Broccoli in the landscape – an edible ornamental(9/13/2023)by Ralph Mitchell-If you like broccoli as I do, you should keep in mind that it is a very easy-to-grow vegetable that needs to go into your garden at this time of year. I have already started my seeds for the coming season and am preparing the soil for planting. Classified as a “cool season crop”, broccoli… more
Marvelous Mulberries(9/11/2023)by Heather Kalaman-The mulberry (Morus spp.) is a fruiting tree rich in flavor, with nutritious foliage, a myriad of medicinal and culinary value, and a fascinating history. With numerous species, hybrids, and endless cultivars to choose from—a mulberry may be the perfect fit for your Florida-friendly landscape. In addition to jackfruit, breadfruit, and figs, mulberries belong to the… more
Managing Tropical Fruit Pests(9/11/2023)by Jeff Wasielewski-When it comes to dealing with insect pests of tropical fruit, try not to think “What do I spray?” Instead, use a balanced approach to pest control that will use pesticides only when completely necessary. The most common pests for tropical fruit are scale, weevils, fruit flies, and whitefly with thrips, spider mites and aphids… more
Why Does Soil pH Matter?(9/10/2023)by jeremyrhoden-Why does soil pH matter? The foundation of every successful garden starts with quality soil. Whether you’re growing vegetables, flowers, turf, shrubs, or any other plant matter, you must be aware of your soil pH and understand that it can change periodically. Soil pH influences the plant’s ability to consume nutrients. When soil pH is… more
September 2023 First Friday with Florida First Detector(9/5/2023)by Morgan Pinkerton-Recap of September 2023 First Friday with Florida First Detector For our September First Fridays with Florida First Detector, we revisited some basics about invasive species and their impacts on Florida. An invasive species is a non-native species that causes some kind of damage to humans. This can be economic losses in agriculture or horticulture,… more
Why won’t my tree fruit?(8/31/2023)by Jeff Wasielewski-There are a number of controllable factors that combine to create a tree healthy enough to fruit. A healthy tree must have a strong root system, adequate light, proper pruning, proper nutrition, the right age, proper pollination, no mechanical damage, been planted properly, and adequate irrigation. The question, “Why won’t my tree fruit?” is one… more
After the Storm: Flooded Landscapes(8/31/2023)by Theresa Badurek-Was your landscape swamped by the recent hurricane? Many plants in the landscape are not tolerant of standing water, especially salty or brackish water. Under these conditions the roots cannot get oxygen and essentially the root system suffocates. Some plants can tolerate up to a week or so flooded, while others will be damaged after… more
Un Vistazo a la Fruta Tropical – Mamey(8/30/2023)by Jeff Wasielewski-Por Jeff Wasielewski, Laura Vásquez y Jonathan H. Crane Nombre común: Mamey zapote Nombre botánico: Pouteria sapota Familia: Sapotaceae Variedades recomendables: Pantin (Key West), Magaña Acerca de la fruta: Debajo de su exterior desaliñado y marrón opaco hay una pulpa jugosa de color naranja a carmesí que es dulce y cremosa, popularmente utilizada en batidos… more
2023 JAMAS! Class – Learn about the Amazing Avocado(8/30/2023)by Jessica M. Ryals-Holy guacamole! Avocados are coming into harvest this time of the year in SWFL and there are many opportunities to try the delicious Florida avocado around town. Avocados, Persea americana Miller, are indigenous to Mexico, Central American and parts of South America and are grown in tropical and subtropical areas of the world.Many consumers like to… more
Is Your Landscape Prepared For The Storm?(8/28/2023)by Judy Jean-Living in the beautiful coastal community of Flagler County, Florida, comes with its fair share of perks, but it also means being prepared for the potential impact of hurricanes. As hurricane season approaches, it's crucial to not only secure your home but also to take measures to protect your landscape. By planning ahead and following… more
August 19th was National Honey Bee Day(8/21/2023)by David Austin- Celebrating honey bees Honey bees deserve their day in the sun. After all, they work most daylight hours and their jobs never seem to end. They are working from the moment they chew their way out of the cell they developed in, until the day they bring their last load of nectar and pollen… more
The Buzz about Bees in Florida(8/19/2023)by Forest-Bees, those tiny yet industrious creatures, have been silently playing a crucial role in sustaining our economy and environment. The mesmerizing dance of honeybees, gathering nectar from vibrant flowers, not only produces the golden elixir known as honey but also supports the pollination of countless crops that feed us. However, as we witness the alarming… more
