Composting with worms – also known as “vermicomposting” – is the process of using worms to produce rich compost from kitchen wastes. One pound of worms can turn 65 pounds of garbage into garden compost in 100 days. It is the way to go if you live in an apartment or if you generate mostly…
For a deep dive into Vegetable Gardening in Central Florida, watch our YouTube of the webinar recording.
If you are getting started with growing your own vegetables in Florida, choose a site that is full sun with access to water. Gardens can be grown in a variety of types of garden beds including in-ground, raised…
As we relish the flavors of locally grown strawberries, their sweet aroma and vibrant hues evoke the essence of sunshine captured in each bite. In the wake of Valentine’s Day, where strawberries often take center stage, let’s dive into the art of preserving these delicate berries, exploring freezing techniques that can be enjoyed long after…
Anyone working the land in Florida is aware just how sandy the soil is throughout the panhandle and peninsula. Even the official state soil is Myakka fine sand. So, it is not surprising the first book solely focused on sandy soils includes authors from the UF/IFAS department of soil, water, and ecosystem sciences (SWES). With their keen knowledge…
Recap of March 2024 First Friday with Florida First Detector
Fruit crops are very important for Florida’s agriculture industry. The state is a top producer for many tree fruits, berries, and melons. Despite challenges associated with citrus greening in Florida, citrus still remains one of Florida’s most important crops. In this month’s First Friday, we…
With the turn of the calendar into a new year comes the pressure to create and stick to a resolution. The topics of conservation and environmental impact are top of mind for many this time of year. Here are 5 easy environmentally friendly modifications you can implement in your landscape. These changes require less than 5 minutes…
If you’ve ever spent a summer in Florida, you’re likely familiar with the loud, eerie buzz of the cicada. That buzz is actually the males’ mating call, and by their standards, the louder it is, the better. This sound is produced by their tymbals, a pair of drum-like structures on either side of the abdomen. …
Large Red Kapok near Sarasota’s Ringling MuseumAround Valentine’s Day in tropical regions around the world, nature offers a breathtaking spectacle in the form of the Red Kapok tree (scientifically known as Bombax ceiba) exploding into vibrant springtime blooms. This majestic tree, nonnative but Florida-Friendly, has a towering presence and is cultural significance. One of the largest…
People do many things to newly planted trees, such as improper pruning and fertilization, that interfere with tree growth and defenses.
Trees strive to maintain a balance between the above ground portion (crown) and the below ground portion (roots). The crown (leaves, buds and supporting branches) produce energy. The roots take in essential elements and water.…
You’ve probably seen crape myrtle trees pruned to look like a coat rack. Hopefully, you’re not guilty of doing this. The term “crape murder” was coined to describe this drastic topping of crape myrtles.
Properly selected and correctly placed crape myrtles need little pruning.
A crape myrtle that requires routine pruning to force it to fit in…