In The Field magazine Hillsborough edition

In

MARCH 2023 VOL. 19 • ISSUE 5

Fishing Hot Spots

PAGE 22

Rocking Chair

Chatter

PAGE 24

Cantaloupe

Pathogen

PAGE 28

Business Up Front

Hey

FSGA PRESIDENT

40

PAGE 30

News Briefs

PAGE 35 Apples

PAGE 36

Hurricanes Losses

PAGE 38 Gardening

PAGE 44 John Dicks

PAGE 46 Activity

PAGE 47 A Closer Look

PAGE 48

Invaisive Snail

PAGE 50

Traveling Plants

PAGE 56

From The Scientific Fields

PAGE 58

Tree Varieties

PAGE 60 Recipes

Hillsborough County Farm Bureau

305 S. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL.

Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Insurance Services: 813-685-5673

Member Services: 813-685-9121

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Dennis Carlton, Jr.....................President

Carl Bauman................Vice President

Tony Lopez..............Treasurer

Madison Astin Salter..................Secretary

DIRECTORS FOR 2021 - 2022

Dennis Carlton Jr, Carl Bauman, Madison A. Salter, Tony Lopez, Tiffany D. Randall, Jake Cremer, Brittany Coleman, Travis Council, Drew Futch, Rep. Lawrence McClure, Sammi Wilcox, Michelle Williamson, Casey Runkles, Gayle Yanes

Kaylee Poppell, Executive Director

Farm Bureau Insurance Special Agents

Valrico Office

813-685-5673

100 S. Mulrennan Rd., Valrico, FL. 33594

Tommy Hale, CLU, ChFC, CASL, CPCU Agency Mgr.

Julie Carlson, Amy Engle

Plant City Office

813.752.5577

305 S. Wheeler St., Plant City, FL 33563

Jeff Summer

Tampa Office

813.933.5440

6535 Gunn Highway, Tampa, FL.33625

Greg Harrell, Jared Bean

AGENCY MANAGER Thomas O. Hale

Letter from the Editor

As I’m writing this, the 2023 Florida Strawberry Festival is heading into its last weekend. It’s been a successful run so far and I’m sure it will continue to be so throughout the final weekend. I hope you had a chance to attend and see all that the Festival has to offer! Check out our April issue for coverage of the agriculture events that took place.

Also wrapping up as I write this, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) hosted its annual Florida Farm to School Conference in central Florida to connect with schools, distributors, and producers across the state with the goal of increasing Florida products served in schools. The event taught best practices for school gardening and procurement processes and also allowed for networking with other Farm to School advocates.

“When our schools prioritize Florida-grown food, we all succeed – from the local farmers who grew the food, to those who delivered the food, to the school staff who purchased and prepared the food, to the students who enjoy the fresh, nutritious food, and every Floridian in between,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “The Annual Florida Farm to School Conference presents a valuable opportunity to invite those who take part in bringing the food to our students’ lunch table together to make a meaningful impact in the lives of Florida’s students and agriculture-related industries.”

The initiative works to enhance the connection that communities have with local growers to increase Florida products served in schools.

According to a press release from FDACS, Florida schools purchased over $45 million in Florida products, contributing $97 million in total economic impact.

You can do your part to help boost Florida’s agriculture community by purchasing Fresh From Florida products. Your food will be the freshest available and you will support your local farmer and rancher.

Until Next Month

Sarah Holt

Publisher/Photography

Karen Berry

Senior Managing Editor/ Associate Publisher

Sarah Holt

Editor

Patsy Berry

Sales

Karen Berry

Sarah Holt

Melissa Nichols

George Domedion

Creative Director/Illustrator

Juan Alvarez

Photography

Karen Berry

Melissa Nichols

Staff Writers

Al Berry

Sandy Kaster

James Frankowiak

Sean Green

Contributing Writers

Woody Gore

John Dicks

Social Media

Victoria Saunders

In The Field Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Hillsborough County businesses, restaurants, and many local venues. It is also distributed by U.S. mail to a target market, which includes all of the Greenbelt Property owners, members of the Hillsborough County Farm Bureau and Strawberry Grower’s Association.

Letters, comments and questions can be sent to P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, Florida 33563-0042 or you are welcome to email them to: info@inthefieldmagazine.com or call 813-759-6909

Advertisers warrant & represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. In The Field Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Berry Publications, Inc. Any use or duplication of material used in In the Field magazine is prohibited without written consent from Berry Publications, Inc.

to you. - Numbers 6:25

Published by Berry Publications, Inc.

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Sale Price: $2,750,000

12620 Amber Lane, Lithia, FL 43.63± Acres

This premier river retreat is your rare opportunity to own a slice of rural Florida paradise with 900 feet of winding river frontage and nestled between a wildlife corridor. With 43 acres and land on both sides of the South Prong of the Alafia River, you’ll have your own private park at your fingertips!

Sale Price: $1,500,000

Fairs, Festivals and Farm Bureau Days!

-Dennis Carlton Jr. - President

Greetings,

With spring in full swing, so are our fairs and festivals that honor our agriculture industry. Volunteering during these events are critical as we strive to make “The Voice of Agriculture” heard through varied initiatives in our area, statewide and nationally. Our impact and success at both the Florida State Fair and Florida Strawberry Festival are examples of just two events that highlight our agriculture industry and bring folks together to celebrate the successes of our industry and our youth.

During the Florida State Fair, Farm Bureau hosted our annual “Ag-Venture,” welcoming over 60,000 fair attendees through our exhibit, allowing both children and adults to participate in hands-on events related to various parts of our agriculture industry. The Florida Strawberry Festival recently concluded and was a wonderful celebration of another great strawberry season. Farm Bureau was pleased to be part of the Festival and we look forward to next year!

This month also marks the annual Farm Bureau Days in Tallahassee. While in Tallahassee, Florida Farm Bureau members will advocate at the State Capitol on Florida Farm Bureau priority issues during the 2023 Legislative Session. Members will share with state legislators how they are growing forward in agriculture within their communities and why their efforts are important to the state.

Our Annual spring Ag-Venture field trips will take place next month. These field trips serve as a learning experience for Hillsborough County elementary

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

school students through which they come to understand agriculture and the importance of where our food comes from through both presentations and hands-on activities, many involving volunteers.

April also includes the annual “Farm to the Hill” Program of American Farm Bureau through which Farm Bureau members from across the country gather in Washington D.C. to meet with lawmakers on behalf of our industry. It is essential that our federal lawmakers recognize how our industry impacts our nation and world, as well its overall economic impact, so that they can act in manner that fully supports agriculture going forward.

If you are a Farm Bureau member actively involved as a volunteer, thank you! If you are not a member, please consider joining so that you can help us with our role as the “Voice of Agriculture” whether it is locally, statewide or nationally. Please visit www.hcfarmbureau.org for more information about member benefits and opportunities for engagement.

Thank you,

Dennis Carlton Jr.

Dennis Carlton Jr. - President

Dennis Carlton Jr, President; Carl Bauman, Vice-President; Tony Lopez, Treasurer; Madison Astin Salter, Secretary; Tiffany D. Randall, Jake Cremer, Brittany Coleman, Travis Council, Drew Futch, Rep. Lawrence McClure, Sammi Wilcox, Michelle Williamson, Casey Runkles, Gayle Yanes

ES Cooley’s Water-Willow

By Libby Hopkins

Cooley’s water-willow or Justicia cooleyi as its known by its scientific name, is a rhizomatous perennial herb with upright stems that grow about 16 in tall. The lavender-rose flowers, which resemble small snapdragons, appear from August to December on forked, zigzag branches. The petals are fused into a two-lipped corolla. The slightly longer lower lip is mottled lavender and white; the upper lip is bright lavender-rose.

Cooley’s Water-Willow grows only in Hernando, Citrus, and Sumter Counties in Florida. It can be very abundant in one area, and completely absent in an adjacent area, though habitat conditions appear similar. Understanding what specific habitat features it needs can help guide biologists in management of state forest lands to best support the existing populations and can help in the selection of new areas to introduce new populations.

Cooley’s water-willow was first collected in 1924 in a hardwood forest near Mascotte in Lake County. Until recently it was only found in Hernando County; one population was discovered in the early 1990s in Sumter County.

Along with the Brooksville bell-flower, it occurs on federal property at an Agriculture Department research station. Other populations on public lands include those at the Chinsegut Nature Center, managed by the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission; along a state highway right-of-way; and at a Soil Conservation Service plant materials center. The Nature Conservancy also manages a preserve for Cooley’s water-willow.

Nine of the ten known Cooley’s water-willow populations are found in one of the fastest growing counties in the nation. From 1980 to 1986 Hernando County grew by 74.8 percent. The U.S. Census Bureau dubbed it the nation’s fastest growing county. Figures from the 1990 Census confirmed that the trend continues; the proposed Sun Coast Corridor toll road, part of a Tampa-Jacksonville corridor, would pass near Brooksville and encourage further population growth in the county. This rapid development has brought about greatly increased conversion of hardwood forest habitat to agricultural use, quarries and residential housing.

A number of the known populations of Cooley’s water-willow are on protected federal and state lands. The agricultural research station, which conducts beef cattle research, has not harmed the plant with its pasture management. The U. S. Fish

and Wildlife Service (FWS) will continue to monitor the station’s pasture management and consult on any proposal to clear additional forest.

Managers of all state and federal land with Cooley’s waterwillow populations have been notified of its presence. In addition, The Nature Conservancy operates a private landholder notification program for this and other rare Florida plants.

The 1994 recovery plan from the FWS, which describes necessary efforts to restore both the Cooley’s water-willow and the Brooksville Bellflower, notes that the primary objective for the plan is the eventual delisting of both species. The plan notes, however, that there is a fundamental lack of basic biological (i.e., distributional, ecological, reproductive, and systemic) knowledge about these species, which makes it difficult to set criteria to determine the time-frame or ultimate likelihood of delisting. Still, the plan states that delisting of both species should become feasible as habitat is protected and new populations are (re)established.

According to the 1994 plan, plausible criteria for recovery might include securing at least 15 viable and self-sustaining populations of Cooley’s water-willow, totaling at least 10,000 individuals. The major recovery actions outlined in the plan include the development of management and protection criteria for populations on current managed areas; the acquisition of additional habitat, or protection of habitat through conservation easements and/or regulation; the completion of additional surveys to locate new populations; the augmentation of existing cultivated populations, including the establishment of a germ plasm bank; and the development of plans for possible (re)introduction of plants into sustainable habitat.

In The Breeze

by: Libby Hopkins

In The Breeze Ranch is an operating large functioning horse ranch that has been in business since the 70s. They specialize in horseback riding but also offer a variety of other things to do at the ranch.

They specialize in anything horses, such as ranch style parties, hayrides, bonfires, lessons, leasing, equine sales, boarding and horsemanship camp for children. “Our purpose in our creation was a Certified Horsemanship Academy,” said In The Breeze Ranch Manager, Samantha Slack. “That evolved into ‘Any day there is no school is camp day at In The Breeze.’ We teach horseback riding at its finest for all ages. We are open seven days a week and would love to show you and your family how to really have some ranch style fun!”

Slack was born into a family that loves animals of all kinds. “I was blessed to be raised by a family that loved critters” Slack said. “I am fortunate enough to have been able to build a career based around horses and running a ranch. I have spent my life growing up on a ranch and I am a better person because of it. Horses and livestock have a wonderful way of keeping you humble.”

Slack has been a part of In The Breeze Ranch since she was a little girl. “I came to the ranch as a little girl with an obsession for horses and never left,” Slack said. “Lynda Fowler, the founder of In The Breeze, took me under her wing and taught me everything she know about ranch life. I immediately fell in love and have spent my life since, dedicated to keeping this business thriving. We are a large operation horse ranch in the heart of Tampa that spends a lot of time educating the community and various folks on how to properly love and care for these magical creatures.”

General public horseback riding in Florida doesn’t get better then at In The Breeze Ranch. Conveniently located just five miles north of the Tampa International Airport, In The Breeze offers horseback riding as one of its main activities. “Come saddle up with In The Breeze and let one of our professional trail guides show you

what it’s like to experience a true adventure on horseback, Thursday through Tuesday,” Slack said. “Wednesdays’ are our herd’s day off, but our office is still open and we are open for camp, but closed to the general public on Wednesday’s.”

When you visit the ranch, you will be riding one of their quality and experienced horses that were born and raised on the ranch. “They are exceptionally trained, well-mannered and experienced in navigating the trails we ride daily,” Slack said. “Even for the most inexperienced riders, our horses are sure to take care of you during the length of your ride. Our horses are sure to please. Come take a ride on one of our happy, athletic, and well-toned horses. Not only will you be glad you did, it’s also great exercise.”

Slack has gotten some phenomenal feedback from guests who have visited the ranch. “Everyone loves the idea of being a cowboy, every guest that comes our way gets to experience what it’s like to be a cowboy, even just for a short while,” Slack said. “We rope a lot of them in to staying around as volunteers because they can’t get enough of it, just like us. They also enjoy learning what day to day care is like. There is a lot that goes

in to maintaining a herd of horses and we enjoy sharing that knowledge with all of our guests.”

Slack loves what she does at the ranch. “My absolute most favorite thing to do is ground work and training the young horses,” Slack said. “A great foundation is essential in having a solidly trained horse.”

Keeping things local is also important to Slack and her team at the ranch. “It is incredibly important,” Slack said. “Our neighborhood is our biggest supporter! It is our responsibility to teach the next generation the importance of ranch life. The world needs more cowboys!”

Slack hopes the ranch will continue to flourish and grow as a family locally operated business. “We want to continue to make more folks aware that we are here to share our love of horses with anyone that wants to learn.”

If you would like to learn more about In The Breeze Ranch, you can visit their website at www.inthebreezeranch.com or call Slack at (813) 264-1919. In The Breeze Ranch is located at 7539 Gardner Rd.in Tampa.

our environment.

Reclamation ecologists like Ashlee work to return mined lands to productive use as wildlife habitats, public parks and more—so future generations can enjoy these lands for years to come.

OUR PROFITS ARE YOUR PAYDAY

When you do business with Farm Credit, you are a member of a cooperative. When we do well, you do well. And we’ve been doing well for over 100 years.

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Fishing Spring Sheepshead

Fishing in Tampa Bay and Near Shore Waters

Everything seems to be biting, depending on the tides and, of course, the red tide. Snook, Redfish, Sea Trout, Mangrove snapper, Sheepshead, later season mackerel, and look for summer trout in deeper channels.

Sheepshead, winter, spring, and summer fishing action can be enjoyable, and they’re great for eating.

Let’s Start With Sheepshead Bait: Finding bait for sheepshead is not complicated; practically any marinedwelling crustacean or bivalve living in saltwater will work. Of course, some baits frequently work better than others. However, I will give you a few clues on what to use for these stripped bait stealers. Fiddler crabs, in my opinion, are one of the top sheepshead baits. I use a lightweight Carolina Rig or Knocker Rig for deeper water, like around bridges, and for anything shallower, I free-line them on a snelled Diachii circle hook.

A close second to fiddlers is the mud crab that most folks never consider. This little crab lives under oysters and rocks and requires a little effort, so yes, you have to get out of the boat and turn over some rocks and oyster clusters.

Therefore, before you head out sheepshead fishing, find some shallow or dry nearshore oysters or rocks and capture a few dozen mud crabs or purchase some fiddlers from your local bait store. My third favorite bait is a ¾ to 1-inch piece of fresh shrimp. But stay away from old and freezer burned. Shrimp are good sheepshead bait and are nearly as effective as fiddlers or mud crabs. And best of all, they are easily acquired from your local bait shop.

Where to Fish: Sheepsheads are usually in the same places year-round. So if you are looking for early morning action, check submerged rock piles, jetties, piers, and structure-laden tidal creeks. Nevertheless, the key to finding sheepshead is looking for structures and habitats usually associated with food. Of course, tides play a significant role in their feeding habits.

In my opinion, fiddler crabs are the number one sheepshead bait. There are three fiddler crab species in Florida within the estuarine shorelines. They are usually found where the sand or mud meets the water. Look for small pennysized holes with crab colonies darting in and out. Fiddler crabs can be captured by hand (quite exciting) or skillfully herded into a bucket on its side using two 2’x4’s to direct them into the bucket.

Capt. Woody Gore (www.captainwoodygore.com)

Captain Woody Gore

A close second to fiddlers, and nearly as practical, is ½ a mediumsized shrimp. On some days they are even more effective and are easier to find at your local bait shop. Fresh or frozen, buy live shrimp or freshly frozen and cut into small ½ to 1-inch pieces. Oysters, Mussels, or Clams are part of the sheepshead’s natural bait diet and are usually attached to dock pilings, seawalls, piers, oyster reefs, or shallow sand. The meat gives off an attractive odor to sheepshead and is effectively freshly collected and shucked.

Another good bait, commonly used for pompano, is sand fleas, aka “mole crabs,” which are also an excellent choice for sheepshead. Sand fleas live in the surf zone along most Florida beaches. Often seen swimming back in the water after each wave. Sand flea rakes are sold in tackle shops and used to capture these small crabs. Or simply use your hands to filter the sand as the water and sand retreat after large waves.

Essentially any marine-dwelling crustacean or bivalve you can get your hands on will attract the bite of a sheepshead. Every species has a “preferred” diet, but most are opportunistic predators.

Capt. Woody Gore operates Tampa Bay's #1 Outdoor Fishing Guide Services. Guiding and fishing in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater areas for over fifty years, he offers first-class customer service, family-oriented charters, and a lifetime of memories.

Visit his website, www.captainwoodygore.com

Email: fishing@captainwoodygore.com

Caimito has numerous common names including cainito, caimito, tar apple, star apple, purple star apple, golden leaf tree, abiaba, pomme de lait, estrella, milk fruit and aguay.

Slugs have four noses

In Cambodia, caimito is called “Plae Teuk Dos” which means milk fruit due to its milky juices inside.

Sea otters hold each other’s paws when they sleep so they don’t drift apart.

Beef fat, called tallow, is an ingredient in soaps, cosmetics, candles, shortenings, and chewing gum.

An acre of land is about the same size as a football field.

Raising beef cattle is the single largest segment of American agriculture.

The heaviest turkey ever raised weighed 86 pounds, about the size of an average third-grader.

One pound of wool can make 10 miles of yarn.

YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR

Most all of us can remember how our mother would always have an answer for any question we would ask. As a child I often questioned her answers, but the older I got the more I realized how smart she really was.

I sometimes would miss school because of a cold, headache or some made up minor sickness. She could see through me like an open window. Usually I would start feeling better about the time school let out, and she would say, “If you’re too sick to go to school, you’re too sick to play outside.”

Here are some of my mother’s favorite sayings; I don’t care what “everyone” is doing. I care what YOU are doing! I’m doing this for your own good! I’m going to skin you alive! I’m not going to ask you again. If it were a snake, it would have bitten you. If you could stay out last night, you can get up this morning. Over my dead body! Pick that up before somebody trips on it and breaks their neck! Pick up your feet. Put that down! You don’t know where it’s been! Say that again and I’ll wash your mouth out with soap.

One of her funniest sayings was when she saw a person acting odd or wearing something outrageous was, “The sights you see when you haven’t got a gun.”

How may of these have you heard before?

A little soap & water never killed anybody. Always wear clean underwear in case you get in an accident.

Answer me when I ask you a question.

Are you going out dressed like that?

Are your hands broken? Pick it up yourself! I’m not your maid.

Bored! How can you be bored? I was never bored at your age.

Clean up after yourself.

Cupcakes are NOT a breakfast food.

Did you clean your room?

Did you flush the toilet?

Do you live to annoy me?

Do you think this is a hotel? You can’t just come here only to sleep.

Don’t ask me WHY. The answer is NO.

Don’t cross your eyes or they’ll freeze that way.

Don’t EVER let me catch you doing that again!

Don’t make me come in there.

Don’t run with a lollipop in your mouth.

Don’t stay up too late.

Don’t use that tone with me.

Don’t you have anything better to do?

Go ask your father.

Go to your room and think about what you did. How can you have nothing to wear? Your closet is FULL of clothes.

“Mother Said”

Editor’s Note: This Rocking Chair Chatter was originally printed in the March 2019 issue

How many times do I have to tell you? I can always tell when you’re lying.

My mother said a lot a lot of things, but the one that I remember the most is; “Never look down on anyone, unless it is to offer your hand to help them up.”

My mother had a way to keep me under control. When I was about six years old I went through a phase of flicking the lights in our house on and off continuously. This was in the early 40s during World War II, so Mom convinced me to stop by telling me that doing so would send a signal to the Germans to bomb our house. That did the trick.

A friend of mine a few cabins down from me on Moon Ridge in Blairsville, GA is an interesting person. One afternoon we engaged in a conversation about our mothers.

He said when he was a child his mother always turned the cold water tap on first thing each morning, and let it run for a minute or so. She said she did that to clear the pipes of the stale water from the night before. He said there were no copper pipes in those days, all lead, but she didn’t know that.

She also cleaned her carpets by sprinkling tea leaves all over them, then brushing the carpet with a stiff brush. He said it was years before she ever got a vacuum cleaner.

If he said he was hungry between meals she would give him a slice of bread and butter and a glass of water.

He smiled and looked up at the sky and said, “One day she came over to visit me, and as she was leaving it started to rain. I gave her my umbrella to walk home with. About a week later I stopped in to see her. I was surprised to see my umbrella wide open in her living room by the window. She told me that she had been waiting for a rainy day to bring it back to me, as she couldn’t get the cockeyed thing closed!

A guy shopping in a supermarket noticed a little old lady following him around. If he stopped, she stopped. Furthermore she kept staring at him. She finally overtook him at the checkout, and she turned to him and said, “I hope I haven’t made you feel ill at ease; it’s just that you look so much like my late son.” He answered, “That’s okay.” “I know it’s silly, but if you’d call out ‘Goodbye, Mom’ as I leave the store, it would make me feel so happy.”

She then went through the checkout ... and as she was on her way out of the store, the man called out, “Goodbye, Mother.” The little old lady waved and smiled back at him. Pleased that he had brought a little sunshine into someone’s day, he went to pay for his groceries. “That comes to $121.85,” said the clerk.

“How come so much? I only bought five items.” The clerk replied, “Yeah, but your Mother said you’d pay for her things, too.”

We all love our mothers. My mother taught me about STAMINA. “You’ll sit there until all that spinach is gone.”

UV LIGHT MAY HELP FARMERS VANQUISH DEADLY CANTALOUPE PATHOGEN

By Brad Buck

Can’t get enough cantaloupe? University of Florida scientists want to help farmers in Florida and across the globe grow the cucurbit to satisfy consumers’ tastes. Even with fungicides, producers struggle to control powdery mildew, a disease that can damage or kill cantaloupe. Thanks to UF/IFAS research, growers may now use ultraviolet (UV) light.

Natalia Peres, a UF/IFAS plant pathology professor, has published a new study that shows UV light can zap the pathogen on the plants – without damaging them. “Powdery mildew is one of the most common and severe diseases of cucurbits worldwide,” said Peres, a faculty member at the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC). “It can be a major disease on cantaloupes grown in Florida, although there are some cultivars that tolerate it better.”

In the Sunshine State, cantaloupe producers are largely in Collier, Hendry, Hardee, Manatee and Hillsborough counties. Florida farmers harvest cantaloupe from midMarch through May.

The USDA NASS State Agriculture Overview for Florida shows that the state’s growers harvested 1,500 acres of cantaloupe in 2021. That’s about 375,000 pounds, worth just under $10 million annually. Nationally, growers produced cantaloupes worth $277,503,000 in 2021.

Powdery mildew can survive natural UV light in sunlight. So, the disease can fight the natural UV light of daytime, but not at night.

“If we applied UV light during the day, we would need to use higher doses to get the same effect,” Peres said. “However, these natural defenses are not active at night, so by applying UV light at night, we can bypass the natural defenses of the pathogen and kill it with lower doses that we would need during the day.”

That’s why scientists put an ultraviolet lamp behind a tractor, drove it onto the GCREC research farm once or twice a week (overnight), pointed the light at the cantaloupe and struck the mildew out of the plant.

“Our unit was built in a shop by one of our strawberry growers,” Peres said. “Similar and bigger units could be designed and built for growers to use at their farms.”

No commercial units are available for field applications – yet, but there is a lot of research recently on the use of UV light in agriculture systems.

Peres has already shown the UV light can work to suppress powdery mildew in strawberries, a $300 million annual crop in Florida. Her research using the UV light on strawberries caught the attention of a colleague of hers in Brazil.

She hopes these findings give a ray of hope to cantaloupe farmers across the globe.

“The UV light may be a practical approach to suppress powdery mildew in cantaloupe with the potential to reduce disease severity without damaging the plants or decreasing yield,” Peres said. “We are very limited in the number of types of fungicides available to control this and other diseases. Additionally, pathogens are acquiring resistance to some of these fungicides, so we need alternative methods.”

Included among the researchers who helped Peres with this research were Ueder Lopes, a professor at Universidade Federal do Agreste Pernambuco in Brazil, Galvin Alonzo, a doctoral student in the GCREC plant pathology lab and Gary Vallad, a plant pathology professor at GCREC.

The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life.

With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. ifas.ufl.edu | @UF_IFAS

ABOUT UF/IFAS

The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. ifas.ufl.edu | @UF_IFAS

Business Up Front VERANSA

By Jim Frankowiak

TRANSFORMING WOOD AND GREEN WASTE INTO SUPERIOR-QUALITY, SOIL REGENERATING, BENEFICIAL ORGANIC PRODUCTS

Formed in 2021, Veransa has quickly become a zero-waste leader in transforming urban wood and green waste into beneficial premium organic soil amendments that increase crop yields and regenerate even the most degraded agricultural soils. As a result of using these products, farmers can grow healthier, more resilient crops and save money on water, fertilizer and pesticide needs. Veransa controls the flow of feedstock used to manufacture their products so that the products are continuously available on an industrial scale. No order is too large to fill.

The company currently has two organic soil amendment facilities which are fed through a continuous flow of green and wood materials collected at Veransa’s five recycling facilities. Veransa is a market leader that recycles more than 35 percent of all the green and wood waste generated in Southwest and Central Florida. Veransa’s raw materials are provided primarily by landscaping companies, arborists, municipalities, as well as home owners.

“Veransa is a win-win for Florida’s farmers, its environment and its economy,” said Roger Johansson, Executive Chairman of the company. “Our model transforms green and wood waste into products that have many added environmental benefits. Our organic compost helps to regenerate Florida’s sandy agricultural soil and keep the state’s waterways free from runoff by increasing soil water-retention capacity and reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers.”

“This green material is transformed into organic compost and soil blends, while the wood they receive is transformed into a variety of mulch products,” said Johansson. Most green materials received are processed and used in the production of Veransa’s REGEN Florida Organic Compost®. This product is a superior quality, soil regenerating, organic compost that is certified and listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI), has the Seal of Testing Assurance Program (STA) for Compost Manufacturers and is made from only professionally cured and composted green materials that are free of biosolids, manure or food waste, all of which are critical concerns of growers, particularly organic fruit and vegetable producers. “Veransa is unique in producing premium, certified organic, OMRI Listed® and STA approved compost on an industrial scale in Southwest and Central Florida,” said Roxane Teymourtash, Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations for the Veransa Group, Inc.

“REGEN Organic Compost® is like a probiotic for the soil,” said Teymourtash. “Its benefits include increased yields of fruits vegetables and ornamental crops. The product increases plant growth speed, root health and drought resilience. REGEN can save money and water by reducing water usage needs and increasing soil water retention. It also reduces the need for both fertilizers and pesticides. If combined, it increases fertilizer efficiency.”

“This soil amendment enriches soil with micro and macro nutrients, and beneficial organisms that work together to protect the crop which they feed off,” she said. “Sadly, our agricultural soils are being quickly depleted by unsustainable agricultural practices that strip organic matter out, and then need to rely on adding more and more chemical fertilizers to be able to grow on increasingly infertile soils. REGEN can reverse degradation and truly regenerate our soils. It can even turn sand into healthy and fertile soil.”

“All of the wood material we receive is transformed into mulch products, and we will soon produce renewable energy products,” Teymourtash added. “Our REGEN Composted Mulch is also soil-regenerating and water saving. It is made from organic composted hardwood bark that has been screened out of our compost piles and then processed to two-inches minus, with minimal fines. It has a natural brownish-black color without the addition of any chemicals or coloring.

“REGEN Mulch increases soil water retention, improves soil structure, increases organic matter and plant growth,” said Teymourtash. “It adds necessary soil nutrients as it decomposes and encourages mycelium growth. The result is richer, nutrient-dense soil that doesn’t require as much irrigation and fertilization or pesticide use, all important considerations for growers.

“Additionally, this mulch is a wonderful soil amendment to mix into existing soil when planting trees and shrubs, and also for gardens and planting beds. The product is also a great ground cover, helping to protect tree and shrub roots from the impact of extreme weather conditions,” she said.

“Our Zero-Waste approach is an additional and important consideration since it means that 100 percent of organic materials are sustainably transformed into beneficial re-use

products,” Teymourtash said. “We take pride in the reliability and speed of our processing, which utilizes electric-powered equipment where possible for more sustainable recycling.”

Veransa’s facilities offer easy accessibility, disposal with hands-on help and pull-off service – all consistently and reliably provided in a friendly manner.

The company’s Seffner operation is located at 6727 County Road 579, Seffner, Florida 33584. The facility is open daily from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and closed on Sunday. In addition to green and wood waste disposal, recycling service and manufacturing, the Seffner location sells organic compost and soil blends. Veransa regularly provides tours of this flagship facility to farmers, staff from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) and other educators in the state. Call 813/628-0600 to schedule a tour.

More information about Veransa, its capabilities, Seffner facility tours and products is available at www.veransa.com.

NEWS BRIEFS

Compiled by Jim Frankowiak

AFBF Looking for Ag Innovation Challenge Applications

The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), in partnership with Farm Credit, is seeking entrepreneurs to apply online for the 2004 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. This national business competition showcases U.S. startup companies developing innovative solutions to challenges faced by America’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities.

Applications are open through May 12. Each of the 10 semifinalists will be awarded $10,000 and a chance to compete to advance to the final round where four teams will receive an additional $5,000 each and the overall winner takes home $50,000. Application information is available at: fb.org/challenge.

March Blooms at the Plant City Commons Community Garden

Visitors are invited to the Botanical Treasure Gardens of the Plant City Commons Community Garden to view the wide range of March blooms, both in color and variety. The Garden is located at 2001 East Cherry Street in Plant City. For more information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Plant CityCommons/. Admission is free.

USDA Announces Grants for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is making available up to $7.5 million for grants through its Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (OUAIP).

The competitive Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Grants will support the development of urban agriculture and innovative production projects through two categories, Planning Projects and Implementation Projects. USDA will accept applications on Grants.gov until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on March 27, 2023.

OUAIP is led by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and works in partnership with numerous USDA agencies that support urban agriculture and innovative production. The grants are part of a broad USDA investment in urban agriculture.

Planning Projects initiate or expand efforts of farmers, gardeners, citizens, government officials, schools and other stakeholders in urban areas and suburbs. Projects may target areas of food access, education, business and start-up costs for new farmers and the development of plans related to zoning and other needs of urban production.

Implementation Projects accelerate existing and emerging models of urban, indoor and other agricultural practices that serve farmers and communities. Projects may improve local food access; include collaboration with partner organizations, and support infrastructure needs, emerging technologies, and educational endeavors. For more information, visit: USDA.gov. Governor Appoints Tampa Attorney to District Board

Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed Tampa attorney Robert Stern to the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board. Stern, who will represent Hillsborough County on the District Board, is a partner and attorney with Trenam Law. His appointment is subject to Florida Senate confirmation.

Florida Federal Lawmakers Introduce Legislation to Protect Seasonal Growers

Florida Congressional Representatives Vern Buchanan and Darren Soto have introduced bi-partisan legislation to help the state’s fruit and vegetable growers combat Mexico’s unfair trade practices. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott have introduced similar legislation in the U.S. Senate. Under current federal law, only year-round producers who can demonstrate a nationwide impact of unfair trade practices can seek relief from the U. S. Department of Commerce and the U. S. International Trade Commission. The pending legislation would enable season fruit and vegetable growers the ability to petition the federal government for relief from unfair trade practices.

Community Garden Sets April 15 for Earth Day Festival

The Plant City Community Garden has set April 15 for its Earth, Wind and Garden Earth Day Festival from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event, which will be held at the garden, 2001 East Cherry Street in Plant City, will include activities for all ages, including children, such as a plant sale, educational workshops, food trucks, music, entertainment, garden tours and more. This is a free event, open to the public. For more information visit the Garden’s FaceBook Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ PlantCityCommons.

GCREC STUDENT/POST-DOC GROUP SUPPORTS CHARITIES WITH EXCESS PRODUCE DONATIONS

By Jim Frankowiak

As part of its ongoing commitment to offer research solutions to growers of numerous commodities in Florida, the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Services (UF/ IFAS) Gulf Coast Research and Education Center at Balm continually produces produce from research trials at its 475-acre facility in southern Hillsborough County. Substantial amounts of this produce were being composted until a recent initiative was implemented by the Center’s Gulf Coast Post-doc and Student Association (GCPSA).

The origin of that program can surprisingly be traced to GCREC PhD Graduate Assistant Lillian Pride, the impetus behind the GCSPA food donation program, when she was a nursing school student at Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri. “My nursing school instructor told the class that a few students regularly went hungry to pay for school, and she encouraged them to reach out to the local food pantry,” said Pride. “We also received extra credit for volunteering at a food pantry for one of our classes, and a friend introduced me to a local farmers’ market. Also, nutrition classes at Truman greatly improved my life as cutting sugar out of my diet and incorporating a lot of vegetables helped a lot.”

“I did not finish my nursing degree, and after a break went back to school for engineering at St. Louis Community College (STLLC), where I ended up in the Phi Theta Kappa honors society. One of our officers was trying to start the Brown Bag Café food pantry and a campus garden. Apparently, the Pell Grant disbursement period had shifted a month later and some students were not eating in order to pay for their education, which was a problem which had been happening for a

long time at the community college, but was exacerbated by the change in the Pell Grant disbursement period.

“For some reason the idea of a campus garden where students could literally walk right up and pick their own lettuce riveted me, and I kept asking the officer in charge of the food pantry and garden project, ‘Have you started the garden?’ She said no, but did manage to start the food pantry. I was asked to start the garden, but did not have the time so another officer of the society agreed to take up the garden the following semester.

“That did not take place since the officer who agreed to take up the garden had to assume society presidency and the garden project had no leader. So I did the only logical thing and stepped up, ultimately changing my major again in my last semester. In combination with my desire to start the garden, what really made me shift my major was the influence of Mark Manteuffel from the STLLC Florissant Valley campus Home Plate Community Garden and the book, 40 Chances: Finding Hope in a Hungry World by Howard Buffett, which I only came across because Mark brought me to a talk Buffett was doing at the St. Louis Library. They convinced me that it was possible to make a living growing produce in the world, and downright worthwhile to do so. I had already applied and had been accepted to multiple engineering schools, but I applied to horticulture schools where Iowa State University became the obvious choice.

“What inspired me to go to horticulture school was the thought that I could teach people how to grow their own food,

and, also to address food insecurity and nutritional issues in the United States. That has become a passion for me and is what drives me.”

While at Iowa State Pride learned about the MEANS (Matching Excess and Needs for Stability) Database, and “I also became familiar with the unique challenges research stations, such as the GCREC, face for donating produce,” she said. “The main challenge isn’t willingness to donate, but a lack of time and money, both of which are addressed by the MEANS Database, an organization that coordinates the posting, transport and reception of food donations to local nonprofits. All that is needed at each donating location is someone willing to spend a few minutes a day to be the interface between the MEANS Database and the location along with the location’s approval.”

Pride noted that research stations, such as the GCREC, cannot sell their produce in many cases because it would put them in competition with local growers, and the station staff members typically have tight schedules and limited budgets that prohibit donations.

“When I became an employee at the GCREC in 2019, I could see they had a lot of extra produce they were composting which everyone would have preferred to donate,” said Pride. “I didn’t have time back then, but when I became a student at the GCREC and an officer of the GCPSA, I talked with the officer team, which shared the vision with our Center director Dr. Jack Rechcigl. He said he was 100% behind it, so we reached out to the recently-launched MEANS branch in our state. Since November of 2022, we have donated over 2700 pounds of produce from three of our research labs! Our most recent donation was 511-pounds of strawberries split between the Food Bank of Manatee and the Society of St. Andrews.”

“The way it works is that each research lab at our location has a food donation liaison. If the donation is small, the liaison can post their donation on the MEANS and deal with it independently. A nonprofit will receive notification after they make a posting and directly contact the liaison to pick up the produce. If the donation is large, the liaison can contact me and I will coordinate the donation with the MEANS staff directly. When the research lab cannot harvest the produce they wish to donate due to labor limitation, I work with the Society of St. Andrews, who will glean the field and transport the produce to the nonprofit.”

“I am the contact for the GCPSA who organizes the effort at the GCREC with one liaison from each lab (Bill Wang from the Agehara lab, Mark Porter from the Seonghee lab, Tiffany Long from the Smith lab, Dolly Cummings from the Hutton lab, Emily Witt from the Boyd lab, Marrissa Cassaway from the Vallad lab, Angel Arredonda from the Whitaker lab, Steven Kinsey from the Choi lab, Lorna Carter from the Peres lab, and Justin Carter from the Desaeger lab). So far I have received donations from the Agehara, Hutton, and Desaeger labs. I am regularly in contact with Emily Grant from the MEANS Database and Forrest White from the Society of St. Andrews. I would also be excited to work with any of the local growers, especially those in collaboration with the GCREC, who would like to volunteer a liaison.”

Produce donations coordinated by the GCPSA, thus far, have gone to the MEANS Database, St. Petersburg Free Clinic Food Bank, The Food Bank of Manatee and The Society of St. Andrews.

FLORIDA APPLES

By Sandy Sun, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science

Cosmic Crisp, Honeycrisp and other newer popular varieties of apples are available at grocery stores these days. It seems the apple selection has grown quite a bit in the past few years. Apples are grown in Florida as well, though they tend to be different then classic Northern cultivars which include Gala, Fuji, and Red Delicious, because the Southern types were cultivated to require fewer hours of cold weather. The types of apples that grow in Florida are different because apple production requires a certain number of chill hours during the winter to successfully set buds in the spring. Temperatures need to be below 45 degrees Fahrenheit for a set number of hours, depending on type of apple. Florida cultivars require fewer chill hours.

The apple is a member of the Rose family, along with apricots, plums, cherries, peaches, pears, and raspberries. Apples have a white or cream-colored flesh with red, green, or yellow skin. Most types are sweet and crisp, with a varying level of tartness depending on the kind. Apples should be picked off the tree when they reach optimal size and color. If slightly immature, apples will also ripen in the refrigerator.

Cosmic Crisp apples are known for being large and juicy, with a balanced sweet and tart flavor. The texture is firm and crisp. They are bred and grown in Washington state and delicious eaten out-of-hand as well as for cooking and baking.

Honeycrisp apples originated in Minnesota and are now the state fruit of Minnesota. This variety of apple is known for being crisp and sweet. They are grown in the colder states of New York, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. They also have a long shelf life and can be refrigerated for up to six months. Honeycrisp apples are delicious eaten raw and are also used for cooking and baking.

Nutrition

Fresh Florida apples are low in calories and high in water, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, one medium fresh apple (182grams) contains 95 calories, 25 grams of carbohydrate, 4.4 grams of fiber, 0.5 grams of protein, and 0.3 grams of fat. A single apple also contains 17% of your daily requirements for dietary fiber, 11% for vitamin C, 8% for biotin, 6% for potassium, and plentiful amounts of other nutrients including the B vitamins, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, and manganese.

Blood Sugar Regulation

Apples contain phytonutrients, natural chemicals found in plants, which function in many beneficial ways. Some of these can help regulate blood sugar by slowing the speed and amount of breakdown of complex carbohydrates into simple sugars. Polyphenols also decrease how much sugar your body absorbs from the food eaten. Additionally, these compounds help muscles take up more sugar from the blood to use as fuel. The dietary fiber in apples can also help prevent blood sugar spikes.

Cancer Protection

Other phytonutrients act as antioxidants, which decrease the harmful oxidation of cell membranes which can lead to atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular risk factors. Antioxidants are very powerful in helping to reduce inflammation, which plays a role in many common chronic diseases such as arthritis, heart disease, and some cancers. The antioxidants also help lower risk of asthma and lung cancer. New research shows that antioxidants may also help protect against breast cancer and colon cancer. As with most foods, the less processing the better it is nutritionally. Whole apples are richer in antioxidants, polyphenols, and dietary fiber than the more processed applesauce or apple juice. Most of the nutrients are highly concentrated in the outer skin of the apple.

Heart Health

A single serving contains 17% of your daily fiber needs. Apples contain soluble fiber (pectins) as well as insoluble fiber. A high intake of fiber from fruits and vegetables can help prevent heart disease by lowering cholesterol, particularly the soluble type. Both total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol are decreased with high fiber intake.

How to Select and Store

Choose firm apples that have rich colors and a slight blush. Avoid any that are bruised or have broken skin. Apples vary in tartness depending on variety. Fresh Florida apples, including the Anna, Dorsett Golden, and Tropic Sweet, can be stored in the refrigerator for up to six weeks.

How to Enjoy

Fresh Florida apples are delicious eaten out-of-hand. They can also be sliced and added to a salad or sautéed or baked. Other ways to enjoy fresh apples include:

• Chop and braise with red cabbage

• Slice and serve with cheese for a simple dessert

• Core a whole apple, stuff the core with brown sugar, butter, and raisins, and microwave or bake

• Slice into wedges and grill; top with cinnamon

• Dice and add to ham dishes or casseroles

• Chop finely and add to cakes, cupcakes, muffins, or quick bread

• Chop and add to slow cooker with cinnamon for an easy chunky applesauce

• Slice and use in an apple crisp

• Slice and serve with other fruits and vegetables along with hummus, salad dressing, or other dips.

• Core and slice into rings. Bake at low temperature for several hours to make dried apples, a nutritious and portable snack Enjoy fresh Florida apples today. With their sweet, refreshing flavor and great nutrition, apples are wonderfully versatile and can be a delicious part of any appetizer, main course, or dessert.

Selected References

http://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/

http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/

http://www.whfoods.com

UF ECONOMISTS ESTIMATE $1 BILLION IN HURRICANE IAN AG LOSSES

By Jim Frankowiak

University of Florida economists estimate agricultural losses due to Hurricane Ian total up to $1.03 billion.

This number is an estimate of the total value of seasonal crops, livestock, nursery and aquaculture products that will not be harvested or marketed as a result of the category 4 storm. Hurricane Ian made landfall on an island 20 miles west of Fort Myers on Sept. 28, 2022, and brought damaging winds and flooding to millions of acres of agricultural lands as it swept across the Florida peninsula.

The UF/IFAS Economic Impact Analysis Program (EIAP) recently published its updated report, following up on a preliminary assessment issued last October that estimated losses ranging from $787 million and $1.56 billion.

A portion of the $1.03 billion loss estimate might be offset by insurance or other risk management tools available to producers, said Christa Court, director of the EIAP and an assistant professor in the University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) food and resources economics department.

The latest report breaks down the $1.03 billion in final estimated losses by commodity group:

• Citrus: $247.1 million

• Vegetables and melons: $204.6 million

• Greenhouse and nursery: $195.4 million

• Non-citrus fruit: $137.7 million

• Field and row crops: $130.2 million

• Livestock and animal products: $119.8 million

The five counties with the greatest agricultural losses include:

• Manatee: $126.4 million

• Hillsborough: $104.4 million

• Palm Beach: $88.8 million

• Hardee: $72.5 million

• Hendry: $72.0 million

Court explained that while this report presents a clearer picture of Hurricane Ian’s impacts to Florida agriculture, it does not include costs associated with asset damages or production losses that might occur in future seasons.

“For example, we are not able to measure things such as the cost of repairing or replacing damaged structures or equipment, replanting perennial crops or replacing livestock,” Court said.

Court pointed out that Hurricane Ian’s impacts to Florida agriculture have been further compounded by Hurricane Nicole hard freezes that occurred in January 2022 and December 2022.

“The same areas affected by Ian were hit, in some cases, by multiple weather events that each would have affected the agricultural yield on their own in an ordinary year,” Court said. “Our survey only covered damages and losses from Hurricane Ian, so this report is not a view of the total impact to agricultural production of all 2022 events that have impacted the sector.”

Bette S. Walker Discovery Garden

By Lynn Barber, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Agent Hillsborough County and UF/IFAS Extension

Interested in innovative ideas for your landscape? Need a mini get-away? Now is a great time to visit the Bette S. Walker Discovery Garden, located in the courtyard of the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Hillsborough County office in Seffner, located near the I-4/I-75 interchange. This teaching garden is named for Bette Walker, the first Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Wholesale Growers, a past professional association of nurserymen/women who provided seed money and plant materials to showcase the horticulture industry and educate the public. “I love to visit the garden! There is always some new plant to see and try in my own yard. I usually have questions galore for the Master Gardeners and staff. They do a fabulous job in maintaining the garden and have answers ready for me,” said Bette Walker. Although Bette isn’t with us anymore, I believe she is visiting gardens everywhere!

Although small in scale, the Bette S. Walker Discovery Garden features a collection of six themed gardens which convey landscape design and maintenance ideas based entirely on the nine principles of the Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM program. These principles include right plant/right place, water efficiently, mulch, recycle yard waste, fertilize appropriately, control yard pests responsibly, reduce stormwater runoff, attract wildlife and protect the waterfront.

The garden rooms are named Florida-Friendly, Asian Influence, Wildlife Habitat, Backyard BBQ, Sensory and water features. Each garden has its own landscape theme and function. For example, one of the water gardens simulates a natural lake or pond and is aquascaped with several Florida native plants. Recycled products, various types of pervious surfaces, mulches,

Bette S. Walker Discovery Garden

plant materials and microirrigation are showcased. Both Florida native and non-native adaptive plants are included.

There are several other reasons to stop by our office. We have a gorgeous perennial garden and a pollinator garden created by Girl Scouts. There is a Master Gardener Volunteer on duty who can answer your questions, and you can submit a soil sample for testing at a nominal cost. Please check our calendar of events for upcoming programs at: http://sfyl.ifas.ufl. edu/hillsborough/upcoming-events/.

Discovery Garden group tours can be scheduled by calling Michael at 813-744-5519 x 54146. Individual garden strolls need not be scheduled. The garden is open from 8:15 am until 4:45 pm, Monday through Friday. The Extension office is located at 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584. Whet your gardening appetite. Hope to see you strolling here soon!

Contact Lynn Barber at: labarber@ufl.edu

JAKE RABURN NAMED FSGA PRESIDENT

By Jim Frankowiak

Jake Raburn has been named president of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association (FSGA). He was nominated and confirmed by the FSGA Board of Directors. Most recently the FSAGA vice president, Raburn replaces outgoing president Tres McQuaig and will serve at the discretion of the FSGA Board of Directors. All 17 FSGA board members serve in volunteer capacities.

As FSGA President, Raburn will also head the Florida Strawberry Patent Service (FSPS) and Florida Strawberry Research and Education Foundation (FSREF). The purpose of the FSPS is to assist in managing the royalty revenue derived from the Florida specific patented varieties developed by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) strawberry research breeding program. The research program has developed over a dozen patented varieties since its inception in 1992. The FSREF was developed for the purpose of supporting research and education specific to Florida strawberries. Outside of funding strawberry focused research through the UF/IFAS strawberry research program, the FSREF also houses the FSREF Scholarship Program to support high school seniors, technical school students, and college students through their educational endeavors.

The FSGA’s membership is comprised of 65 farm families. Outside of the grower membership, the FSGA also works with entities seeking to partner in FSGA’s mission “to provide effective leadership and education that cultivates an environment of success for Florida strawberry growers” through the FSGA Allied Partner Program. The Allied Partner Program consists of entities which seek to support growers from a variety of services involved in all aspects of planting, growing, harvesting, promoting Florida strawberries, financing, and more.

A lifelong Hillsborough County resident, Raburn served as a member of the Florida House of Representatives, representing the 57th District, which includes eastern Hillsborough County, from 2012 to 2018. A member of the Hinton Farms Produce management team since 2009, Raburn has primary responsibility for overseeing finances, labor, housing and regulatory issues for the 43-year-old business, which grows, packs, cools and ships fresh Florida fruits and vegetables. The family-owned business specializes in strawberries.

Before joining Hinton Farms Produce, Raburn worked as a marketing coordinator for the Florida Department of Citrus. He holds an undergraduate degree in Agricultural Communication from the University of Florida. Raburn and his wife Melissa Hinton Raburn have four children: Jackson, 11; eight-year-old twins Mason and Clayton; and Leah, 6. Melissa is a licensed real estate agent with Fischbach Land Company, a member of the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County and former FSGA Board member.

Jake and Melissa won the Excellence in Agriculture Award at the American Farm Bureau (AFB) annual convention in New Orleans in 2019. They placed first in the nation for their impressive agricultural careers and community service. They received similar recognition at the state level in 2018.

As FSGA President, Raburn plans to focus on a number of key issues facing strawberry growers that range from plant disease, labor and foreign trade to local regulatory matters. “Our industry has an annual economic impact of more than $1 billion and we employ more than 16,000 – two significant factors not only for our industry members, but the economy, as well,” said Raburn. Strawberries are grown on more than 12,000 acres in Hillsborough County each year, and that number continues on the upswing.

“We need to find a solution to the fungal disease

Pestalotia,” he said. “It was first observed in 1972 and considered a secondary pathogen. However, recent outbreaks have been more severe and strawberry yield have been reduced considerably over the past few seasons. It is vital that we continue to provide research funding and participate in trials that help control this pathogen.”

“The impact of foreign trade on our industry continues to be of major concern,” Raburn said. “We would like to see a level playing field which is not the case now. There are many aspects of this issue, not the least of which is government subsidization. Our growers receive no government subsidies, but that is not historically the case with growers in Mexico. That, plus the drastically lower cost for labor in Mexico, results in a totally unfair situation that must be addressed.”

Raburn also anticipates continued work with Hillsborough County elected officials and regulators. “We will continue to partner with county officials to develop a more appropriate regulatory program,” he said. “Our industry’s future needs to be assured through implementation of regulations that make sense are fair and avoid unnecessary and costly steps for our growers.”

In addition, the FSGA will continue its consumer outreach and education via programs involving the caricature “Jammer” and “Strawberry Sue” whose strawberry-based recipes continue to demonstrate myriad tasty ways to enjoy Florida strawberries.

“Our association also supports students through scholarships,” Raburn noted. “Since founded in 1982, the FSGA has awarded more than $545,000 in scholarships to Hillsborough County high school students.”

Congratulations Jake!

The Great Migration To Tallahassee

by John Dicks | Photo by iStock

It’s that time of year for the great migration in Florida.

Well, it’s not exactly as big nor exciting as some of those infamous animal migrations. You know, like the one in Africa where every year millions of wildebeests suddenly converge and travel together from Tanzania’s Serengeti Desert to the Masai Mara in Kenya, all while battling blazing heat and insatiable hunger of giant crocodiles trying to snatch them at river crossings.

Then again, it can be quite a journey as 40 Senators and 120 Representatives travel to Tallahassee for the 60 day session of our Florida Legislature.

Leave it for others to discuss possible new laws to be passed this year. Instead, let’s ponder the riveting question of “Why Tallahassee?”

It does, after all, pose for lots of people either a rather long drive, or strange flight connections trying to get there. That fact is not lost on many.

Seems like every few years a bill gets filed to move Florida’s capital to somewhere else. Usually it’s Orlando, or at least “central Florida,” that gets most of the attention as a probable place to seat state Government.

To no surprise, whenever such suggestion is made, lots of chatter begins to spread. It is said, for example, that moving would make it easier for commuting legislators since an award winning airport makes for easy, frequent, and reasonable cost flights.

Then there’s the massive transportation system (though constantly clogged) which makes for better mobility, and the impressive array of luxury hotels and accommodations which are available.

Regardless, and at least thus far, the arguments just never stick. Most observers suggest it’s simply because of the great cost involved. A new capitol building would need to be built, as would, too, a new Supreme Court building, and Governor’s Mansion, and all of those other offices housing the Departments, Divisions, and Commissions of state government.

It all makes sense, of course. At least economically so.

Personally, though, I think the real hidden reason for legislators refusing to move, is really rather plain and simple. It’s because springtime in Tallahassee is so doggone amazing and beautiful!

Really, you’ve got to see it if you never have. The azaleas and dogwoods act as if they are in concert with each other on the timing and crescendo of blossoming. One day you’ll be looking at lots of bulging new greenery everywhere; only to find the next morning an almost explosion of colors rippling with reds, and pinks, and whites, and purples.

It’s truly a sight to behold, though your eyes do sting and weep from the resulting release of massive amounts of pollen drifting everywhere and onto everything!

Granted, I am a bit biased in my assessment of “Springtime Tallahassee,” as its affectionately known in the capital. Spring Fever hit me hard during the three years I spent there at Florida State Law School. My grades were never as good in the spring as they were at other times. Still, my favorite memories of those years all are centered around spring.

Certainly I can’t be alone in that assessment, which is, no doubt, why the capital remains right where it is and always has been, from the beginning nearly 200 years ago.

It was in 1824 that Tallahassee was chosen. As legend has it, the small little town was selected as a geographic compromise, approximately equal in distance from the two main population centers of Florida.

It’s not hard to imagine when you consider that 200 years ago, Florida was essentially nothing but the two prominent cities of St. Augustine on the Atlantic and Pensacola on the Gulf. South of that (at least in the minds of many) was nothing more than swamp land and Miami Beach condos!

Ok, I’m kidding, but you get the point!

Regardless, commerce and all activities needing some form of government, meant there was constant movement back and forth, coast to coast, to and from Pensacola and St. Augustine. It only made sense to pick a place halfway in between to build as the capital.

So Tallahassee it was, and likely always will continue, as it should, be our Florida’s capital.

John Dicks is both a Lawyer and Businessman, including an interest in farming. He and his family have owned a Blueberry Farm and have Agricultural lands which they lease for cattle operations, as John says, “to someone who knows and handles cattle much better than I do!”. John is both a Gator, having received his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida, and a Seminole, with his Law Degree from Florida State University. John serves as Of Counsel to Trinkle Redman, a law firm in Plant City where he also served nine years as City Commissioner, including three terms as Mayor.

A Closer Look

Naturally Amazing Activities

Leaf Skeleton

Since our featured insect this month looks like a leaf, we thought it would be cool to do a leaf project. Leaf skeletons can be used in several crafts. They can be added to the epoxy mold project we recently featured or framed against an illustration or alone. Leaf skeletons can be colored with food dye, varnished onto wood, or stone and even be added to a clear candle holder. The possibilities are vast. There are several ways to create a leaf skeleton, most of which take a good deal of time (weeks) before you have completed the leaf. I typically do not have weeks for projects so I did a little research and found a method that I really like and would like to share with you. It starts with finding a good leaf to use. Every source I have found suggests using thick waxy leaves such as Magnolia, Gardenia, and Hydrangea or the sturdy leaves of Oak and Maple.

Materials:

Leaves

Water

Large Pot

Washing Soda

Bleach (optional)

Food Dye (optional)

Tongs

Terry Towel

by Sean Green

Production:

• In pot, mix about 1 part washing soda to 4 parts water

• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil

• Lower the heat to simmer and add the leaves

• Simmer 2-3 hrs (leaf cells should be soft enough to rub off … just as a test, don’t rub them off yet.)

• Pour the murky water out and fill with just enough clean water to cover the leaves

• Add bleach (if desired) to speed the process up Note: bleach will weaken the leaf veins if used for too long

• Allow bleach to remove the leaf color (30 – 60 minutes)

• Gently remove the skin of the leaf by either brushing with a soft brush or carefully rinsing under running water.

• It helps to support the leaf in your hand to help prevent it from tearing while removing the skin

• Coloring (optional): Fill a shallow dish with water and food coloring.

• Let the leaf soak in the food dye mixture until the veins absorb the desired tone.

• Gently remove the leaf from the dye mixture with tongs

• Place the leaf on a terry cloth towel for complete drying (the leaf skeleton should be stiff.)

Once your leaf is dry, it can be used as a component for other crafts as mentioned above or a work of art itself.

A Closer Look by Sean Green

Giant Katydid (Stilpnochlora couloniana)

The sounds of Spring are approaching. Soon our nights will be filled with a chorus of wildlife that is characteristic of the Deep South. Kicking it off is a large insect commonly known as the Giant Katydid. This insect is the largest katydid in the United States measuring over 2 ½ inches with wings at rest. The Giant Katydid (Stilpnochlora couloniana) is more closely related to crickets than grasshoppers and is a member of the genus phaneropterine (false katydids). This month we will take a closer look at the Giant Katydid, a somewhat rare treat found only in the Isle of Pines in Cuba and as far north as Gainesville in Florida (Entomological News, Mar 2017).

This species was first described by George Marcgraf from a Brazilian specimen in 1648. Most species are found in the tropical neotropics, which roughly begins just south of Bradenton and extends through south Florida and into the Caribbean islands of Cuba, Grenada, Trinidad, and Jamaica. The Giant Katydid is the one species that can be found in the Nearctic region of Florida as far north as Gainesville. Illustrations as early as 1725 (Sloane) and 1800 (Shaw) indicate that it was first known as the Bay Leaf Locust.

We know of over 250 species of katydid in North America, nearly half of which are in the Tettigoniinae (shieldbacks) family and among the shieldbacks, there are 15 species of Stilpnochlora, but none as large as the Giant Katydid (Stilpnochlora couloniana). This insect, though imposing, is harmless to human beings; in fact, it has become a popular pet and classroom addition. One of the fascinating characteristics of this insect is its ability to avoid becoming food for potential predators by fooling them. In evolutionary biology, some species evolve to resemble (mimic) another organism or object. The Giant Katydid mimics spiders in its earliest stages of life (instars) and when finally becoming an adult, the Giant Katydid looks like a large leaf.

Katydids are active at night; during the day they rest high up in the crowns of host trees such as oak, bramble, or hazel but can occasionally be found foraging in shrubs of hypericum, butterfly bush (Buddleja), apple, rose and hawthorn. Beginning at dusk and continuing to the morning, males create their

songs by stimulation (friction). Their wings have a scraper and file that when rubbed together create various tones for their song, like scraping a stick across a washboard. Their threesyllable song sounds like” kay-ti-did” and is responsible for their common name. Typically, all the males in the area will synchronize their song in ranges from 3 kHz to over 20 kHz. The collective songs of these insects can get loud enough to drown out most other sounds. You will hear these nocturnal insects long before you see them and can easily differentiate them from grasshoppers by their song alone. When you do see one however, the long antennae are a dead giveaway that they are not grasshoppers. Katydid have antennae that are as long or longer than their body, grasshoppers have short antennae.

The giant katydid is among the largest of all insects and are often kept as pets. There are some species of katydid that are carnivorous and vicious predators, those that are carnivores can be recognized the by the spikes on their legs which are used for capturing prey. The Giant Katydid, however, is a strict herbivore feeding only on a variety of trees and shrubs and is quite harmless to human beings. It’s no surprise that this insect has become a popular pet and is sometimes kept in the classroom for students to observe.

The average lifespan of the giant katydid is about one year from birth through adult. In our tropical Florida environment this species is capable of producing offspring twice a year. These insects are easy to rear and will breed readily so long as they are kept in a habitat of about 10 square inches per insect. The humidity will have to be kept high to mimic a tropical environment if they are kept indoors with air-conditioning. They will need fresh leaf cuttings every day for food and a rough substrate, preferably bark from one of its host trees on which the females can lay eggs. Keep in mind, these insects are excellent jumpers, you will need a lid on its habitat, especially if there are other animals, or potential predators that could become problematic if the katydid jumped out of the enclosure. These insects will become more abundant beginning this month. We hope you have a chance to take a closer look this month.

INVASIVE APPLE SNAILS IN YOUR BACKYARD, WATERWAYS? UF/ IFAS STUDY DIVES INTO THEIR THREAT TO FLORIDA’S WETLANDS

By Lourdes Mederos

Florida is home to roughly 20% of all wetlands in the United States. In the last decade, apple snails have received attention as a potential threat to Florida’s wetlands.

In a newly published study, University of Florida researchers at the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) provide the first look at the potential environmental impacts of one of three invasive apple snail species on Florida’s wetlands. The paper’s findings show how the invasion of Pomacea maculata – commonly called the island apple snail or giant apple snail – and land management combine to affect multiple ecosystem functions and services in Florida’s wetlands.

“We learned the apple snail invasion can greatly alter wetland ecosystem functions, particularly plant communities and nutrient cycling,” said Jiangxiao Qiu, assistant professor of landscape ecology at the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center and School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences, and one of the study’s authors. “All these influences can translate to impacts on ecosystem services, which are

the ecological benefits to humans, such as plant productivity, water quality, habitat maintenance and landscape aesthetic values of wetlands.”

The study’s authors hope the findings will give ecologists, natural resource managers, invasion science researchers and wetland scientists globally needed information to develop tailored actions that will mitigate apple snail impacts and conserve wetland ecosystems.

“Invasive apple snails exert significant destructive impacts on agricultural wetlands serving as rice farms in Southeast Asia and the southeastern United States,” