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Marvelous Mulberries

September 14, 2023
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…

Farming Guide: Florida Brussels Sprouts

September 13, 2023
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…

Recap: Summer SWFL Small Farmer Network Meeting on Pine Island

September 13, 2023
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…

Test Forages

September 12, 2023
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…

Pesticide Hygiene: Striking the Work/Home Balance

September 12, 2023
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?

September 11, 2023
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…

Foolproof Palm Care: Dwarf Palmetto

September 11, 2023
Credit: David A. Fox, UF/IFASThe Dwarf Palmetto (Sabal minor) is a native palm which can grow in North-, Central-, and South- Florida. It is also known as Blue-Stem Palmetto due to its blueish-green fronds. As with other palms in the Sabal genus, the Dwarf Palmetto provides a nectar and food source  for pollinators and birds respectively. Planting Site The…

Weekly “What is it?”: Climate Smart Floridians

September 8, 2023
Several years ago, a group of Extension Agents and specialists created a series of classes called “Sustainable Floridians.” The course was designed to teach new and long-time residents about ways to conserve natural resources, energy, and water. Participants were encouraged to get involved in local community decision-making about environmental issues. The course had a module…

Celebrating National Cooking Day: The Magic of Cooking at Home

September 8, 2023
September 25th marks National Cooking Day, a perfect time to reflect on the joys and benefits of home cooking. While only some might be culinary enthusiasts, many of us have embraced our inner chef more than we would have expected. I understand that setting aside time to cook can be challenging, especially with demanding work…

Foolproof Palm Care: Scrub Palmetto

September 7, 2023
One of a handful of native palms, the Scrub Palmetto (Sabal etonia) is a smaller and less common relative to the ubiquitous Saw Palmetto. It is slow-growing and like the Saw Palmetto, produces berries which provide food for wildlife. Its flowers are also a nectar source for butterflies.Planting Site The Scrub Palmetto prefers full sun but will…

Post-Hurricane Landscaping Tips: Check for ‘Widow Makers’

September 7, 2023
      As Sarasota County UF/IFAS Extension Horticulture Agent Ashley Ellis and FFL Community Educator Forest Hecker were leaving Evacuation Center duty after Hurricane Idalia, they spotted this newly formed ‘widow maker’. Which is a branch, broken off a tree, that is suspended in a tree until it falls much later. Hurricanes can wreak havoc…
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