center (Bridgeton)

This production guide is also available as a free downloadable PDF on the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station website (updated version coming soon) or purchasable online from Penn State Extension.

RU-N Seeks to Buy Produce, Dairy, Meat, and Eggs from Female Farmers

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 23:43:33 GMT

Rutgers-Newark (RU-N) seeks to purchase fruits, vegetables, dairy, eggs, and meat from women-owned farms in New Jersey. Pick-up is available and all women-owned/operated farms located in NJ are eligible. The deadline is almost here! Interested farmers are asked to complete the interest form by Wednesday, February 4, 2026.

Purchased products will supply pantry+, a free resource for groceries available to students, staff, and faculty at RU-N.

Questions? Contact Bryan Barros, bryan.barros@rutgers.edu or 973-353-0257.

SAVE THE DATE: North Jersey Commercial Vegetable & Fruit Growers Meetings

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 15:32:42 GMT

NORTH JERSEY COMMERCIAL

VEGETABLE GROWERS MEETING

February 25, 2026

8:30 am – 3:30 pm

Hunterdon County Complex

314 State Rt. 12, Building #1

Flemington, NJ

NORTH JERSEY COMMERCIAL

FRUIT GROWERS MEETING

March 4, 2026

8:30 am – 3:30 pm

Hunterdon County Complex

314 State Rt. 12, Building #1

Flemington, NJ

Program Details and Pesticide Credits are Forthcoming

Turfgrass ProFACT and CORE Pesticide credits – February 4 and 6, Williamstown, Woodstown, and Millville

Salvatore Mangiafico — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 19:49:03 +0000

Protecting Water Quality in the Landscape
and
Pesticide Safety for Turfgrass Professionals

Pesticide and ProFACT Credits:
• Commercial Pesticide Applicator License – 02 CORE credits
• Turfgrass Professional Fertilizer Applicator Certification – 02 ProFACT credits

Date	Time	Location	Registration
February 4, 2026	10 am – 12.15 pm	Peach Country Tractor, 1463 N Tuckahoe Rd., Williamstown	Charles, 856-226-3834 or charles @peachcountrytractor.com
February 4, 2026	2 pm – 4.15 pm	Rutgers Cooperative Extension, 51 Cheney Rd., Woodstown	Sal, 856-769-0090 or mangiafico @njaes.rutgers.edu
February 6, 2026	10 am – 12.15 pm	Rutgers Cooperative Extension, 291 Morton Ave., Millville	Sal, 856-769-0090 or mangiafico @njaes.rutgers.edu

PDF link: https://salem.njaes.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/2026_02_ProFACT_Flyer_Final.pdf

Salem County Pesticide Safety Meeting – Pesticide Credits Available – February 20, 2026 – Woodstown

Salvatore Mangiafico — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 19:38:16 +0000

Salem County Pesticide Safety Meeting

February 20, 2026
51 Cheney Rd., Woodstown, NJ

To register for morning, afternoon, or both
856-769-0090
molly.english@salemcountynj.gov

Link to PDF

*Morning Session: 9 am – Noon. Credits: \| CORE: 01 \| 1A: 02 \| 1B: 01 \| 10: 03 \| PP2: 02 \|*
Farmland Preservation in Salem County	State Agriculture Development Committee (SADC) staff
Pesticide Safety, Storage, Labels, Application	Raman Sharma, Rutgers Cooperative Extension
Disease Control in Vegetable Crops	Andy Wyenandt, Rutgers Cooperative Extension
Early Season Pest Management in No-till Corn	Maria Cramer, Rutgers Cooperative Extension
Animal Agricultural Pest Control	Hassan Warriach, Rutgers Cooperative Extension
USDA Program Updates	USDA – NRCS / FSA staff
*Afternoon Session: 1 pm – 4:30 pm. Credits: \| 1A: 03 \| 10: 03 \| PP2: 03 \|*
Weed Control in Pastures and Forages	Matthew Elmore, Rutgers Cooperative Extension
Corn Fertility for Yield and Quality	Raman Sharma, Rutgers Cooperative Extension
Commodity Market Outlook	Nathaniel Bruce, Delaware Cooperative Extension
Agricultural Safety and Emergency Response	Robert DiGregorio, Salem County Sheriff Office
Agrivoltaics	Dan Ward, Rutgers Cooperative Extension
Forage Quality of Hay and Silage	Tess Stahl, Rutgers Cooperative Extension

H2A Farm Labor Meeting – February 2, 2026 – Upper Deerfield, Cumberland County

Salvatore Mangiafico — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 19:17:38 +0000

Learn about H2A, the federal farm labor program.

Insights about costs, legal considerations, and practical matters, from experts, growers, and NJ Farm Bureau.

February 2nd, 2026

121 Northville Road
Bridgeton, New Jersey 08302

The Event is provided free of charge, but you must RSVP

Lunch and refreshments will be provided

To register, please contact Karen Adams:
adams@udel.edu
302-831-3328

Link for PDF

9:30 – 10:00	Check-in / Registration
10:00 – 10:10	Welcome
10:10 – 10:55	Real Cost of H2A Workers	Nate Bruce, University of Delaware
10:55 – 12:00	Legal Aspects of the H2A Process	Brandon Davis, Phelps Dunbar LLP Paul Goeringer, University of Maryland
12:00 – 12:45	Lunch
12:45 – 1:10	New Jersey Considerations for H2A Workers	Ben Casella, New Jersey Farm Bureau
1:10 – 1:30	Experiences with the H2A Program and Q&A	Henry Bennett, Bennett Orchards
1:30 – 1:45	Evaluations

Speakers, times, and availabilities subject to change.

