North Florida REC

"Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum": An Emerging Pathogen Infecting Potato and Tomato

Binoy Babu, Mathews L. Paret, Nicholas Dufault, and Carrie L. Harmon

"Earlyploid"—Tetraploid Annual Ryegrass

A. R. Blount, G. M. Prine, C. L. Mackowiak, K. E. Kenworthy, J. C. Jones, and P. E. Reith

Earlyploid, developed at the UF/IFAS North Florida Research and Education Center, is a large-seeded, upright, early forage-producing and early maturing annual ryegrass. Regional variety trials show it is the earliest tetraploid ryegrass cultivar available commercially. It offers excellent disease resistance and sufficient cold tolerance to be grown successfully in the southern annual ryegrass region of the U.S.

"Ocala"—A New Diploid Annual Ryegrass for the Southern US

A. R. Blount, G. M. Prine, K. E. Kenworthy, P. Mislevy, J. C. Jones, and P. E. Reith

Ocala, a new UF annual ryegrass, has excellent disease resistance and sufficient cold tolerance to be grown successfully in the southern annual ryegrass region of the U.S. It is a well-adapted, diploid annual ryegrass population. Parentage includes several advanced experimental annual ryegrass populations for Florida and Nebraska.

2024 Cool-Season Forage Variety Recommendations for Florida

M. Wallau, A. R. Blount, E. Rios, J. M. B. Vendramini, J. C. B. Dubeux, M. A. Babar, K. E. Kenworthy, C. H. de Souza, and K. H. Quesenberry

This publication provides the most up-to-date information on adapted cool-season forage varieties for our growing season. The recommendation of varieties is based on multi-location, multi-year cultivar evaluation experiments that may include trials in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and other states.

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.

Acceptability of Rhizoma Peanut Forage by Horses and Its Benefits on Feeding Behavior

C. Vasco, J. Dubeux, E. Santos, C. Wickens, and L. Warren

Rhizoma peanut hay has been demonstrated to benefit horses’ feeding behavior with reduced inactive time, which can result in lower risk for abnormal behaviors in stabled horses. This publication is intended to provide information to Extension agents, horse owners, and equine facility managers. Written by C. Vasco, J. Dubeux, E. Santos, C. Wickens, and L. Warren, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, October 2023.

Analysis of the USDA’s 2017 Cow-Calf Management Practices Results: Part 1—Calf Crop and Calving Distribution

Angela Gonella, Oscar Alejandro Ojeda-Rojas, João Bittar, and Mario Binelli

This publication analyzes the calf-crop and calving distribution data reported on NAHMS Beef 1997 and provides insights and practical recommendations. Written by Angela Gonella, Oscar Alejandro Ojeda-Rojas, João Bittar, and Mario Binelli, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, November 2021.

Analysis of the USDA’s 2017 Cow-Calf Management Practices Results: Part 2—Breeding Practices/Reproductive Technologies

Mario Binelli, João Bittar, and Angela Gonella

This paper discusses the use of breeding practices and reproductive technologies in cow-calf operations, and the ways they affect calf crop. Written by Mario Binelli, João Bittar, and Angela Gonella, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, December 2021.

Analysis of the USDA’s 2017 Cow-Calf Management Practices Results: Part 3—Natural Service and Bull Management

João Bittar, Mario Binelli, and Angela Gonella

This article aims to present and discuss the most common management practices related to bull use that can impact cow-calf production and to share relevant statistics of bull use based on the last USDA surveys. Written by João Bittar, Mario Binelli, and Angela Gonella, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, September 2022.

Awareness, Knowledge, and Perceptions of Barotrauma and Barotrauma Mitigation: A Survey of Florida Anglers

Charles Adams, Joy Hazell, Lisa Krimsky, Bryan Fluech, Elizabeth Staugler, John Stevely, and Robert Botta

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet. in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Environmental Literacy and Sustainability

Bacterial Leaf Spot of Cucurbits

Kiersten Fullem, Mathews L. Paret, and Jeffrey B. Jones

This publication is intended to provide information on the disease bacterial leaf spot of cucurbits, its epidemiology, and management to cucurbit growers in the southeastern United States. Written by Kiersten Fullem, Mathews L. Paret, and Jeffrey B. Jones, and published by the UF/IFAS Plant Pathology Department, March 2024.

