It’s the end of summer and it’s hot–and not just hot, but hot and humid! Now is a good time to keep your garden activities to a minimum. If you work in your landscape addressing the few chores that might be necessary, always remember to STAY SAFE! Work primarily in the morning or late afternoon hours.…
Recap of September 2023 First Friday with Florida First Detector
For our September First Fridays with Florida First Detector, we revisited some basics about invasive species and their impacts on Florida. An invasive species is a non-native species that causes some kind of damage to humans. This can be economic losses in agriculture or horticulture,…
There are a number of controllable factors that combine to create a tree healthy enough to fruit. A healthy tree must have a strong root system, adequate light, proper pruning, proper nutrition, the right age, proper pollination, no mechanical damage, been planted properly, and adequate irrigation. The question, “Why won’t my tree fruit?” is one…
Keeping it Fresh: How long is food still good after a power outage?
Whether a rat knocked out your freezer plug (that was actually the subject of the last phone call I received at my job), or the wrath of a hurricane leaves you powerless, situations arise where the electricity supply to your freezer or…
Living in the beautiful coastal community of Flagler County, Florida, comes with its fair share of perks, but it also means being prepared for the potential impact of hurricanes. As hurricane season approaches, it’s crucial to not only secure your home but also to take measures to protect your landscape. By planning ahead and following…
You might say this is a strange title – “meet the barnacle” – because everyone knows what a barnacle is… or do they? As a marine science instructor, I gave my students what is called a lab practical. This is a test where you move around the room and answer questions about different creatures preserved…
You might say this is a strange title – “meet the barnacle” – because everyone knows what a barnacle is… or do they? As a marine science instructor, I gave my students what is called a lab practical. This is a test where you move around the room and answer questions about different creatures preserved…
You might say this is a strange title – “meet the barnacle” – because everyone knows what a barnacle is… or do they? As a marine science instructor, I gave my students what is called a lab practical. This is a test where you move around the room and answer questions about different creatures preserved…
Welcome back to Volunteering In Nature, a blog series that explores the wonderful world of volunteering for UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County’s ecology and natural resources program. So far, we have shared all about the ecology and natural resources program and volunteer opportunities, and a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the important contributions that volunteers have made to our…
A typical stormwater pond collects water from several acres in a neighborhood. Photo credit: Michelle Diller
Managing stormwater runoff is an ongoing issue for neighborhoods and municipalities nationwide. Preventing impacts of potential flooding is usually the most immediate concern. But more long-lasting are the legacies of water quality decline left by the contaminants that wash…
Spotted spurge is a low-growing broad leaf weed, native to North America. This summer annual is not picky about where it grows – lawns, cracks in sidewalks, nurseries, gardens, athletic fields, and nursery containers. This plant produces copious amounts of sticky seeds that are easily spread by animals or lawn equipment. These seeds…
Bees, those tiny yet industrious creatures, have been silently playing a crucial role in sustaining our economy and environment. The mesmerizing dance of honeybees, gathering nectar from vibrant flowers, not only produces the golden elixir known as honey but also supports the pollination of countless crops that feed us. However, as we witness the alarming…
