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Weed of the Month: Spotted Spurge

August 25, 2023
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…

The Buzz about Bees in Florida

August 25, 2023
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…

World Mosquito Day

August 24, 2023
Did you know that World Mosquito Day is observed annually on August 20th to celebrate Sir Ronald Ross’s discovery of how the malaria parasite (Plasmodium) is transmitted from female Anopheles mosquitos to humans? According to the CDC, in 2020 alone, there were about 241 million malaria cases worldwide, of which 627,000 people died. While malaria is common…

Making PPE Exciting!

August 24, 2023
Hello Avid Readers! Last week I spoke at an extension event for peanut growers in north Florida. The growers needed to get CEUs in Core material. For those of you who aren’t in the know, this basically means they needed to learn about pesticide safety. As this topic can be dry I did my best…

The Antioxidant Power in Herbs and Spices

August 23, 2023
Herbs are the leaves of plants, and spices are the roots, bark, and seeds (anything that is not a leaf). Adding herbs and spices into cooking goes beyond adding flavor; they add surprising protective health benefits.  Herbs and spices are some of the most anti-inflammatory foods because they are packed with antioxidants! For instance,…

Shining a spotlight on exterior lighting

August 23, 2023
Do you wake up to find calling cards left under your porch light by frogs and lizards? We can all agree that cleaning up the mess every morning is certainly annoying. Well, there’s an easy and inexpensive way to end the nightly poo-party without the use of pesticides, or any other product for that matter,…

Video: Turfgrass Attracting Pollinators?

August 22, 2023
Centipedegrass is a low maintenance turfgrass for North Florida landscapes. Scientists from Georgia also found an added benefit when the grass is in flower. Learn about the specific insects found visiting the flowers of centipedegrass. by Beth BollesSource: UF/IFAS Pest Alert Note: All images and contents are the property of UF/IFAS.   

Five ways to help honey bees

August 22, 2023
National Honey Bee Day is August 19, and there are many ways to support the powerhouse pollinators. “Honey bees are critically important to our food supply,” said Amy Vu, UF/IFAS Extension state specialized agent in the Honey Bee Research and Extension Laboratory (HBREL). The lab celebrates five years on the Gainesville campus this month. “Here in Florida,…

Take-all Root Rot Fungicide Options and Their Modes of Action

August 21, 2023
Compiled by Mara L. Johnson, UF/IFAS Extension, Pinellas County Horticulture Program Assistant Take-all Root Rot damage, UF/IFAS photoUsing fungicide to combat Take-all Root Rot? If a fungicide that you are using to combat the fungus becomes ineffective, it is possible that the fungus has developed a resistance to the way the fungicide works. The way fungicides…

Some Herbicides Are Killing Trees

August 21, 2023
Beware of weed killers containing MSM! If you are routinely spraying herbicides to kill weeds around trees and shrubs, beware.  Many products containing the weed-killer glyphosate also contain a chemical called metsulfuron-methyl: “Over the past few years, there have been numerous inquiries regarding damage to ornamental plants growing near turfgrass areas that have been treated with…

Growing Summer Vegetables in Hernando County- Seminole Pumpkin

August 18, 2023
Growing Seminole Pumpkin in West Central Florida: Seminole Pumpkin is a native crop to Florida and is well-suited for the warm and humid climate of West Central Florida. Known for its resilience and rich flavor, this versatile winter squash can be a wonderful addition to your garden. Here are some key tips for successfully growing…

Growing Summer Vegetables in Hernando County

August 18, 2023
What Can I Grow During The Summer? Summer in West Central Florida offers an excellent opportunity for gardeners to cultivate a variety of heat-loving vegetables. The problem is that many traditional vegetable crops do not grow well here in Central Florida like they do in northern states. With the right knowledge and techniques, you can…
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