Soil and Water Science

A Close-up Look at Screens for Excluding Asian Citrus Psyllids

Timothy A. Ebert, Arnold W. Schumann, Laura Waldo, Daniel Stanton, and Philippe Rolshausen

Building a physical barrier around citrus trees or groves can prevent contact between trees and Asian citrus psyllids, the carrier of the pathogen that causes huanglongbing. This new 4-page article is for growers, scientists, and industries that are interested in this approach to protect citrus from huanglongbing. Written by Timothy A. Ebert, Arnold W. Schumann, Laura Waldo, Daniel Stanton, and Philippe Rolshausen, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Soil and Water Sciences.

A Comparison of Planting Techniques for Submerged Aquatic Vegetation

Laura Reynolds, Carrie Reinhardt Adams, Enrique Latimer, Charles W. Martin, Christine Rohal, and Jodi Slater

A UF/IFAS numbered peer reviewed Fact Sheet. Published by Natural resources operations and Invasive Species

A Preliminary Survey of Mycotoxins Identified from Florida Bahiagrass Pastures

Hui-Ling (Sunny) Liao, Ko-Hsuan Chen, Florencia Marcon, Robert (Robbie) Jones, Brittany Justesen, Joseph Walter, Ann Blount, Cheryl Mackowiak, Doug Mayo, and Marcelo Wallau

The beef cattle ranchers in Florida reported some health issues related to cattle grazing on warm-season grass pastures, such as bahiagrass and bermudagrass. The illness was not attributable to nutritional imbalances, or other possible causes. The focus then turned to what the animals were consuming, and forages were implicated. In general, the forages in Florida are just fine, however, sometimes under certain circumstances the fungi that live in our forages may produce “secondary metabolites”. All the forage harbor fungi. Some fungi are good in that they aid our forages to grow better, helping to mine nutrients from the soil or atmosphere. Sometimes they are not so good, like when high levels of ergotized seed occur in the seed heads of bahiagrass.

A Response to Frequently Asked Questions about the 2018 Algae Blooms in Lake Okeechobee, the Caloosahatchee, and St. Lucie Estuaries

Lisa Krimsky, Ed Phlips, and Karl Havens

A UF/IFAS numbered peer reviewed Fact Sheet for General Public audience(s). in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Natural resources operations and Invasive Species

A Summary of N, P, and K Research with Squash in Florida

George Hochmuth and Ed Hanlon

A Summary of N, P, and K Research with Sweet Corn in Florida

George Hochmuth and Ed Hanlon

A Summary of N, P, and K Research with Watermelon in Florida

George Hochmuth and Ed Hanlon

SL-325, a 23-page illustrated fact sheet by George Hochmuth and Ed Hanlon, summarizes the historical Florida research literature on nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilization of watermelon.

Agricultural Soils of Florida

Rao Mylavarapu, Willie Harris, and George Hochmuth

Alternaria Leaf and Pod Spot of Snap Bean in Florida

Shouan Zhang, Aaron J. Palmateer, Ken Pernezny, and R. T. McMillan, Jr.

An Indicator for Risk of Phosphorus Loss from Sandy Soils

Vimala D. Nair, Willie G. Harris, and Debolina Chakraborty

An Introduction to Biochars and Their Uses in Agriculture

Rao Mylavarapu, Vimala Nair, and Kelly Morgan

An Overview of Key Soil Nitrogen Cycling Transformations

Clayton J. Nevins, Sarah L. Strauss, and Patrick Inglett

A UF/IFAS numbered peer reviewed Fact Sheet. in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: ==Water==

An Overview of Nutrient Budgets for Use in Nutrient Management Planning

Amy L. Shober, George Hochmuth, and Christine Wiese

Anaerobic Digesters for Manure Management at Livestock Operations

Rishi Prasad, George Hochmuth, and Ann C. Wilkie

Approaches to Consider for Site-Specific Field Mapping

Lakesh K. Sharma and Yiannis Ampatzidis

This publication discusses the general concept of site-specific farming, i.e., dividing a farm into several smaller management parcels instead of considering the whole farm as a single unit. This publication provides information on methods available that could be incorporated into the farming system for smart decision-making, for example, varying nutrient applications. The publication also discusses Normalized Difference Vegetative Index (NDVI) maps, Global Positioning System (GPS) units, yield monitors, and electrical conductivity maps.

