Shade for small scale Florida food producers (both backyard and market gardeners) can be both a blessing and a curse. For many situations, the optimum conditions most vegetables prefer — eight to 10 hours of full sun — just aren’t possible. Whether it’s from trees or shadows from nearby buildings, shade is a constraint that requires management.

Alternatively, in attempts to extend the growing season into warmer summer weather, shade structures are available and have become more popular in recent times in order to reduce the intensity and heat from summertime sun.

To learn more about growing food in the shade come to a June 4th workshop which will discuss strategies in small scale food production to manage shade. Topics will include the following:

-Florida history of crop shade growing
-shade structure designs
-crop and variety selection for shade growing
-demos of hydroponic and container production systems for summer growing
-shade color research
-managing shade in the landscape

Registration information:
Workshop Name: Florida Food Growing Under Shade
Date: June 4, 2016
Time: 1:00 to 4:00 PM
Location: Sarasota County Extension, 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota, FL
Cost: $10
Online: http://sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu (go to Education Calendar)
Register early through Eventbrite.com to reserve your spot and receive notice of any changes.

0