An invasive thrips species has started to wreak havoc in Florida. The insect was first detected in Florida in 2020 but has since spread significantly across the state. What once was isolated to greenhouses now has begun to harm a wide range of plants including those in residential landscapes. The insect, Thrips parvispinus — commonly known as…
There are now opportunities for homeowners to utilize robotic mowers to manage different types of turfgrass. Learn the basics of a robotic mower with UF IFAS Extension Escambia County as Master Gardener Volunteer Greg demonstrates basic installation and function. by Beth BollesSource: UF/IFAS Pest Alert Note: All images and contents are the property of…
Originally published in the Tallahassee Democrat By Rachel Mathes Birdfeeders are great additions to the wildlife-friendly landscape, but they can be a hassle to keep clean and filled up, especially in our brutal summer months. In addition to all the fuss of keeping up a birdfeeder, they do not provide full nutrition for wild birds.…
Cold damage to palm trees in West Central Florida is a common issue that can occur when temperatures drop below freezing. The most common type of palm tree in our area is the native sabal palm, also known as the “cabbage palm,” which is known for its tolerance to cold temperatures. Cabbage palms are rarely…
What was the 2023 Seminole County Farm Tour? On the morning of Friday, March 24, 2023, we embarked on our journey of learning about local agriculture and food systems. Two busses started at the UF/IFAS Seminole County Extension Office and then toured around to five of our local farms. Throughout the day, we heard directly from…
By Daniel Gonzalez (UF/IFAS Extension Palm Beach County) and Chelsea Jones (UF/IFAS Extension Marion County)
Together we are going to embark on a mental health blogging series, discussing each of the 4-H Essential Elements and how to foster such with youth, youth volunteers, and our fellow educators. The four 4-H Essential Elements are…
Recap of April First Friday with Florida First Detector
In April, we started to learn about wood boring insects. Some of the most common types of wood boring insects are beetles with many species in the families Buprestidae, Cerambycidae, and Curculionidae. In this month’s webinar, we focused on invasive jewel beetles (Buprestidae) and longhorned beetles…
Spring means snakes. If you are quiet and observant, you can see the natural world around us speaking Spring. The birds are chirping more energetically, the butterflies are eagerly seeking nectar and host plants, the wildflowers (weeds to some), are popping up all over. If you are really lucky, you may see a snake! Most…
I heard about a dangerous rose disease. How would I know if my roses have gotten it? The worst rose disease is called Rose Rosette Disease, which is a virus that is spread by the eriophyid mite. Though we have plenty of those unusual 4- Rose specimens infected with rose rosette virus. Photo taken…
National Strawberry Month is celebrated during the month of May. It’s a good time to think about eating, growing, picking, serving and storing delicious and sweet strawberries. Strawberries are grown year round and Florida grows a lot of berries. https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/lawn-and-garden/growing-strawberries/ It is great fun to go to a you-pick farm and pick your own basketful of berries, choose some at…