Biology and Control of Cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica) in Southern Forests

Patrick J. Minogue, Brent V. Brodbeck, and James H. Miller

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

Biology, Ecology, and Benefits of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi in Agricultural Ecosystems

Holly Andres, Hui-Ling (Sunny) Liao, and Kaile Zhang

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, as symbionts to host plants, play a pivotal role in regulating plant nutrient uptake and maintaining soil health. As approximately 80%-90% of terrestrial plants are colonized by mycorrhizal fungi, this fungal group significantly contributes to the overall yield and functions in crop production. This publication provides updated general knowledge on the biology and ecological functions of the most common types of mycorrhizal fungi. These fungi are highly sensitive to environmental stressors and management practices, such as the application of phosphorus and nitrogen fertilizers, as well as fungicides. An enhanced understanding of mycorrhizal fungi can raise awareness among growers, prompting them to consider mycorrhizal fungal activities when managing their farms. Moreover, it can improve the general public's knowledge of the role mycorrhizal fungi play in natural terrestrial ecosystems, including agricultural and forest ecosystems.

Calculating Calf Performance in Beef Operations: The University of Florida Beef Herds in the 2019–2020 Calving Season

Mario Binelli, Angela M. Gonella-Diaza, Thiago Martins, Cecilia C. Rocha, Felipe A. C. C. Silva, Federico Tarnonsky, Sergio Roskopf, Owen Rae, Danny Driver, Nicolas DiLorenzo, Jose Dubeux, and David Thomas

This article aims to report the calf performance of two beef herds of the University of Florida, located in north (UF/IFAS NFREC, Marianna) and central Florida (Beef Units, Gainesville). Written by Mario Binelli, Angela M. Gonella-Diaza, Thiago Martins, Cecilia C. Rocha, Felipe A. C. C. Silva, Federico Tarnonsky, Sergio Roskopf, Owen Rae, Danny Driver, Nicolas DiLorenzo, Jose Dubeux, and David Thomas, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, February 2022.

Camelina Production in Florida

Ramdeo Seepaul, David Wright, Sheeja George, and Ian Small

This publication discusses camelina adaptability, stand establishment, pest and disease management, and nutrient management. Written by Ramdeo Seepaul, David Wright, Sheeja George, and Ian Small, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, revised July 2022.

Camera Trapping for Wildlife

B. W. McDonald, B. M. Mason, C. T. Callaghan, M. A. Lashley, and C. Baruzzi

Camera traps provide a means to easily and unobtrusively view wildlife for a variety of purposes, providing information on the makeup of wildlife communities and sometimes animal behavior. While frequently used, there are currently many different cameras available with a variety of different settings. This publication discusses some of the ways cameras are typically used and provides recommended settings to get the most out of camera traps.

Carinata, the Sustainable Crop for a Bio-based Economy: Production Recommendations for the Southeastern United States

R. Seepaul, I. M. Small, P. Devkota, H. Y. Sintim, M. J. Mulvaney, S. George, R. G. Leon, S. V. Paula-Moraes, Isaac L. Esquivel, R. Bennett, A. Pokrzywinski, D. Geller, J. J. Marois, and D. L. Wright

Brassica carinata is a non-food industrial oilseed crop that can be grown in the winter in the southeast US without impacting food, feed, or fiber crops. Carinata is a low carbon advanced renewable fuel feedstock and a good source of animal protein. Carinata research in the SE US through a public-private partnership has developed a comprehensive body of knowledge regarding carinata agronomics, life cycle analysis, best management practices and economics. This article aims to help growers and others interested in carinata to understand its biology, agronomy, and production aspects.

