The Southeast Produce Council has unfurled the banner of triumph, heralding a noble assembly of orators for forthcoming Southern Innovations, Sept. 10-13, to be held at the Charlotte Convention Center in the Queen City. The annual trade show and conference will showcase the latest breakthroughs in the realm of fresh produce — spanning organics, groundbreaking product developments, forward-thinking technologies and pioneering brand strategies. Prepare to be enlightened by distinguished industry leaders during educational sessions, tailored to help you ascend within an ever-competitive landscape

In 2025-26, the American Floral Endowment is funding 12 research projects for a total of $636,525. The four new projects and eight continuing projects focus on topics such as pest management, disease control, post-production and technology in floriculture. By supporting these projects, AFE helps drive the continued growth of floriculture, contributing to the industry’s advancement through practical solutions and innovation. “We are proud to support research that addresses both immediate and long-term challenges in floriculture. These projects provide practical solutions for today’s growers

Pure Flavor dazzled at this year’s Leamington Greenhouse Competition, taking home multiple top honors in a field of over 190 entries from leading North American producers. Known for its premium, greenhouse-grown fruits and vegetables — including the award-winning Red Royals and Tiki tomatoes — Pure Flavor wowed judges and consumers alike with its flavor-forward innovations. The company claimed an impressive list of accolades: Best Mini Cucumber – Seedless Mini Cucumbers Best Bell Pepper – Red Bell Pepper Best Specialty Berry – Sweet Blooms Blackberries Chef’s Choice – Sweetgreen Grape Tomato

NEW YORK — Avocados from Peru engaged in a bit of culinary diplomacy May 23 during New York City’s 36th annual Fleet Week, serving an avocado-inspired superfood breakfast to the brave men and women who serve in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marines aboard the USS New York. The event was hosted by Captain Justin T. Issler, commanding officer of the USS New York, while AFP President and CEO Xavier Equihua led his organization’s delegation, reaffirming the cultural and economic ties between Peru and the United States. Equihua said it was both an “honor and a responsibility” for AFP to serve the U.S

Grapeco Farms, Delano, CA, has a full line of traditional grape varieties throughout the year, but it’s been expanding acreage of newer, more flavorful grapes to supply a growing demand from retailers. In particular, Grapeco co-owner Jared Lane highlighted three varieties on the rise at the company: Great Green, Sweet Globe and Bebop.

Thanks to a cooperative Mother Nature, who has been very kind to growers across New Jersey thus far this spring, officials at Consalo Family Farms can barely hide their excitement for what is ahead in coming months. “Spring marks the official start of our Jersey Fresh program, making it an important time for us,” said Chelsea Consalo, the president at the Vineland, NJ-based company that has been providing produce to consumers for over 98 years. “This has been an incredible spring in terms of weather. Pollination has been successful for blueberries with many sunny and warm days for the bees