By Andi Anderson
As of July 23, 2025, Michigan vegetable producers are managing a season marked by cooler-than-normal temperatures and highly variable rainfall. Some regions saw intense thunderstorms, while others remain dry—especially areas southwest of Saginaw Bay.
Degree day accumulation is above normal in the southern Lower Peninsula and slightly behind in the Upper Peninsula.
This week’s forecast includes warm, humid conditions and scattered thunderstorms. Heat index values may reach 100°F in the south on Thursday. Rainfall is expected to total 0.75–1 inch, but with very uneven distribution.
Crop Conditions and Pest Updates:
Asparagus
Asparagus fields in Oceana County recorded 5–10 disease severity values (DSV). Fungicide applications are advised if the last spray was before July 11. Japanese beetles are active; controls include carbaryl, Assail, and permethrin.
Cucurbits
Harvest of cucumbers and summer squash continues. Melons are being picked, and pumpkins are beginning to vine. Some fields show pollination issues due to weather. Downy mildew is spreading in cucumbers. Cucumber beetles and squash bugs are present.
Pollinator Safety Tip
Spray insecticides in the afternoon or evening, after flowers have closed, to reduce risk to pollinators. Use contact insecticides like pyrethroids or spinosad rather than systemic neonicotinoids, which harm bees.
Fruiting Vegetables
Tomato harvest is underway. Spider mites, thrips, hornworms, and Japanese beetles are being reported on tomatoes and eggplant. Flower drop has also been noted.
Onions and Garlic
Garlic harvest is in full swing, and sweet onions are going to market.
Carrots
Carrot fields in Oceana County recorded 8 DSVs. A fungicide spray would be advised if none was applied since July 9.
Sweet Corn
Harvest has started. Bird damage remains high despite deterrents. Notably, early corn earworm activity was detected in west Michigan, with July numbers that normally appear in August. This early migration may be linked to unusual south-to-north airflow. Use pheromone traps to improve timing of spray intervals.
Warm, humid conditions with scattered storms will continue through the weekend. Long-range forecasts suggest warmer-than-normal temperatures for the rest of summer, with precipitation trends remaining uncertain.
Growers are advised to remain vigilant, use traps, adjust spray timing, and consult MSU Extension for the latest crop and pest updates.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zbynek-pospisil
Categories: Michigan, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables