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In fisheries management, setting the acceptable biological catch (ABC) is vital to ensure sustainable harvest without overexploiting fish stocks. The ABC determines how much fish can be harvested each year, and is estimated using a stock assessment model that brings together multiple data sources to estimate fish abundance and productivity.  However, in the Gulf of [&#8230;]

<figure id="attachment_4501" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4501" style="width: 540px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" class="wp-image-4501 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="Photo by scanning electron microscope of Karenia brevis aka red tide. Courtesy of FWC" width="540" height="394" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/K.-brevis-aka-red-tide-FWC-photo.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4501" class="wp-caption-text">Photo taken from a scanning electron microscope of Karenia brevis aka red tide. Photo By: FWC. * Banner photo: A red tide killed snook washed ashore in Southwest Florida. Photo By: Chris O&#8217;Meara AP.</figcaption></figure>
In fisheries management, setting the acceptable biological catch (ABC) is vital to ensure sustainable harvest without overexploiting fish stocks. The ABC determines how much fish can be harvested each year, and is estimated using a stock assessment model that brings together multiple data sources to estimate fish abundance and productivity.  However, in the Gulf of Mexico, red tides introduce a lot of uncertainty into this process. Ongoing red tide blooms can leave managers guessing about their impacts on fish stocks when trying to set the ABC. This uncertainty about red tide impacts can lead to lower catch levels for commercial and recreational fishers, resulting in a lower ABC and less opportunities to bring fish home. To learn more about the ins and outs of  fisheries management in Florida, check out the third education module in the FREE <a href="https://ifas-seagrant.catalog.instructure.com/?filters%5B%5D=free">Florida Friendly Angler</a> online program!
<figure id="attachment_4493" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4493" style="width: 354px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-4493 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="354" height="186" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/The-OFL-ABC-ACL-ACT-framework.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4493" class="wp-caption-text">Framework of harvest limits used in fisheries management</figcaption></figure>
Red tides affect fish populations and ecosystems in several ways.  First, the brevetoxin released by red tide affects the central nervous system of fish and can result in large fish kills. Moreover, there are multiple sublethal and indirect effects of red tide such as low oxygen, impacts to benthic habitat, movement, and food web dynamics. Red tide could possibly alter the amount of bait/forage available for our prized game fish to eat and negatively impact the habitat where they live. In other words, a gag grouper that is exposed to red tide or poor water quality will have less food to eat, slower growth, and be less likely to survive, reproduce, and maybe one day be caught.  Combined with the fact that red tide doesn’t occur in the same place every time, with the same severity or duration makes estimating red tide impacts on reef fish species tough!
<figure id="attachment_4497" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4497" style="width: 407px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-4497 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="407" height="305" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/Sheepshead1.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4497" class="wp-caption-text">A sheepshead washed ashore from a red tide bloom in Southwest Florida. Photo By: Bryan Fluech.</figcaption></figure>
To tackle this difficult task of estimating red tide impacts on fish stocks and helping make better informed management decisions, comes a new project that aims to a estimate and incorporating red tide mortality into the ABC determination for Gulf of Mexico (GoM) reef fishes. The “<a href="https://restoreactscienceprogram.noaa.gov/projects/red-tide-and-reef-fish-modeling">Operationalizing the West Florida Shelf ecosystem model and application to red tides, stock assessment, and catch advice for Gulf of Mexico reef fish</a>” project was funded by the NOAA Restore Science Program.  The project team is developing satellite products to map red tides that will inform an ecosystem model designed to account for factors like the severity and duration of red tide blooms, their lethal and sublethal impact on fish and other marine fauna, and ecosystem dynamics.
<figure id="attachment_4499" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4499" style="width: 583px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-4499 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="583" height="232" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/Fig-2.-K.-brevis-bloom-frequency-maps-from-integration-of-water-sample-data-and-MODIS-satellite-observations.-Figure-adapted-from-Hu-et-al.-2022.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4499" class="wp-caption-text">Bloom frequency maps from integration of water sample data and MODIS satellite observations. Figure adapted from Hu et al. (2022).</figcaption></figure>
In previous work, the ecosystem model was used to inform the ABC for gag grouper, resulting in a longer fishing season because the impacts on ongoing blooms were estimated to be lower than anticipated.  The project team will refine the model&#8217;s inputs and extend its application to additional GoM reef fishes over the next five years. Furthermore, it will develop improved satellite-derived red tide maps and update biogeochemical models to estimate nutrient and oxygen dynamics. These model improvements will enable more precise estimation of red tide mortality rates on various reef fish species undergoing stock assessments. The project outcomes will be presented at workshops and incorporated into stock assessments, ensuring that the ABC reflects current red tide conditions. By operationalizing this modeling framework, fisheries managers can conduct routine red tide assessments, enhancing the sustainability of Gulf fisheries!
<h2></h2>
<h2>Where you can help!</h2>
<h3>Are you an angler, boater or beach goer living on the West Coast of Florida and wish to help researchers know more about red tide?</h3>
<h3><a href="https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1AOsyJqHCThEPb0">Then please consider taking this brief survey anytime you head out on the water and experience red tide.</a></h3>
The survey may be accessed via the hyperlink above or by copy and pasting this link into your browser: <a href="https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1AOsyJqHCThEPb0">https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1AOsyJqHCThEPb0 </a>
Information researchers are interested in includes: where did you encounter red tide? Did you see any dead/dying marine life? If so which species? Did your plans change due to encountering red tide? These and a few more questions can improve the models and help managers a TON by helping us determine how fisheries are affected by red tides!
<figure id="attachment_4509" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4509" style="width: 630px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-4509 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="630" height="294" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/Red-Tide-Survey-Screen-Grab.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4509" class="wp-caption-text">An example of a question asked on the red tide survey to better understand where fish are dying, what species and how your trip may have been affected. Click the links above to access the survey to help fisheries science!</figcaption></figure>
Have a question about red tide and fisheries management you would like answered? <a href="https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1RZnQdqIrIeOgXY">Submit your question via this link here and check back to this blog periodically where selected questions and answers will be posted!</a>
<figure id="attachment_4505" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4505" style="width: 452px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-4505 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="452" height="338" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/Photo-Kate-Spinner-Red-tide-Sarasota-Herald-Tribune-1.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4505" class="wp-caption-text">A typical sight during a red tide bloom with both forage and game fish washed ashore. Help us determine which fish dying, where and when by responding to the reporting survey above! Photo By: Kate Spinner Sarasota Herald-Tribune.</figcaption></figure>
<h2>Resources:</h2>
<ul>
<li>Red Tide Updates:
<ul>
<li>There are plenty(!) of resources and educational materials created about red tide! Check the links below to find information on red tide monitoring, forecasts and beach conditions that you may want to add to your red tide tackle box if and when a bloom occurs.  <a href="https://myfwc.com/research/about/connect/subscribe/">The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) has a service where you can subscribe to to receive weekly email and/or text notifications on the detection and current status of red tide throughout the state.  </a></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://member.everbridge.net/453003085614923/login"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class=" wp-image-4559 alignright" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/collierco/files/2024/06/Naples-Red-tide-status.jpg" alt="" width="378" height="184" /></a>
<ul>
<li style="list-style-type: none">
<ul>
<li>Collier County also has an automated notification system regarding red tide presence/status at county specific locations. <a href="https://member.everbridge.net/453003085614923/login">To sign up for theses updates check out this link</a><a href="https://member.everbridge.net/453003085614923/login">.</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/research/saltwater/health/fish-kills-hotline/causes/">Common Causes of Fish Kills in Florida</a>&#8211; Dead fish doesn’t always mean red tide, low dissolved oxygen, blue green algae, and extreme weather events can result in a fish kill. Check the link to learn more!</li>
<li>Monitoring: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/research/redtide/statewide/?redirect=redtidestatus">FWC Link to current red tide status throughout the state of Florida</a></li>
<li><a href="https://visitbeaches.org/beach/49/report/41723">Mote Marine Laboratory beach condition reporting system for Florida</a>. Information regarding red tide presence with plenty of info on tidal and environmental conditions across many beaches within our state. </li>
<li><a href="http://ocgweb.marine.usf.edu/hab_tracking/HAB_trajectories.html">USF Ocean Circulation Lab Red Tide Prediction and Tracking</a></li>
<li><a href="https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/science-areas/habs/hab-forecasts/gulf-of-mexico/">National Centers For Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) harmful algae bloom forecasts for Florida and Texas</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Reporting:
<ul>
<li>Live on the west coast of Florida and would like to help researchers record observations during a red tide? <a href="https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1AOsyJqHCThEPb0">Please consider taking this brief survey when you encounter a bloom near you.</a></li>
<li>FWC Fish Kill Hotline 800-636-0511 </li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Red Tide Fact Sheets:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/media/12422/karenia-brevis-factsheet.pdf">Karenia brevis (red tide) fact sheet</a></li>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/media/16370/2013-ecphab-brochure_red-tides-on-the-west-florida-shelf.pdf">Red Tides on the West Florida Shelf</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Red Tide FAQs:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/research/redtide/faq/">FWC red tide frequently asked questions</a></li>
<li><a href="https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/science-areas/habs/hab-forecasts/gulf-of-mexico/faqs/">National Centers For Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) Gulf of Mexico harmful algal bloom frequently asked questions</a></li>
<li><a href="https://mote.org/news/florida-red-tide">Mote Marine red tide frequently asked questions</a></li>
<li>Blog: <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/charlotteco/2018/08/14/frequently-asked-questions-about-the-2018-red-tide-bloom/">Frequently Asked Questions about the 2018 Red Tide Bloom</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Red Tide Seafood Safety/Fishing: 
<ul>
<li>Blog: <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/2023/03/29/when-red-tide-hits-is-your-seafood-safe-a-uf-expert-answers-questions/">When red tide hits, is your seafood safe? A UF expert answers questions</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Red Tide General Info: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://myfwc.com/media/21885/bloom-historic-database.pdf">Historic frequency of red tide in Florida by year and month in Florida, FWC</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Videos: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1er085e7M54">Red Tide in Florida FWC Infographic Video</a> (4:32)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_VRyW2C3yhg">Red Tide Facts and Myths Collier County Video</a> (26:32)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26l5I50KbL4">Red Tide and Seafood Safety FWC Infographic Video</a> (4:19)</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Peer Reviewed Papers:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20411030/">Literature Review of Florida Red Tide: Implications for Human Health Effects</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.int-res.com/abstracts/meps/v378/p171-186/">Effects of Karenia brevis harmful algal blooms on nearshore fish communities in southwest Florida</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0304380018304101?casa_token=CWsj_EO99pAAAAAA:0gpg-eCsFDqwSa6jxHokVVG0Yp6_gRJF8S93ClFyG_y2rARq-fZWlTPP4dc9Cjd5pj_HKU62TA">Effects of Karenia brevis harmful algal blooms on fish community structure on the West Florida Shelf</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-29327-z">Evaluating red tide effects on the West Florida Shelf using a spatiotemporal ecosystem modeling framework</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1568988308001571?casa_token=zKOrbpFokv8AAAAA:dD0iAZWpEDZ1oWsNR-2S_thvqsdw-kd9-go_8ptY3scuU70LkHUuir4tK-ZqllknBQN2CixMKg">Karenia brevis red tides, brevetoxins in the food web, and impacts on natural resources: Decadal advancements</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Blue-Green Algae aka Cyanobacteria and other HABs:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/manateeco/2020/07/14/resources-for-understanding-blue-green-algae-cyanobacteria-blooms/">Resources for understanding blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) blooms</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>General resources: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://water.ifas.ufl.edu/harmful-algal-blooms/faq/">University of Florida harmful algae bloom website.</a> Information of causes, effects, solutions and FAQs of HABs</li>
<li><a href="https://www.protectingfloridatogether.gov/education-center">Protecting Florida Together</a>; website with information regarding red tide/blue green algae task force, habitat restoration etc.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;">				<iframe loading="lazy" title="Swimming Karenia brevis 10&#039;" style="width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/photos/44940561414" width="500" height="373" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
Karenia brevis aka &#8220;red tide&#8221; cells swimming! These microscopic organisms belong to the dinoflagellate phylum of algae which have appendages that allow them to move around in the water column. The word dinoflagellate is derived from the Greek dînos meaning  &#8220;whirling&#8221; and Latin flagellum meaning &#8220;whip.&#8221; K. brevis&#8217;s unique motion helps researchers identify red tide cells from other phytoplankton and algae in a water sample.

Photo taken from a scanning electron microscope of Karenia brevis aka red tide. Photo By: FWC. * Banner photo: A red tide killed snook washed ashore in Southwest Florida. Photo By: Chris O’Meara AP.
In fisheries management, setting the acceptable biological catch (ABC) is vital to ensure sustainable harvest without overexploiting fish stocks. The ABC determines how much fish can be harvested each year, and is estimated using a stock assessment model that brings together multiple data sources to estimate fish abundance and productivity.  However, in the Gulf of Mexico, red tides introduce a lot of uncertainty into this process. Ongoing red tide blooms can leave managers guessing about their impacts on fish stocks when trying to set the ABC. This uncertainty about red tide impacts can lead to lower catch levels for commercial and recreational fishers, resulting in a lower ABC and less opportunities to bring fish home. To learn more about the ins and outs of  fisheries management in Florida, check out the third education module in the FREE Florida Friendly Angler online program!
Framework of harvest limits used in fisheries management
Red tides affect fish populations and ecosystems in several ways.  First, the brevetoxin released by red tide affects the central nervous system of fish and can result in large fish kills. Moreover, there are multiple sublethal and indirect effects of red tide such as low oxygen, impacts to benthic habitat, movement, and food web dynamics. Red tide could possibly alter the amount of bait/forage available for our prized game fish to eat and negatively impact the habitat where they live. In other words, a gag grouper that is exposed to red tide or poor water quality will have less food to eat, slower growth, and be less likely to survive, reproduce, and maybe one day be caught.  Combined with the fact that red tide doesn’t occur in the same place every time, with the same severity or duration makes estimating red tide impacts on reef fish species tough!
A sheepshead washed ashore from a red tide bloom in Southwest Florida. Photo By: Bryan Fluech.
To tackle this difficult task of estimating red tide impacts on fish stocks and helping make better informed management decisions, comes a new project that aims to a estimate and incorporating red tide mortality into the ABC determination for Gulf of Mexico (GoM) reef fishes. The “Operationalizing the West Florida Shelf ecosystem model and application to red tides, stock assessment, and catch advice for Gulf of Mexico reef fish” project was funded by the NOAA Restore Science Program.  The project team is developing satellite products to map red tides that will inform an ecosystem model designed to account for factors like the severity and duration of red tide blooms, their lethal and sublethal impact on fish and other marine fauna, and ecosystem dynamics.
Bloom frequency maps from integration of water sample data and MODIS satellite observations. Figure adapted from Hu et al. (2022).
In previous work, the ecosystem model was used to inform the ABC for gag grouper, resulting in a longer fishing season because the impacts on ongoing blooms were estimated to be lower than anticipated.  The project team will refine the model’s inputs and extend its application to additional GoM reef fishes over the next five years. Furthermore, it will develop improved satellite-derived red tide maps and update biogeochemical models to estimate nutrient and oxygen dynamics. These model improvements will enable more precise estimation of red tide mortality rates on various reef fish species undergoing stock assessments. The project outcomes will be presented at workshops and incorporated into stock assessments, ensuring that the ABC reflects current red tide conditions. By operationalizing this modeling framework, fisheries managers can conduct routine red tide assessments, enhancing the sustainability of Gulf fisheries!

