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.
Potato growers work with retailers to keep potatoes from turning green on grocery stores shelves. Green potato skin, caused by UV light exposure, looks unattractive, it changes the flavor of the potato and can potentially be an indication of a dangerous toxin, solanine. To learn more, read the article by Carole Miller on Growing Produce, Why It's Time to Fall in Love with Potatoes.
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.
One of the top oyster farmers in North Florida, shares about the process of oyster farming. To learn more, read Florida Insider article, written by Melissa P, The Great Oyster Revival of Florida.
As the 2021 Florida Strawberry Festival kicks off in Plant City, local strawberry farmers share how the cooler temperatures have helped produce a deliciously, sweet berry. To learn more, visit the WTSP article, written by Jenny Dean, Strawberry farmers say this year's weather helped create 'practically perfect berries.
Apps and satellite image analysis are common tools used in the agriculture industry. To learn how technology is positively impacting Florida avocado production, view the Southeast Ag Net article, Decision-Support Tool Using HiPerGator May Help Manage Devastating Avocado Disease.
The false codling moth is a concern for the agriculture industry, specifically for citrus producers. To learn more about pest prevention and current regulations, read the Citrus Industry News article, Florida Citrus Packers: South Africa Imports Pose Risk.
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.
Looking to diversity your plant offerings? The 'Miracle Fruit' could be a perfect addition to businesses in South Florida. Known for its ability to modify taste in foods, this unique fruit is becoming increasingly popular. To learn more, read the UF/IFAS article, "Could the Miracle Fruit be for South Florida? New study uncovers data showing how bountiful it can grow in the subtropics."
A new blueberry variety, named 'Sentinel,' is a high quality fruit that produces a high yield. To learn more about Florida's newest blueberry variety and the UF/IFAS blueberry breeding program, read Southeast Ag Net's article, "New Blueberry Variety Honors Benefactor and UF Alumnus Alto Straughn."
