UF/IFAS Experts Outline Hurricane Prep, Recovery for Citrus Growers
Like all farmers, Florida’s citrus producers must prepare for the worst before a hurricane strikes. That’s why Fernando Alferez co-wrote a manual that gives growers tips on how to get their citrus farm ready for – and recover from — the potentially dangerous storms. It’s not just coastal counties, where ]the storms hit first, that […]
New Institute to Address Food Production and Sustainability at Global Scale
The University of Florida has announced the creation of the UF/IFAS Food Systems Institute, which will bring together the university’s top researchers to find solutions to feeding the world in a way that is economically and environmentally sustainable. The new Food Systems Institute will be led by Adegbola Adesogan, Ph.D., professor of ruminant nutrition in […]
Plants That May Help Repel Bugs Like Mosquitoes, Flies and Spiders
When it comes to the inevitable face-off between you and bugs, keeping them away from your immediate vicinity is probably a top priority as they thrive during the warmer months. While there are always options like pesticides and bug traps, it certainly doesn’t hurt to explore potential natural solutions before trying harsher chemicals (even though […]
Genetic Study of Arabian Horses Challenges Some Common Beliefs About the Ancient Breed
A study involving Arabian horses from 12 countries found that some populations maintained a larger degree of genetic diversity and that the breed did not contribute genetically to the modern-day Thoroughbred, contrary to popular thought. An international team of scientists was led by the University of Florida‘s Samantha Brooks, a UF/IFAS assistant professor of animal […]
Getting More Bang Out of Blackberries
Growing blackberries commercially in Florida is a relatively new endeavor. But interest in the crop continues to increase. Those who do produce blackberries in the Sunshine State are looking to increase their yield. UF/IFAS researchers are on the case but know the goal to grow bigger and better fruit is not easily attainable. Similar to […]
What’s Growing On: UF/IFAS SEEDIT Program
North Central Florida is quilt made of different industries that go beyond citrus and other commercial crops. The coronavirus pandemic took a hit on the economy, slowing down research for various industries such as livestock and aquaculture. To bring enterprising industries, the University of Florida has launched a new state program called SEEDIT. Research for […]
Florida Peanut Federation Donates Plot Planter to UF/IFAS
The Florida Peanut Federation (FPF) holds fast to its mission “strive to improve and develop a thriving and sustainable peanut industry, ensuring all of Florida’s peanut producers and allied partners the greatest opportunity to be successful.” Through a research partnership with the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), the FPF is […]
Emerging Ag Enterprises in Florida Set for Growth
There is no shortage of commodities produced by Florida. There are literally hundreds. But, there’s always room for more, right? A new UF/IFAS grant program is set to provide ample backing in funds and know-how to further research and education of emerging agricultural enterprises in the state. Titled “Support for Emerging Enterprise Development Integration Teams” […]
Cloud Technology Helps Citrus Farmers Count
In his quest to find the right drone and other artificial intelligence to help ensure citrus growers get an accurate count of their crop, Yiannis Ampatzidis and his research team have developed a system known as Agroview. The technology saves farmers time and money and helps them accurately count their trees, which is important for […]
UF/IFAS Researchers Try to Reduce Fruit Drop, Increase Yield in Valencia, Hamlin Oranges
UF/IFAS citrus scientists Tripti Vashisth and Fernando Alferez are trying to reduce the amount of fruit that drops from Hamlin and Valencia trees prior to harvest. If fruit drops, growers can’t harvest it, and that leads to losses for farmers and less fruit at the market for consumers. Normally, about 10 to 15 percent of […]