Assessing Nitrate Leaching in Crop Production through the Application of Crop Simulation Models with Experimental Data from Florida

Lakesh K. Sharma, Rishabh Gupta, Lincoln Zotarelli, and Gerrit Hoogenboom

Lysimeters are often used in research concerning nutrient leachate all over the globe. However, due to factors such as Florida's high water table (a condition when the water level stays relatively close to the soil surface) in some production areas, the assessment and collection of leachate are not feasible. Another obstacle to the use of lysimeters in field research is the fact that several types of irrigation methods are used in Florida (e.g., subirrigation with seepage or drain-tile, overhead, microsprinkler, and drip irrigation) requiring different strategies for leachate assessment. This publication focuses on the use of crop models as alternatives to estimate nitrate leaching from cropping systems at a field scale. This publication's target audience is growers, extension agents, crop consultants, representatives of the fertilizer industry, state and local agencies, students, instructors, researchers, and interested Florida citizens.

Bagasse: A Potential Organic Soil Amendment Used in Sugarcane Production

Jehangir H. Bhadha, Nan Xu, Raju Khatiwada, Stewart Swanson, and Chris LaBorde

Basics of Quantifying N Sources and Fates on the University of Florida Campus

Jiexuan Luo and George Hochmuth

Best Management Practices for Irrigating Lawns and Urban Green Spaces with Reclaimed Water

Mary G. Lusk and Don Rainey

The purpose of this article is to present some sound recommendations, known as best management practices (BMPs), for irrigating lawns and other green spaces with reclaimed water (RW). These BMPs are for homeowners and landscaping professionals who use RW to irrigate home lawns or other irrigated green spaces in urban landscapes. Written by Mary G. Lusk and Don Rainey and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Soil and Water Sciences; 4 pages.

Best Management Practices in the Everglades Agricultural Area: Controlling Particulate Phosphorus and Canal Sediments

S. H. Daroub, T. A. Lang, O. A. Diaz, and M. Chen

Best Management Practices in the Everglades Agricultural Area: Fertilizer Application Control

T. A. Lang, S. H. Daroub, O. A. Diaz, and M. Chen

This EDIS document is one in a series of publications that provide current implementation guidelines for commonly employed BMPs that target the reduction of P loads leaving EAA farms via drainage water. This document is SL-232, a fact sheet of the Soil and Water Science Department, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date January 2006.

Best Management Practices in the Everglades Agricultural Area: Fertilizer Spill Prevention

S. H. Daroub, T. A. Lang, R. W. Rice, O. A. Diaz, and M. Chen

Best Management Practices in the Everglades Agricultural Area: Soil Testing

S. H. Daroub, T. A. Lang, O. A. Diaz, and M. Chen

Biodiversity as a Tool to Boost Seagrass Restoration Success

C. Spengler, Jamila Roth, and Laura K. Reynolds

This publication reviews the importance of seagrass, major threats to seagrass, and ways in which seagrass species diversity and genetic diversity can positively impact seagrass management and restoration. Written by C. Spengler, Jamila Roth, and Laura K. Reynolds, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences, March 2024.

Biofuel: Concepts and Considerations

Tanumoy Bera, Kanika S. Inglett, and Ann C. Wilkie

Biological Soil Crusts in Agroecosystems

Kira Sorochkina, Clayton J. Nevins, Patrick W. Inglett, and Sarah L. Strauss

Biological soil crusts, or biocrusts, are communities of microorganisms that form on the surface of soils, often found in deserts around the world. However, they can also occur in agroecosystems and potentially contribute nutrients to plants growing nearby. This publication is for those interested in learning more about what biocrusts look like and how they can impact agricultural soils.  

