Event Highlights:
- High-Density Peach Orchard Experiment: Learn about Florida’s first high-density peach orchard experiment, planted three years ago and now ready for harvest. This innovative approach aims to address the high labor costs associated with peach production in Florida.
- Labor-Saving Techniques: Discover how machinery can be utilized for pruning, fruit thinning and harvesting to reduce labor costs, which currently average $2,500 per acre.
- Commercial Potential: Discuss the potential for commercial extension of peaches in Florida from Orlando to Gainesville. The goal is to produce peaches that can be sold domestically before those from Georgia, South Carolina and California arrive on the market.
- Diversification Opportunities: Explore how small growers and U-pick operations can diversify their production with non-melting peaches that are firmer compared to traditional melting varieties.
The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) will host its Stone Fruit Field Day on May 7 from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Plant Science Research and Education Unit (PSREU), 2556 West Highway 318, in Citra.
Schedule:
- 9 a.m.: Registration and welcome
- 9:30 a.m.: Orchard walk and talk
- 11 a.m.: Updates on stone fruit program and additional research
- 12:30 p.m.: Lunch
UF/IFAS researchers will be showing off their latest innovations in Florida peach production to growers and stakeholders at the annual Stone Fruit Field Day.
Ali Sarkhosh, an associate professor in the horticultural sciences department, and his team will lead the event aimed at extending stone fruit production in Florida. Attendees will explore various aspects of stone fruit cultivation, including peaches, nectarines and plums.
This event is ideal for commercial producers, as well as horticultural enthusiasts interested in expanding their knowledge about stone fruit cultivation.
Attendees will have the chance to visit the high-density trial plot and participate in fruit testing during the Orchard Walk and Talk session, guided by Sarkhosh and Jose Chaparro, a horticultural sciences associate professor. They will update attendees on the university’s Stone Fruit Program, offering insights into ongoing research and new advancements.
Registration:
To register for this free event or for more information, please visit the registration page.
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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.
WHY FOOD IS OUR MIDDLE NAME
Feeding a hungry world takes effort. Nearly everything we do comes back to food: from growing it and getting it to consumers, to conserving natural resources and supporting agricultural efforts. Explore all the reasons why at ifas.ufl.edu/food or follow #FoodIsOurMiddleName.
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