Practical Implications of Early- and Mid-Summer Water Stress
Mike Basedow, Tree Fruit Specialist
Eastern New York Commercial Horticulture
The sunnier weather we experienced in June 2022 should have been good for photosynthesis and resulted in greater production of carbohydrates to support fruit growth compared to other years, unless the hotter temperatures and lack of rainfall in late June/early July 2022 in portions of Eastern New York have induced water stress in the plant. This is the kind of situation where even with irrigation apples don't always size that well. We think it is because the high temps and high evaporative demands with the rather high hydraulic resistance of apple roots, we get some significant stresses even with wet soil. The following Figure 1, modified from Mark O'Connell and Ian Goodwin in Australia, shows that increased afternoon vapor pressure deficit (VPD) creates greater stress in the plant. In a study we did with fruit growth monitors we found the fruit started to expand about 2 pm each day but with afternoon VPD's of 3 kPa even with irrigation the trees still experience stress and fruit growth is reduced.
Practical Implications of Early- and Mid-Summer Water Stress (pdf; 279KB)
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Ag Labor Road Show IX
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In addition to the in-person Ag Labor Roadshow program in our region on December 9, two webinars are scheduled for December 1 and December 22. Each webinar will focus on different program content that is different from the in-person sessions. These webinars are an added benefit to program registration.
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Expanding Farm Sales: Markets, Profits, and Branding Series
January 10, 2026
Looking to diversify where you sell your farm products? This four-part workshop series helps farmers explore new opportunities in direct-to-consumer, wholesale, and institutional markets. Learn how to meet buyer expectations, price for profitability, and build lasting relationships that support your business goals. Participants will strengthen marketing and communication skills, evaluate which sales channels best fit their farm, and connect with buyers, distributors, and local partners who can help expand their reach. Whether you're just starting out or ready to grow your market presence, this program will help you chart the right path for your farm's future.
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Any questions can be directed to Kelley Doolin at kmd322@cornell.edu