California Fruit and Vegetable

Tag: Syngenta

  • National Watermelon Board Distributes Watermelon to 50th Anniversary Marine Corps Marathon Runners

    Few things taste better after 26.2 miles than ice-cold watermelon. That’s why the National Watermelon Promotion Board (NWPB) is proud to be back at the Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) Finish Festival, giving away 10 pallets of fresh watermelon to thousands of runners from all 50 states and internationally. This year’s race is especially meaningful as the Marine Corps Marathon celebrates its 50th anniversary, and once again, it’s a sold-out event.

    For 12 years, NWPB has supported the “People’s Marathon,” creating a finish-line tradition that runners have come to look forward to almost as much as the medal. Team Watermelon, which is made up of NWPB staff along with national and state watermelon queens and coordinators, has welcomed finishers with bright red slices that have become a signature of the Finish Festival. Runners eagerly line up for this refreshing bite that’s equal parts recovery fuel, hydration, and reward. Beyond the health benefits, watermelon delivers a moment of simple joy after months of training and hours of determination on the course.

    “This marathon is about perseverance, pride, and community, and watermelon fits right into that spirit,” said Stephanie Barlow, Senior Director of Communications at NWPB. Barlow, who has spearheaded the Board’s participation from the get-go, also adds that “Watermelon is hydrating, naturally sweet, and a reminder to celebrate the accomplishment. We love being part of that moment when runners can finally relax and enjoy.”

    This year, Syngenta Vegetable Seeds, a company dedicated to developing and providing high-quality seeds for many of the vegetables people enjoy every day, is joining in the effort with a sponsorship to help NWPB share watermelon with the running community. Their support underscores a shared commitment to everyday nutrition and wellness.

    Rebecca Wente, Syngenta’s Watermelon Product Specialist and avid runner, will be participating in the MCM Virtual 10k. She said, “Whether I’m crossing a finish line or spending a long day in the field, nothing beats a juicy slice of watermelon. That’s why we’re so proud to sponsor the National Watermelon Promotion Board in support of this marathon. This event celebrates dedication and perseverance, which are values we see every day in both runners and the farmers who grow the food that fuels them.”

    About National Watermelon Promotion Board

    The National Watermelon Promotion Board (NWPB), based in Winter Springs, Florida, was established in 1989 as an agricultural promotion group to promote watermelon in the United States and in various markets abroad. Funded through a self-mandated industry assessment paid by nearly 700 watermelon producers, handlers and importers, NWPB mission is to increase consumer demand for watermelon through promotion, research and education programs.

    A serving of nutrient-dense watermelon provides an excellent source of Vitamin C (25% DV), a source of Vitamin B6 (8% DV), and a delicious way to stay hydrated (92% water), with only 80 calories per 2-cup serving. Watermelon consumption per capita in the United States was roughly 15.6 pounds in 2024. Watermelon consumption in the United States was nearly 5.3 billion pounds in 2024. Additionally, the United States exported 400 million pounds of watermelon. For additional information, visit www.watermelon.org.

    About Syngenta

    Syngenta is a global leader in agricultural innovation with a presence in more than 100 countries. Syngenta is focused on developing technologies and farming practices that empower farmers, so they can make the transformation required to feed the world’s population while preserving our planet. Its bold scientific discoveries deliver better benefits for farmers and society on a bigger scale than ever before. Guided by its Sustainability Priorities, Syngenta is developing new technologies and solutions that support farmers to grow healthier plants in healthier soil with a higher yield. Syngenta Crop Protection is headquartered in Basel, Switzerland; Syngenta Seeds is headquartered in the United States. Read our stories and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & X.

  • Crown Rot and Red Stele Root Rot in Strawberries: Silent Soilborne Threats

    – SPONSORED CONTENT –

    Strawberries can fall victim to various fungal and bacterial diseases, with crown rot and red stele root rot being 2 of the most common. As soilborne pathogens, these diseases can destroy your strawberries from the ground up and are often difficult to identify until it’s too late to properly manage the disease.

    These diseases thrive in various environmental conditions, meaning strawberries are susceptible throughout different phases of the growing season. However, with the correct preventive measures you can protect your crop health and quality.

    Crown Rot Signs and Symptoms in Strawberry Crops

    According to University of California IPM, initially, symptoms usually include plant stunting and small leaves. As the season progresses, plants may collapse slowly or rapidly. Cutting open infected plants, reveals a brown discoloration that can be seen in or throughout the crown tissue. Infection of the roots causes a brown to black root rot.

    Red Stele Root Rot Signs and Symptoms in Strawberry Crops

    According to University of California IPM, symptoms of red stele root rot first appear on plants that are located in low and poorly drained parts of fields. Strawberry plants infected with red stele root rot often become stunted as affected leaves die and are replaced by younger, smaller leaves. Young roots often become rotted with red coloration at the core. Infection is mostly limited to winter and early spring when the soil is oversaturated during cool weather.

    Strawberry Disease Control Recommendations

    Recognizing crown rot and red stele root rot in strawberries is crucial, yet often, visible symptoms may indicate that disease has already progressed significantly. That’s why it’s important to implement proper preventive measures to stay 1 step ahead of disease.

    Avoid soilborne diseases like crown rot and red stele root rot in your strawberry crops with these recommendations:

    • Select Proper Planting Site: Your first line of defense from disease is selecting the correct planting location. Choose a well-drained field without a history of disease.
    • Use Raised Beds: Plant seedlings in raised beds, avoiding low wet spots as excess moisture creates an ideal environment for fungal disease.
    • Choose Disease-resistant Varieties: Consider planting strawberry varieties known for resistance to crown rot and red stele root rot.
    • Ensure Proper Irrigation: Avoid overwatering and the use of runoff for irrigation due to potential inoculum spread
    • Implement Fungicide Spray Program: Consider applying a systemic fungicide such as Orondis® Gold for ongoing protection against key Oomycete diseases like crown rot and red stele root rot.

    Orondis Gold fungicide combines 2 powerful active ingredients to deliver preventive, residual and systemic activity that helps you control soilborne strawberry diseases during the season. A combination of mefenoxam and oxathiapiprolin, Orondis Gold provides built-in resistance management. In addition to offering crown rot and red stele root rot disease prevention, Orondis Gold helps secure early strawberry crop establishment and promotes root health.

    For more insight into strawberry disease management, contact your Syngenta representative.

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