American Rescue Plan (ARP) Grant – UF/IFAS Extension Collier County(8/7/2023)by Twyla Leigh-Reaching More with Nutrition Education UF/IFAS Extension Collier County on the Southwest Coast of Florida is one of Collier County’s divisions receiving American Rescue Plan (ARP) grant funding provided through the U.S. Department of Treasury and Collier County Community and Human Services Division. With this, our local Extension has established the Smart Cooking program for… more
Jackson County Master Gardener Program to Host Fall Vegetable Workshop(8/7/2023)by Abigail Payne- The Jackson County Master Gardener Program will be hosting a Fall Vegetable Workshop on Saturday, August 26th starting at 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. There will be an admission fee of $10.00 per person, which will cover handouts, giveaways and refreshments. The class will include selection, planting, and care of seasonal fall vegetables for… more
August First Friday with Florida First Detector(8/7/2023)by Morgan Pinkerton-Recap of August First Friday with Florida First Detector In August, we talked about invasive pests on citrus. Historically, the citrus industry has been super important in Florida and continued to be today. Despite challenges in citrus production in recent years, Florida is still a top producer of citrus. The Florida citrus industry was valued… more
August First Friday with Florida First Detector(8/7/2023)by Morgan Pinkerton-Recap of August First Friday with Florida First Detector In August, we talked about invasive pests on citrus. Historically, the citrus industry has been super important in Florida and continued to be today. Despite challenges in citrus production in recent years, Florida is still a top producer of citrus. The Florida citrus industry was valued… more
Mangoes in Florida(8/3/2023)by Yvonne Florian-Thinking about all those Florida mangoes, what is your favorite way to enjoy fresh Florida mangoes? Fresh cut, mango salsa, chutney, mango jam, mango butter, smoothies? In my opinion, mangoes are best when fully ripe and fresh from the tree, eaten over the kitchen sink. Most of the early season mangoes are finished producing by… more
Tasty Treasures(7/25/2023)by Amanda Quintos-One of my favorite parts of living in Florida is having more access to tropical fruit. The classic sweetness of mango, the distinct and delicate flavors of guava and papaya, and the almost chocolaty taste of sapodilla are simple yet profound delights. These delicious fruits are also versatile, and can be enjoyed on their own,… more
Florida Vegetables in Summer(7/24/2023)by Susan Gildersleeve-It's that time of year again when the variety of produce available at the farmers' markets dwindles and you're largely limited to hardy, heat- and drought-tolerant Florida vegetables like eggplant, okra, Seminole pumpkin and Malabar spinach. For weeks now nobody has had carrots at the Saturday market except for one stall, and theirs are all...… more
Grape Expectations: Growing Muscadine Grapes(7/23/2023)by Judy Jean-While citrus trees have long been a popular choice for home gardeners, let me introduce you to the delightful world of muscadine grapes—a refreshing alternative that may just make you reconsider your planting preferences. Muscadine grapes offer a range of advantages over citrus trees, starting with their remarkable resilience. These robust vines thrive in a… more
2023 – a bumper crop of lubbers?(7/20/2023)by Ralph Mitchell-UF/IFAS Extension had a booth at the recent Public Works & Community Outreach Day held at the Fairgrounds on June 10th. Here we displayed our programs and shared information on what we do as an organization in the community. I brought along several cases of pinned insects to show the public the array of these… more
First Fridays with Florida First Detector, Back again Sept 2023-2024!(7/17/2023)by Morgan Pinkerton-What is Florida First Detector? Florida First Detector is a multiagency educational effort focused on enhancing the early detection of invasive pests that threaten agriculture, nursery industries, and natural areas. We offer in-person and virtual classes. The Florida First Detector website also provides scripted presentations for educators and on-demand CEU opportunities for licensed professionals. Our… more
First Fridays with Florida First Detector, Back again Sept 2023-2024!(7/17/2023)by Morgan Pinkerton-What is Florida First Detector? Florida First Detector is a multiagency educational effort focused on enhancing the early detection of invasive pests that threaten agriculture, nursery industries, and natural areas. We offer in-person and virtual classes. The Florida First Detector website also provides scripted presentations for educators and on-demand CEU opportunities for licensed professionals. Our… more
