Do you know the difference between a Hamlin and a Parson Brown? If you were asked, ‘What is Huanglongbing?’ would you respond, ‘Is that a city in China?’ But ask those questions to 4-H’ers in the Citrus Project and they will immediately answer you. Beginning in October, both Hamlin and Parson Brown oranges are harvested. Of the two, Hamlins are considered seedless, whereas history provides quite a tale about Parson Browns. Youth will go on to say that Huanglongbing is known here as citrus greening. It is a bacterial disease spread by the Asian citrus psyllid and it is devastating the industry.
WHY IS THERE A CITRUS PROJECT?
Retired County Extension Agent for Fruit Crops, John Jackson, started the project in the mid-1990s. “Our plan for Central Florida was to develop a project that had several goals. The first was to offer a project that had a financial incentivize for the youth. We wanted to reward them financially for spending the time to grow a quality tree. In addition we wanted to expose youth to the citrus industry. Many future community leaders participate in 4-H and if we can expose these individuals to citrus at an early age it would be of great benefit to the industry. Another critical goal of the project was for the participants to have fun. This seems fairly simple, but we wanted the project to be a family endeavor with the youth fully engaged. We wanted them to enjoy seeing their efforts result in a living organism grow and flourish.”
WHAT DO THE YOUTH GAIN?
Hundreds of 4-H’ers from all over the central Florida area have participated in the project. Youth investigate technological advances, such as FAWN, the Florida Automated Weather Network. Furthermore, 4-H’ers handle diseases, pests and nutritional deficiencies. Who would have thought that learning about root-stocks, scions and Florida history could be so much fun?
Hunter Bronson is sixteen years old, from Osceola County, and has participated in the project for eleven years: “The Citrus Project is important because the project offers a hands on experience for youth to grow citrus. My goal for the citrus project is to develop my knowledge of how to grow citrus and challenges that I have faced have included disease and climate issues.”
Growing a Persian Lime was the first citrus project for Seminole County Junior 4-H’er Leif Perri: “I learned about diseases for citrus trees. I also learned that each tree has a specific name. It is important to offer the citrus project to help kids learn about citrus diseases so that when they grow up and own their own grove they can take care of it. I have learned how to fertilize, transplant and take care of my tree.”
HOW IS THE PROJECT ADMINISTERED?
Each spring, families order one to two trees. Varieties change from year to year. Grapefruit might be grown one year and a tangerine or lemon the next. On Pick-Up Day, youth receive their trees and five gallon pots. Excited youth watch a demonstration on how to properly pot their trees. During the year-long project, “check-up days” and field trips to groves are scheduled. In addition, an amazing educational program is held at the Citrus Research and Education Center (CREC). A Facebook page was created to provide educational materials, display photos, and share the latest news.
Besides growing a tree, youth complete Record Books and special projects. Projects may
include teaching workshops, creating an electronic poster, or conducting research. In January, their record books and project are submitted, they have their trees judged, and they complete a knowledge test. Blue ribbon trees go on to the auction. Between January and March, the exhibitors must secure a buyer for their tree.
At the March Auction and Awards Ceremony, healthy trees arrive in decorated wagons with 4-H’ers ready to answer tough questions from the judges. Trees are placed and awards are given to the 4-H’ers. In addition, two special awards are announced: the John Jackson Scholarship and the Jim Yates Horticulturist Award. The Horticulturist Award is given to the youth with the highest record book and knowledge test scores in memory of Jim Yates, a longtime resident and
grower from Osceola County. After the awards are distributed, the auction begins! Buyers and proxy bidders drive up the prices much to the entertainment of the audience. Buyers have the very real satisfaction of supporting youth involved in a wonderful project.
WHAT IS THE FUTURE OF THE PROJECT?
Gaining knowledge, having an economic impact, and behavior change are ways Extension professionals measure the success of programming. With many years behind it, the District VIII Citrus Project is well-established and has proven its value. For example, an average year has tree sales over $2,000. Moreover, youth practice environmentally safe ways to provide care for their trees. As with any project, not everyone completes it. Interest can wane, goats and caterpillars love to eat trees, and people forget to bring trees in during freezes. In the future, some of these 4-H’ers may pursue a career in science. Back in 1998, Jamie Yates had the Grand Champion Red Navel. Presently, Jamie Yates-Burrow serves as the Extension Program Manager at the CREC. Without doubt, the 4-H’ers certainly have an increased appreciation for Florida’s fabulous farmers.
To summarize, “A citrus grower may work hard to produce a crop but lose the trees to a serious disease such as greening. Not all of life’s lessons are easy to deal with. Just ask a citrus grower about the challenges of growing citrus. Hopefully over the years many 4-H citrus horticulturists have experienced the excitement of growing, showing and selling their tree. Hopefully they have learned a great deal about the citrus industry and the role it plays in the Florida economy.” ~ John Jackson
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Comments:
March 17, 2022
Pretty neat Karen! Hope your doing fine!
January 3, 2022
Hi Kelli- Those critters can be pesky. I'm referring you to Steven Brown (brownsh@ufl.edu) or (239)533-7513. He is the UF IFAS Extension agent in your county - Lee County (I'm in Volusia). He will be able to recommend a product that works within your county. He is very knowledgeable. Happy New Year!
December 30, 2021
, I have found A huge infestation on my powder puff tree. Is there any way to get rid of them without damages my plant or killing the bug? They are very interesting and beautiful. I live in Bonita Springs
November 24, 2021
I just recently found manythorn bugs on my pink powderpuff tree, in Ocala. October, 2021.
