Time of the year upsurge of pests and diseases that are likely to affect crops

The Agriculture Extension Division within the Ministry of Agriculture continues to alert farmers and backyard gardeners about the upsurge of pests and diseases that are likely to affect crops at this time of the year. Parasitologist Oniecia Anthony, visited this 26-acre farm in Bendals and shared pertinent information with farmer Ovid Lewis.

She wants farmers to be on the lookout for diseases such as Bacterial Soft Rot, Early Blight and Downy Mildew and Insects such as Cut Worms, Army Worms and Loopers, which can affect crops such as cabbages, butternuts, melons , peppers and cucumbers among other crops. Farmers who are experiencing any of the above listed can contact the Agriculture Extension Division at telephone numbers- 764-1260 or 720-9628. Let’s all protect our food chain.