Where you can help!
Are you an angler, boater or beach goer living on the West Coast of Florida and wish to help researchers know more about red tide?
Then please consider taking this brief survey anytime you head out on the water and experience red tide.
The survey may be accessed via the hyperlink above or by copy and pasting this link into your browser: https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1AOsyJqHCThEPb0 
Information researchers are interested in includes: where did you encounter red tide? Did you see any dead/dying marine life? If so which species? Did your plans change due to encountering red tide? These and a few more questions can improve the models and help managers a TON by helping us determine how fisheries are affected by red tides!
An example of a question asked on the red tide survey to better understand where fish are dying, what species and how your trip may have been affected. Click the links above to access the survey to help fisheries science!
Have a question about red tide and fisheries management you would like answered? Submit your question via this link here and check back to this blog periodically where selected questions and answers will be posted!
A typical sight during a red tide bloom with both forage and game fish washed ashore. Help us determine which fish dying, where and when by responding to the reporting survey above! Photo By: Kate Spinner Sarasota Herald-Tribune.
Resources:
Red Tide Updates:

There are plenty(!) of resources and educational materials created about red tide! Check the links below to find information on red tide monitoring, forecasts and beach conditions that you may want to add to your red tide tackle box if and when a bloom occurs.  The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) has a service where you can subscribe to to receive weekly email and/or text notifications on the detection and current status of red tide throughout the state.  

Collier County also has an automated notification system regarding red tide presence/status at county specific locations. To sign up for theses updates check out this link.
 
Common Causes of Fish Kills in Florida– Dead fish doesn’t always mean red tide, low dissolved oxygen, blue green algae, and extreme weather events can result in a fish kill. Check the link to learn more!
Monitoring: 

FWC Link to current red tide status throughout the state of Florida
Mote Marine Laboratory beach condition reporting system for Florida. Information regarding red tide presence with plenty of info on tidal and environmental conditions across many beaches within our state. 
USF Ocean Circulation Lab Red Tide Prediction and Tracking
National Centers For Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) harmful algae bloom forecasts for Florida and Texas
Reporting:

Live on the west coast of Florida and would like to help researchers record observations during a red tide? Please consider taking this brief survey when you encounter a bloom near you.
FWC Fish Kill Hotline 800-636-0511 
Red Tide Fact Sheets:

Karenia brevis (red tide) fact sheet
Red Tides on the West Florida Shelf
Red Tide FAQs:

FWC red tide frequently asked questions
National Centers For Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) Gulf of Mexico harmful algal bloom frequently asked questions
Mote Marine red tide frequently asked questions
Blog: Frequently Asked Questions about the 2018 Red Tide Bloom
Red Tide Seafood Safety/Fishing: 

Blog: When red tide hits, is your seafood safe? A UF expert answers questions
Red Tide General Info: 

Historic frequency of red tide in Florida by year and month in Florida, FWC
Videos: 

Red Tide in Florida FWC Infographic Video (4:32)
Red Tide Facts and Myths Collier County Video (26:32)
Red Tide and Seafood Safety FWC Infographic Video (4:19)
Peer Reviewed Papers:

Literature Review of Florida Red Tide: Implications for Human Health Effects
Effects of Karenia brevis harmful algal blooms on nearshore fish communities in southwest Florida
Effects of Karenia brevis harmful algal blooms on fish community structure on the West Florida Shelf
Evaluating red tide effects on the West Florida Shelf using a spatiotemporal ecosystem modeling framework
Karenia brevis red tides, brevetoxins in the food web, and impacts on natural resources: Decadal advancements
Blue-Green Algae aka Cyanobacteria and other HABs:

Resources for understanding blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) blooms
General resources: 

University of Florida harmful algae bloom website. Information of causes, effects, solutions and FAQs of HABs
Protecting Florida Together; website with information regarding red tide/blue green algae task force, habitat restoration etc.
				
Karenia brevis aka “red tide” cells swimming! These microscopic organisms belong to the dinoflagellate phylum of algae which have appendages that allow them to move around in the water column. The word dinoflagellate is derived from the Greek dînos meaning  “whirling” and Latin flagellum meaning “whip.” K. brevis’s unique motion helps researchers identify red tide cells from other phytoplankton and algae in a water sample.

In fisheries management, setting the acceptable biological catch (ABC) is vital to ensure sustainable harvest without overexploiting fish stocks. The ABC determines how much fish can be harvested each year, and is estimated using a stock assessment model that brings together multiple data sources to estimate fish abundance and productivity.  However, in the Gulf of […]

Red Tide, Fisheries Modeling and Citizen Science: Casting a Line to Anglers and Gulf of Mexico Stakeholders for Better Data!