November 16, 2021
Good Morning: I saw your comment on the blog post for soil sampling and didn’t fully understand your comment. Can you please elaborate more so I can see how to assist you. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Regards, Brittany A. Council-Morton
November 11, 2021
Finally a written article . Volusia was our go to page for information now not so much.
September 13, 2021
Tracy- If you have a stucco house, they will climb it and feed on it. If you eliminate water on that side of the house, it limits their range. You can brush them off with a broom or apply an over-the-counter product to reduce the populations. Scroll down for some other products that have worked well against these pests. As always, follow the label directions.
September 8, 2021
They are all over the back side of my house. Should I leave them be or try to get rid of them. Polk county.
June 5, 2021
Hi Rebecca, curious to hear more about your experience with this
June 1, 2021
Thank you for this. I have often suspected this could happen. Tree roots do not go that deep into the soil, and anything applied to the ground could affect them. A word to the wise.
May 18, 2021
NE exposure would be a perfect! Caladiums are ideal for shady yards and gardens. In southern areas they grow best in full to partial shade. In northern areas, most caladiums can also be grown in the sun as long as they get enough water and their leaves are shielded during the hottest part of the day.
May 18, 2021
I live in Ft Lauderdale and would like to plant caladiums in a spot that has a NE exposure. Is that too sunny? Thank you.
May 4, 2021
The little dudes just seem to get around. Good catch on identifying them. They are sure to be on the move again when our wet summers resume. Cheers! PS, Keep them in Seminole Country! Go Gators! LOL!
May 3, 2021
Hey Karen, Today I think I may have met a member of this specific snail species. It caught my attention as it was the 1st time I had seen a snail actively moving along with nearly its full body exposed. It was rather large and quick compared to other snails I have encountered. I took lots of pictures and videos and it caught my attention enough to look into what type it was, and a little later it led me to your blog page. Anyhow, it was located in downtown Pensacola, Florida, and actually just across the street is a railroad for the Port of Pensacola. -Kenyan
May 3, 2021
Send pictures! always looking for good looking mac trees! kstauderman@ufl.edu
May 1, 2021
Thanks for that info. I have a Queen Anne variety from George Anderson and it still had half its nuts when it bloomed in early March so I couldn't tell when to prune it. Also a good number of nuts never dropped but were mature so I finally just picked them. Next year I will just prune when half the nuts have dropped. My tree is 7 years old, never fertilized and my soil ph is @9.... however it produces wonderfully this year. My property borders an old limestone quarry that's now a lake so my PH is constantly high even if i add sulphur twice a year
April 27, 2021
Thank you!
April 13, 2021
Most likely, they have traveled throughout most of North and Central Florida by now. A grower here in Central Florida uses ducks to control his population in his citrus area. It looks clean as a whistle now!
April 13, 2021
Hey there, I'm wondering if these are the same snails you are writing about. There has been quite the explosion of them this year. I'm almost always seeing them on walls and fences, have yet to spot them on any plants. We're in Kissimmee, close to Poinciana.
March 30, 2021
I'm sorry I don't. One of the biggest problem with the harvesters is their size. It is difficult to transport them without the use of semi-trucks. I'd advise to check online equipment sales as sources for the harvesters. Best of luck!
March 25, 2021
Do you know of anywhere we can rent one of those harvesters in Florida? We are looking to either rent or buy a used one (even if it needs a little work).
February 27, 2021
UPDATE..Year 2 of Mac tree flowering...a lot more flowers this year...should have a good batch of nuts to process this year :-)
January 27, 2021
Raymond, Karen is correct. I started my macadamia grove using over 1000 seedlings. 15 years later I've got a hand full of exceptional varieties, and a handful of good varieties. The rest are pretty much junk trees that produce nuts that certainly aren't of commercial quality for one reason or another. I've had seedlings start to produce nuts in as little as 5 years. I've got some that are alternate bearers...only flower every other year. I have some that took 10 to 12 years to start producing nuts and I've got some 15 years old that have never flowered. Then there is one that produces a fantastic thin shelled nut the size of a golfball, but it only produces one raceme a year and gives me 4 or 5 nuts. I'm getting ready to clone it and see if the clones do any better. Who knows. That said, until some plant breeder/s decide working with macadamia growers in FL is a good thing to do planting seedlings is the only way to come up with new varieties. Hopefully we'll get some help from a plant breeder or plant breeders in the future. I've certainly been pushing for it for years. It still hasn't happened.
January 26, 2021
"Future Commercial Grower Macadamia field day at your farm?" That may be possible. I'm just not ready yet. Unlike some others I've taken on the task more as a research project than hurriedly trying to create a cash cow. I believe macadamia will soon be a viable alternative tree crop in Florida, but there's a lot of research needed to overcome more of the hurdles innately presented by growing a tropical tree in a subtropical climate.
