Tag

UF/IFAS

Field-Testing Natural Compounds To Fight HLB

Field tests of numerous antibacterial products and plant-derived compounds are underway with the goal of eliminating the HLB-causing bacteria in citrus and reversing plant damage to restore tree health.

Gardeners Can Help UF Tomato Breeding Program With Growth, Flavor Data

Normally, University of Florida scientists such as Harry Klee gauge the taste and aroma of their new tomatoes by letting volunteers test them at the UF Sensory Lab in Gainesville. But now, people from across the globe who grow tomatoes in their gardens can serve as citizen scientists and send flavor and growing data to Klee.

Can Scientists Speed up Growth of Citrus Trees?

The ability to kick-start the growing process of plants is a superpower that has a universal appeal for producers of all crops. A new University of Florida research project aims to improve citrus plant performance and productivity by providing breeders with traits to enhance the photosynthesis of cultivated crops.

UF Researchers Develop Corn That Can Weather Warming Planet

Climate change will affect many agricultural crops, and field corn is likely no exception. Field corn, the starchy cousin of sweet corn, is a globally important cereal grain used in livestock feed and other products. And it has an Achilles heel: unseasonably warm nights.

Heat Brings Out Antioxidants, Increases Red in Tomatoes

Turn up the heat, and get more nutrition from your tomato, University of Florida researchers say. Furthermore, when you buy a tomato, it will be about as red as it can be, thanks to the UF/IFAS methods deployed for the study.

Algae Used As Superfood for Space Travel

Dr. Andrew Mark Settles, UF/IFAS horticultural science professor, is taking part in research designed to grow spirulina, a type of algae that hopes to provide food for long term space travel.

Vanilla DNA Mystery Uncovered by UF/IFAS Research

University of Florida scientists have developed a tool to unlock the genetic traits that pinpoint the vanilla variety that produces an abundance of beans, grows efficiently and sustainably, with consumer-approved taste.