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
Introduction One interesting thing I have frequently observed is that the wire stake often remains in the orchard for years! It is commonly accepted that when establishing a new citrus grove or caring for young trees, providing support is an ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Crops, Farm Management, Fruits & Vegetables, Home Landscapes, Horticulture, UF/IFAS, UF/IFAS Extension
Understanding the Basics Just as bloodwork requires fasting or the avoidance of certain medications to yield accurate results, soil analysis necessitates careful preparation to reflect true field conditions. Preliminary knowledge includes understanding ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Horticulture, UF/IFAS, UF/IFAS Extension
As I write this, with temperatures at 52°F, I pray that all growers and nurseries are not adversely affected by the harsh cold weather. It may be a bit late in the season, but we know that the weather is beyond our control. This sudden ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Crops, UF/IFAS Extension,
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
Hurricane season can be unpredictable – but preparedness doesn’t have to be! Storms can bring flooding, damage, and prolonged power outages that can put both animals and operations at risk. A little planning today can make a big difference ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Disaster Preparation, Livestock, UF/IFAS, UF/IFAS Extension,We are thrilled to announce that the wait is finally over! After a long vacancy, the UF/IFAS Extension DeSoto County Office is proud to welcome our new Livestock and Small Farms Agent — Kendall Gill! Kendall was born and raised in Charlotte ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Livestock, UF/IFAS Extension,
DeSoto County 4-H has been helping youth prepare for their future since 1911. Original focuses were on the farms and improving farming practices. As trends have changed over the years, 4-H has evolved into a youth development program ... READ MORE
Category: 4-H & Youth, UF/IFAS Extension
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused major disruptions to Florida food markets. Sales of food products to restaurants and schools have fallen drastically. Some farmers markets have closed. Sales through grocery stores spiked upward initially, but ... READ MORE
Category: Agribusiness, Agriculture, UF/IFAS Extension
Body Condition Scores Using body condition scoring as an assessment tool within your cow herd can be one of the cheapest and most beneficial items you have in your herd management toolbox. It can be even more beneficial when the temperatures ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Livestock, UF/IFAS Extension