January 26, 2021
Wow! Great Information Glenn. I'd like to see your trees sometime! Unfortunately, our current information on growing macadamia trees in Florida is pretty limited. We are ALWAYS eager to learn more from the growers that are in the field first hand. Thank you for sharing! Future Commercial Grower Macadamia field day at your farm? LOL! Karen
January 26, 2021
Art, I'm working on putting together a cooperative for processing macadamia nuts and hope to be up and running by the end of 2022. The difficulty is the nuts need to be harvested from the ground about every two days and immediately husked. If the husk is left on too long it will ruin the nut. If the nut sits on the ground in FL sun for more than a few days the husk will begin to dry out, split and in another day or two the nut will dry out too fast and the shell will crack ruining the nut. As a result you will at the least need a macadamia nut husker and a way to start the drying process by spreading your nuts out (no more than one or two nuts deep) on wire racks protected from sun and rain. In FL they will dry down to 10% to 12% moisture on racks, but a properly dried macadamia nut needs to be dried down to 1.5% to 3% moisture remaining in the nut. Drying too slowly promotes mold growth in the nut. Drying too fast will result in cracks in the nut shell which leaves you open to insect intrusion and shorter storage life. Fast drying also results in a dark center in the kernel because the oils and sugars concentrate in the center of the kernel rather than equally distributed throughout the whole kernel.
January 26, 2021
Hello Karen, You stated: "The key is to prune the tree for shape in late winter-early spring to allow for more flower set and fruit.." Depending on variety macadamia trees in Central FL bloom starting in December through about the end of March and sometimes into April. Nut drop begins in mid August through March of the following year depending on variety. Pruning on young non bearing trees can be done at most any time of the year. Pruning on bearing trees should be done immediately after nut drop, so timing when to prune is variety dependent. There are some varieties that bloom prior to finishing up with nut drop such as 344 and H-10 which seem to be common varieties in FL because their provenance seems to go back to George Anderson. The best time to prune them, if they are bearing trees, is about half way through nut drop, prior to bloom. Nuts from the pruned branches can easily be removed and processed because as usual because they are mature nuts at that point.
December 31, 2020
Good observation! Thanks for sharing, it makes sense to me. Karen
December 31, 2020
Great article. I've seen several colonies of Bulimulus sporadicus in various areas of Gainesville, Florida. These colonies include one near the Cade Museum, Depot Park, a mowed area behind Lowes along 13th Street, along a ditch in northern Gainesville, along Gale Lemerand Drive on the UF campus, and an area along 8th Avenue west of Main Street. I believe that one way that this species is spreading in parts of Florida so quickly is that it crawls onto cars (and probably also mowing equipment) and is transported to new areas this way. I have observed a specimen that was attached to my wife's car that was parked in our garage (and we have no colonies near our home) after she drove home from her office along University Avenue. Thanks for the interesting blog post.
December 8, 2020
Art- in case you are open to a visit, my address is rssgarden@gmail.com.
December 8, 2020
Hello Art- My name is Rebecca Robson. i live in Sarasota and have just started caring for a little Mac orchard here. I need help getting my bearings, evaluating the trees and making a plan. I am hoping to visit some growers, Arcadia is not far! Would you be open to a visit some time? Thank you sincerely, Rebecca
December 8, 2020
Hi Colin- My name is Rebecca Robson. I have started working with 120 Mac trees on a few acres in Sarasota Florida. They are about 4 years old and came from George Anderson I believe. I am very interested in more info and resources for caring for this orchard. They are a little neglected but some are huge and beautiful. Can you help me get started evaluating and build a plan? Thank you sincerely! Rebecca
December 2, 2020
Hello Peter, I just finished replying to your post regarding your cutting grown plant, but my message seems to have disappeared from the board. My apologies if there's any duplication. I was writing to ask if the tree you mentioned might be 'Waimanalo'? I'm asking because that's the name of a variety that seems to be highly recommended for cooler coastal settings like mine here on the No.Central California coast south of San Francisco. Unfortunately, all of the best subtropical nurserymen I would ordinarily visit to find it have never heard the name! I DID manage to find Waimanalo mentioned in a couple of articles that recommend it to gardeners thinking about attempting Mac Nut trees in North and Central Florida. I'm not sure we're talking about the same plant, but if you think we are - is there any chance you've come across other trees of this variety in any of the nurseries you visit? Thanks for any info you might be able to provide. Chris Coughlin
December 2, 2020
Hello Karen - Thanks so much for posting that resource list! As I indicated in a reply to Peter - another poster below - I am located on the No./Central California Coast south of San Francisco and I've long been searching for a Mac Nut cultivar known as 'Waimanalo' that the CA Rare Fruit Growers Assoc. seems to recommend highly for my more temperate setting. Trouble is - none the most reputable subtropicals nurserymen here seem to know the name! But I AM encouraged to find it recommended to North Florida gardeners in a few articles online. Is this cultivar a name you recognize from your experience with retailers in your area? I realize the publication date of your original posting is a couple of years old - if there's a public Cooperative Ag Education Extension office that might have more info - or a newer arrival on the FL nursery scene that could help, I'd appreciate it very much. Thanks!
December 2, 2020
Hello Peter - I just stumbled upon this thread belatedly in my search for the Macadamia cultivar known as 'Waimanalo.' Could this be the variety to which you are referring? I ask because I am in California - on the coast south of San Francisco - and 'Waimanalo' is mentioned on the Calif. Rare Fruit Growers website as being a variety well adapted to the cooler maritime conditions we get here. Unfortunately - none of the nurserymen here seem to know of it - even down in subtropical San Diego where I'd be able to find many of the most popular commercial types. Strangely though, in my search I found a few articles on Florida's Mac Nut growers and 'Waimanalo' is mentioned as a hardier variety that is suitable for north and central Florida gardeners. Are we talking about the same tree? I know that you've written that yours is cutting grown, but have you come across a grafted one anywhere in your area? I'd be very grateful for any help in tracking this down - Thanks!