Blossom-End Rot in Bell Pepper: Causes and Prevention

George J. Hochmuth and Robert C. Hochmuth

Boron (B) and Chlorine (Cl) for Citrus Trees

Mongi Zekri and Tom Obreza

Calcareous Soils In Miami-Dade County

Yuncong Li

Calcium (Ca) and Sulfur (S) for Citrus Trees

Mongi Zekri and Tom Obreza

This publication is part of a series about understanding nutrient requirements for citrus trees. For the rest of the series, visit https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_series_citrus_tree_nutrients.

Calculating Recommended Fertilizer Rates for Vegetables Grown in Raised-Bed, Mulched Cultural Systems

George Hochmuth and Edward Hanlon

Carbon Sequestration in Grazing Land Ecosystems

Maria Silveira, Ed Hanlon, Mariana Azenha, and Hiran M. da Silva

Citrus Cold Weather Protection and Irrigation Scheduling Tools Using Florida Automated Weather Network (FAWN) Data

John L. Jackson, Kelly Morgan, and William R. Lusher

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet.

Citrus Fertilizer Management on Calcareous Soils

Thomas A. Obreza, Mongi Zekri, and David V. Calvert

Citrus Irrigation Management

Davie Kadyampakeni, Kelly Morgan, Mongi Zekri, Rhuanito Ferrarezi, Arnold Schumann, and Thomas Obreza

The chapter on irrigation management of citrus is largely taken from guidelines provided in SL253 on trees prior to Huanglongbing (HLB) prevalent conditions. A section has been added to cover recent findings on water use of trees affected by HLB and the impact this would have on the irrigation management considerations. This document is SL446, one of a series of the Soil and Water Sciences Department, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date September 2017.

Citrus Soil pH Testing Procedures

Kelly Morgan

Climate Change and Florida: Frequently Asked Questions

Joshua Papacek, Ashley Smyth, Holly Abeels, and Alicia Betancourt

A UF/IFAS numbered peer reviewed Fact Sheet. Published by Climate

Climate Change: Effects on Salinity in Florida’s Estuaries and Responses of Oysters, Seagrass, and Other Animal and Plant Life

Ashley R. Smyth, H. Dail Laughinghouse, Laura K. Reynolds, Edward V. Camp, and Karl Havens

Florida’s economically important estuaries could be heavily impacted by sea-level rise and altered river flow, both caused by climate change. The resulting higher salinity, or saltiness of the water, could harm plants and animals, alter fish, and bird habitat, and reduce the capacity of estuaries to provide such important services as seafood production and the protection of shorelines from erosion. This publication contains information for stakeholders, students, scientists, and environmental agencies interested in understanding how changes in salinity impact Florida’s estuaries.

Collecting a Poultry Litter Sample for Analysis

George J. Hochmuth and Justin T. Jones

Commercial Sod Test Form

Rao S. Mylavarapu, William d'Angelo, and Nancy Wilkinson

This document is the Commercial Sod Test Form (SL393), one of the Soil Testing Information Sheets (Submission Forms) used by the UF/IFAS Extension Soil Testing Laboratory. The sheet provides details about how to collect samples and testing fees. 

Commercial Vegetable Fertilization Principles

G. J. Hochmuth and E. A. Hanlon

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet for Commercial audience(s).

Common Pollutants in Stormwater Runoff and Actions that Homeowners can Take to Reduce Stormwater Pollution

Anthony Halcyon, Mary G. Lusk, and Ann C. Wilkie

This publication explains what happens when stormwater runoff enters constructed environments, its impacts on water bodies, and how individuals can take steps to lower their own stormwater runoff footprint. This guide can increase awareness of ways to reduce each person's role in water quality impairment by stormwater pollution. This publication is intended primarily for urban residential readers and does not focus on agricultural runoff. 

Composting Horse Manure on Small Farms: Managing Your Compost

Erika Sakers, Mary G. Lusk, Carissa Wickens, and Caitlin Bainum

This new 5-page publication of the UF/IFAS Department of Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences is the second in a two-part series on composting horse manure on small farms. The purpose of this article is to share some how-to tips on building and managing manure compost bins. This article is intended for noncommercial horse owners. Written by Erika Sakers, Mary G. Lusk, Carissa Wickens, and Caitlin Bainum.

