Matt Ecker foresees sunny future for the Happi pear

Drew Thompson explains how to use Folpan fungicide

As growers plan their fungicide programs with resistance management in mind, here’s a reminder of how to use the Group M fungicide Folpan 80 WDG. It’s a preventative multi-site fungicide that’s used across a wide variety of crops, from grapes and apples to cucurbits and strawberries.

Drew Thompson explains how Brevis plant growth regulator works

Crop protection company ADAMA is launching a new thinning product for crop load management in apples and pears in 2026. Besides a new mode of action, the company is supplying a BreviSmart app that guides growers on best timing for application. Sponsored by ADAMA.

Greg Palmer evaluates trade potential in Mexico

Trade patterns are shifting as the threat of U.S. tariffs continue to destabilize the produce industry. Greg Palmer, vice-president, trade and market development for the Canadian Produce Marketing Association, travels often to Mexico visiting with exporters and importers. When he puts on his tourist cap, he also frequents food markets. He shares his observations on the ramped-up trade missions from Canada and the opportunities for specific Canadian commodities.

Matt Ecker foresees sunny future for the Happi pear

A new pear variety will be entering the marketplace in 2026, thanks to a years-long breeding effort by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. The Vineland Growers’ Cooperative is licensed to sell the Happi pear which has a red blush and a sweet and tangy taste. Matt Ecker, vice president of sales, reports that the cooperative is expanding its controlled atmosphere storage space at Virgil, Ontario.

Jennifer Best advocates for harmonized land zoning bylaws

Hailing from an agricultural community, Jennifer Best brings an empathetic background to her role as director of growth services for Bradford West Gwillimbury. The municipality straddles the Holland Marsh along with King Township. She’s working with an ad hoc committee to harmonize land zoning bylaws that would ease pressure on the day-to-day lives of growers while protecting the land for future farming generations.