It’s National Avocado Day!(7/12/2023)by Olivia Zugay-Written by Samantha Walter-Cano, Edited by Olivia Zugay Did you know July 31st is National Avocado Day? In honor of this delicious fruit, let's learn what makes them special. While you're at it, make yourself some guacamole or avocado toast to celebrate! Florida Avocados Did you know an avocado is technically a berry? Avocados are… more
July First Friday with Florida First Detector(7/11/2023)by Morgan Pinkerton-Recap of July First Friday with Florida First Detector In July's First Friday with Florida First Detector, we talked about invasive caterpillars that feed on vegetable crops. Florida's agriculture industry is home to a wide variety of high value vegetable production. The state is a top producer in the U.S. of tomatoes, bell peppers, cabbage… more
July Blueberry Jammin’(7/6/2023)by Yvonne Florian-I just love summer fruits. Fresh berries and cherries are the best. Summertime in America is when most of our berries are ripe and ready for picking. What can you do with so many berries? My favorite ways to preserve delicate summer fruit is by freezing them or canning berry jam. I like to preserve… more
Extension: Independence through Lifelong Learning(6/30/2023)by Andra Johnson-July 4th is when we celebrate our nation’s independence. There is also a spirit of personal independence that can be found in every American—the freedom to do-it-yourself, learn new things, and follow your dreams. At UF/IFAS Extension, we’ve been serving that spirit of independence for over 109 years. The Smith-Lever Act of 1914 created a… more
The Easy Summer Garden(6/28/2023)by Calvin Gardner-Why not get a little passive income from your garden this summer? The hottest season is here, and many people set down their shovels and rakes to let the land relax until the fall. I don’t blame them, it’s hot, but there are several golden plants that you – yes, you! – can grow this… more
Tips for Edible Landscaping(6/20/2023)by Tia Silvasy-View the recording of our Edible Landscaping webinar on YouTube here. The concept of edible landscaping primarily applies to growing vegetables, herbs and fruit trees in a way where it fits in with your home landscape. With proper plant selection and cultural practices, you can have a beautiful edible landscape that produces food year round.… more
UF researchers seek to support the citrus industry through studies looking at Cover Crop adoption.(6/16/2023)by Alena Poulin-As the official state fruit of Florida, the orange is also a major contributor to the state’s economy, along with other types of citrus. In a report from the Economic Impact Analysis Program, it was estimated that, based upon the latest available data from 2020-2021, the citrus industry contributed 6.94 billion dollars to the Florida… more
June Gardening May Include Visit to Plant Clinic(6/13/2023)by llw5479-June offers hotter temperatures, humidity and possible thunderstorm activity. In addition, school is out and many people take time to go on vacation. This leaves less time for landscape and garden chores. But there are things to do in the June landscape and garden here in the Northwest Florida area. In today’s article, I’ll share… more
Horticulture Happy Hour: Pomegranates and Grenadine(6/6/2023)by Wayne Hobbs-Florida is full of options for growing fruits at home and an often overlooked option is the pomegranate. Pomegranates are best adapted to a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot, dry summers. This does not match Florida exactly but they do have decent cold tolerance and some varieties can produce a good crop. However,… more
Common Crop Insects Pests Worldwide(6/6/2023)by Yvonne Florian-June 6th is World Pest Day. And what better way to “celebrate” the pests which eat our crops than to expose their wicked ways. We should be aware that, around the world, we all fight some of the same insect pests. The following are the 10 most common plant crop pest insects worldwide. You may… more
Growing Blueberries in Your Jacksonville Backyard(5/22/2023)by Duval MGV-The blueberry bushes planted at the Duval County Extension office are chock full of berries just about to ripen. I can hardly wait until I am able to snack on some as I work. If you also love these sweet little berries, you should incorporate a couple shrubs into your landscape too. However, with blueberries,… more
