July 2nd, 2004

I. Apple Rusts

Rust diseases of apple occur commonly in Illinois. They are an important economic problem in southern Illinois, but onsidered less important in northern Illinois.The fungi that cause these diseases are cedar-apple rust (Gymnosporangium juniperi-virginianae), quince rust (G. clavipes), and hawthorn rust (G. globosum). All three fungi spend part of their life cycle on the red cedar and are problems only when red cedar is found close to the orchard. The life cycles and control of these diseases are similar. Cedar-apple rust is the most important. For information on rust diseases of apple, click here.

II. Amish Auction

Approximately 650 Amish families live in east central Illinois. About 100 Amish famiolies are involved in production of vegetables, fruit crops, and ornamental.They already had a co-op of about 15 farmers until the end or 2003. In 2004, 28 Amish groers and two non-Amish growers got together and established a $150,000 share-based auction center. The auction was inagurated on May 27, 2004, and now it is open from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays. For for informtion on the Amish auction center at Arthur, Illinois, click here.