Impacts on Row Crops Hurricane Ian swept south of Putnam County on September 29, 2022 as a tropical storm, closing down all the businesses, schools and County offices. It brought high tides and left lots of rainfall in its wake, but the farmers ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Crops
Once a year in AUGUST, fresh muscadine grapes fill the vines in Putnam County and some generous farmers allow folks to come out and admire and taste their year-long efforts. These plump, sweet, colorful, tasty treats require lots of water, ... READ MORE
Category: Agribusiness, Crops
Do you remember your favorite summer camps? Maybe there was hiking, swimming, first-aid training, horseback riding, or just tons of sweating, but also lots of learning and fun! One of our 4-H summer camps this year, Food Systems Day Camp, ... READ MORE
Category: 4-H & Youth, Agriculture, Camp, UF/IFAS Extension
Good pollination is an essential step in our food system. Pollinators are instrumental in ensuring that we have a good harvest of fruit and vegetables. However, as more development happens, habitat and food sources for pollinators decrease. ... READ MORE
Category: Events, Florida-Friendly Landscaping, HOME LANDSCAPES, Horticulture, Wildlife
Have you ever met someone who was “stuck in their ways”? This was the case with adults in agriculture back in the 1800s. Universities found young people to be more open and accepting of new research and agricultural developments. The thought ... READ MORE
Category: 4-H & Youth, Agriculture, Professional Development, UF/IFAS Extension,
When you read the word “bee,” what comes to mind? Is it an image of a honeybee? If so, you are in the company of most people. Not many would argue the sweet benefits of this insect. However, for me, I picture the clumsy, round bumblebee. ... READ MORE
Category: Agribusiness, Agriculture, Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Fruits & Vegetables, HOME LANDSCAPES, Horticulture
In January and April, 4-H agents, Ag Agents, FCS Agents, volunteers, and farm staff from St. Johns, Flagler and Putnam counties came together to provide two days of hands-on learning experiences for our 4-H kids at the UF/IFAS Hastings Agriculture ... READ MORE
Category: 4-H & Youth, Agriculture, Crops
March of 2000, wasn’t that a million years ago? That was the last time I walked into the show ring at the Putnam County Fair as a youth exhibitor. Who would have thought I would come back to that same arena as the University of Florida/IFAS ... READ MORE
Category: 4-H & Youth, Agriculture, Livestock, UF/IFAS Extension,
What is Cracker Day? After two years’ hiatus due to some creepy crawly virus, Cracker Day returns with a vengeance. Where else can you go to eat beef that’s been slow-grilled over Blackjack oak all night long, enjoy professional bull ... READ MORE
Category: Agribusiness, Agriculture, Livestock
The winter weather arrived a bit late in Putnam County, but it is certainly making up for lost time. A “freeze” occurs when temperatures drop below 32ºF, but a “hard freeze” is when temperatures dip down below 28ºF for at least a ... READ MORE
Category: Agriculture, Crops