Archives: News
CEA Alliance releases updated food safety guidelines for leafy greens, herbs
The CEA Alliance updated its food safety guidelines for leafy greens and herbs to reflect new science and regulations, including traceability and water rules. The second edition builds on the widely used 2023 version.
Darwin Perennials Day returns June 17 in West Chicago
Darwin Perennials Day 2026 provides a mid-season opportunity for industry professionals to evaluate new perennial varieties and connect with suppliers.
ISHS group details tools and datasets for tracking plant water status
Researchers are advancing methods to measure plant water transport and status, combining sap flow techniques with additional sensors and expanding global datasets. These tools help scientists and growers better understand plant responses to water stress and changing environmental conditions.
USDA extends pause on RBCS loan guarantees for biodigesters, indoor ag projects
USDA extended its pause on loan guarantees for biodigesters and controlled environment agriculture projects due to high delinquency rates and financial risk. The pause will remain in effect through the end of 2026 while the agency reviews portfolio performance and updates underwriting standards.
BioWorks adds IPM specialist to support Southeast growers
BioWorks has appointed Michelle Opela as biological solutions advisor for the Southeast. She will support growers with biological crop protection and IPM strategies, drawing on more than a decade of experience.
Corteva outlines leadership for two companies in planned split
Corteva names leadership for crop protection and seed companies ahead of planned 2026 separation into two public businesses. The move separates Corteva’s crop protection and seed businesses into focused companies with distinct leadership and strategies.
PHS names top global gardening trends from the 2026 Philadelphia Flower Show
Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) has named its predictions for gardening trends to emerge from the 2026 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show. This year’s show highlights bold, immersive gardens that connect to heritage, place and plant care.
Star Roses and Plants announces 4 new roses for 2027
Star Roses and Plants has announced four new rose introductions for 2027: Be Good, Brick House Yellow, Lemon Frost and Triple Knock Out.
USDA AMS opens applications for $86.6M specialty crop block grants, $14.3M multi-state program
USDA announced $100.9 million in grant funding for specialty crop projects through two programs. The funding supports research, marketing and collaboration, with applications due in June and October 2026.
CCS replaces legacy DOS fertigation system at Harrow Research Centre
Harrow Research and Development Centre replaced its legacy DOS-based fertigation system with a modern Windows-based platform from Climate Control Systems. The upgrade maintains existing nutrient control methods while improving usability and support.
Registration opens for FlowerTrials 2026 with 27 locations
FlowerTrials 2026 will take place June 9-12 in the Netherlands and Germany, featuring 58 breeders across 27 locations. The event highlights pot and bedding plant assortments and new developments.
UBC, Signify test dynamic LED lighting for year-round pepper growing
UBC and Signify are testing LED lighting strategies to enable year-round greenhouse pepper production in Canada. The trial, running from 2021 to 2026, focuses on light spectrum, crop management and production feasibility.
AFE Grow Pro Webinar Series covers technology, soil, water and greenhouse management in 2026
AFE announced an expanded 2026 Grow Pro webinar series with 9 sessions running from April through December. Topics include plant growth regulators, irrigation, AI in cut flower production, soil science, water treatment and greenhouse management.
USDA reopens reporting period for specialty crop bridge payments
The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) has reopened the reporting period for specialty crop producers seeking Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers (ASCF) program bridge payments. The new deadline is April 24.
Source.ag launches AI harvest forecasting tool for pepper growers
Source.ag introduced an AI-powered harvest forecasting tool for peppers that automates yield predictions and improves accuracy. Early trials showed significant reductions in forecast error, supporting better planning for growers.
Biotalys, Syngenta reach research milestone in bioinsecticide development
Biotalys and Syngenta report early success in developing a protein-based bioinsecticide, moving into next research phase. The collaboration targets resistance and regulatory challenges.