Citrus Pest Quick Guide: California Red Scale (Aonidiella aurantii)

X. Martini and J. Price

This factsheet gives the general public and citrus growers basic knowledge regarding the California red scale. Written by X. Martini and J. Price, and published by the UF/IFAS Entomology and Nematology Department, November 2022.

Commercial Fresh Market, Wine, Juice, and Jelly Grape Cultivars for Florida

J. Breman, P. C. Andersen, M. A. Shahid, and A. Sarkhosh

Illustrated fact sheet describes the characteristics needed in cultivars for successful commercial grape production in Florida. Includes references and information on cultivars recommended by IFAS for wine, juice and jelly, and fresh market, plus fresh market muscadine cultivars for planting on a trial basis, and sensory evaluation results.

Condensed Tannins in Forage Legumes

Flavia van Cleef and Jose Dubeux

Costs and Benefits of Vegetable Gardening

Kevin Athearn, Hannah Eason, Liz Felter, Catherine G. Campbell, Jessica M. Ryals, Matthew C. Lollar, Juanita Popenoe, Lorna Bravo, LuAnn Duncan, Christa Court, and Wendy Wilber

This publication serves as a guide for gardeners to estimate the costs of vegetable gardening. But first, we describe the benefits of gardening.

Cotton Cultural Practices and Fertility Management

David Wright, I. Small, and Nick Dufault

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

Cotton Growth and Development

David L. Wright, Isaac Esquivel, Sheeja George, and Ian Small

This publication provides basic information about cotton plant development as well as factors that can alter the pattern of development. Written by David L. Wright, Isaac Esquivel, Sheeja George, and Ian Small, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, revised September 2022.

Crapemyrtle Pruning

Gary W. Knox, Edward F. Gilman, Teagan Young, Ryan W. Klein, and Leynar Leyton

Pruning is one of the most controversial aspects of maintaining crapemyrtle. Traditionally, many crapemyrtles were routinely topped, leaving large branch and stem stubs. This practice has been called "crape murder" because most people dislike the winter appearance and many professionals believe the practice impacts crapemyrtle health and structural integrity. UF/IFAS research has clarified the effects of various crapemyrtle pruning practices that resulted in the recommendations in this publication.

Cull Whole Peanuts as a Feed Supplement for Beef Cows

Bob Myer, Gary Hill, and Matt Hersom

Cultivo de ciruelas en Florida

A. Sarkhosh, M. Olmstead, E. P. Miller, P. C. Andersen, J. G. Williamson y; traducción por Tatiana Sanchez

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

Design Suggestions and Greenhouse Management for Vegetable Production in Solid Media in Florida

George Hochmuth and Robert Hochmuth

The purpose of this publication is to present suggestions and options for designing and operating a greenhouse for vegetable production in solid media systems.

Diagnóstico de preñez en ganado de carne

Maria Camila Lopez Duarte, Kalyn Waters, Nick Simmons y Angela Gonella

Este documento está dirigido a productores de ganado de carne, trabajadores del campo y agentes de Extensión con el propósito de brindar información sobre los métodos de detección y diagnóstico de preñez disponibles en la actualidad. Este documento es AN394-Span, una publicación del Department of Animal Sciences, UF/IFAS Extension. Fecha original de la publicación: enero 2025.

Ecosystem Services Provided by Grass-Legume Pastures

Jose Dubeux, Jr., Lynn Sollenberger, Mark Mauldin, and Liza Garcia

Effects of Oil Spills on Marine and Coastal Wildlife

Holly K. Ober

Enfermedades Zoonóticas: La Rabia

Samantha M. Wisely y Holly K. Ober y traducido por Alejandra Areingdale y Miguel Acevedo

La rabia es un virus que se transmite entre mamíferos y es mortal para humanos y animales. La enfermedad es tratable, pero es incurable cuando los síntomas son evidentes. El virus ataca el sistema nervioso central y la forma más común de transmisión es la saliva, cuando un mamífero infectado muerde a otro animal o persona. El virus también se puede transmitir cuando saliva, lágrimas o tejido cerebral/nervioso infectados entran en contacto con heridas abiertas o mucosas (ojos, nariz o boca) de otro animal o persona.  El virus puede sobrevivir en los cuerpos de animales muertos por periodos largos, pero puede sobrevivir por poco tiempo fuera del cuerpo de un hospedero. El virus deja de ser infeccioso al secarse o calentarse, o ser expuesto a la luz solar.