November 4, 2020
Hi Dave! Congratulations on your arrival to Florida! OK, there are a lot of unknowns in the commercial production of Macadamia. It is slow to get started as growers are still determining which cultivars to use in their groves. In addition, the ability to get plant material is limiting. You will need to consider getting material from online international sources if local is not available. You will be an 'explorer' of sorts. Since it is such a new venture for Florida, we will be learning from you. I would hesitate growing this commodity if you plan on using your retirement funds. This is extremely risky if you have never produced a commercial crop. A big learning curve. If you should have further questions, don't hesitate to contact me in my office (386)822-5778 or email me at (kstauderman@ufl.edu). Good luck! Let me know how it goes!
November 3, 2020
Hi Colin, My wife & I plan to move to Southwest Florida & I am interested in the possibility of starting a Macadamia Farm if at all possible. I know absolutely nothing about it except the fact that I Love Macadamia Nuts... If there is an upside opportunity I am interested in taking a hard look at the possibility! Your input would be helpful! Thanks! Dave Minnesota
October 17, 2020
Hey Arthur! Check out Korean Natural Farming videos on YouTube. Chris Trump is the master gardener and he runs a Macadamia farm in HI. Super informative and inspiring.
October 7, 2020
Yes indeed! This one made the trip from Washington to Florida where it now lives. Love this machine!
October 2, 2020
Did you get that machine out of Washington state? I knew of one painted the same color.
September 27, 2020
I'm sorry, Leslie, the one Saturday sale we have scheduled in October filled up quickly (so it's no longer listed here). We'll have another Saturday sale as part of the next set of sales but it hasn't been scheduled yet.
September 26, 2020
I work full time during the week. Are there any weekend plant sales or events?
September 15, 2020
I'm sorry but I am not aware of any dwarf cultivars of Macadamia trees.
September 13, 2020
Hi, Do you know where I could purchase a dwarf variety? Thanks!
August 6, 2020
Karen, I just wanted to let you know that I returned to the grove that was infested with these snails and the grower was overwhelmed with results. We eliminated 99% of all snails when using Deadline MP's. I think there is an answer to our problem. I do have a request, would it be possible to use your picture of this snail in an email that I can share with my customer identifying the problem? If so, I will send out this week. Thank, Mike
August 4, 2020
Arthur- Wish I could find the perfect expert on growing Macadamia but the truth is, we don't have one. I'm more than happy to help with any questions. If I don't have the answer, I can direct you to our UF State specialist to help us. You are entering new territory with macadamia. We are learning from your success and failures. I equate it to our new 'frontiersmen/women' of this century. We here at UF have the experts in insects, disease, breeding, etc...… but we do not have any past history in growing Macadamias. They are growing in interest throughout Central Florida. Would love to see the grove. Send pictures of your success or failures and I can try to help...….or just be in awe of your endeavor! KStauderman@ufl.edu Keep me in your loop! Continued success!!!
August 4, 2020
Thomas- You'll need to start at the beginning. First take a sample of soil from 6-8 locations around the 'drip line' of the tree digging down 10-12 inches and getting a profile of the soil on the shovel. Place these samples in a plastic bucket and mix. Then send a sample off to the UF Soils Laboratory in Gainesville (https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/SS/SS18700.pdf). You want TEST B. It will set you back $10 PER sample. Mail the sample and form off to the UF address on the form. Don't forget to include your email address for faster results. Once you get the results, they may require you to apply lime or sulfur. Follow the directions on the recommendations. Continue as you are by applying a slow release fertilizer (citrus fertilizer will work) by following the label directions on the bag. The tree will slowly respond to the care. This is a slow comeback as the tree will need to begin building its canopy again. Monitor your tree for any damage such as splits in the trunk or oozing/cankers of any kind. Take it one year at a time and I look forward to seeing it coming back! Send me some pictures! Best of Luck!
August 2, 2020
Karen, We have an 18 acre Mac tree farm in Arcadia,Florida in its eighth year. We are looking for a consultant to help us refine our farm as we are just entering our first real harvest. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks, art
August 2, 2020
I have a Macadamia in DeLand, Florida which I planted about 15 years ago. It did well for a few years planted beside our lake front and is about 30 feet tall. Lately it began to die back with gradual but significant loss of foliage and precipitously decreased nut output. This spring, after years of relative neglect, I began to fertilize it with PO4 poor fertilizer with added micronutrients and the tree began to sprout new growth and generally improved! I trimmed the dead wood (a lot) but I'm not sure how to proceed from here. Any thoughts would be appreciated.. Thanks
July 22, 2020
Hi Art I am very interested in Mac farming in Florida and would love to come visit your operation . I am in Naples so not too bad a ride. Please let me know as I am fascinated w Mac farming, Thanks and hope to hear back from you. Patrick Lyons patlyons11@gmail.com
July 16, 2020
Hi,Just found this today, too late to call. Is there a way to find out if all the reservations are full for these dates?
July 15, 2020
Thanks Lauren! Let us know how it turns out. Good Luck-
July 15, 2020
I'm working with Mike and another researcher specialist dealing with this snail. The short answer is that we don't have an answer yet.
July 13, 2020
Hi Mike! thanks for sharing! I've reached out to our UF State specialists and unfortunately, we cannot recommend any products until we have actually seen the research trials on the product. I agree with you that this is a nasty pest!
