![adapted illustration/photo of ashley ellis, residential horticulture agent, uf/ifas extension sarasota county, examing and enjoying plant species at a botanical garden. [credit: ashley ellis]](https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2022/06/2022_Comms_blogEllisAshley_botanicalGardenGradient_EllisAshleyTINY.png)
We are excited to announce that Ashley Ellis has joined UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County as our new residential horticulture agent. Ashley brings expertise, experience and energy to a position key to Sarasota County Extension and one of ... READ MORE
Category: Home Landscapes, UF/IFAS Extension
While venturing out for a walk with my dog yesterday evening, I made a big mistake. I did not apply insect repellent. Actually, it was a huge mistake. Within minutes, it was a battle for blood: me trying to keep it and the mosquitoes trying ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources, Pests & Disease, Work & Life
Drip, or micro-irrigation, is a great choice for landscape beds. It is at least 70% more water-efficient than a traditional sprinkler system, and it provides water directly to the plant instead of applying spray in a "one size fits all" pattern. These ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Home Landscapes, Lawn, Water
Rain Sensors Anyone living in Florida who uses an automatic irrigation system is required by law to have a fully operational rain shut-off device. These devices are crucial in preventing overwatering, which can lead to a number of issues ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Home Landscapes, Home Management, Lawn, UF/IFAS Extension, Water
When I talk with people out in the community, often they will say, "You have a pretty cool job!" While I agree with them and share that one downside of the job is sometimes spending more time on a computer than with plants, I happily point out ... READ MORE
Category: Community Volunteers, Fruits & Vegetables, Work & Life
Nice weather for golfing, tennis, and boating likely means clear skies - great for you but not so much for your veggie plants. Likely your plants are hoping you remember to give them a drink of water. In many places- there is a phrase- April ... READ MORE
Category: Conservation, Fruits & Vegetables, Work & Life
Rain Gauges Ever heard of a rain gauge? No? Maybe you have an idea, but you aren't quite sure. Well, you've come to the right place. Read on to learn what a rain gauge is, how it works, and how easy it is to use one in your home landscape. What ... READ MORE
Category: Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Home Landscapes, Lawn, Natural Resources, UF/IFAS Extension, Water
If you’re like me, then there’s a tree in your neighborhood that provides you with a sense of 'grounding' - a connectivity to life's natural rhythm. That sense of connectivity is just one of the many life-sustaining benefits which trees ... READ MORE
Category: Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Forests
Are you exploring the fun of Florida vegetable gardening during the winter and into spring? Folks up north may be shoveling snow, while you are sowing and watching your plants grow. If you enjoy learning about and talking about growing food ... READ MORE
Category: Fruits & Vegetables, Home Landscapes, SFYL Hot Topic
by Alia Garrett, Siri Khalsa, Jackie Lebouitz, and Maria Rometo Now more than ever, every penny counts. Read our tips below to see some easy ways to save money and resources at home. Tips Turn off your lights, fans, and electronics ... READ MORE
Category: Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Health & Nutrition, Home Management, Money Matters, UF/IFAS, UF/IFAS Extension, Water, Work & Life