Recently, I went for a troll along the UF/IFAS, St Lucie County Extension Nature Walk, when I came across some beautiful Eastern Lubber Grasshopper (Romalea microptera) nymph. The nymphs have a red variation, showing a blood-red coloration ... READ MORE
Category: Horticulture, Pests & Disease, Pests & Disease
If you’re looking for a way to boost your health while satisfying your sweet tooth, blueberries and strawberries are the ideal pair! These colorful berries are packed with nutrients and offer a wide range of health benefits. Let’s dive into ... READ MORE
Category: Agribusiness, Agriculture, Food Safety, Fruits & Vegetables, Health & Nutrition, Horticulture, UF/IFAS Extension, WORK & LIFE
Understanding avian influenza, transmission methods, including direct contact, contaminated equipment, and airborne spread. According to the CDC, it’s natural for Avian Influenza viruses to be among waterfowl such as ducks and geese. ... READ MORE
Category: Livestock, Pests & Disease,
I recently conducted a backyard chicken class, and many questions were asked, which led me to compile the questions and answers below. As an Extension Agent, I have been asked numerous questions about eggs. From experience, over the years, people ... READ MORE
Category: Livestock
I recently took an out-of-state family trip, and a family member was gifted with many plants. I knew one of the plants would not do well in my county because of the preferred USDA plant hardiness zone 10a. I explained why the plant would not ... READ MORE
Category: Horticulture,
Many people are interested in planting vegetable gardens but are discouraged by sandy, infertile soil and limited planting space in their backyards. The good news is that making raised beds can eliminate those hindrances Advantages of raised ... READ MORE
Category: Fruits & Vegetables, Horticulture
In-person class in Osceola County, FL: Keeping Backyard Chickens Saturday, January 25, 2025 10:00am-12:00pm Peghorn Nature Park, 2101 Peghorn Way Saint Cloud, FL 34769 Learn how to keep chickens for fun and egg production. Topics ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Events, Livestock
The Honey Bee Community Showcase was created to raise awareness of the valuable contributions of honey bees to our food supply, to support local beekeeping and to provide opportunities for the community to show their talents. You don’t ... READ MORE
Category: 4-H & Youth, Agriculture, Events
There are two main types of honey bees available for purchase to start new colonies: package bees and nucleus colonies. This article summarizes the considerations for each type of starter colony. When to start new colonies The ideal ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Livestock
Authors: Brittany Justesen & Jessica Sullivan, UF IFAS Extension – Osceola County Armyworms are highly destructive caterpillars that primarily feed on grasses, making them a significant concern for cattle ranchers. Several species ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Livestock, Pests & Disease, UF/IFAS