Establishment of Silvopasture in Existing Pastures

Jarek Nowak, Alan Long, and Ann Blount

Estrus Synchronization Protocols for Natural Service

Daniella Heredia, Angela Gonella-Diaza, and Kalyn Waters

This publication is intended for producers interested in improving the reproductive efficiency and performance of their cows. This publication explains the process of estrus synchronization and the protocols that can be used for natural service synchronization. Written by Daniella Heredia, Angela Gonella-Diaza, and Kalyn Waters, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, February 2025.

Exclusion Methods for Managing Greenhouse Vegetable Pests

Robert C. Hochmuth and Richard K. Sprenkel

Feeding Food Wastes to Swine

M. L. Westendorf and R. O. Myer

Field Corn Production Guide

David Wright, Ian Small, Cheryl Mackowiak, Zane Grabau, Pratap Devkota, and Silvana Paula-Moraes

This publication discusses several aspects of field corn production in Florida, such as economics, land preparation, hybrid selection, fertilization, irrigation, and disease management. Written by David Wright, Ian Small, Cheryl Mackowiak, Zane Grabau, Pratap Devkota, and Silvana Paula-Moraes, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, revised August 2022.

Field Corn Production Problems: A Diagnostic Guide

David Wright, Jim Rich, and Ian Small

Florida's Bats: Brazilian Free-tailed Bat

Holly K. Ober, Terry J. Doonan, and Emily H. Evans

Florida's Bats: Evening Bat

Emily Evans, Terry Doonan, and Holly Ober

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID for General Public audience(s). in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Environmental Literacy and Sustainability

Florida's Bats: Florida Bonneted Bat

Holly K. Ober, Terry J. Doonan, and Emily H. Evans

Florida's Bats: Southeastern myotis

Emily Evans, Terry Doonan, and Holly Ober

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID for General Public audience(s). in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Environmental Literacy and Sustainability

Florida's Bats: Tricolored Bat

Emily Evans, Terry Doonan, and Holly Ober

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID for General Public audience(s). in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Environmental Literacy and Sustainability

Florida's Bats: Velvety Free-Tailed Bat

Holly K. Ober, Terry J. Doonan, and Emily H. Evans

FloRun™ '331' Peanut Variety

Barry L. Tillman

Forage-Based Heifer Development Program for North Florida

Jose Dubeux, Nicolas DiLorenzo, Kalyn Waters, and Jane C. Griffin

Forest Herbicide Characteristics

Anna Osiecka and Patrick J. Minogue

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet.

Guide to Fertilization for Pine Straw Production on Coastal Plain Sites

Anna Osiecka, Patrick J. Minogue, and E. David Dickens

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet for Commercial audience(s). in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Forestry

How to Build a Blackberry Trellis System: A Complete Guide

Muhammad A. Shahid, Shahid Iqbal, and Ali Sarkhosh

Blackberry (Rubus spp.) is a deciduous fruit crop. The fruit are usually small, round, and dark purple to black. Blackberry fruit is comprised of multiple drupelets that cluster together to form a berry, which has a glossy appearance when matured. Blackberries have a complex flavor profile that blends sweetness and acidity, and taste may vary depending on the variety and maturity stage. They are rich in nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Blackberries are best grown in sub-tropical to temperate climates. Blackberry is a new emerging fruit crop in Florida, where they are harvested in May-June. There are several varieties, some of which are native to Florida. This publication aims to provide a general overview of the importance of trellis, different types of trellis, and their installation in blackberry production for county and state Extension faculty, growers, homeowners, and students interested in growing blackberries in Florida.