July 13, 2020
Karen, I am the Florida manager for a chemical company that sell Deadline (a metaldehyde based product). I was recently called to a central FL citrus grove that is being overwhelmed with this pest. We observed this species of snail is actually eating the young leaves and not just the litter on the ground. The grove manager has tried several insecticide products with little success. We sell hundreds of thousands of pounds of this product to nurseries, fern growers, tropical fruit growers and homeowners. This problem is spreading across the state with reported infestations in many groves. The cost at recommended rates is only $30-$40/acre. Do you not think this could be an affordable and effective control of this pest?
July 10, 2020
The plant inventory and price list for plant sales starting July 18 is now available!
July 10, 2020
The plant inventory and price list for plant sales starting July 18 is now available!
July 10, 2020
The plant inventory and price list for plant sales starting July 18 is now available!
July 10, 2020
To make your reservation, please call (386) 822-5778, Jul 14-16 between 9:0am and 12:00 noon and ask for Plant Sales Reservations. We expect a lot of callers so please be patient. Also, we have over 1200 plants and can only handle 32 buyers per day so there will be a lot of plants available every day of the sale! We will hold even more sales as needed! Please remember, you will still have MANY choices even if you can't get a reservation for the first date.
July 10, 2020
I would like to attend the sale on Sat July 18
July 8, 2020
pretty beneficial material, overall I imagine this is worthy of a bookmark, thanks
July 4, 2020
The plants for next week's sales will be priced on Monday so I'm not sure if we'll get a list posted. We will try to price the plants for the July 18/21 sales sooner so we can get a price list published. There are a LOT of plants available!
July 4, 2020
Will there be an advance price list of plants available for July 7 and July 18 sale dates?
July 1, 2020
Pricing is still in progress but prices will be well less than retail! We'll use the color coded pricing sticks as we've done our past annual sales. We weren't able to hold our annual sale in April due to the Covid pandemic so we're using these "sales by appointment" to keep within social distancing guidelines.
July 1, 2020
Prices?
June 30, 2020
A list of some of the plants for sale along with a few pictures have been published.
June 30, 2020
A list of some of the plants for sale along with a few pictures have been published.
June 27, 2020
Denise -- Some photos have been published and the list is in progress. You will NOT place an order when you call for a reservation. Rather, when you arrive for your reservation, you will have 30 minutes to browse the plants, make your selections, and make your payment.
June 26, 2020
Will the list of plants be posted soon? Thanks in advance.
June 19, 2020
Diane -- we will get a list published by June 26 (or earlier) with a few photos. Please note that the July 7 and July 18 sales will require reservations but you will not need to "order" plants in advance. Each 30 minute reservation will be for browsing and selecting plants (two customers per 30 minute interval).
June 19, 2020
When will a list of the July 7 plants be available? Thanks ~
June 11, 2020
Im grateful for the blog post. Really Great.
May 31, 2020
What a nice tribute to a wonderful little plant. I'm admiring mine right now.
May 25, 2020
Macadamia integrifolia :-)
May 21, 2020
Woohoo!!! I'm excited too! Do you remember the cultivar of the tree? It should have the cultivar on the tag. We all want to know- Send pictures!! Congratulations! Kstauderman@ufl.edu
May 21, 2020
Hi Denise- Macadamia has been grown in household landscapes in the panhandle. One thing is to be aware is that it can tolerate temperatures down 25 degrees Fahrenheit but not for long (2 hours). You will need to frost protect it if your winters are this cold. If it gets too cold, you will have damage and may even lose the tree. Also, it is important to have foliage on the tree. Don't over prune as exposed bark on the trunk has a tendency to sun scorch. It is really hard to determine what variety works yet for Florida. I've heard a few homeowners like the cultivar 'Beaumont'. This one may be one of the varieties that are successful. You may even want to try a couple differing ones. It will take a good 7-8 years before you start to get a yield off your tree. Explore your options! This will be an adventure for you! Good luck! Send pictures!
May 20, 2020
I'm in Palm Beach County. I ordered my Macadamia nut tree from Hawaii ten years ago. And in exactly 10 years (like the label said) it has finally flowered and produced nuts. In December I gave a little trim...put some of that Walmart Evergreen citrus fertilizer around it and it started to flower...not a ton of flowers maybe 10 to 20 I could see...Now in May I see nuts...Excited!!!
May 20, 2020
Hi Karen, Is there a certain variety that grows better in Florida? Also, I’m in Jacksonville, am I too far north?
May 14, 2020
Thanks Dennis! They are pretty resourceful and will find a way to get to you place someday. Ha!
May 11, 2020
Check this publication from UF/IFAS https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in132
May 1, 2020
Yes Steve, Macadamia are found in a few landscapes in our Florida Panhandle. They may indeed do well where you are. I have seen them get to heights of 9-10 feet before they begin to produce nuts. It will be about 5 years before a crop will be noticeable and about 7 years to full production. This will vary on the variety of Macadamia that you have, growing conditions, etc..... You will want to be careful to prune it to allow air circulation if you have strong winds from hurricanes. It is a hard wooded tree and breaks easily or can tip over in hurricane force winds. If that happens, immediately stand it up, irrigate it, and brace it until it flushes out new growth again. Do NOT leave the braces and stakes on the tree for longer than 3-4 months. Let me know how it goes! I'd love to hear of your success!
