The Brooksville Plant Materials Center is working on research to build soil health for Florida farmers and ranchers. The practice of no-till farming and using cover crops is a national movement that reduces the use of fertilizer and pesticides. The USDA National Resources Conservation Service Florida features a News Release on soil health research at the center in Brooksville. Visit the News Release article to learn more: Study Helps Florida...
As the cost of fertilizer, animal feed, and fuel continue to rise many cow/calf producers are searching for ways to increase revenue to off-set the rising costs. Agriculture and Natural Resources UF IFAS extension agent Mark Mauldin in Washington County has developed a series that shares ways to increase revenue in cow/calf operations. Upcoming articles include Sire Selection - Using genetics to Increase Revenue and Maximizing Revenue Through...
2021 has been a better year for Florida Blueberry Growers. Some growers credit the rebound to the use of agricultural technological innovations and mechanized harvesters. Florida growers share how the use of harvesting technology has allowed for more Florida blueberries to reach more U.S. markets this growing season in the article “2021 Harvest Up 4.9 Million Pounds From Last Year,” written by Paul Catala posted by Central Florida Ag News...
Florida commercial strawberry growers report an increase in fungal disease outbreaks. Neopestalotiopsis, also referred to as Pestalotpsis, is a fungal pathogen that has been present throughout the years, but reports indicate cases have increased in Florida strawberry production in recent years. The fungus causes poor establishment and stunting after transplanting, eventually causing the fruit to rot. To learn more about the fungus that is...
Growing conditions in Florida are favorable for olives. The past ten years continue to show a viable market for olive production. To learn more visit the Central Florida AgNews article written by Paul Catala, Florida Growers Court a New Alternative Crop.
Florida rancher discusses the hot topic issue of climate change and environment issues. To learn more visit the Southeast AgNet Radio Network article courtesy of the Florida Cattle Ranchers and rancher Jim Strickland, Florida Rancher Jim Strickland: Combat Climate Change Through Agriculture.
Florida grows nearly half of all fresh tomatoes produced in the US with counties like Pinellas, Hillsborough, Polk, Manatee, and Hardee have the longest growing season for fresh market tomatoes. To learn more about Florida's tomato production and the history of tomatoes in Florida, read the Farm Credit of Central Florida's sponsored article from Central Florida AgNews by Erika Aldrich, You Say Tomato, We Say Florida's Finest.
In 2020, two different variety trials were planted in Santa Rosa County and both trials produced very different yields. To learn more about the trial read the UF IFAS Extension article written by Libbie Johnson, Santa Rosa County 2020 Cotton Variety Test Results.
Tree canopies are not just for the birds! Learn how UF/IFAS researchers put a value on urban trees in the UF/IFAS Blog, Florida urban tree canopy gives oxygen, shade — saves $4 billion a year.
Did you know that 54% of Florida's agricultural acreage is enrolled in the FDACS Best Management Practices (BMP) program? To learn more about Florida's efforts to control water quality and recent changes to the program, please read Growing Produce's article titled "New Water Law Will Tighten BMP Rules in Florida."