Although not a panacea for lawncare issues, Bermudagrass is a hardy turf option, tough enough to handle lots of foot traffic and horsing around (no pun intended). Because of its tough-enough reputation, Bermudagrass is the species of choice for many sports facilities including golf-courses and ball-fields. It also has the advantage of being able to…
In this session of the “Let’s Talk About Ag BMPs” series, we met with Dr. Vivek Sharma from the University of Florida Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department to discuss Irrigation Best Management Practices. We got to pick Dr. Sharma’s brain on the definition of Irrigation BMPs, the differences between Traditional and Best Management Irrigation Practices,…
Lettuce growing in a hydroponic system. Photo by Jonael Bosques, UF/IFAS Extension, Hardee County.
Each year we have less agricultural land available, making it more difficult for farmers to acquire land to grow crops due to urban development increases in Florida.
From 2010 to 2019, Florida’s population grew 14.2% to become the third most inhabited state…
Calycanthus floridus, Sweetshrub
Sweetshrub (Calycanthus floridus) is a great selection for moist locations. The flowers develop in midspring and have maroon to brown, strap-like petals, and a fragrance like that of strawberries. Historically, the petals were used as a sachet to freshen dresser drawers. Occasionally, they are used in potpourris. The leaves and fruits release…
When you hear pumpkins you may think of fall, Halloween, and cooler weather. To enjoy all the goodies that pumpkins give us like pumpkin spice latte or pumpkin pie it first begins with a seed. I personally enjoy pumpkin spice latte. Regardless of what you chose to use your pumpkin for, it takes around 100…
By now, you may have seen the recent article stating alarming news about the beloved monarch butterfly population. Many gardeners in Florida enjoy planting for butterflies, observing the unique lifecycle of butterflies, and adding colorful flowers to their gardens. Milkweed is a critical plant for monarchs as it is their food source. If you have grown milkweed,…
Turmeric plant in bloom.
Have you ever had a foodborne illness? Would you know if you had?
Foodborne illness symptoms can mimic the flu, with upset stomach, fever and diarrhea as common issues. So, it’s important to note that we are all vulnerable and anyone can be a victim of a food pathogen. In fact, the…
Turmeric plant in bloom.
Are you tired of mowing your yard, applying fertilizers and fighting turfgrass pests and diseases?
Many Central Florida residents are seeking more sustainable, low maintenance yards. Lawns planted with turfgrass can be a lot of maintenance, with high inputs of fertilizer and water. Instead of a traditional turfgrass lawn, consider replacing all…
Turmeric plant in bloom.
There is a passionflower for every Central Florida yard; they attract butterflies, some have showy flowers, and some types even have edible fruit! Most passionflowers are vines. Compact species can be planted in small yards to take advantage of vertical growing space, while other species that tend to sprawl can be used…
Turmeric plant in bloom.
There is a passionflower for every Central Florida yard; they attract butterflies, some have showy flowers, and some types even have edible fruit! Most passionflowers are vines. Compact species can be planted in small yards to take advantage of vertical growing space, while other species that tend to sprawl can be used…