Introduction
This report covers the latest research on diseases, insects, and weeds of vegetables
grown in Arizona. Our aim is to keep you informed of new information and new controls of
problems prevalent in Arizona fields. Much of this work is done at agricultural research
centers out in the state and in growers’ fields. More fundamental studies on pest
resistance, quality improvement, and yielding ability are done on the UA campus in Tucson.
We are proud to acknowledge Arizona as a leading state in the US in the production of
vegetables. Yuma is the main provider of lettuce to US consumers during the winter months.
Also our state is second only to California in production of leaf and romaine lettuce,
broccoli, cauliflower, cantaloupes and honeydews. Many other vegetables are produced
throughout the year. About half of the Arizona crop income is from vegetables. We commend
the vegetable growers and shippers for their contributions to the state’s economy.
Because Yuma is our leading vegetable county, with over 80,000 acres of vegetables
annually, much of our field-related research is done in the area. Our goal is to make the
Yuma Agricultural Center (YAC) the premier desert vegetable research and informational
center in the Southwest. We encourage you to attend field days and visit researches at YAC
(6425 W. 8th Street, Yuma; tel: (520) 782-3836). Your involvement and interest are welcome
and appreciated.
Eugene G. Sander
Vice Provost and Dean
College of Agriculture