Computer Tools for Diagnosing Citrus Leaf Symptoms (Part 2): Smartphone Apps for Expert Diagnosis of Citrus Leaf Symptoms

Arnold Schumann, Laura Waldo, Perseveranca Mungofa, and Chris Oswalt

A UF/IFAS numbered peer reviewed Fact Sheet. in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Plant Systems

Conducting a Blue Dye Demonstration to Teach Irrigation and Nutrient Management Principles in a Residential Landscape

George Hochmuth, Laurie Trenholm, Esen Momol, Don Rainey, Claire Lewis, and Brian Niemann

Container Media Test Form

Rao S. Mylavarapu, William d'Angelo, and Nancy Wilkinson

This document is the Container Media Test Form (SL134), one of the Soil Testing Information Sheets (Submission Forms) used by the UF/IFAS Extension Soil Testing Laboratory. The sheet provides details about how to collect samples and testing fees. 

Contaminantes en el Medio Ambiente Urbano: Los Perfluoroalquilos

Ignacio A. Rodriguez-Jorquera, Gurpal S. Toor, y Alexander J. Reisinger

Contaminants in the Urban Environment: Microplastics

Maia McGuire, Yun-Ya Yang, Ignacio A. Rodriguez-Jorquera, Gurpal S. Toor, and Alexander J. Reisinger

Contaminants in the Urban Environment: Perfluoroalkyl Substances

Ignacio A. Rodriguez-Jorquera, Gurpal S. Toor, and Alexander J. Reisinger

This publication is part of a series titled Contaminants in the Urban Environment. This series is intended to give state and local government officials, soil scientists, consulting engineers, Extension agents, and citizens (1) a basic understanding of the occurrence, toxic effects, and source of various contaminants in the environment and (2) guidance on ways to protect human and environmental health.

Contaminants in the Urban Environment: Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCPs)—Part 1

Yun-Ya Yang, Gurpal S. Toor, and Alexander J. Reisinger

This publication is part of a series titled Contaminants in the Urban Environment. This series is intended to give state and local government officials, soil scientists, consulting engineers, extension agents, and citizens (1) a basic understanding of the occurrence, toxic effects, and source of various contaminants in the environment and (2) guidance on ways to protect human and environmental health.

Contaminants in the Urban Environment: Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCPs)—Part 2

Yun-Ya Yang, Gurpal S. Toor, and Alexander J. Reisinger

This publication is part of a series titled Contaminants in the Urban Environment. This series is intended to give State and local government officials, soil scientists, consulting engineers, Extension agents, and citizens (1) a basic understanding of the occurrence, toxic effects, and source of various contaminants in the environment and (2) guidance on ways to protect human and environmental health.

Contribución de las prácticas de producción de cultivos y las condiciones climáticas a la seguridad microbiológica de los tomates y pimientos

Massimiliano Marvasi, Max Teplitski, y George Hochmuth

Cost Share Programs for Florida's Agricultural Producers and Landowners

Rao Mylavarapu, Kelley Hines, and Tatiana Borisova

Cover Crop Benefits for South Florida Commercial Vegetable Producers

Q. Wang, Y. Li, E. A. Hanlon, W. Klassen, T. Olczyk, and I. V. Ezenwa

This document describes the use of major cover crops grown in southern Florida. The intent of this document is to identify promising cover crops adaptable to Florida's climate. Identified cover crops must also contribute to nutrient conservation and improve soil organic matter by incorporation of cover crop biomass. This document also includes discussion of other aspects of cover crop use in the vegetable production systems of south Florida.

Crop Water Use and Irrigation Scheduling Guide for North Florida

Vivek Sharma, Charles Barrett, De Broughton, and Thomas Obreza

Current and Emerging Protocols for Carbon Measurement in Agricultural Soils

Suraj Melkani, Noel Manirakiza, Shirley M. Baker, and Jehangir H. Bhadha

Soils have the capacity to function as a sink of atmospheric carbon dioxide and are crucial for climate regulation. Soil have the potential to store around 1.5 to 2.4 trillion metric tons of C in the soil globally. They contain large C pools that can store three times more C than the atmosphere and four times more than plants. These massive C sinks have the potential to reverse soil degradation, mitigate climate change, and enhance food security. It is therefore essential to monitor the C cycle by accurately measuring the amount of soil C in agricultural fields. This can help in developing sustainable management practices that can minimize C emissions and sequester C into the soil from the atmosphere. This publication describes the various current and emerging protocols that can be used to measure soil C.

D.I.Y. FunGuide: Grow Your Own Oyster Mushrooms at Home

Hui-Ling Liao, Chih-Ming Hsu, Khalid Hameed, and Van T. Cotter

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet for Homeowner audience(s). in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Plant Systems

Dealing With High Fertilizer Costs in Forage Production Systems

M.L. Silveira, J. M. Vendramini, P. J. Hogue and J. F. Selph

Dealing with Iron and Other Micro-Irrigation Plugging Problems

Tom Obreza, Ed Hanlon, and Mongi Zekri

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet.

Determination of Carbonate Concentrations in Calcareous Soils with Common Vinegar Test

Qiang Zhu, Yuncong Li, Guodong Liu, and Monica Ozores-Hampton

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Integrated Pest Management

Developing a Soil Test Extractant: The Correlation and Calibration Processes

George Hochmuth, Rao Mylavarapu, and Ed Hanlon

Developing a Web-based Agro-Application

Lakesh K. Sharma, Rishabh Khanna, and Hardeep Singh

This publication discusses the general concept of web and mobile application development and provides knowledge and stepwise instructions to develop an application in agricultural systems. The primary audience is researchers, extension personnel, consultants, and students who are interested in developing and using web and mobile applications for decision-making.

Development of Bahiagrass Fertilization Recommendations: 1990–2008

Rao Mylavarapu, E. A. Hanlon, C. L. Mackowiak, and M. L. Silveira

Diagnostic Nutrient Testing for Commercial Citrus in Florida

Rao Mylavarapu, Kelley Hines and Thomas Obreza

Dissolved Organic Matter in Wetlands

Alan L. Wright and K. R. Reddy

Drinking Water Source Protection in the Tampa Bay Region: A Guide for Government Officials

Amy L. Shober and Alexander J. Reisinger

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet.

Drinking Water Source Protection in the Tampa Bay Region: A Guide for Homeowners

Amy L. Shober and Alexander J. Reisinger

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet for Homeowner audience(s).

Drinking-Water Treatment Residuals to Control Phosphorus in Soils

Jonathan D. Judy, Maria L. Silveira, Sampson Agyin-Birikorang, and George A. O'Connor

Ecosystem Services Provided by Living Shorelines

Ashley R. Smyth, Laura K. Reynolds, Savanna C. Barry, Natalie C. Stephens, Joshua T. Patterson, and Edward V. Camp

The purpose of this new 6-page document is to explain the types of ecosystem services provided by different types of living shorelines and how to quantify these values. The target audience for this document is local governments and municipalities that make decisions about developing, conserving, and restoring living shorelines; state management agencies that oversee broader scale habitat management; and finally, homeowners who will be immediately affected by any of these decisions. Written by Ashley R. Smyth, Laura K. Reynolds, Savanna C. Barry, Natalie C. Stephens, Joshua T. Patterson, and Edward V. Camp and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences.

Effects of Urban Fertilizer Ordinances on Water Quality

Alexander J. Reisinger, Michael D. Dukes, Basil V. Iannone III, J. Bryan Unruh, and Samuel J. Smidt

Originating from environmental or humans sources, too much nitrogen (N) and/or phosphorus (P) in water bodies can degrade water quality. In an attempt to reduce the contribution of human sources of N and P to local waters, urban fertilizer ordinances have been adopted in at least 35 counties in Florida and 97 additional Florida municipalities. Despite this work, the efficacy of fertilizer ordinances are debated by end users. The purpose of this publication is to summarize a peer-reviewed, scientific article that investigated impacts of fertilizer on long-term water quality trends in Florida lakes (Smidt et al. 2022) and is intended to be used by UF/IFAS Extension faculty and/or regulatory officials considering adopting or modifying an urban fertilizer ordinance. We encourage green industry professionals and concerned community members to share the effectiveness of fertilizer ordinances.