Growing Your Healthy Florida Lifestyle in Seminole County 2023(5/22/2023)by Morgan Pinkerton-Grow Your Healthy Florida Lifestyle Beginning in April, UF/IFAS Extension Seminole County hosted a five week Grow Your Healthy Florida Lifestyle Series. The class met every Friday for 3 hours to learn all about the dimensions of wellness and healthy living in Florida. We focused on food and learned about our food from farm to… more
UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County offers Edible Landscaping in Hybrid Format(5/21/2023)by Tia Silvasy-Interested in growing edible plants in your yard? Join UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County on Thursday June 15th from 10 to 11:00am to get an introduction to selecting low maintenance, long-lived, edible crops to grow in the home landscape. This class will be offered as a hybrid format so you can join in person or by… more
Horticulture Happy Hour: Blueberry Beverages(5/19/2023)by Wayne Hobbs-Blueberries have a limited history mixology but there are several blueberry beverages out there. One common method of using blueberries in drinks is through muddling fresh blueberries in the bottom of the cocktail while mixing to add in the flavor and juice. These drinks should be strained after to remove the heavy pulp and seeds.… more
Horticulture Happy Hour: Blueberry Varieties(5/19/2023)by Wayne Hobbs-One key to success with growing blueberries is choosing the right blueberry varieties for your home garden. For Florida, choose varieties of southern highbush or rabbiteye types. Southern Highbush These are usually a bit harder to grow than rabbiteye in our area and they fruit earlier, putting them at risk for frost and freeze damage.… more
Tips for Florida Homeowners on Fertilizing Plants(5/17/2023)by Tia Silvasy-Fertilizer can help plants grow but can also have adverse effects on the environment. Be sure to apply best management practices when fertilizing to optimize your plant health without harming our water bodies. Watch the recording of our How to Fertilize Plants webinar here. The key to having healthy plants is to build good soil.… more
Beat the Florida Heat: Hydrating Foods to Keep You Cool and Refreshed this Summer(5/17/2023)by Melanie Thomas-Florida's scorching summer temperatures can be relentless! The heat can take a lot out of us – especially water. It leaves us searching for ways to cool down and stay hydrated. While drinking plenty of water is essential, did you know that certain foods can also help you stay hydrated? Yes, you can eat your… more
Plant Clinic to Help with Lawn, Landscape & Garden Questions(5/16/2023)by llw5479-An upcoming plant clinic in Fort Walton Beach is designed to provide answers to lawn, landscape and/or garden problems. The plant clinic will be held Friday, May 19 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at the temporary UF/IFAS Extension Annex located at the Okaloosa Technical College (OTC) in Fort Walton Beach. The plant clinic is… more
Graze the Yard Lecture(5/15/2023)by llw5479-A surprising number of plants can be used in our landscapes that are edible. In addition to the many traditional fruit and vegetable plants, there are other plants that are not as often considered, including some ornamentals and even "weeds” that have edible qualities. In addition, many vegetables and herbs, which are normally grown only… more
Coming to fruition: Students reap real-life experience in Horticultural Sciences Teaching Garden(5/10/2023)by Stella Canfield-Luminous yellow squash, bright red turnips and blooming artichokes are just a few of the crops that were grown this spring in the Horticultural Sciences Teaching Garden, an experiential learning garden for students. The flourishing fields sit south of Fifield Hall on Hull Road and reflect endless hours of science, dedication and care. In the… more
Coming to fruition: Students reap real-life experience in Horticultural Sciences Teaching Garden(5/10/2023)by Stella Canfield-Luminous yellow squash, bright red turnips and blooming artichokes are just a few of the crops that were grown this spring in the Horticultural Sciences Teaching Garden, an experiential learning garden for students. The flourishing fields sit south of Fifield Hall on Hull Road and reflect endless hours of science, dedication and care. In the… more
Agaves: Cheers to spirits in the garden(5/4/2023)by Hannah Wooten-Bring mezcal to life; grow agaves in the garden! Agave is generally tolerant of Florida's climate with its succulent leaves showcasing different shades of greens and blues. The shape of the plant generates interest, and it makes a great statement in the landscape. A plant can and should resemble so much more. Plants and gardens… more
Mango Fruit Drop: Is it Normal?(5/1/2023)by Jessica M. Ryals-This time of the year we're getting a lot of phone calls and e-mails about mango fruit drop. Many homeowners want to know if the fruit drop they see around their mango trees is normal. And the short answer is; yes, it's normal. Usually this time of the year, mangos start dropping their small fruit… more
Blackberries for your Edible Landscape(4/21/2023)by joshuacriss-Blackberries (Rubus spp.) will not quickly jump into your mind when you think of fruit production in Florida. In fact, when you do think of blackberries, you will most likely envision viny plants infiltrating your gardens and attacking you with their tiny spines. These are dewberries and are not known for large or consistent fruit.… more
UF/IFAS scientist works to identify, control pest invading beans, peas, legumes grown in Florida, internationally(4/21/2023)by Lourdes Mederos-Bean flower thrips, known by the scientific name of Megalurothrips usitatus, attacks such legumes as beans and peas. In some cases, it can wipe out an entire field of crops. In the past three years, it became established in Florida, Mexico, Central America and part of the Caribbean. Specifically, in Florida, the thrips is in… more
Broccoli in the landscape – an edible ornamental (9/13/2023) - If you like broccoli as I do, you should keep in mind that it is a very easy-to-grow vegetable that needs to go into your garden at this time of year. I have already started my seeds for the coming season and am preparing the soil for planting. Classified as a “cool season crop”, broccoli… more
Marvelous Mulberries (9/11/2023) - The mulberry (Morus spp.) is a fruiting tree rich in flavor, with nutritious foliage, a myriad of medicinal and culinary value, and a fascinating history. With numerous species, hybrids, and endless cultivars to choose from—a mulberry may be the perfect fit for your Florida-friendly landscape. In addition to jackfruit, breadfruit, and figs, mulberries belong to the… more
Managing Tropical Fruit Pests (9/11/2023) - When it comes to dealing with insect pests of tropical fruit, try not to think “What do I spray?” Instead, use a balanced approach to pest control that will use pesticides only when completely necessary. The most common pests for tropical fruit are scale, weevils, fruit flies, and whitefly with thrips, spider mites and aphids… more
Why Does Soil pH Matter? (9/10/2023) - Why does soil pH matter? The foundation of every successful garden starts with quality soil. Whether you’re growing vegetables, flowers, turf, shrubs, or any other plant matter, you must be aware of your soil pH and understand that it can change periodically. Soil pH influences the plant’s ability to consume nutrients. When soil pH is… more
September 2023 First Friday with Florida First Detector (9/5/2023) - Recap of September 2023 First Friday with Florida First Detector For our September First Fridays with Florida First Detector, we revisited some basics about invasive species and their impacts on Florida. An invasive species is a non-native species that causes some kind of damage to humans. This can be economic losses in agriculture or horticulture,… more
Why won’t my tree fruit? (8/31/2023) - There are a number of controllable factors that combine to create a tree healthy enough to fruit. A healthy tree must have a strong root system, adequate light, proper pruning, proper nutrition, the right age, proper pollination, no mechanical damage, been planted properly, and adequate irrigation. The question, “Why won’t my tree fruit?” is one… more
After the Storm: Flooded Landscapes (8/31/2023) - Was your landscape swamped by the recent hurricane? Many plants in the landscape are not tolerant of standing water, especially salty or brackish water. Under these conditions the roots cannot get oxygen and essentially the root system suffocates. Some plants can tolerate up to a week or so flooded, while others will be damaged after… more
Un Vistazo a la Fruta Tropical – Mamey (8/30/2023) - Por Jeff Wasielewski, Laura Vásquez y Jonathan H. Crane Nombre común: Mamey zapote Nombre botánico: Pouteria sapota Familia: Sapotaceae Variedades recomendables: Pantin (Key West), Magaña Acerca de la fruta: Debajo de su exterior desaliñado y marrón opaco hay una pulpa jugosa de color naranja a carmesí que es dulce y cremosa, popularmente utilizada en batidos… more
2023 JAMAS! Class – Learn about the Amazing Avocado (8/30/2023) - Holy guacamole! Avocados are coming into harvest this time of the year in SWFL and there are many opportunities to try the delicious Florida avocado around town. Avocados, Persea americana Miller, are indigenous to Mexico, Central American and parts of South America and are grown in tropical and subtropical areas of the world.Many consumers like to… more
Is Your Landscape Prepared For The Storm? (8/28/2023) - Living in the beautiful coastal community of Flagler County, Florida, comes with its fair share of perks, but it also means being prepared for the potential impact of hurricanes. As hurricane season approaches, it's crucial to not only secure your home but also to take measures to protect your landscape. By planning ahead and following… more
August 19th was National Honey Bee Day (8/21/2023) - Celebrating honey bees Honey bees deserve their day in the sun. After all, they work most daylight hours and their jobs never seem to end. They are working from the moment they chew their way out of the cell they developed in, until the day they bring their last load of nectar and pollen… more
The Buzz about Bees in Florida (8/19/2023) - Bees, those tiny yet industrious creatures, have been silently playing a crucial role in sustaining our economy and environment. The mesmerizing dance of honeybees, gathering nectar from vibrant flowers, not only produces the golden elixir known as honey but also supports the pollination of countless crops that feed us. However, as we witness the alarming… more
American Rescue Plan (ARP) Grant – UF/IFAS Extension Collier County (8/7/2023) - Reaching More with Nutrition Education UF/IFAS Extension Collier County on the Southwest Coast of Florida is one of Collier County’s divisions receiving American Rescue Plan (ARP) grant funding provided through the U.S. Department of Treasury and Collier County Community and Human Services Division. With this, our local Extension has established the Smart Cooking program for… more
Jackson County Master Gardener Program to Host Fall Vegetable Workshop (8/7/2023) - The Jackson County Master Gardener Program will be hosting a Fall Vegetable Workshop on Saturday, August 26th starting at 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. There will be an admission fee of $10.00 per person, which will cover handouts, giveaways and refreshments. The class will include selection, planting, and care of seasonal fall vegetables for… more
August First Friday with Florida First Detector (8/7/2023) - Recap of August First Friday with Florida First Detector In August, we talked about invasive pests on citrus. Historically, the citrus industry has been super important in Florida and continued to be today. Despite challenges in citrus production in recent years, Florida is still a top producer of citrus. The Florida citrus industry was valued… more
Mangoes in Florida (8/3/2023) - Thinking about all those Florida mangoes, what is your favorite way to enjoy fresh Florida mangoes? Fresh cut, mango salsa, chutney, mango jam, mango butter, smoothies? In my opinion, mangoes are best when fully ripe and fresh from the tree, eaten over the kitchen sink. Most of the early season mangoes are finished producing by… more
Tasty Treasures (7/25/2023) - One of my favorite parts of living in Florida is having more access to tropical fruit. The classic sweetness of mango, the distinct and delicate flavors of guava and papaya, and the almost chocolaty taste of sapodilla are simple yet profound delights. These delicious fruits are also versatile, and can be enjoyed on their own,… more
Florida Vegetables in Summer (7/24/2023) - It's that time of year again when the variety of produce available at the farmers' markets dwindles and you're largely limited to hardy, heat- and drought-tolerant Florida vegetables like eggplant, okra, Seminole pumpkin and Malabar spinach. For weeks now nobody has had carrots at the Saturday market except for one stall, and theirs are all...… more
Grape Expectations: Growing Muscadine Grapes (7/23/2023) - While citrus trees have long been a popular choice for home gardeners, let me introduce you to the delightful world of muscadine grapes—a refreshing alternative that may just make you reconsider your planting preferences. Muscadine grapes offer a range of advantages over citrus trees, starting with their remarkable resilience. These robust vines thrive in a… more
2023 – a bumper crop of lubbers? (7/20/2023) - UF/IFAS Extension had a booth at the recent Public Works & Community Outreach Day held at the Fairgrounds on June 10th. Here we displayed our programs and shared information on what we do as an organization in the community. I brought along several cases of pinned insects to show the public the array of these… more
It’s National Avocado Day! (7/12/2023) - Written by Samantha Walter-Cano, Edited by Olivia Zugay Did you know July 31st is National Avocado Day? In honor of this delicious fruit, let's learn what makes them special. While you're at it, make yourself some guacamole or avocado toast to celebrate! Florida Avocados Did you know an avocado is technically a berry? Avocados are… more
