Turf professionals will get a first look at the future of weed control and sustainable turf when the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) unveils new research and pioneering technologies at the 37th South Florida Turfgrass – Landscape Research Field Day and Expo on March 26.
Set on the grounds of the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center (FLREC), a hub for turf innovation in the heart of South Florida, this year’s program showcases a range of innovations and fresh research insights designed to help industry professionals, from golf to landscape, meet today’s management challenges with greater precision and sustainability.
“This year, we’ll have a strong focus on new technologies that could save money for turfgrass professionals while saving the amount of chemicals that are used on turfgrass,” said Marco Schiavon, assistant professor of agronomy and turfgrass science, based at FLREC.
A highlight of the 2026 field day is the debut of a targeted weed spraying system designed specifically for turfgrass. The ALBA sprayer from Ecorobotix uses real-time imaging and artificial intelligence to detect weeds within the turf canopy and apply herbicide only where needed, reducing chemical use and improving precision.
UF/IFAS researchers, led by weed scientist Pawel Petelewicz with graduate students Mikerly Joseph and Katarzyna Gawron, are evaluating this first-of-its-kind commercial system for detection accuracy, herbicide placement precision, potential herbicide savings, operational trade-offs and performance, compared with traditional broadcast applications. They’re also trying to determine how this technology can best be incorporated into existing integrated weed management programs and developing novel strategies that leverage targeted spraying to manage some of the most troublesome weeds in Florida turf.
Courtesy UF/IFAS Pawel Petelewicz
“Turfgrass managers must maintain high-quality, weed-free surfaces while facing growing scrutiny over herbicide use,” said Petelewicz. “Targeted spraying can cut herbicide use by 60 to 90% without sacrificing control, supporting more sustainable practices and reducing potential exposure. Its precision also broadens integrated weed management options, helping position the industry as a leader in innovation and environmental stewardship.”
The event is designed for golf course superintendents, landscape professionals, sod producers, athletic field managers, pest control operators and commercial applicators. Organizers are offering hands-on demonstrations, research updates and continuing education opportunities.
Participants will also hear the latest science-based recommendations for golf, landscape and sports turf management, with a special emphasis on new approaches to nutrient management, irrigation strategies, pest management and sustainable turf systems tailored to Florida’s conditions.
The event, set from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., offers a full schedule of research tours, live demonstrations, presentations and opportunities to earn continuing education units (CEUs). Attendees can choose to explore a golf or landscape track featuring UF/IFAS experts presenting current results and innovations designed to improve turf performance and sustainability.
Courtesy UF/IFAS Pawel Petelewicz
Attendees will also have access to a sponsor and vendor showcase, lunch, and a choice of afternoon educational sessions led by UF/IFAS specialists.
For the complete agenda, session descriptions and registration information, please visit the Eventbrite website for more details.
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By Lourdes Mederos, rodriguezl@ufl.edu
ABOUT UF/IFAS
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents.
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