Tag: pests

Broccoli – Just About Ready to PickIf you like broccoli as I do, you should keep in mind that it is a very easy-to-grow vegetable that needs to go into your garden at this time of year.  I have already started my seeds for the coming season and am preparing the soil for planting.  Classified…

      White titi trees, easily identified by the white racemes hanging from the branches. Photo credit: Carrie Stevenson, UF IFAS Extension When I first started learning to identify wetland species in the field, titi (pronounced “tye-tye”) trees were among the first I could consistently recognize. They grow all over the place, so I had plenty of…

When it comes to dealing with insect pests of tropical fruit, try not to think “What do I spray?” Instead, use a balanced approach to pest control that will use pesticides only when completely necessary. The most common pests for tropical fruit are scale, weevils, fruit flies, and whitefly with thrips, spider mites and aphids…

The mulberry (Morus spp.) is a fruiting tree rich in flavor, with nutritious foliage, a myriad of medicinal and culinary value, and a fascinating history. With numerous species, hybrids, and endless cultivars to choose from—a mulberry may be the perfect fit for your Florida-friendly landscape. In addition to jackfruit, breadfruit, and figs, mulberries belong to the family…

Introduction: Although not commonly produced in Florida, Brussels sprouts (Brassica Oleracea L) are increasingly grown commercially in Columbia County, FL. In the USA, Brussels sprout production occurs primarily in California and New York but can be grown over the winter months in Florida. Optimal temperature range for Brussels sprouts is about 58 – 60°F. Planting date…

On July 19, 2023 the Southwest Small Farmer Network held the summer meeting at FruitScapes, LLC on Pine Island in Lee County, FL. The focus of the meeting was to highlight the resiliency of producers on Pine Island which was devastated by Hurricane Ian, connect producers with each other, and share UF/IFAS Extension and Florida State Agricultural Response…

Now is the time to plan winter supplementation strategies.  Conserved forages (hay, haylage, stockpiled forages) are usually the foundation of a winter feeding plan.  Whether harvesting your own hay/haylage or purchasing, understanding the nutritive value of your forages can be used to adjust the amount and composition of supplements that will need to be added…

For many of us keeping a work life balance is a challenge. How many of you find yourself bringing work “home with you”? It is bad enough to not be able to turn the work phone off, or turn our brains away from work, but what else is coming home with you? If you work…

Why does soil pH matter? The foundation of every successful garden starts with quality soil. Whether you’re growing vegetables, flowers, turf, shrubs, or any other plant matter, you must be aware of your soil pH and understand that it can change periodically. Soil pH influences the plant’s ability to consume nutrients. When soil pH is…