April 30, 2020
Karen, great info. thanks. I manage a small orchard in a community garden in St. Augustine Beach. Seems a macadamia tree may do well here. About what height and spread would one be once reaching nut producing age in favorable conditions?
April 23, 2020
Yay! It survived! Your tree will need some time to recuperate from the damage that it has. It may take a few years to build it back up depending upon the amount and location of the damage. Apply a yearly application of a well balanced slow release fertilizer to the tree dripline and continue with your watering in the landscape. It obvious loved where it was living so you are doing something right! Enjoy the nuts and in time it should increase in yield as it ages. Fingers crossed and speedy recovery of your tree! Take some before and after photos as it recovers and share them with us.
April 22, 2020
Hi! So we discovered after living at our house for almost 4 years now that we have a macadamia tree, it is pretty big but it actually was damaged pretty bad a few years back during one of the hurricanes we had, and we lost a good portion of it during that time. It had produced some nuts the previous years but hasn’t since that hurricane until now. However it is definitely not producing many at all. I live in South Florida in the Ft. Lauderdale area, is there anything special we can do to help it start producing more? Thanks!
April 17, 2020
The lubber's only natural predator is the loggerhead shrike, a cool little bird that decapitates them and then impales their carcasses on thorns or barbed-wire fences so the sun can bake out the toxins before mealtime. Article in the Tampa Bay Times , April 2012
April 9, 2020
Use to use a bait bought at the Purina Feed Store in Tampa. Definitely got rid of a lot of them. Have to use it when they are just hatching out.
April 7, 2020
Hi Karen, I enjoyed your article on snails. I've yet to see them on the South Peninsula in Daytona Beach. If I do see them I'll now know about them. Thanks for the article.
April 7, 2020
Interesting article. I have yet to see Lubbers down here on the South Peninsula. I know its just a matter of time. In the past, I have not addressed the problem, but if they get into my vegetable garden, I'll go after them and try the drowning method suggested. Thanks
April 7, 2020
I have had a lot of luck spraying the lawn with beneficial nematodes. They help with grubs ( my moles moved next door and we no longer have fleas.
April 7, 2020
Is there anything that will eat them?
January 4, 2020
Sorry, typos above which I cannot correct.
January 4, 2020
contact your agricultural extension near you and you should go in person with fotos, in my experience.. before you take drastic, unrecoverable action. best. I have noticed pine trees dying in my neighborhood also, this is in FWB, okaloosa
January 2, 2020
Sorry Michele- The class was held 2 years ago. No field trials were needed. Good Luck!
January 2, 2020
Have over 20 acres of crop...treefern, leatherleaf, magnolias...time to learn spray and take care of fields myself. No one takes care of the fields like they should or like they are theirs when they lease. We have over 10 acres do you need a place to plant petunias to grow for your event? I am trying to keep land from being developed
December 29, 2019
Thanks for saying that I should take action quickly since I'm seeing that sawdust is appearing on my pine tree. For some unknown reason, this has been happening since last week, and I'm not sure what the cause is. I guess I should hire a tree removal service to cut down my tree before my other trees get affected with whatever it is experiencing.
December 2, 2019
You're right Raymond, it will take some time before they produce again. Just remember, the seeds that you plant will not be identical to the mother plant as they are the offspring (f1 generation). In other words, they will have half of the mother's genetics and half of the father's genetics (pollen). You are in essence self pollinating the mother's flowers with her own pollen. So you may get differing characteristics. If there is a nearby macadamia tree, theoretically, you could get the pollen from that tree. Let me know how they turn out! It's fun to see other people's success! Karen
November 26, 2019
I have a Macadamia tree in my back garden in Melbourne. It had its first crop this year. I have taken about 20 of the nuts and planted them. So far, I have 6 seedlings. Growing from seeds seems to be rather easy, but waiting the years till they produce will take some patience.
November 4, 2019
Hi Art- As of now, there are not Mac processors. Most of the markets are to local or regional specialty candy suppliers, wholesale raw and other alternative outlets. Asia has a high demand but they need it in quantity of tons. Sorry, you are the first to the table and will have to lay the groundwork. Let me know how its progressing and if I can be of any further help- Much success! Karen
November 2, 2019
I have a 20 acre Mac farm in Arcadia in its 7th year with production. Are there any Mac nut processors in Florida?
September 19, 2019
Lisa- be patient. I may take up to 5-7 years before flowers appear and fruit begins to set. Macadamias can self-pollinate, although varieties vary from being totally self-compatible to being almost self-sterile. Bees are major pollinators in pollination. You did not mention when the tree was pruned. This can impact flower production significantly. The later the tree is pruned in the spring (i.e. May), the higher reduction of flower raceme production you will have. The key is to prune the tree for shape in late winter-early spring to allow for more flower set and fruit. Let's wait just a little bit longer for the tree.
September 19, 2019
Karen I bought a tree at the St Petersburg Saturday morning market from a Macadamia grower here in Fl- (whose name I can’t remember)about 4 years ago. The tree is quite tall now (>10feet) and looks healthy but I have never seen any flowers. Would it bloom in the spring? Do I have a dud?
