Year: 2014

Sakata Seed America has introduced three new varieties of Eastern Bell Peppers expected to please growers and consumers alike.  The three players – Gridiron, Blitz and Touchdown have been specifically bred to thrive in Eastern regions, and are sure to be a top draft pick. …

Every successful business must have a solid plan to successfully take it from the initial startup phase all the way through its push to expand its operations after the business matures. The same can be said for an industry looking to reach new heights in its lifecycle. A concerted emphasis must be placed on strengthening research, product development, and marketing efforts. To help out on this front, the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) oversees 28 fruit and vegetable marketing order boards and committees. These entities develop regulations that moderate the flow of high quality produce, benefitting growers, handlers, and consumers. These groups also create research, marketing, and promotional campaigns that help expand the reach of the industry’s products. …

For the December issue of 5280, deputy editor Lindsey Koehler spent a few days on the Western Slope in the town of Palisade reporting "Fruits Of Their Labor." The piece looks at one particularly iconic aspect of Colorado's $41 billion a year agriculture industry: Palisade peaches. …

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has launched a new “Fresh From Florida” marketing campaign with billboard ads across the state that feature fresh Florida produce. …