Advances in artificial intelligence are making an economic difference to greenhouse growers. Koppert Biological Systems in the Netherlands is cooperating with Ecoation, based in Vancouver, BC to better detect pests before they pose real harm.

With more than 25 years of experience in public affairs and communications, Chris Davison is leaving corporate and government affairs in Syngenta’s Guelph, Ontario office to take up a new role in Washington, DC. He is the new head, business sustainability for Syngenta North America.

The produce industry is relieved that threats have been cancelled to impose five per cent tariffs on Mexican goods crossing into the U.S. on June 10. The Border Trade Alliance offers some context.

Inclement weather, food recalls and widening trade gaps contributed to a 19-year low in the production of fresh vegetables in the U.S. in 2018. Onions, head lettuce, romaine lettuce and tomatoes accounted for much of the decline.

The world’s largest potato processor needs another 10,000 to 15,000 acres of potatoes to keep its expanded distribution centre humming in Burley, Idaho.

A deep dive into the USDA’s latest economic forecast shows horticultural exports remaining steady at $35.5 billion. Canada remains a top market for American fresh fruits and vegetables.

Data for the growth and practices of controlled environment agriculture remains fragmented. Global automation specialist Autogrow and Agritecture Consulting aim to change that.

When Corteva Agriscience goes live on June 3, the newest crop protection company estimates $14.3 billion in sales for 2019. The spinoff from DowDuPont will still be considered a heavyweight with 44 per cent of its product portfolio in crop protection and the remainder in seeds.

FMC is number five in terms of crop protection sales in Canada. As Darren Dillenbeck, country manager, FMC, explains, it’s an advantage to be solely focused on crop protection without the distraction of a seed business.

Mako insecticide has been approved for control of spotted wing drosophila on bushberries, caneberries, strawberries and cherries as well as wasps on cherries in Canada.