A cool spring has meant a slow start to the growing season, but it’s never too early to be on the lookout for pests. Strawberry blossom weevil is a case in point, according to presentations at the growers’ short course during the Pacific Agriculture Show this year. Originally identified in Abbotsford in a backyard raspberry …
CROPS
Tree fruit growers struggle to source plants
KELOWNA – Weather challenges and growing demand over the past two years mean some tender fruit growers are struggling to secure new trees for their orchards. “My son and I attempted to source some peach trees for next spring and the spring two years from now and there’s absolutely nothing. So, we tried to find …
Fruit tree protocols reviewed
While many orchardists in BC find it tough to source clean plant material to renew and expand their orchards, nurseries in Canada export a significant number of fruit and nut trees to orchardists in the US. To ensure stock remains clean, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency has spent the past few weeks soliciting feedback regarding …
There is a future for BC’s apple industry
NARAMATA — The new president of the BC Fruit Growers Association is a life-long farmer who believes he can influence a change in the province’s tree fruit industry. “I’ve been involved in farming all my life,” says Peter Simonsen, an organic grower who was elected to head the 133-year-old association at its annual convention at …
Vertical farms face regulation
The rise of vertical farms has attracted the notice of the BC Vegetable Marketing Commission. Also known as contained growing systems, vertical farms have become a popular way to produce leafy greens on small lots and marginal land. But leafy greens – specifically, greenhouse-grown lettuces – are regulated by BC Veg as part of its …
Pilot program bridges the extension gap for Gulf Island farmers
MAYNE ISLAND – Hedgerow Farm and Deacon Vale Farm on Mayne Island opened their gates on February 26 to welcome a group of 20 experienced, new and prospective farmers from the outer Gulf Islands for the final field day of a six-week introductory course on soil health hosted by the Gulf Islands Food Co-op in …