Jaboticaba: A Unique Fruit Tree for Florida Home Gardeners
By Ajay Das and Jianjun Chen
Jaboticaba (Plinia cauliflora) is a slow-growing, ornamental fruit tree suited to Florida’s climate (Zones 9a–11). It thrives in acidic, consistently moist soils under partial shade, producing fruit with nutritional and medicinal value. Furthermore, its unique cauliflory and flaking bark make it a distinctive addition to home landscapes. Moreover, once established, the tree is relatively low maintenance. For home gardeners, the publication provides an overview of growing jaboticaba in Florida and a brief review of the fruit’s nutraceutical value. Florida gardeners can enjoy increased pollination and biodiversity in the yard, as well as fruit with health benefits.
A Step-by-Step Fertigation Guide for Blackberry Growers in Florida
By Nurjahan Sriti, Elena Máximo-Salgado, Zhanao Deng, Jeffrey Williamson, and Guodong Liu
Blackberry cultivation offers significant opportunities for fruit producers in subtropical regions. Effective fertilizer management is essential for maximizing production. However, determining the optimal fertilizer application can be challenging as a result of variations in soil types and climate. To achieve the best results, it is important to follow the 5Rs of nutrient stewardship. (There are usually 4 Rs outside the unique environmental conditions of Florida.) These principles focus on applying the right fertilizer source at the right rate, at the right time, in the right place, and with the right irrigation. This guide provides Florida blackberry growers with practical recommendations for efficient fertigation practices to boost blackberry yields and improve nutrient use efficiency. It is intended for commercial growers, agricultural consultants, farm managers, Extension agents, Extension specialists, and others interested in blackberry production and sustainable farming.
By Norma Samuel; Xingbo Wu, Thomas W. Zimmerman, and Matthew T. Smith (Contributor)
The purpose of this publication is to provide an overview of the botanical characteristics of the Hibiscus sabdariffa plant, including detailed descriptions of the leaves, stems, reproductive structures, and roots. Sorrel is in the family Malvaceae and grown as an annual. The common names of Hibiscus sabdariffa vary by country, but some popular names are sorrel, roselle, and Florida cranberry.
Calendar for Southern Highbush Blueberry Management in Florida
By Douglas A. Phillips, Jeffrey G. Williamson, Philip F. Harmon, Oscar E. Liburd, Peter J. Dittmar, and Rachel E. Mallinger
Southern highbush blueberries (SHB) are commercially grown throughout Florida in both deciduous and evergreen systems. This calendar addresses the monthly general management requirements for Florida commercial blueberry growers in conventional (nonorganic) systems and should be used in coordination with other Ask IFAS publications.
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