This work is supported by the Northeast Extension Risk Management project award no. 2024-70027-42540, from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

This event is brought to you jointly by the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension, a service of the UD College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and University of Maryland Cooperative Extension, a service of the UMD College of Agriculture and Natural Resources — both are land-grant institutions and are equal opportunity providers. If you have special needs that need to be accommodated, please contact the office two weeks prior to the event.

Landscape, Ornamentals, Nursery, & Turf Edition - Rutgers Plant and Pest Advisory

Fruit IPM Updates Week of 3/30/2026

Tree Fruit Phenology Update

Apple Scab Update

Multiple Pest Alerts in nursery, landscape, Christmas tree – boxwood blight, ambrosia beetle, white pine weevil, clearwing borers, and Phytophthora management

Stay informed:

It is time to begin protective fungicide applications in boxwoods throughout the state if you have not already done so.

Salem County Agronomy Twilight Meeting-1 (May 1, 2026)

Fruit IPM Updates Week of 3/23/26

Tree Fruit Phenology Update

Visit to Clover Valley Farm – April 11

SOUTH JERSEY CALIBRATION GROWERS MEETING

March 25, 2026 2:30 pm – 6:00 pm Rutgers Agricultural Research & Extension Center 121 Northville Road Bridgeton, NJ

Program

PRE-REGISTRATION BY March 18, 2026

NORTH JERSEY CALIBRATION GROWERS MEETING

March 24, 2026 2:30 pm – 6:00 pm Snyder Research & Extension Farm 140 Locust Grove Road Pittstown, NJ

Program

PRE-REGISTRATION BY March 18, 2026

Networks to Reduce Risk Field Trip – April 11

ALERT: Be prepared to manage White Pine Weevil in conifers early next week

Stay informed – ORNAMENTAL IPM PROGRAM

Early Season Tree Fruit Pest Control in 2026

South Jersey Calibration Grower Meeting

North Jersey Calibration Grower Meeting

ALERT – Potential for Ambrosia Beetle flight early next week – if you regularly have issues with this pest – take notice

Stay informed:

Approaching boxwood blight season – 2026 (threat this week in Central and Southern NJ)

It is time to begin protective fungicide applications in boxwoods throughout the state if you have not already done so.

Produce Safety Rule Training Part of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)

North Jersey Commercial Vegetable Growers Meeting Program and Registration

NORTH JERSEY COMMERCIAL VEGETABLE GROWERS MEETING

March 11, 2026 8:30 am – 3:00 pm

Harvest Hall, Alstede Farms 100 Route 24 Chester, NJ 07930

Program

PRE-REGISTRATION BY MARCH 4, 2026 REQUIRED FOR LUNCH

North Jersey Commercial Fruit Grower Meeting Program and Registration

NORTH JERSEY COMMERCIAL FRUIT GROWERS MEETING

March 4, 2026 8:30 am – 4:00 pm Hunterdon County Complex 314 State Route 12, Bldg. 1 Flemington, NJ Program

PRE-REGISTRATION BY February 26, 2026 REQUIRED FOR LUNCH

Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers (ASCF) Program: Contact FSA and Reporting Due March 13, 2026

CHANGE OF DATE AND LOCATION: North Jersey Commercial Vegetable Meeting

CHANGE OF DATE AND LOCATION

FOR THE

NORTH JERSEY COMMERCIAL

VEGETABLE GROWERS MEETING

March 11, 2026

8:30 am – 3:30 pm

Harvest Hall, Alstede Farms

100 Route 24

Chester, NJ 07930

NO CHANGES FOR THE NORTH JERSEY COMMERCIAL FRUIT GROWERS MEETING

DETAILS BELOW

NORTH JERSEY COMMERCIAL

FRUIT GROWERS MEETING

March 4, 2026

8:30 am – 3:30 pm

Hunterdon County Complex

314 State Rt. 12, Building #1

Flemington, NJ

Program Details and Pesticide Credits are Forthcoming

Farm Safety Needs Assessment

SAVE THE DATE: Sprayer Equipment Calibration Workshops for Specialty Crop Growers March 24 & 25

North Jersey Equipment Calibration Grower Meeting

March 24, 2026

3:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Clifford E. & Melda C. Snyder Research & Extension Farm

New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station

140 Locust Grove Road

Pittstown, NJ

South Jersey Equipment Calibration Grower Meeting

March 25, 2026

3:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Rutgers Agricultural Research & Extension Center

121 Northville Road

Bridgeton, NJ

Agenda, Registration and Pesticide Credits will be announced shortly.

Mid-Atlantic Commercial Vegetable Recommendation Guide Available at Select County RCE Offices

RU-N Seeks to Buy Produce, Dairy, Meat, and Eggs from Female Farmers

SAVE THE DATE: North Jersey Commercial Vegetable & Fruit Growers Meetings

March 25, 2026
2:30 pm – 6:00 pm
Rutgers Agricultural Research & Extension Center
121 Northville Road
Bridgeton, NJ

March 24, 2026
2:30 pm – 6:00 pm
Snyder Research & Extension Farm
140 Locust Grove Road
Pittstown, NJ

NORTH JERSEY COMMERCIAL
VEGETABLE GROWERS MEETING

March 11, 2026
8:30 am – 3:00 pm

Harvest Hall, Alstede Farms
100 Route 24
Chester, NJ 07930

NORTH JERSEY COMMERCIAL
FRUIT GROWERS MEETING

March 4, 2026
8:30 am – 4:00 pm
Hunterdon County Complex
314 State Route 12, Bldg. 1
Flemington, NJ
Program