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Small Plot Peanut Fungicide Efficacy Trials in North Florida

Search for Excellence in Crop Production

Keith Wynn
Extension Agent III
University of Florida
Jasper

Team Members: Willis, S*1, Warren, M*2, Vann, C*3, Korus, K*4, Hicks, G*5, Fenneman, D*6, Dufault, N7, Capasso, J*8, Broughton, D*9, Wynn, K*10
  1. Extension Agent, University of Florida, Live Oak, Florida, 32064
  2. Extension Agent, University of Florida, Bronson, Florida, 32621
  3. Extension Agent, University of Florida, Mayo, Florida, 32066
  4. Extension Agent, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, 32609
  5. Extension Agent, University of Florida, Jasper, Florida, 32052
  6. Extension Agent, University of Florida, Madison, Florida, 32340
  7. UF Associate Professor and Extension Specialist, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, 32611
  8. Extension Agent, University of Florida, Lake City, Florida, 32055
  9. UF/IFAS Regional Specialized Agent, University of Florida, Live Oak, Florida, 32060
  10. Extension Agent II, University of Florida, Jasper, Florida, 32052

Abstract

Peanut is an important commodity crop in the Suwannee River Valley of North Florida. In 2020, approximately 70,000 acres of peanuts were planted in counties surrounding the North Florida Research and Education Center-Suwannee Valley (NFREC-SV). A peanut disease research program led by University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Plant Pathologist Dr. Nicholas Dufault was established to address management needs of this commodity. Objectives: To (1) assess the efficacy of commonly used peanut fungicide programs, (2) to incorporate pesticide spray programs that will reduce disease pressure, and (3) provide local Extension agents with experiential learning opportunities related to disease management. Methods: Dr. Nicholas Dufault and UF/IFAS Hamilton County Extension agent, Keith Wynn collaborated with NFREC-SV staff in 2015 to incorporate replicated small plot fungicide trials at the center. This trial evolved into a yearly research program that evaluates the efficacy of various fungicide treatments. Dr. Dufault was responsible for determining the fungicides tested, retrieving chemicals, and analyzing data collected from the trials. Local Extension agents were responsible for applying fungicide applications and recording disease ratings. Results: Data collected from disease ratings and yields were used to generate fact sheets, publications, and presentations that were distributed in production meetings throughout the state. Extension agents received hands-on training with fungicide application methods and disease identification which increased their confidence when interacting with producers. Conclusions: This research allowed Extension agents the opportunity to provide producers with timely information about the efficacy of fungicide products and monitor diseases throughout the season. Because of these trials, producers have seen the benefit of incorporating fungicides into their management programs and have made changes to their disease management plans.

Years of CES Service: 0

Entry