Engaging Youth in the Environment through the Florida Land Judging Program

Amy L. Shober, L. Rex Ellis, Edward A. Hanlon, and Christine Wiese

Environmental Consequences of Water Withdrawals and Drainage of Wetlands

Alan L. Wright

Everglades Agricultural Area Soil Subsidence and Sustainability

Jehangir H. Bhadha, Alan L. Wright, and George H. Snyder

Extraction of Soil Nutrients Using Mehlich-3 Reagent for Acid-Mineral Soils of Florida

Rao Mylavarapu, Tom Obreza, Kelly Morgan, George Hochmuth, Vimala Nair, and Alan Wright

Fate of Phosphorus in Everglades Agricultrual Soils after Fertilizer Application

Alan L. Wright, Edward A. Hanlon, and J. Mabry McCray

Fertility Considerations for Sod Production

T. W. Shaddox

Fertilizer Experimentation, Data Analyses, and Interpretation for Developing Fertilization Recommendations—Examples with Vegetable Crop Research

George Hochmuth, Ed Hanlon, and Allen Overman

Fertilizer Recommendation Philosophies

George Hochmuth, Rao Mylavarapu, and Ed Hanlon

Field Symptoms of Boron Toxicity and Deficiency in Florida Peanuts

Rao S. Mylavarapu, Jacque. W. Breman, William D. Thomas, and Henry E. Jowers

Flatwoods Citrus Best Management Practice: Minimizing Direct Deposition of Pesticides into Waterways

P. Chris Wilson, Brian Boman, Ed Stover, Janet Bargar, and Jack Hebb

Flatwoods Citrus Best Management Practice: Riser-Board Structures

Chris Wilson, Liberta Scotto, Brian Boman, and Tim Gaver

Flatwoods Citrus Best Management Practice: Soil Stabilization

P. Chris Wilson, Liberta Scotto, Brian Boman, and Tim Gaver

Florida Biosolids: Management and Land Application Rules

John Hallas, Cheryl L. Mackowiak, and Ann C. Wilkie

Biosolids are the liquid, semisolid, and solid fractions of the treated waste stream from a domestic wastewater treatment facility (WWTF). On August 29, 2010, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) formally adopted its rule for the management of wastewater biosolids, Chapter 62-640, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C. 2010). This 6-page fact sheet from the Florida Biosolids series covers applicability of the rule, the intent of Chapter 62-640, F.A.C., land application requirements, biosolids storage, cumulative application limits, setback distances, pH, soil depth, runoff prevention, additional application site restrictions for Class B biosolids, NMPs, and special geographic areas.

Florida Biosolids: Rules for Biosolids Classes

John Hallas, Ann C. Wilkie, and Cheryl L. Mackowiak

Biosolids are the liquid, semisolid, and solid fractions of the treated waste stream from a domestic waste water treatment facility. This 5-page fact sheet, part of the Florida Biosolids series, provides an overview of biosolids, biosolids classes, pathogen reduction, vector attraction reduction, and metal contaminants, and also discusses the purpose, applicability, and history of Chapter 62-640, Florida Administrative Code.

General Recommendations for Fertilization of Turfgrasses on Florida Soils

T. W. Shaddox

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet for Commercial and Homeowner audience(s).

Greenhouse Gas Emissions in the Everglades: The Role of Hydrologic Conditions

Alan L. Wright and K. R. Reddy

Hemp Fertilization: Current Knowledge, Gaps and Efforts in Florida: A 2020 Report

Rao Mylavarapu, Zachary Brym, Luis Monserrate, and Michael J. Mulvaney

Household Drinking Water Testing for Public and Private Water Supplies

Yilin Zhuang, Andrea Albertin, and Arthur G. Hornsby

Drinking water comes from a variety of sources including public water systems, private wells, or bottled water. While public water systems are monitored under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act, private wells are not regulated. Private well users are responsible for the management and protection of their wells. This EDIS publication is for Florida homeowners who are interested in learning more about home water testing. It also serves as a guideline for well owners to understand household drinking water testing and what tests would be appropriate for the situation.

How Do Oysters Remove Nitrogen?