September 16, 2019
Hi Shirley- I'm so sorry to hear of your problems with the pest. One thing that needs to be established is a positive ID on the insect. You mention no-see'ums and biting gnats, yet these are different pests. What you'll need to do is to collect these insects and take them to your nearest extension office or to the UF Insect ID laboratory on Campus in Gainesville, FL. Here is an educational document explaining how to collect and send it in. There will be a minimal cost but when it comes to your health, you need the facts and can't guess at the pest. Fungal gnats (Bradysia spp. (Insecta: Diptera: Sciaridae) feed on fungi and decaying organic matter and are not considered economic problems. Keep soil moisture levels low and dry soil out if needed. •Store potting soil dry, and in sealed containers. •Hydrated lime can be added to some soils to eliminate fungal food sources •Yellow sticky cards can be used to trap adults. Biting Midges, No-See'ums, Culicoides spp. (Insecta: diptera: Ceratopogonidae) are associated with air movement. They are sensitive to temperature and animals with a high body temperature. Increase air movement, burning repellent candles, coils, and torches containing citronella can reduce fly activity but may not provide complete protection. Because most biting flies often rest in vegetation, pruning shrubs and mowing weedy areas may promote localized environmental air flow reducing numbers of biting flies entering the area.Burning repellent candles, coils, and torches containing citronella or other biting fly deterrents will sometimes help. If this doesn't work, you'll need to apply a space spray. Be sure to remove all people and pets from the dwelling, turn off air handling systems, and keep the room vacant and follow the label directions as indicated by the manufacturer. Crack-and-crevice treatments can be used to treat areas around doors and windows where biting flies can enter the house. For more information, copy and paste this link in your browser. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/IG/IG08100.pdf Good Luck! Karen
September 6, 2019
Am having trouble with biting grats(no see ums) In our house.Tried many ways the natural way of getting rid of them. To no aval. So have gone to sprays thru many professions and much spent money.Still have the gnats. Have many items that have blue lights. not to mention other things attached ,CO2, fans ets.. .Have gone to the many Drs. for the bites that have caused some health problems. Have treated the out side, no.standing water in our yard. Would like to know howto get rid of the bitting gnats once in for all. Going on to 4 months with this problem.Please help.us. Shirley and Jack Hook
July 30, 2019
They have been found in a few pockets in North Central Florida and are fairly hardy tolerating temperatures as low as 25 F, however, flowers and young fruit will damage at 28 F and reduce production.
July 30, 2019
Karen, Is Pomona Park ,Fl to far north to grow macadamia's?
July 12, 2019
You probably didn't do anything. Pine trees are easily stressed. Often, the stress shows several years after the initial events. High winds, excess moisture, excess dryness of the last several years stressed many pines. Internal canopy thinning can also result lack of sunlight as the outer-canopy is absorbing the light.
May 27, 2019
Amazel basil is downy mildew resistances and a great tasty leaves with a strong aroma and flavor.
May 6, 2019
My pine tree of 25 years...is starting to think out in the inside...dead branches...what did I do
April 9, 2019
Well-written, informative, and useful! Thanks, Leslie!
March 24, 2019
Purchased Cape Coral house (80 X 120 lot) 1999. 3 slash pines on western border + 1 stump from previous cut down. All 3 apparently healthy until late 2018 when needles started turning brown. Now as of mid-March 2019 all are obviously dead. These are large mature trees. No chemicals have been used on them or on nearby grass. Some near surface roots have beeb exposed due to had raking soil to remove stone debris, etc. I have not observed insect infestation, but I am not sure of what to look for. Other large native Florida trees are present and appear to be healthy. Is a cause of death evident, or have they seen their day and these symptoms are normal?
March 24, 2019
This is a great read! Very nicely written, Leslie. I love the tone.
February 19, 2019
I have treated with Bayer Tree and Shrub for borer insects, I have increase watering too.
February 19, 2019
my long needle pine is loosing branches , browning also. Is still alive. What is wrong? I have treated with Bayer Tree and Shrub for borer insects,
February 11, 2019
This year's Master Gardener Plant Faire will be on Saturday, April 6, 2019. I will update the blog -- thanks!
February 9, 2019
When is the 2019 volusia county master gardener plant sale
December 6, 2018
Its a baby pine tree. I just noticed the leaves are brown and some white stuff is on it so what can I do
November 1, 2018
Jason- None of the varieties of Macadamia nuts are poisonous to humans when raw. There has been a report that if dogs eat too many raw nuts that it could compromise their health. Hope this helps!
November 1, 2018
Peter- use caution when adding manure. You already have well drained soil which is what Macadamia like. You did not mention what type of manure you are adding. This makes a big difference. Manure from fowl is very hot which may burn your plants as opposed to plant based compost. Start off slowly not exceeding 1 part manure to 3 parts soil. keep the soil well drained and moist during establishment. Hope this helps!
October 28, 2018
Have Wanamala Macadamia cutting going into 3rd spring 2019. Transplanting to bigger 6 gal. pot. will Miracle Grow mixed w/ composted manure be a good growing medium? Live Cape Canaveral 200 yds from ocean & macadamia protected from wind.
October 19, 2018
Are all varieties of macadamia nut trees able to eat raw or are some poisonous?
September 16, 2018
We farm macadamias and I have a commercial macadamia nursery in South Africa. I think there is major potential for macadamia as an alternative crop in Florida and the Southwest. Please contact me for more information.
August 2, 2018
The 4-H Office number is 386-822-5778. I urge you to contact the Putnam 4-H Office too - they have quite a program along the same lines!
August 2, 2018
My name is Todd Crowley, and am the Farm to School Coordinator in Putnam county. Im extremely interested in learning more about your citrus tree project and how it relates to out F2S initiative. Is there a time we could chat by email or by phone, and possibly see the citrus curriculum you offer the 4-H students?