Tomatoes – they’re a staple in many home gardens, and for good reason. But if you&#8217;re gardening in Central Florida, you might need to tweak your approach a bit to ensure a successful harvest. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you grow tomatoes like a pro in the Sunshine State. Things You Should Know: Before [&#8230;]

Tomatoes – they’re a staple in many home gardens, and for good reason. But if you&#8217;re gardening in Central Florida, you might need to tweak your approach a bit to ensure a successful harvest. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you grow tomatoes like a pro in the Sunshine State.
<figure id="attachment_2743" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2743" style="width: 282px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-2743 " src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/files/2024/02/028659-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="282" height="188" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-2743" class="wp-caption-text">UF/IFAS Extension mail in soil test kit and contents. Photo courtesy of Tyler Jones UF/IFAS.</figcaption></figure>
<h3>Things You Should Know:</h3>
Before you dive into planting your tomato seeds or seedlings, it&#8217;s essential to assess the quality of your soil. An excellent place to start is by getting your soil tested. You can do it at home with a kit, or you can send it to the <a href="https://soilslab.ifas.ufl.edu/extension-soil-testing-laboratory/">UF/IFAS soil laboratory</a>, where inexpensive testing is available to the public.
The test measures the soil’s pH, or acidity, which affects the nutrient availability to your plant. It also measures the nutrients in the soil. This information will be useful when the time comes to choose the veggies you want to grow, add fertilizer, or amend your garden soil.
<h3>pH, Why Is It Important?</h3>
pH might not be the first thing on your mind when you think of starting a garden, but it is important for happy and healthy plants. Why is it important? The pH of the soil controls the availability of essential nutrients for plant growth. If the soil is too acidic, or conversely too alkaline, the roots will have trouble absorbing nutrients.
Most garden plants like for the pH level to be between 5.5 and 6.5 for optimal growth. For each unit change in the pH scale, there is a 10-fold difference in the acidity or alkalinity. Meaning, soil with a pH of 6.0 is ten times more acidic than soil with a pH of 7.0. Central Florida soils tend to have a high, or alkaline, pH with the soils averaging 7.0-7.4. That’s too high, or alkaline, for veggies. The soil must be adjusted, which is temporary, to lower the pH into a more acidic range of 5.5-6.5.
<h3>Adjusting pH</h3>
<h4>Amending Acidic Soil</h4>
So, how do you adjust soil pH if it&#8217;s too acidic, or below 7.0 on the pH scale? One method is liming, which involves adding lime to neutralize soil acidity and raise the pH. Low pH can be raised with regular applications of ground dolomite or limestone, but only temporarily. This is not typical of Central Florida soils, however. The application of lime is not one that should be done routinely as is the case in gardens in northern states. Typically, the garden soils in Central Florida need to be acidified.
<h4>Amending Alkaline Soil</h4>
How do you acidify soil if your pH is too high? Unfortunately, there’s no permanent fix for most alkaline soils. Adding organic matter will help acidify the soil, due to the decomposition process. Highly acidic options like peat or sphagnum peat moss are good amendments to lower soil pH. The addition of pine needles and oak leaves can also help to lower the soil pH for a short while, plus it’s a great way to recycle nutrients back into the environment. Beyond those amendments, the addition of sulfur is typically the quickest and most impactful way to lower soil pH. Sulfur containing fertilizers are easy to find on the market. Simply follow the label directions for dosage and timing.
<h4>Maintaining Soil pH</h4>
Regular soil testing will help you gauge soil pH over time and keep your plants happy and healthy. Adjusting the pH is a continual process, it does not happen overnight. You can recheck your soil again in 3 – 6 months after you add your amendments. In veggie gardens, adjusting the pH is as easy as applying the fertilizers and amendments. For landscape beds, turfgrass, etc., applying these amendments only temporarily changes the pH, so the best thing to do would be to use plants that can tolerate the pH of your soil.
Here’s a great blog post from UF/IFAS which highlights some alkaline loving plants: <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/leonco/2014/02/25/so-you-have-alkaline-soil/">Blog Post</a>
<h3>Where To Plant: </h3>
Tomatoes are sun-lovers, requiring at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Choose a spot in your garden that receives ample sunlight. When it comes to watering, aim for 1-2 inches per week, ensuring thorough saturation without wetting the leaves to prevent rot. Remember the first principle of Florida-Friendly Landscaping (it applies to all types of plants and not just trees and shrubs), which is to put the right plant in the right place. Sunlight is a key component to healthy veggies, especially tomatoes.
<h3>Dealing with Pests and Diseases:</h3>
In Central Florida&#8217;s warm and humid climate, pests and diseases can pose significant challenges to tomato plants. Keep an eye out for common issues like verticillium wilt, fusarium wilt, and nematodes. When verticillium wilt and fusarium wilt infect your garden, there is no treatment to get rid of the fungus. The best thing to do is get rid of the infected plants, and do not replant where the disease is present.
Planting at the right time of the year is critical, especially for tomatoes. Summer is not a veggie growing season in Central Florida. Aim to plant tomatoes between Halloween and Labor Day for a fall garden and between February 15-March 15 for a spring harvest. The disease pressure is much lower during these growing seasons when compared to the wet, humid days of summer.
<figure id="attachment_2749" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2749" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-2749 size-medium lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="300" height="225" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/files/2024/02/fusarium-wilt-tomat-300x225.png"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-2749" class="wp-caption-text">Fusarium wilt in a tomato plant. Photo courtesy of UF/IFAS NFREC and the Plant Pathology Department.</figcaption></figure>
Cultural methods like proper pruning, watering efficiently, and fertilizing appropriately will keep these fungal infections at bay. Also, look for tomato varieties labeled with resistance to these pests and diseases to give your plants a fighting chance.
Plant diseases are not easily treated, so prevention is the key to having healthy tomatoes (any garden veggies, actually). Regularly inspect your plants for signs of disease, intervening promptly to prevent any widespread damage. Planting resistant or tolerant plant varieties can help to prevent pest problems, so purchase plants grown specially for your area.
<h3>Choosing the Right Varieties:</h3>
Speaking of varieties, selecting the right ones can make all the difference in your gardening success. Opt for varieties that thrive in Florida&#8217;s climate and offer resistance to common pests and diseases is one consideration. There are other factors to consider though, like fruit size, flavor, and growth habit.
Indeterminate varieties, such as &#8216;Sweet 100&#8217; and &#8216;Sun Gold&#8217;, continue to produce fruit over several months, while determinate varieties, like &#8216;Amelia&#8217; and &#8216;Heat Wave II&#8217;, grow to a predetermined size and produce a single crop of tomatoes. Cherry and grape tomatoes are particularly well-suited to Florida gardens, offering delicious flavor in bite-sized packages.
<figure id="attachment_2753" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2753" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://ufifas.photoshelter.com/search/result/I0000eU5vgJttIMM?terms=tomato&amp;"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-2753 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="300" height="200" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/files/2024/02/024970-300x200.jpg"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-2753" class="wp-caption-text">Tomatoes growing on the vine. Photo courtesy of Tyler Jones UF/IFAS.</figcaption></figure>
<h3>A Bit More About When to Plant:</h3>
<figure id="attachment_2757" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2757" style="width: 200px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-2757 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="200" height="300" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/files/2024/02/026472-200x300.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-2757" class="wp-caption-text">Albert in an IFAS tomato greenhouse. Photo courtesy of Tyler Jones UF/IFAS.</figcaption></figure>
Contrary to what you might expect, mid-February is the prime time to plant tomatoes in Central Florida. While tomatoes are typically considered a summer crop, the hot and humid conditions of Florida summers can inhibit fruit production. By planting in February, you can take advantage of milder temperatures and avoid the pitfalls of the scorching summer heat.
Putting the right plant in the right place is critically important to plant health and survival like the first principle of Florida-Friendly Landscaping teaches us. Add the words “at the right time” to that principle and you’ve got the winning recipe for veggie gardening in Florida.
Start your tomato seedlings indoors during late winter or early spring, transferring them to your outdoor garden once they reach around 8 inches in height. Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging, especially during periods of heavy rainfall. ￼
<h4>Fertilizing Tomatoes</h4>
When it is time to fertilize, opt for a controlled-release fertilizer and apply it sparingly every other week to avoid damage to the plants and polluting water resources. Something with a nutrient analysis of 6-8-8 will be beneficial. You can identify the nutrient analysis by looking for the 3 numbers on the label. These numbers give the percentage of the three main nutrients, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), by weight. So, think N-P-K when you see these 3 numbers.
To learn more about choosing the right fertilizer, read <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/2024/03/14/fertilizer-fundamentals-how-to-choose-the-right-one/">Fertilizer Fundamentals: How to Choose the Right One &#8211; UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County (ufl.edu)</a>.
<h3>In Conclusion:</h3>
Growing tomatoes in Central Florida might require a bit of adjustment compared to other regions, but with the right knowledge and approach, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of juicy, flavorful tomatoes. By paying attention to soil quality, sunlight, watering, pest management, and variety selection, you&#8217;ll be well on your way to tomato-growing success in the Sunshine State. Happy gardening!
<h4>Have a question?</h4>
If you have any questions about gardening in Central Florida, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County at 352-518-0156. For more information on UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County Community Gardens, and how you can join one, visit <a href="http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/">http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/</a>.
<h4>Follow us!</h4>
We have several ways to connect. Visit our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PascoExt/">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/uf_ifas/?hl=en">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/o/ufifas-pasco-county-cooperative-extension-7831617239">Eventbrite</a>, <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/about/">Blogs</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/uf.ffl/">Florida-Friendly Facebook</a>, <a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/">Website</a>
Supervising agent: Dr. Whitney Elmore
More resources from UF/IFAS Pasco County:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/PascoExt/">UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County</a></li>
<li><a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/our-program-areas/community-gardens/">UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County Community Gardens</a></li>
<li><a href="https://rootedinflorida.podbean.com/">Dr. Whitney Elmore&#8217;s Podcast: Rooted in Florida</a></li>
</ul>

<h4>UF/IFAS resources:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/mastergardener/outreach/plant_id/vegetables/tomato.shtml">Florida Plant ID: Tomato</a></li>
<li><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/orangeco/2020/10/09/heirloom-tomatoes-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly-but-almost-always-tasty/">Heirloom Tomatoes: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (but almost always tasty)</a></li>
<li><a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/NG005">Nematode Management in the Vegetable Garden</a></li>
<li><a href="https://soilslab.ifas.ufl.edu/extension-soil-testing-laboratory/">UF/IFAS Soils Lab</a></li>
</ul>
<h4>From UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/edibles/vegetables/cherry-tomatoes.html">Cherry Tomatoes</a></li>
<li><a href="http://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/edibles/vegetables/growing-vegetables-in-containers.html">Growing Vegetables in Containers</a></li>
<li><a href="https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/edibles/vegetables/tomatillos.html">Tomatillos and Husk Tomatoes</a></li>
<li><a href="https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/care/pests-and-diseases/pests/management/tomato-insect-pest-management.html">Tomato Insect Pest Management</a></li>
<li><a href="https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/edibles/vegetables/trusty-tomatoes.html">Trusty Tomato Varieties</a></li>
</ul>
See the <a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/media/sfylifasufledu/orange/hort-res/docs/pdf/PLANTING-GUIDE-FOR-VEGETABLES—IN-CENTRAL-FLORIDA-TwoPages.pdf">Central Florida planting calendar</a>

Tomatoes – they’re a staple in many home gardens, and for good reason. But if you’re gardening in Central Florida, you might need to tweak your approach a bit to ensure a successful harvest. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you grow tomatoes like a pro in the Sunshine State.
UF/IFAS Extension mail in soil test kit and contents. Photo courtesy of Tyler Jones UF/IFAS.
Things You Should Know:
Before you dive into planting your tomato seeds or seedlings, it’s essential to assess the quality of your soil. An excellent place to start is by getting your soil tested. You can do it at home with a kit, or you can send it to the UF/IFAS soil laboratory, where inexpensive testing is available to the public.
The test measures the soil’s pH, or acidity, which affects the nutrient availability to your plant. It also measures the nutrients in the soil. This information will be useful when the time comes to choose the veggies you want to grow, add fertilizer, or amend your garden soil.
pH, Why Is It Important?
pH might not be the first thing on your mind when you think of starting a garden, but it is important for happy and healthy plants. Why is it important? The pH of the soil controls the availability of essential nutrients for plant growth. If the soil is too acidic, or conversely too alkaline, the roots will have trouble absorbing nutrients.
Most garden plants like for the pH level to be between 5.5 and 6.5 for optimal growth. For each unit change in the pH scale, there is a 10-fold difference in the acidity or alkalinity. Meaning, soil with a pH of 6.0 is ten times more acidic than soil with a pH of 7.0. Central Florida soils tend to have a high, or alkaline, pH with the soils averaging 7.0-7.4. That’s too high, or alkaline, for veggies. The soil must be adjusted, which is temporary, to lower the pH into a more acidic range of 5.5-6.5.
Adjusting pH
Amending Acidic Soil
So, how do you adjust soil pH if it’s too acidic, or below 7.0 on the pH scale? One method is liming, which involves adding lime to neutralize soil acidity and raise the pH. Low pH can be raised with regular applications of ground dolomite or limestone, but only temporarily. This is not typical of Central Florida soils, however. The application of lime is not one that should be done routinely as is the case in gardens in northern states. Typically, the garden soils in Central Florida need to be acidified.
Amending Alkaline Soil
How do you acidify soil if your pH is too high? Unfortunately, there’s no permanent fix for most alkaline soils. Adding organic matter will help acidify the soil, due to the decomposition process. Highly acidic options like peat or sphagnum peat moss are good amendments to lower soil pH. The addition of pine needles and oak leaves can also help to lower the soil pH for a short while, plus it’s a great way to recycle nutrients back into the environment. Beyond those amendments, the addition of sulfur is typically the quickest and most impactful way to lower soil pH. Sulfur containing fertilizers are easy to find on the market. Simply follow the label directions for dosage and timing.
Maintaining Soil pH
Regular soil testing will help you gauge soil pH over time and keep your plants happy and healthy. Adjusting the pH is a continual process, it does not happen overnight. You can recheck your soil again in 3 – 6 months after you add your amendments. In veggie gardens, adjusting the pH is as easy as applying the fertilizers and amendments. For landscape beds, turfgrass, etc., applying these amendments only temporarily changes the pH, so the best thing to do would be to use plants that can tolerate the pH of your soil.
Here’s a great blog post from UF/IFAS which highlights some alkaline loving plants: Blog Post
Where To Plant: 
Tomatoes are sun-lovers, requiring at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Choose a spot in your garden that receives ample sunlight. When it comes to watering, aim for 1-2 inches per week, ensuring thorough saturation without wetting the leaves to prevent rot. Remember the first principle of Florida-Friendly Landscaping (it applies to all types of plants and not just trees and shrubs), which is to put the right plant in the right place. Sunlight is a key component to healthy veggies, especially tomatoes.
Dealing with Pests and Diseases:
In Central Florida’s warm and humid climate, pests and diseases can pose significant challenges to tomato plants. Keep an eye out for common issues like verticillium wilt, fusarium wilt, and nematodes. When verticillium wilt and fusarium wilt infect your garden, there is no treatment to get rid of the fungus. The best thing to do is get rid of the infected plants, and do not replant where the disease is present.
Planting at the right time of the year is critical, especially for tomatoes. Summer is not a veggie growing season in Central Florida. Aim to plant tomatoes between Halloween and Labor Day for a fall garden and between February 15-March 15 for a spring harvest. The disease pressure is much lower during these growing seasons when compared to the wet, humid days of summer.
Fusarium wilt in a tomato plant. Photo courtesy of UF/IFAS NFREC and the Plant Pathology Department.
Cultural methods like proper pruning, watering efficiently, and fertilizing appropriately will keep these fungal infections at bay. Also, look for tomato varieties labeled with resistance to these pests and diseases to give your plants a fighting chance.
Plant diseases are not easily treated, so prevention is the key to having healthy tomatoes (any garden veggies, actually). Regularly inspect your plants for signs of disease, intervening promptly to prevent any widespread damage. Planting resistant or tolerant plant varieties can help to prevent pest problems, so purchase plants grown specially for your area.
Choosing the Right Varieties:
Speaking of varieties, selecting the right ones can make all the difference in your gardening success. Opt for varieties that thrive in Florida’s climate and offer resistance to common pests and diseases is one consideration. There are other factors to consider though, like fruit size, flavor, and growth habit.
Indeterminate varieties, such as ‘Sweet 100’ and ‘Sun Gold’, continue to produce fruit over several months, while determinate varieties, like ‘Amelia’ and ‘Heat Wave II’, grow to a predetermined size and produce a single crop of tomatoes. Cherry and grape tomatoes are particularly well-suited to Florida gardens, offering delicious flavor in bite-sized packages.
Tomatoes growing on the vine. Photo courtesy of Tyler Jones UF/IFAS.
A Bit More About When to Plant:
Albert in an IFAS tomato greenhouse. Photo courtesy of Tyler Jones UF/IFAS.
Contrary to what you might expect, mid-February is the prime time to plant tomatoes in Central Florida. While tomatoes are typically considered a summer crop, the hot and humid conditions of Florida summers can inhibit fruit production. By planting in February, you can take advantage of milder temperatures and avoid the pitfalls of the scorching summer heat.
Putting the right plant in the right place is critically important to plant health and survival like the first principle of Florida-Friendly Landscaping teaches us. Add the words “at the right time” to that principle and you’ve got the winning recipe for veggie gardening in Florida.
Start your tomato seedlings indoors during late winter or early spring, transferring them to your outdoor garden once they reach around 8 inches in height. Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging, especially during periods of heavy rainfall. ￼
Fertilizing Tomatoes
When it is time to fertilize, opt for a controlled-release fertilizer and apply it sparingly every other week to avoid damage to the plants and polluting water resources. Something with a nutrient analysis of 6-8-8 will be beneficial. You can identify the nutrient analysis by looking for the 3 numbers on the label. These numbers give the percentage of the three main nutrients, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), by weight. So, think N-P-K when you see these 3 numbers.
To learn more about choosing the right fertilizer, read Fertilizer Fundamentals: How to Choose the Right One – UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County (ufl.edu).
In Conclusion:
Growing tomatoes in Central Florida might require a bit of adjustment compared to other regions, but with the right knowledge and approach, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of juicy, flavorful tomatoes. By paying attention to soil quality, sunlight, watering, pest management, and variety selection, you’ll be well on your way to tomato-growing success in the Sunshine State. Happy gardening!
Have a question?
If you have any questions about gardening in Central Florida, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County at 352-518-0156. For more information on UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County Community Gardens, and how you can join one, visit http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/.
Follow us!
We have several ways to connect. Visit our Facebook, Instagram, Eventbrite, Blogs, Florida-Friendly Facebook, Website
Supervising agent: Dr. Whitney Elmore
More resources from UF/IFAS Pasco County:
UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County
UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County Community Gardens
Dr. Whitney Elmore’s Podcast: Rooted in Florida

UF/IFAS resources:
Florida Plant ID: Tomato
Heirloom Tomatoes: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (but almost always tasty)
Nematode Management in the Vegetable Garden
UF/IFAS Soils Lab
From UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions
Cherry Tomatoes
Growing Vegetables in Containers
Tomatillos and Husk Tomatoes
Tomato Insect Pest Management
Trusty Tomato Varieties
See the Central Florida planting calendar

Tomatoes – they’re a staple in many home gardens, and for good reason. But if you’re gardening in Central Florida, you might need to tweak your approach a bit to ensure a successful harvest. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you grow tomatoes like a pro in the Sunshine State. Things You Should Know: Before […]

A Guide to Growing Tomatoes in Central Florida: Tips for Success

What is the Relationship Between Soil and pH? Remember those science class lessons about the pH scale? You know, the one where you learned that lemons were acidic, pure water was neutral, and baking soda was alkaline? It turns out that understanding pH is not just for the classroom – it&#8217;s also crucial for successful [&#8230;]