Hurricane Preparedness for Forage Crops in the Southeast United States

José C. B. Dubeux, Jr. and Edward K. Twidwell

This 4-page document provides information on preparing forage crops, conserved forage, and grazing areas for potential hurricane damage and alleviating hurricane damage on forage crops and grazing lands in the Southeast United States, with an emphasis on the Florida peninsula and Gulf Coast.

Impact of In-Row Planting Patterns on Reniform Nematodes Using Precision Agriculture in Cotton

D. L. Wright, S. George, I. Small, T. Stansly, and Z. Grabau

This article is intended to inform cotton producers and associated agricultural professionals of a practical method to help manage plant-parasitic nematodes in cotton. Written by D. L. Wright, S. George, I. Small, T. Stansly, and Z. Grabau, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, revised September 2022.

Insect and Mite Pest Management in Florida Peanut

Isaac L. Esquivel, Xavier Martini, Ethan Carter, and Silvana Paula-Moraes

Peanut is one of the most important cash crops grown in the United States, with an estimated production value of over $1 billion. The southeastern coastal plains harbor most of the US peanut acreage, and Florida is ranked among the top five major peanut producers in the US, with 160 thousand acres planted in 2022 and an annual production value of $130 million in 2021. The majority of peanut acreage in Florida is in the Panhandle and central Florida, in Jackson, Santa Rosa, and Levy counties. Several insect pests feed on various peanut plant parts, including foliage, roots, and fruiting structures. These pests can cause significant damage to the plant canopy and kernels and can also transmit diseases, reducing the quality and quantity of yield if they are not properly detected and managed. This publication serves as a guide for Extension agents and growers to provide an overview of proper sampling techniques and management for peanut pests found in the Florida Panhandle.

Insect Management for Sweetpotatoes

X. Martini and S. E. Webb

Sweet potatoes, both orange- and white-fleshed varieties, are widely grown in Florida. Foliar pests, leafminers, whiteflies and armyworms, are generally not difficult to manage; in fact insecticides should be avoided to conserve their natural enemies. More serious are those pests whose immature stages feed on roots: sweetpotato weevil, wireworms, banded cucumber beetles, pale-striped and sweetpotato flea beetles, and in south Florida, Diaprepes weevils and white grubs.

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.

Isolation of Mother Cultures and Preparation of Spawn for Oyster Mushroom Cultivation

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

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

Low-Chill Apple Cultivars for North Florida and North Central Florida

Peter C. Andersen, Muhammad A. Shahid, and Kevin Folta

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet.

Management of Postpartum Anestrus in Beef Cows

Kalyn Bischoff, Vitor R. G. Mercadante, and G. Cliff Lamb

Managing Cover Crops for Improved Soil Health

R. Seepaul, S. George, J. Love, D. W. Wright, C. Mackowiak, and A. Blount

This publication aims to help growers and researchers understand the role of cover crops in improving soil health. The document provides recommendations on managing cover crops and describes the benefits of growing cover crops. Written by R. Seepaul, S. George, J. Love, D. W. Wright, C. Mackowiak, and A. Blount, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, revised January 2023.

Managing Thrips and Tospoviruses in Tomato

Joe Funderburk, Xavier Martini, Scott Adkins, Josh Freeman, Sam Hutton, Hugh Smith, Gene McAvoy, Crystal Snodgrass, Mathews Paret, and Norm Leppla

This fact sheet describes the biology and ecology of thrips and tomato spotted wilt virus, and recommends a management program.

Managing Wireworms in Florida Sweet Potatoes

Robert Hochmuth, Dakshina Seal, Norman Leppla, Daniel Fenneman, Rhoda Broughton, and Anil Baniya

This publication describes current methods for managing wireworms in sweet potato. Wireworms, the larvae of click beetles, are the most damaging insect pests of those that infest the foliage and roots. Soil tillage and crop rotation can suppress populations of these root pests but adequate management requires diligent surveillance and the use of insecticides. Describes new research on managing wireworms with alternative insecticide active ingredients and entomopathogenic nematodes.

