South Georgia is one of the top blueberry-producing regions in the country, harvesting over 45 million pounds in 2021! But despite mild winters, growers face some serious challenges—especially unpredictable spring frosts, humid harvests and persistent diseases like phytophthora root rot and anthracnose fruit rot. A recent UGA Extension survey of growers in eight southeastern Georgia counties revealed: 🔹 ‘Farthing’ and ‘Brightwell’ are the top blueberry varieties planted. 🔹 Southern highbush varieties dominate early in the season but are frost-sensitive. 🔹 Rabbiteye varieties are more frost-tolerant, but face rising concerns about fruit rot. 🧬 UGA’s blueberry breeding program—active since the 1940s—is working to develop new varieties that are better adapted to Georgia’s climate, more disease-resistant and produce high-quality fruit for longer seasons: https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=C1311&title=blueberry-production-in-south-georgia-variety-preference-and-major-constraints -- ✍️ Article by: - Ye (Juliet) Chu, Assistant Professor, Emphasis: Blueberry breeding, Horticulture - Zack Williams, County Extension Coordinator, Southeast District (fb)

You’ve heard of peaches and pecans — but have you met the mayhaw? This tart little fruit grows on a native hawthorn tree found across Georgia, especially in wetland areas. Each spring, mayhaw trees burst into white blooms, and by May, they’re dropping bright red fruit that’s perfect for making jelly, juice or even wine. While mayhaws aren’t usually eaten raw, they’re a Southern staple for homemade preserves. Check out our article where we share tips on planting, caring for and harvesting mayhaw trees right in your own backyard: https://cultivate.caes.uga.edu/did-you-know-you-can-grow-mayhaw/ There’s even a spicy-sweet mayhaw-pepper jelly recipe from our National Center for Home Food Preservation to help you get started in the kitchen! (fb)