New trees form a framework for your landscape. Hernando County is in USDA’s plant-hardiness zone 9. Choose varieties of Florida-Friendly or native plants that are suited to grow in west central Florida. Ask questions and read plant labels. ... READ MORE
Category: HOME LANDSCAPES
As cooler weather begins to move into Florida this weekend, we’re once again reminded that the time when the Florida manatee (also known as the West Indian manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris) seeks warm-water refuge is upon us. These ... READ MORE
Category: Coasts & Marine, Conservation, Natural Resources, Recreation, SFYL Hot Topic, UF/IFAS Extension, UF/IFAS Extension, Water, Wildlife
Ever wandered through the salt marshes of Hernando County and noticed the ground moving? Look closer, and you might catch sight of an entire troop of fiddler crabs scurrying across the mud. Meet the Fiddler Crab The most obvious fiddler ... READ MORE
Category: Coasts & Marine, Natural Resources, SFYL Hot Topic, UF/IFAS Extension, UF/IFAS Extension, Water, Wildlife
Protect Native Wildlife & Fight Invasive Species with W.I.S.E. Webinars – Free in 2025! Join the 2025 Wildlife & Invasive Species Education™ (W.I.S.E.) webinar series to explore the fascinating world of native wildlife and learn ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Invasive Species, Natural Resources, UF/IFAS, UF/IFAS Extension, Wildlife
Citrus trees are a staple of Florida landscapes, offering not only beauty but also delicious, homegrown fruit. Oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits all thrive in Central Florida, but successful citrus growing requires proper care and planning. ... READ MORE
Category: Florida-Friendly Landscaping
With cattle prices at very high levels, what are some things you can do to maximize use of this added income? It is always best to make proper investments and not hasty purchases because the cycle is just that – a cycle. The high cattle price ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Livestock
Figs (Ficus carica) are a delightful addition to any Central Florida garden. These hardy trees are not only beautiful but also produce delicious fruits. Among the varieties suited to our region, the Celeste fig stands out for its adaptability, ... READ MORE
Category: Fruits & Vegetables, HOME LANDSCAPES
With the holidays quickly approaching, taking a test is the last thing on your mind. However, soil testing and forage testing are two very inexpensive but very valuable tools. Both tests help to improve your ability to provide for your livestock. If ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Livestock
Summertime along Florida’s Nature Coast offers a unique adventure: recreational scalloping. Enthusiasts and families alike eagerly anticipate this activity, seeking out the bay scallops that inhabit the shallow seagrass beds. These fascinating ... READ MORE
Category: Coasts & Marine, Conservation, Natural Resources, Recreation, SFYL Hot Topic, UF/IFAS, UF/IFAS Extension, Water, Wildlife
Since 2018, volunteers in Hernando have been diligently tagging horseshoe crabs as part of an ongoing statewide effort to study and conserve these fascinating creatures. Horseshoe crabs are known to come ashore during the new and full moons ... READ MORE
Category: Coasts & Marine, Community Volunteers, Conservation, Natural Resources, Recreation, SFYL Hot Topic, UF/IFAS, UF/IFAS Extension, UF/IFAS Extension, Water, Wildlife
The University of Florida recently hosted an intensive 4-day drone course for the Florida Forest Service, providing foresters with the essential aviation knowledge and hands-on drone operation skills. This initiative is revolutionizing how the ... READ MORE
Category: Coasts & Marine, Conservation, Forests, Natural Resources, Professional Development, SFYL Hot Topic, UF/IFAS Extension, UF/IFAS Extension, Water, Wildlife