June 23, 2018
We don't have a list of local Florida-Friendly Landscaping "approved" landscaping companies but the UF/IFAS Florida-Friendly Landscaping website is a great resource for information on FFL. Also, here are a few specifics documents you might find helpful: FAQ about Florida-Friendly Landscaping Adopting a Florida-Friendly Landscape Landscape Elements for a Florida-Friendly Yard Design Strategies for a Sustainable Home Landscape Please call the Volusia County Master Gardener hotline, (386) 822-5778, weekdays, if you would like to discuss this further with a Master Gardener. You may also find further, related information using EDIS, the Electronic Data Information Source of UF/IFAS Extension.
June 20, 2018
I am interested in getting a list of Florida-Friendly Landscaping companies in the Volusia County area (Deland/Deltona/Debary would be closest). I am purchasing an 1 acre lot in Debary and would like the new construction homestead to have a wildflower/meadow like lawn (i.e. no St. Augustine grass). The house will be built in 2019. P.S. the home builder will be Gallery Homes of Deland.
June 11, 2018
We will also have free seed catalogues to give away to the first 50 people in attendance! I hope to see you there! Joe
June 11, 2018
This has always been a popular class! Please be sure to register ahead of time to secure a seat! We will be raffling off a compost maker ($109.00 value) and a vegetable gardening book. We will also have light refreshments. There will be a Q. and A. session in our edible landscape with UF/IFAS Extension, Volusia County Master Gardeners! It will be fun and informative! Please call 386-822-5778 to register!
May 16, 2018
Mark- There are a few limited sources for seeds and plants in Florida. This is not a complete list nor does UF endorse any particular nursery. Best of Luck! Macadamia integrifolia (smooth shell) Macadamia tetraphylla (rough shell) Anderson Macadamia Arboretum Nursery & Grove, LLC 102 Wall Street Redington Shores, FL 33708 George Anderson Owner (727) 392-8822 (727) 643-1424 Elson’s Exotics, Inc 4077 W. Ridgeview Drive Davie, FL 33330 (954)473-0831 Excalibur Fruit Trees 5200 Fearnley Road Lake Worth, FL 33467 (561) 969-6988 ONLINE ONLY Fast Growing Trees Nursery www.fast-growingtrees.com 2621 Old Nation Road Fort Mill, SC 29715 Florida Macadamia Growers Cooperative – FMGC FaceBook www.flmgcestore.com Polk County, FL Florida Nursery Mart 10900 Griffin Road Cooper City, FL 33328 (954) 689-0791 flnurserymart@gmail.com www.flnurserymart.com Fruit Scapes, LLC 12870 Stringfellow Road Bokeelia, FL 33922 (239) 218-2848 (239) 462-2341 TopTropicals.com 13890 Orange River Blvd. Ft. Myers, FL 33905 Telephone: (866) 897-7957 (239) 689-5745 (239) 690-2666 Louie’s Nursery & Garden 16310 Porter Avenue Riverside, CA 92504 Telephone: (877) 568-4425 www.louiesnursery.com Australian Macadamia Society Link to Macadamia tree nurseries in Australia http://australian-macadamias.org/industry/industry-contacts/nurseries Alloway Macadamia Bundaberg, Australia
May 15, 2018
I live in Port Orange. Where can I bye Macadamia nut seedlings near here? Thanks.
April 10, 2018
Commercially, we are not quite sure. It is such a new crop to our state that we have no real data yet. It grows at a 22 degree latitude and as low as 36 degree latitude. Gainesville falls right in the middle. Make sure that the site has well drained soil and lots of sunlight. It is a BIG tree. Perhaps you'll be the first macadamia explorer and test it out. Good Luck! Let us know-
April 10, 2018
Are the needles still on the tree or have they dropped off? How long have the trees been under the water?
April 6, 2018
I will consider attending this interesting outdoor seminar on growing macadamia nut trees. Do you know if these trees can be successfully grown as far north as Gainesville, Florida? Thanks. Rick
April 2, 2018
The lake in our yard has risen considerably since Irma and young pine trees (about 12 feet tall) are under a foot of water and have turned brown. Is there any hope or should we use a winch and pull them out? Any other ideas?
March 1, 2018
Thank you for the comment! The longer I am an agent the more I treasure my livestock kids!
February 19, 2018
Pre-registration and payment is REQUIRED! Please register and pay by Friday, June 8th! No exceptions!
February 8, 2018
All so true! 4-H has provided my children with a foundation in managing, finance, marketing and other critical “life skills”. It has given them self-confidence, self-esteem, critical thinking skills all the while fostering a heart of giving through community service projects and counseling opportunities. It has given them a voice in public speaking contests and confidence while running for school/club governing offices. Livestock, “backbone and heart” but so so much more.
February 3, 2018
Great, looking forward to it!
February 3, 2018
Is there a secret to growing basil in central Florida..... I live in Deltona. I purchase plants but it's not long and they have black on their leaves and then shortly they are dead.
February 3, 2018
I had mine in a pot and used it every year as a Xmas tree until it got too big to bring in. I always got lots of compliments on it.
February 1, 2018
They are beautiful little trees. Good to know. Nice Blog. Thank you Roxanne !
January 31, 2018
This is great! Very informative and an easy ready!
January 30, 2018
Thank you for the great idea and tips!
January 30, 2018
Great blog! Full of useful info!!
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