Native Wildflowers on Roadsides of Central and South Florida

Jeffrey G. Norcini

This is a brochure describing several of Florida's common wildflower species. The brochure lists common names of many wildflower species, along with their flowering statistics and probable habitats. Images of the species and maps of their ranges are also included. 

Native Wildflowers: Container Production of Joe-Pye Weed from Seed

Jeffrey G. Norcini, James H. Aldrich, and Gale Allbritton

Joe-Pye weed is an herbaceous perennial native from Maine to Michigan, south to central Florida and Texas (USDA Hardiness Zones 3–9; AHS Heat Zones 2–10). It grows best in moist to slightly moist, well-drained soil under full sun to partial shade.

New Florida Foliage Plant Cultivar: Aglaonema 'Stripes'

R. J. Henny, J. Chen, and T. A. Mellich

Open-Field Soilless Culture of Vegetables

George J. Hochmuth and Robert C. Hochmuth

Paraná Pine, Araucaria angustifolia: An Ancient-Looking Conifer for Modern Landscapes

Gary W. Knox

Perennial Peanut as a Potential Living Mulch and Nitrogen Source for Citrus and Other Orchard Crops in Florida

Muhammad A. Shahid, K. Leaks, A. R. Blount, and Cheryl Mackowiak

The concept of using a perennial peanut as a living mulch and source of biological nitrogen in fruit and nut crop orchards is not a new idea. In Central and South America, perennial peanuts have long been incorporated as a living groundcover into palm, coffee, cacao, plantain, and citrus, as well as into other fruit and nut production orchards. This cover crop may pose as a viable, environmentally-friendly option for production in Florida, too.

Pre-Breeding Considerations for the Development of Replacement Beef Heifers

Pedro L. P. Fontes, Nicky Oosthuizen, Carla D. Sanford, and G. Cliff Lamb

Pregnancy Diagnosis on Beef Cattle Today

Maria Camila Lopez Duarte, Kalyn Waters, Nick Simmons, and Angela Gonella

This publication is directed to beef producers, farmworkers, and Extension agents with the purpose of providing information regarding current pregnancy diagnosis methods for beef cattle. Written by Maria Camila Lopez Duarte, Kalyn Waters, Nick Simmons, and Angela Gonella and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, May 2024.

Production and Marketing of Chestnuts in the Southeastern United States

Robert C. Hochmuth, Robert D. Wallace, Peter J. Van Blokland, and Jeffrey G. Williamson

Production of Biofuel Crops in Florida: Soybean

D. L. Wright, K. Boote, and I. M. Small

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

Recommendations for Management of Whiteflies, Whitefly-Transmitted Viruses, and Insecticide Resistance for Production of Cucurbit Crops in Florida

Xavier Martini, Mathews Paret, Jane E. Polston, Scott Adkins, Pamela Roberts, Teresia Nyoike, and Oscar E. Liburd

This publication lists and describes common viruses spread in cucurbit crops by whiteflies. It includes strategies for managing whiteflies, most of them originally from a similar publication on managing whiteflies in tomatoes.

Rhizosphere Microbes and the Roles They Play in Crop Production and Soil Health

Hui-Ling Liao

Each gram of rich soil can harbor 100 million to a billion microorganisms, meaning every inch of our soil is alive (Raynaud and Nunan 2014) (Fig. 1). These underground organisms keep soil healthy. Balancing the community of microbes can benefit plant yield, plant health, and soil sustainability. While it is recognized that many soil microbes perform key roles in crop productivity, the importance of these underground activities is easily overlooked because of their small size. By focusing on a specific group of microbes living on or near plant roots, this publication provides understanding for these questions: Who are these microbes and how do they improve plant and soil health?

Rose Mosaic Virus: A Disease Caused by a Virus Complex and Symptoms on Roses and Management Practices

Susannah da Silva, Binoy Babu, Mathews L. Paret, Gary Knox, Fanny Iriarte, Barron Riddle, Matt Orwat, Shawn T. Steed, E. Vanessa Campoverde, and Svetlana Y. Folimonova

Rose Rosette Disease: A New Disease of Roses in Florida

Binoy Babu, Mathews L. Paret, Tim Schubert, Carlye Baker, Gary Knox, Fanny Iriarte, James Aldrich, Laura Ritchie, Carrie L. Harmon, and Svetlana Y. Folimonova

Rzedowski's Sycamore (Platanus rzedowskii), a Smaller Alternative to American Sycamore

Gary W. Knox

Mexican sycamore (Platanus Mexicana) is a fast growing, drought tolerant tree boasting smooth white and tan bark and large, maple-like leaves with velvety, silver undersides. Native to northeastern and central Mexico, this tree’s cold hardiness is not well defined. However, Mexican sycamore grows well as far north as USDA Cold Hardiness Zone 8b in Texas and Florida.

Seed Production of Goldenmane Coreopsis

Jeffrey G. Norcini

Smooth-Bark Mexican Pine (Pinus pseudostrobus)

Gary W. Knox

This beautiful pine is distinguished by long, pendulous needles that form a graceful, open evergreen conifer. The slender needles are up to 12 inches long in groups (fascicles) of five. In its native environment, smooth-bark Mexican pine is considered fast growing, and can reach more than 120 feet tall and about 60 feet wide. In southern Georgia, trees have reached heights of 32 feet and widths of 25 feet in 10 years. Trees have a pyramidal form when young, becoming flat-topped with age. In its native range, smooth-bark Mexican pine grows in temperate to warm temperate areas with predominately summer rainfall. Florida’s similar climatic conditions suggest that smooth-bark Mexican pine will adapt well throughout the state. Cold hardiness is not well-defined, but this species has grown well in southern Georgia (USDA Cold Hardiness Zone 8b).

Sorghum Silage as a Feed Alternative for Backgrounding Heifers in Florida

Federico Tarnonsky, Federico Podversich, Araceli Maderal, and Nicolas DiLorenzo

Sorghum has been gaining attention in Florida as a crop alternative harvested as whole plant silage for inclusion in backgrounding diets as the main roughage source to fill the forage gap in winter feeding programs. The objective of this publication is to share the experience of three consecutive years at the North Florida Research and Education Center (NFREC) in Marianna, Florida, using whole-plant sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) silage as the main dietary ingredient for growing heifers. County Extension agents and cattle producers can use this report to reference a range of expected weight gains, feed conversion rates, and costs when using sorghum silage as the main dietary ingredient in backgrounding beef cattle diets. Adopting this technology could increase the opportunity for producers to add value to weaned calves across Florida, where there are suitable conditions for growing sorghum. 

Soybean Production in Florida

D. L. Wright, J. A. Ferrell, S. Sanjel, and I. Small

This publication discusses land preparation and planting, fertilization, crop residue management, irrigation, disease and nematode management, variety selection, weed control, insect management, and harvesting and storage for soybean production in Florida. Written by D. L. Wright, J. A. Ferrell, S. Sanjel, and I. Small, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, revised July 2022.

Strip-Planting Rhizoma Peanut into Grazing Systems

Jose Dubeux, Lynn Sollenberger, Joao Vendramini, Marcelo Wallau, Ann Blount, Liza Garcia-Jimenez, Erick Santos, and David Jaramillo

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

Survey of Mycotoxins Present in Florida Pastures Across Time, Locations, and Grass Species

Hui-Ling (Sunny) Liao, Kaile Zhang, Vijay Verma, Haihua Wang, Brittany Justesen, Joseph Walter, Valerie Mendez, Ann Blount, Cheryl Mackowiak, Marcelo Wallau, Robbie Jones, Ko-Hsuan Chen, Ed Jennings, JK Yarborough, Doug Mayo, Ray Bodrey, and Aaron S

The toxicity of grasses caused by mycotoxins has led to economic losses in the United States due to the health impact on livestock feeding on it. Florida's warm and humid weather is favorable for the growth of mycotoxin-producing fungi on grasses. The JECFA has provided evaluations and risk management for some high-risk mycotoxins; however, more research is needed in Florida to determine the maximum levels of these mycotoxins, how different environmental conditions affect these levels, and the specialized risk management to prevent animals from getting sick. Our Extension agents were able to collect and examine 195 grass samples from 13 ranchers across dry and wet seasons in Florida. In this publication, we summarized the results for our ranchers to learn more about (1) what (dominant) mycotoxins are generally present in Florida’s pastures, (2) what grass species could harbor more of these mycotoxins, and (3) what seasons or locations may favor these dominant mycotoxins.

