This heat is really unusual for New Jersey. The crops are going wild. The farmers are all exhausted but that is no unusual.
More than the heat the stink bugs are beginning to become a major threat to some crops and trees. This is the brown Marmorated Stink Bug that is a native of Asia. It was accidentally introduced into Allentown, Pa about 15 years ago according to our Farm Bureau and has worked its way to New Jersey. They also said that the bug has been steadily increasing in numbers in other states throughout the nation during the past years. Have any of you sighted them yet? They show up in orchards and farm fields in the spring and stay until fall. they feed on apples, peaches, other fruits, tomatoes, peppers etc. They are nasty and when you smash them....that is why they are named stink bugs. The odor is awful, so do not smash any if they get into your house.
I must go check on the irrigation hose. JB