<h3>What is the Relationship Between Soil and pH?</h3>
Remember those science class lessons about the pH scale? You know, the one where you learned that lemons were acidic, pure water was neutral, and baking soda was alkaline? It turns out that understanding pH is not just for the classroom – it&#8217;s also crucial for successful gardening.
Soil pH is a measure of how acidic your soil is, and it plays a significant role in the growth and survival of your plants. Just like how a balanced pH is essential for our bodies, plants also thrive when their soil pH is within the right range.
But what exactly is soil, and why does its pH matter? Soil is a complex mixture of minerals, organic matter, living organisms, water, and air. Over time, the components of soil, including additions such as fertilizers and organic matter, can influence its pH. For each unit change in the pH scale, there is a 10-fold difference in the acidity. Meaning, soil with a pH of 6.0 is ten times more acidic than soil with a pH of 7.0.
<h3>What pH Should My Soil Have?</h3>
<figure id="attachment_2743" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2743" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-2743 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="300" height="200" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/files/2024/02/028659-300x200.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-2743" class="wp-caption-text">UF/IFAS Extension mail in soil test kit and contents. Photo courtesy of Tyler Jones UF/IFAS.</figcaption></figure>
Most vegetables prefer slightly acidic soils, with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. If your soil&#8217;s pH is too high or low, your plants won&#8217;t be able to absorb nutrients effectively, no matter how much fertilizer or water you provide.
If you suspect a pH imbalance in your soil, it&#8217;s essential to get it tested before treating it. It’s also essential to test your soil pH and nutrient content prior to fertilization. Fertilizers are necessary for proper plant growth, but their use when the plants do not need supplemental nutrients, the pH is not optimal for plant uptake, or when plants are not actively growing (think turfgrass), will result in the waste of time, money, and eventually pollution of our valuable water resources.
Our soils are porous due to them being sandy with large spaces between individual particles. They do not hold water or nutrients efficiently nor for long periods of time. This means whatever you apply to your soils (fertilizers, pesticides, irrigation) all move quickly through the soil profile, past the zone of uptake in the roots, and eventually into a water source. Fertilizer components such as nitrogen and phosphorous are extremely damaging to our water resources leading to algal blooms, fish kills, toxic red tide, etc.
UF/IFAS Extension provides <a href="https://soilslab.ifas.ufl.edu/">Soil Testing Services</a> that are affordable and available to the public. The results will provide valuable information about your soil&#8217;s pH, fertility levels, and nutrient content. These tests are quick and easy allowing you to fertilize more efficiently and not contribute to pollution. You can easily print a soil test form and learn how to quickly sample your soil for submission to the UF/IFAS Soils Lab or use an alternative test kit that you can pick up in any Extension Office for online payment and form submission and mail-in service.
The results will provide valuable information about your soil&#8217;s pH, fertility levels, and nutrient content as well as provide recommendations for the amount of and type of fertilizer necessary. Keep in mind that adjustment in soil pH is never permanent, so adjustments will most likely need to continue throughout future growing seasons to ensure proper plant growth and production.
<h4>Treating Acidic Soil: </h4>
So, how do you adjust soil pH if it&#8217;s too acidic, or below 7.0 on the pH scale? One method is liming, which involves adding lime to neutralize soil acidity and raise the pH. Garden lime or dolomitic lime, made from ground-up limestone or dolomite, are commonly used for this purpose. Most vegetables, fruits, and turfgrasses prefer slightly acidic soil, so it’s rare to make adjustments with lime-based fertilizers. This should only be done when recommended as a result of a soil test.
In most garden situations, soil pH is high, or alkaline (basic) and the addition of lime without pH testing and justification would cause the pH to get way too high – likely killing your plants or at least causing low to no production in gardens and nutrient deficiencies in landscaping plants and turf.
Learn more about how to lime your vegetable garden by reading UF/IFAS <a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/VH024">Soil Preparation and Liming for Vegetable Gardens</a>.
Remember, it’s not typically necessary to lime as the soil pH across Central Florida is typically quite high already due to the natural soil properties and naturally occurring high calcium-containing irrigation water. This varies based on specific plant needs as well.
<h4>Treating Alkaline Soil:</h4>
<figure id="attachment_2805" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2805" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-2805 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="300" height="200" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/files/2024/02/030305-300x200.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-2805" class="wp-caption-text">Fresh compost. Photo by Cat Wofford</figcaption></figure>
You have basic (same as alkaline) soil, which means the pH is above 7.0 on the pH scale. Now what? You’re not the only one, the majority of soils in Florida are alkaline with a pH above 7.0. Although it is more difficult to decrease the pH of soil, there are a few options to temporarily neutralize alkalinity of the soil.
Adding organic matter (like compost) will help acidify the soil, due to the decomposition process. Highly acidic options like peat or sphagnum peat moss are good amendments to lower soil pH. The addition of pine needles and oak leaves can also help to lower the soil pH for a brief period of time, plus it’s a great way to recycle nutrients back into the environment.
There are certain types of acidifying fertilizers that can help lower pH. Commonly used acid forming fertilizers like ammonium sulfate or other products labeled for acid reaction in the soil,
Materials like the ones listed below react with the surrounding soil and lower the pH:
<ul>
<li>Elemental sulfur</li>
<li>Aluminum sulfate</li>
<li>Sulfuric acid</li>
<li>Ammonium Sulfate</li>
<li>Iron Sulfate</li>
</ul>
There are a few things to keep in mind when using these products. These treatments are temporary and should be used with care to avoid damage to your garden. Concentrations of aluminum and sulfate can be harmful to plants.
Sulfur reacts to create sulfate and may accumulate and become toxic to plants. If the soil is impacted by alkalinity issues, selecting plants tolerant to high pH conditions from the start may increase your chances of success in the landscape, but for veggies, this is a bit more complicated.
Here’s a great blog from UF/IFAS highlighting plants that tolerate alkaline soils: <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/leonco/2014/02/25/so-you-have-alkaline-soil/">Blog</a>.
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
When planning a garden, it is paramount to consider the pH of your soil. Grow plants in raised beds or pots to amend soil in smaller volumes and avoid high pH ground soils.  In addition to managing soil pH, responsible gardening practices play a vital role in creating a thriving garden while protecting the environment. Remember to test your soil throughout the treatment process to reach and maintain your desired pH level and practice sound cultural practices like irrigating effectively, pruning properly, and planting the right plant in the right place &#8211; at the right time.
The nine principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping&#x2122;, including right plant, right place, watering efficiency, and responsible pest management, provide valuable guidance for sustainable gardening practices. <a href="https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/media/fflifasufledu/docs/FFL-Plant-Guide_v03222022_web.pdf">The Florida-Friendly Landscaping&#x2122; Guide to Plant Selection &amp; Landscape Design</a> can help you choose the right plant for the right place. You can order a free copy on the <a href="https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/resources/free-publications">Southwest Florida Water Management District’s website</a>.
By following these principles and understanding the importance of soil pH, you can create a beautiful and productive garden that benefits both you and the environment. So, next time you&#8217;re tending to your plants, remember the role that soil pH plays and how it can make a world of difference in your gardening success. Happy gardening!
<h4>Have a question?</h4>
If you have any questions about gardening in Central Florida, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County at 352-518-0156. For more information on UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County Community Gardens, and how you can join one, visit <a href="http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/">http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/</a>.
<h4>Follow us!</h4>
We have several ways to connect. Visit our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PascoExt/">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/uf_ifas/?hl=en">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/o/ufifas-pasco-county-cooperative-extension-7831617239">Eventbrite</a>, <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/about/">Blogs</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/uf.ffl/">Florida-Friendly Facebook</a>, <a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/">Website</a>
Supervising agent: Dr. Whitney Elmore
More resources from UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/PascoExt/">UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County</a></li>
<li><a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/our-program-areas/community-gardens/">UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County Community Gardens</a></li>
<li><a href="https://rootedinflorida.podbean.com/">Dr. Whitney Elmore&#8217;s Podcast: Rooted in Florida</a></li>
</ul>