Heather Donnelly, Ashley Smyth, Shirley Baker, Laura Reynolds, and Angela Collins

Nitrogen is natural and necessary, yet nitrogen levels above natural levels can cause algal blooms and eutrophication of coastal systems. The purpose of this document is to describe how oysters and oyster reefs remove nitrogen. This new 7-page publication of the UF/IFAS Department of Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences is intended for policymakers, environmental organizations, and coastal residents who want to know about oysters' role in improving water quality through nitrogen removal. Written by Heather Donnelly, Ashley Smyth, Shirley Baker, Laura Reynolds, and Angela Collins.

How to Calculate a Partial Nitrogen Mass Budget for Potato

Rishi Prasad and George Hochmuth

How to Characterize Soil Variability in Florida Citrus Groves as It Relates to Tree Growth and Yield

Kirandeep K. Mann, Arnold W. Schumann, Thomas A. Obreza, Willie G. Harris, and Jerry B. Sartain

How to Check and Maintain Your Septic System Before and Immediately After Hurricanes

Mary G. Lusk

The purpose of this guide is to provide tips for how to check, maintain, and use your septic system in the days leading up to a hurricane and immediately after any associated flooding. This guide is intended for residents who have a residential septic system connected to their home. Written by Mary G. Lusk, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences, October 2024.

How to Manage Yard Wastes to Protect Surface Water Resources

Mary G. Lusk

Several of the Florida-Friendly Landscaping(TM) (FFL) principles provide guidance on how to reduce the amount of nutrients applied to and mobilized from urban landscapes to water resources. Principle # 7: Recycle Yard Waste and Principle # 9: Protect the Waterfront are two examples from this program that can be important steps towards protecting Florida’s water. The purpose of this publication is to provide guidance on specific actions that you can take to help reduce nutrient inputs to our water, with a focus on the FFL Principles  # 7 and # 9. This publication is intended primarily for urban residents who manage their own landscapes and may also be used by landscaping professionals, homeowner’s associations, and municipal decision makers.

How to Properly Dispose of Unwanted Medications

Alexander J. Reisinger

Impact of Phosphorus on Water Quality

Rao Mylavarapu

Impact of Tomato Varieties and Maturity State on Susceptibility of Tomatoes to Salmonella

Massimiliano Marvasi, George Hochmuth, and Max Teplitski

Impacto de las variedades de tomate y su estado de madurez en la susceptibilidad a Salmonella

Massimiliano Marvasi, Max Teplitski, y George Hochmuth

Improving Biological Nitrogen Fixation to Improve Soil Nutrient Status

Lakesh K. Sharma, Ayush K. Sharma, Andrew Ogram, and Hardeep Singh

The chemical reduction of atmospheric nitrogen (N2) by hydrogen for incorporation into plant tissue is known as N fixation. Along with the carbon, N has a role in maintaining the optimum source and sink ratio, which ensures crop growth and biological yield. N is available in great concentration (˜80%) in the atmosphere in N2 form, but plants cannot absorb or uptake N in N2 form. N fertilizers are available in straight, mixed, and nano and liquid fertilizers. These approaches are not enough, though, to maximize N use efficiency to 100%. A significant amount of nitrogen is still lost in air and water bodies, leading to multiple negative impacts to the environment. Therefore, N fixation through the crop itself is a practical approach to reduce the use of synthetic nitrogen and enhance the sustainability of the food production systems. This publication discusses various methods for BNF and its importance to the sustainability of crop production.

Increasing Efficiency and Reducing Costs of Citrus Nutritional Programs

Mongi Zekri, Thomas Obreza, and Arnold Schumann

Integrating Rhizoma Perennial Peanut into Bahiagrass Pastures Enhances Beneficial Soil Microbes in Florida

Hui-Ling Liao and Adesuwa S. Erhunmwunse

Soil microorganisms, including soil bacteria and fungi, play important roles in pasture systems. They contribute to enhanced soil structure, nutrient cycling, and plant resilience. This publication discusses effects of bahiagrass and rhizoma perennial peanut integration on soil microbial diversity. Written by Hui-Ling Liao and Adesuwa S. Erhunmwunse, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Agronomy, July 2024.