US (WA): Looking good for raspberries
The early varieties have already begun to be harvested and later ones are expected to be ready over the next few weeks. This is an earlier start than usual, which is a result of the warm Winter and a cool Spring, according to Henry Bierlink, executive director of the Washington Red Raspberry Commission.
"I would characterize this as a good to very good crop," Bierlink said.
However, recent wet weather is a concern to growers, as is a potential heat wave anticipated this week. The spotted wing drosophila has also made an earlier than usual appearance in Washington this year.
The Washington State University Whatcom County Extension office recently sent an alert that some spotted wing drosophila larvae already were found in some local berries and that insecticides need to be applied. The bug is about two weeks ahead of schedule, said Colleen Burrows, agriculture special projects coordinator at the extension office in Bellingham.
Growers are being advised to remain on top of spraying, which is all that is needed to protect crops from the pest.
Source: columbian.com
