A lawn by any other name… The “lawn” is a cult phenomenon in the United States. Somewhere along the line, we associated a monoculture of a single grass species with the ultimate achievement in landscaping. Unfortunately, this mindset has become entrenched in the collective psyche. Even when it has become impractical and unsustainable, many refuse…
Developed by UF/IFAS Extension regional specialized water resources agents Yilin Zhuang and Andrea Albertin If you obtain drinking water from your own well, you alone are responsible for assuring that it is safe. For this reason, routine testing for a few of the most common contaminants is highly recommended. Even if you currently have a…
In recent years, many of us have been spending more time indoors and less time outdoors. With busy schedules, it can be difficult to prioritize spending time outside and in nature. But, did you know that spending more time outside can actually benefit your health and improve your quality of life? Today we are going…
Developed by UF/IFAS Extension regional specialized water resources agents Yilin Zhuang and Andrea Albertin During floods or heavy rains, the soil around a septic tank and drainfield can get waterlogged, and wastewater from the septic system can’t drain through the soil. Help avoid major problems with your system by following these guidelines when flooding occurs:…
The Chinese tallow, or popcorn tree, is found throughout home and wooded landscapes in northwest Florida. Photo credit: Carrie Stevenson, UF IFAS Extension
You know those things you’ve done that seemed like a great idea at the time? But maybe in hindsight were poor choices? Well, our landscapes are full of bad ideas…
About Lakeside Ranch STA On an early Saturday morning in April, I went on an amazing birding excursion at Lakeside Ranch Stormwater Treatment Area (STA). South Florida Water Management District manages the approximately 2,700 acre site which is available for visitors on foot or on a bicycle. Its main function is to improve water quality flowing into…
Wild Weeds – Weed of the Month Elliott’s Lovegrass Eragrostis elliottii Photo by Mary Kleim, Florida Wildflower FoundationElliott’s Lovegrass is a perennial grass found in Florida flatwoods, sandhills, prairies, and disturbed sites. Lovegrass is a bunch grass but is not often noticed until the delicate flowering structures appear. There are so many flowers on this…
This time of the year we’re getting a lot of phone calls and e-mails about mango fruit drop. Many homeowners want to know if the fruit drop they see around their mango trees is normal. And the short answer is; yes, it’s normal. Mango fruit drop near a Carrie mangoUsually this time of the year, mangos…
Since 2007 Florida Sea Grant has worked with partners, and trained volunteers, to assess the status of the diamondback terrapin in the Florida panhandle. This small emydid turtle is the only one that lives in brackish water and prefers salt marshes. Very little is known about this turtle in this part of the country, and…
While common in northern Europe, little buntings are unheard of in Florida. This one spent a month in Pensacola. Photo courtesy of Monica McManus.Sometimes, if we are paying close attention, the most extraordinary things can happen in our own backyards. Monica, a friend and neighbor of mine, has always been an animal lover. She routinely…
Back again, with more in our “Age Friendly” series. Last time, we poked around the “other” food group and beverages in our daily diet. This time, we’re going to discuss snacking. Many (most?) of us enjoy snacking throughout the day. And, believe it or not, that can be a good thing… if you make the…
Spigelia marilandica Common Name: Indian pink. Flower closeup. Image Credit: Matthew Orwat, UF / IFAS ExtensionThis week I have been noticing some of the beautiful perennials blooming at the Jackson County Extension office, and one struck me as especially beautiful. Indian Pink or Woodland Pinkroot, it turns out, (Spigelia marilandica), is native to several counties…
