The 2018 Horticultural Field Day is scheduled for Thursday, May 17, at the Southwest Research and Extension Center in Hope.
The day-long event will include a symposium of experts speaking on subjects from blackberry breeding and watermelon production to pest management and disease identification.
Sherrie Smith, plant pathologist for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, will be available to help diagnose any ailing plants attendees bring with them to the field day.
Paul Beck, interim director of the Southwest Research and Extension Center, said both professional growers and hobbyists can expect to take away great growing tips from the day.
“Producers of horticulture crops, whether full-time large operators or part-time enthusiasts, will learn valuable lessons from our speakers and enjoy the tours of the SWREC Horticulture area,” Beck said. “Come join us for great fun and fellowship.”
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
The schedule of events includes:
8 a.m.: Welcome from Paul Beck, interim director of the Southwest Research and Extension Center
8:15 a.m.: To;mato Production and Pest Control with John Gavin, Bradley County Cooperative Extension Agent;
9 a.m.: Squash Bugs in the Home Garden, with Jackie Lee, Arkansas Horticulture Integrated Pest Management Extension Specialist;
9:30: a.m. Go to the field, or stay inside for Ouachita District Family and Consumer Science Agents presentations, including “Good Eats: Good Health”;
9:45 a.m.: Blackberry Breeding and Variety Development Update, with Dr. John Clark, University of Arkansas Distinguished Professor;
10:15 a.m.: Watermelon Production with Cover Crops, with Amanda McWhirt, Extension Horticulture Crop Production Specialist;
10:45 a.m.: Tomato Diseases and Pests, with Jackie Lee
11:15 a.m.: Fruit Breeding and Genetics—Peach and Nectarine Variety Development Update, with Margaret Worthington, assistant professor, University of Arkansas
Noon: Lunch: Amigo Juan Taco Bar under the Big Shed (Evaluations and Door Prizes)
1 p.m.: Station tour, with Clay Wingfield, SWREC Horticulture Program Technician III
Pre-register for the field day by May 11 to attend for $17 or pay $20 the day of the event. To pre-register, contact Sherri Pote at 870-777-9702, ext. 100.
To learn about horticulture in Arkansas, contact a Cooperative Extension Service agent or visit www.uaex.edu.