News

Grand Rapids area apple maturity report – September 16, 2026

Published on September 17, 2026
Harvest continues on Galas and Honeycrisp, with more varieties ready.
Michigan statewide apple maturity report – September 16, 2026

Published on September 17, 2026
Keep abreast of the latest apple maturity testing done in different cultivars around the state to optimize harvest times for storage and fresh picking.
Southwest Michigan apple maturity report – September 17, 2026

Published on September 17, 2026
Jonathon, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious and the remaining Honeycrisp are being harvested this week, while Empire and Jonagold are approaching maturity.
Northwest Michigan apple maturity report – September 16, 2026

Published on September 16, 2026
Premier Honeycrisp harvest is ongoing. Size of fruit has improved over the past week, and color has also improved. There is lots of rain the forecast for the next 10 days.
Building safety into the everyday rhythm of agricultural work

Published on September 16, 2026
Farm safety resources to help farm owners, workers and families turn tragedy into practical steps for preventing serious injuries and deaths.
West central Michigan apple maturity report – September 16, 2026

Published on September 16, 2026
Gala and Honeycrisp are being harvested this week. Jonagold are being harvested at some locations this week for long-term storage.
Southeast Michigan fruit update – September 15, 2026

Published on September 16, 2026
Main apple harvest season underway. Waiting on fall weather.
Michigan grape scouting report – September 11, 2026

Published on September 11, 2026
Concise, research-based updates on weather trends, vine development, pest pressure and disease risk.
New to Agriculture? We’ve got a guide for you!

Published on September 10, 2026
The Beginning Farmer Resource and Decision-Making Guide is now available from Michigan State University Extension and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Southeast Michigan fruit update – September 8, 2026

Published on September 10, 2026
Main apple harvest season is under way as well as hybrid wine grape harvest.