The Basics of Agricultural BMPs in Northern Florida and Southwestern Georgia

Martha C. Monroe and Charles Barrett

Best management practices (BMPs) are cost-efficient processes that improve daily life, from healthcare to food service. Agricultural BMPs aim to reduce water use and improve water quality and soil on farms and ranches as well as to encourage better forestry practices and lawn care. This fact sheet introduces non-farmers to agricultural BMPs.

The Pecan Tree

P. C. Andersen and M. A. Shahid

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

The Plant-Growth-Promoting Fungus, Mortierella elongata: Its Biology, Ecological Distribution, and Activities Promoting Plant Growth

Hui-Ling Liao

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

The Satsuma Mandarin

Peter C. Andersen, James J. Ferguson,and Muhammad Adnan Shahid

This articles provides detailed description on cold hardy citrus, the satsuma mandarin.

Thinning Southern Pines—A Key to Greater Returns

Chris Demers, Michael Andreu, Babe McGowan, Alan Long, and Jarek Nowak

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet. in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Animal Systems

Tips for Successful Artificial Insemination in Beef Cattle

Daniela Cortés-Beltrán and Angela Gonella

This publication provides tips on how to perform successful artificial insemination in a beef cattle operation. Written by Daniela Cortés-Beltrán and Angela Gonella, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, December 2021.

Tips para la inseminación artificial en bovinos

Daniela Cortés-Beltrán y Angela Gonella

Esta publicación está dirigida a los productores de ganado bovino, trabajadores agrícolas y agentes de Extensión, con el propósito de proporcionar información sobre cómo realizar una IA exitosa en bovinos. Este documento, AN380-Span, es uno de una serie del Department of Animal Sciences, UF/IFAS Extension. La publicación original es de marzo 2024.

Trophy—A New Winter Oat Cultivar for Both Grain and Forage

Ann Blount, Ronald Barnett, Stephen A. Harrison, and Cheryl Mackowiak

Understanding Parent Verification and Its Uses in Beef Cattle

Felipe A. C. C. Silva, Mark Mauldin, and Angela M. Gonella-Diaza

This publication aims to provide guidance on how to perform successful samples collection and shipping for parent verification. Written by Felipe A. C. C. Silva, Mark Mauldin, and Angela M. Gonella-Diaza, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Animal Sciences, April 2024.

Use of Perennial Grasses in Peanut/Cotton Rotations for Integrated Management of Nematodes, Diseases, and Weeds

D. L. Wright, J. J. Marois, S. George, Z. Grabau, R. Barocco, and I. Small

This publication discusses the benefits of using perennial grasses in peanut/cotton rotations for integrated management of nematodes, diseases, and weeds. Written by D. L. Wright, J. J. Marois, S. George, Z. Grabau, R. Barocco, and I. Small, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, revised September 2022.

Water Conservation and Extension Participants: An Interesting Synergy

Laura A. Warner, Sebastian Galindo-Gonzalez, and Anil Kumar Chaudhary

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet. in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Urban Water

Wildlife of Florida Fact Sheet: Key Largo Woodrat

Brandon McDonald, Marcus Lashley, Michael Cove, and Carolina Baruzzi

This publication is part of the Wildlife of Florida fact sheet series, created to provide the public with a quick and accurate introduction to Florida’s wildlife, including both native and invasive species. We hope these fact sheets inspire you to learn more about one of Florida’s rarest mammals, the Key Largo woodrat, as well as to investigate the other wildlife around your community and understand the amazing biodiversity in the state of Florida.