What is the Relationship Between Soil and pH?
Remember those science class lessons about the pH scale? You know, the one where you learned that lemons were acidic, pure water was neutral, and baking soda was alkaline? It turns out that understanding pH is not just for the classroom – it’s also crucial for successful gardening.
Soil pH is a measure of how acidic your soil is, and it plays a significant role in the growth and survival of your plants. Just like how a balanced pH is essential for our bodies, plants also thrive when their soil pH is within the right range.
But what exactly is soil, and why does its pH matter? Soil is a complex mixture of minerals, organic matter, living organisms, water, and air. Over time, the components of soil, including additions such as fertilizers and organic matter, can influence its pH. For each unit change in the pH scale, there is a 10-fold difference in the acidity. Meaning, soil with a pH of 6.0 is ten times more acidic than soil with a pH of 7.0.
What pH Should My Soil Have?
UF/IFAS Extension mail in soil test kit and contents. Photo courtesy of Tyler Jones UF/IFAS.
Most vegetables prefer slightly acidic soils, with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. If your soil’s pH is too high or low, your plants won’t be able to absorb nutrients effectively, no matter how much fertilizer or water you provide.
If you suspect a pH imbalance in your soil, it’s essential to get it tested before treating it. It’s also essential to test your soil pH and nutrient content prior to fertilization. Fertilizers are necessary for proper plant growth, but their use when the plants do not need supplemental nutrients, the pH is not optimal for plant uptake, or when plants are not actively growing (think turfgrass), will result in the waste of time, money, and eventually pollution of our valuable water resources.
Our soils are porous due to them being sandy with large spaces between individual particles. They do not hold water or nutrients efficiently nor for long periods of time. This means whatever you apply to your soils (fertilizers, pesticides, irrigation) all move quickly through the soil profile, past the zone of uptake in the roots, and eventually into a water source. Fertilizer components such as nitrogen and phosphorous are extremely damaging to our water resources leading to algal blooms, fish kills, toxic red tide, etc.
UF/IFAS Extension provides Soil Testing Services that are affordable and available to the public. The results will provide valuable information about your soil’s pH, fertility levels, and nutrient content. These tests are quick and easy allowing you to fertilize more efficiently and not contribute to pollution. You can easily print a soil test form and learn how to quickly sample your soil for submission to the UF/IFAS Soils Lab or use an alternative test kit that you can pick up in any Extension Office for online payment and form submission and mail-in service.
The results will provide valuable information about your soil’s pH, fertility levels, and nutrient content as well as provide recommendations for the amount of and type of fertilizer necessary. Keep in mind that adjustment in soil pH is never permanent, so adjustments will most likely need to continue throughout future growing seasons to ensure proper plant growth and production.
Treating Acidic Soil: 
So, how do you adjust soil pH if it’s too acidic, or below 7.0 on the pH scale? One method is liming, which involves adding lime to neutralize soil acidity and raise the pH. Garden lime or dolomitic lime, made from ground-up limestone or dolomite, are commonly used for this purpose. Most vegetables, fruits, and turfgrasses prefer slightly acidic soil, so it’s rare to make adjustments with lime-based fertilizers. This should only be done when recommended as a result of a soil test.
In most garden situations, soil pH is high, or alkaline (basic) and the addition of lime without pH testing and justification would cause the pH to get way too high – likely killing your plants or at least causing low to no production in gardens and nutrient deficiencies in landscaping plants and turf.
Learn more about how to lime your vegetable garden by reading UF/IFAS Soil Preparation and Liming for Vegetable Gardens.
Remember, it’s not typically necessary to lime as the soil pH across Central Florida is typically quite high already due to the natural soil properties and naturally occurring high calcium-containing irrigation water. This varies based on specific plant needs as well.
Treating Alkaline Soil:
Fresh compost. Photo by Cat Wofford
You have basic (same as alkaline) soil, which means the pH is above 7.0 on the pH scale. Now what? You’re not the only one, the majority of soils in Florida are alkaline with a pH above 7.0. Although it is more difficult to decrease the pH of soil, there are a few options to temporarily neutralize alkalinity of the soil.
Adding organic matter (like compost) will help acidify the soil, due to the decomposition process. Highly acidic options like peat or sphagnum peat moss are good amendments to lower soil pH. The addition of pine needles and oak leaves can also help to lower the soil pH for a brief period of time, plus it’s a great way to recycle nutrients back into the environment.
There are certain types of acidifying fertilizers that can help lower pH. Commonly used acid forming fertilizers like ammonium sulfate or other products labeled for acid reaction in the soil,
Materials like the ones listed below react with the surrounding soil and lower the pH:
Elemental sulfur
Aluminum sulfate
Sulfuric acid
Ammonium Sulfate
Iron Sulfate
There are a few things to keep in mind when using these products. These treatments are temporary and should be used with care to avoid damage to your garden. Concentrations of aluminum and sulfate can be harmful to plants.
Sulfur reacts to create sulfate and may accumulate and become toxic to plants. If the soil is impacted by alkalinity issues, selecting plants tolerant to high pH conditions from the start may increase your chances of success in the landscape, but for veggies, this is a bit more complicated.
Here’s a great blog from UF/IFAS highlighting plants that tolerate alkaline soils: Blog.
Conclusion
When planning a garden, it is paramount to consider the pH of your soil. Grow plants in raised beds or pots to amend soil in smaller volumes and avoid high pH ground soils.  In addition to managing soil pH, responsible gardening practices play a vital role in creating a thriving garden while protecting the environment. Remember to test your soil throughout the treatment process to reach and maintain your desired pH level and practice sound cultural practices like irrigating effectively, pruning properly, and planting the right plant in the right place – at the right time.
The nine principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™, including right plant, right place, watering efficiency, and responsible pest management, provide valuable guidance for sustainable gardening practices. The Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Guide to Plant Selection & Landscape Design can help you choose the right plant for the right place. You can order a free copy on the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s website.
By following these principles and understanding the importance of soil pH, you can create a beautiful and productive garden that benefits both you and the environment. So, next time you’re tending to your plants, remember the role that soil pH plays and how it can make a world of difference in your gardening success. Happy gardening!
Have a question?
If you have any questions about gardening in Central Florida, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County at 352-518-0156. For more information on UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County Community Gardens, and how you can join one, visit http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/.
Follow us!
We have several ways to connect. Visit our Facebook, Instagram, Eventbrite, Blogs, Florida-Friendly Facebook, Website
Supervising agent: Dr. Whitney Elmore
More resources from UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County:
UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County
UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County Community Gardens
Dr. Whitney Elmore’s Podcast: Rooted in Florida

What is the Relationship Between Soil and pH? Remember those science class lessons about the pH scale? You know, the one where you learned that lemons were acidic, pure water was neutral, and baking soda was alkaline? It turns out that understanding pH is not just for the classroom – it’s also crucial for successful […]

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