Research-backed tools to help crops defend, adapt, and thrive are often overlooked. Understanding plant defense and adaptation enhances crop performance. Here, we aim to highlight several natural tools for combating pests and diseases while ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Crops, Horticulture, UF/IFAS Extension, Water
In the ongoing battle against Huanglongbing (HLB), also known as citrus greening, Individual Protective Covers (IPCs) may be a powerful tool for Florida citrus growers. These mesh covers, designed to exclude (keep outside) the Asian citrus ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Crops, , Water
Keeping water in check on a farm doesn’t have to involve fancy gadgets or a maze of plans. It’s all about a few steady ideas that anyone can follow. First, picture where every drop comes from rain, a well, or a pond and how it moves through ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Crops, Farm Management, Horticulture, UF/IFAS Extension, Water
Florida’s warm, humid climate makes it a paradise not just for people—but also for mosquitoes. These tiny pests are more than just a nuisance; they can carry serious diseases that affect humans, pets, and wildlife. Understanding which species ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, , Coasts & Marine, Farm Management, Home Landscapes, Natural Resources, Pests & Disease, Water
What’s behind that big brown snout? Hogfish, often called ‘hog snapper,’ are actually members of the wrasse family. They are harvested in the US from North Carolina to the Florida Keys. Spearing is the most common way to land a ... READ MORE
Category: Coasts & Marine, Natural Resources, Recreation
As mentioned in my previous blog, there are over 18,000 bird species on Earth. For beginning birders this can be quite overwhelming, but as with any topic of interest, it’s best to start small. In this blog I will highlight three commonly ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources
Have you ever thought about the value of birds? I mean, the value in dollars. There over 18,000 birds on this planet; all are different and all play a role in keeping Florida ecosystems healthy. They can also keep us and our economy healthy ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Natural Resources, Wildlife
We all know pollinators are very important for the production of our food. Bees pollinate the cherry trees, and then the trees produce cherries. Same with apples, oranges, bananas and so on. But did you know that almost all flowering plants ... READ MORE
Category: Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Natural Resources
Ever notice strange growths on plants or what appear to be warts on leaves and stems? These might be something called galls. There are many definitions of a “gall”, but today we are talking about “an abnormal growth formed on plants and ... READ MORE
Category: Home Landscapes, Natural Resources, Pests & Disease
After a long day at the hot beach it can feel like heaven to take a shower to get rid of all the sand and sticky sea water. While rinsing you may or may not notice a sign that warns of no shampoo or body wash in the showers which might seem ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Health & Nutrition, Recreation, Water