Nightshade Management Reduces Crop Loss
Julie Kikkert, Team Leader, Extension Vegetable Specialist
Cornell Vegetable Program
For processing pea growers, nightshades can turn to nightmares as many fields with bountiful pea crops can be rejected by processors at harvest time because nightshade berries have similar size and shape as peas. Similar crop loss can occur in beans where nightshade berries stain and cause soil to stick to pods. Nightshades should be managed in other crops as well because they reduce crop yields, and harbor diseases of Solanaceous crops such as early blight and late blight of potatoes and tomatoes. Nightshades may become more of a problem in NY if early, warm spring weather becomes a more frequent pattern.
Download a complete report on the species of nightshades in NY, physiological difference between them, emergence and growth data, and control strategies.
See nightshade complete report (pdf; 871KB)
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Eastern New York Grapevine Pruning Workshops - Highland
March 19, 2026 : Eastern New York Grapevine Pruning Workshop
Higland, NY
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2026 Cornell Winter Fruit Webinar Series
January 22, 2026 : Blueberry Pruning and Soil Health to Minimize Pests and Maximize Yield
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The transition from working alongside employees to supervising them can be challenging. This session explores the shift from individual contributor to supervisor and the mindset and skills needed to lead a team effectively. Participants will learn about the role of a supervisor, key leadership behaviors, and how to build trust and credibility with employees.
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