July Blueberry Jammin’ (7/6/2023) - I just love summer fruits. Fresh berries and cherries are the best. Summertime in America is when most of our berries are ripe and ready for picking. What can you do with so many berries? My favorite ways to preserve delicate summer fruit is by freezing them or canning berry jam. I like to preserve… more
Extension: Independence through Lifelong Learning (6/30/2023) - July 4th is when we celebrate our nation’s independence. There is also a spirit of personal independence that can be found in every American—the freedom to do-it-yourself, learn new things, and follow your dreams. At UF/IFAS Extension, we’ve been serving that spirit of independence for over 109 years. The Smith-Lever Act of 1914 created a… more
The Easy Summer Garden (6/28/2023) - Why not get a little passive income from your garden this summer? The hottest season is here, and many people set down their shovels and rakes to let the land relax until the fall. I don’t blame them, it’s hot, but there are several golden plants that you – yes, you! – can grow this… more
Food and Resource Economists at UF/IFAS Tropical Research & Education Center support local growers in the adoption of new tropical fruit crops through consumer market research. (6/28/2023) - With its temperate and humid climates, South Florida is the perfect place to grow many tropical fruits that are adapted to these warm climates and cannot be grown elsewhere in the United States. As the demand for such products increases, food and resource economists such as Dr. Trent Blare, assistant professor at the UF/IFAS Tropical… more
Much Ado About Mangoes: How UF/IFAS collaboration with National Mango Board is facilitating research for industry success. (6/26/2023) - A stone fruit grown from the tropical tree Mangifera Indica, mangoes are known for their delicious taste and nutritious value, both of which have contributed to their growing rise in popularity among U.S. Consumers. “The U.S. population is diversifying, along with its tastes and preferences,” said Dr. Kimberly Morgan, associate professor of food… more
Tips for Edible Landscaping (6/20/2023) - View the recording of our Edible Landscaping webinar on YouTube here. The concept of edible landscaping primarily applies to growing vegetables, herbs and fruit trees in a way where it fits in with your home landscape. With proper plant selection and cultural practices, you can have a beautiful edible landscape that produces food year round.… more
UF researchers seek to support the citrus industry through studies looking at Cover Crop adoption. (6/16/2023) - As the official state fruit of Florida, the orange is also a major contributor to the state’s economy, along with other types of citrus. In a report from the Economic Impact Analysis Program, it was estimated that, based upon the latest available data from 2020-2021, the citrus industry contributed 6.94 billion dollars to the Florida… more
June Gardening May Include Visit to Plant Clinic (6/13/2023) - June offers hotter temperatures, humidity and possible thunderstorm activity. In addition, school is out and many people take time to go on vacation. This leaves less time for landscape and garden chores. But there are things to do in the June landscape and garden here in the Northwest Florida area. In today’s article, I’ll share… more
Horticulture Happy Hour: Pomegranates and Grenadine (6/6/2023) - Florida is full of options for growing fruits at home and an often overlooked option is the pomegranate. Pomegranates are best adapted to a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot, dry summers. This does not match Florida exactly but they do have decent cold tolerance and some varieties can produce a good crop. However,… more
Common Crop Insects Pests Worldwide (6/6/2023) - June 6th is World Pest Day. And what better way to “celebrate” the pests which eat our crops than to expose their wicked ways. We should be aware that, around the world, we all fight some of the same insect pests. The following are the 10 most common plant crop pest insects worldwide. You may… more
Growing Blueberries in Your Jacksonville Backyard (5/22/2023) - The blueberry bushes planted at the Duval County Extension office are chock full of berries just about to ripen. I can hardly wait until I am able to snack on some as I work. If you also love these sweet little berries, you should incorporate a couple shrubs into your landscape too. However, with blueberries,… more
Growing Your Healthy Florida Lifestyle in Seminole County 2023 (5/22/2023) - Grow Your Healthy Florida Lifestyle Beginning in April, UF/IFAS Extension Seminole County hosted a five week Grow Your Healthy Florida Lifestyle Series. The class met every Friday for 3 hours to learn all about the dimensions of wellness and healthy living in Florida. We focused on food and learned about our food from farm to… more
UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County offers Edible Landscaping in Hybrid Format (5/21/2023) - Interested in growing edible plants in your yard? Join UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County on Thursday June 15th from 10 to 11:00am to get an introduction to selecting low maintenance, long-lived, edible crops to grow in the home landscape. This class will be offered as a hybrid format so you can join in person or by… more
Horticulture Happy Hour: Blueberry Beverages (5/19/2023) - Blueberries have a limited history mixology but there are several blueberry beverages out there. One common method of using blueberries in drinks is through muddling fresh blueberries in the bottom of the cocktail while mixing to add in the flavor and juice. These drinks should be strained after to remove the heavy pulp and seeds.… more
Tips for Florida Homeowners on Fertilizing Plants (5/17/2023) - Fertilizer can help plants grow but can also have adverse effects on the environment. Be sure to apply best management practices when fertilizing to optimize your plant health without harming our water bodies. Watch the recording of our How to Fertilize Plants webinar here. The key to having healthy plants is to build good soil.… more
Beat the Florida Heat: Hydrating Foods to Keep You Cool and Refreshed this Summer (5/17/2023) - Florida's scorching summer temperatures can be relentless! The heat can take a lot out of us – especially water. It leaves us searching for ways to cool down and stay hydrated. While drinking plenty of water is essential, did you know that certain foods can also help you stay hydrated? Yes, you can eat your… more
Graze the Yard Lecture (5/15/2023) - A surprising number of plants can be used in our landscapes that are edible. In addition to the many traditional fruit and vegetable plants, there are other plants that are not as often considered, including some ornamentals and even "weeds” that have edible qualities. In addition, many vegetables and herbs, which are normally grown only… more
Coming to fruition: Students reap real-life experience in Horticultural Sciences Teaching Garden (5/10/2023) - Luminous yellow squash, bright red turnips and blooming artichokes are just a few of the crops that were grown this spring in the Horticultural Sciences Teaching Garden, an experiential learning garden for students. The flourishing fields sit south of Fifield Hall on Hull Road and reflect endless hours of science, dedication and care. In the… more
Coming to fruition: Students reap real-life experience in Horticultural Sciences Teaching Garden (5/10/2023) - Luminous yellow squash, bright red turnips and blooming artichokes are just a few of the crops that were grown this spring in the Horticultural Sciences Teaching Garden, an experiential learning garden for students. The flourishing fields sit south of Fifield Hall on Hull Road and reflect endless hours of science, dedication and care. In the… more
Agaves: Cheers to spirits in the garden (5/4/2023) - Bring mezcal to life; grow agaves in the garden! Agave is generally tolerant of Florida's climate with its succulent leaves showcasing different shades of greens and blues. The shape of the plant generates interest, and it makes a great statement in the landscape. A plant can and should resemble so much more. Plants and gardens… more
Mango Fruit Drop: Is it Normal? (5/1/2023) - This time of the year we're getting a lot of phone calls and e-mails about mango fruit drop. Many homeowners want to know if the fruit drop they see around their mango trees is normal. And the short answer is; yes, it's normal. Usually this time of the year, mangos start dropping their small fruit… more
Blackberries for your Edible Landscape (4/21/2023) - Blackberries (Rubus spp.) will not quickly jump into your mind when you think of fruit production in Florida. In fact, when you do think of blackberries, you will most likely envision viny plants infiltrating your gardens and attacking you with their tiny spines. These are dewberries and are not known for large or consistent fruit.… more
UF/IFAS scientist works to identify, control pest invading beans, peas, legumes grown in Florida, internationally (4/21/2023) - Bean flower thrips, known by the scientific name of Megalurothrips usitatus, attacks such legumes as beans and peas. In some cases, it can wipe out an entire field of crops. In the past three years, it became established in Florida, Mexico, Central America and part of the Caribbean. Specifically, in Florida, the thrips is in… more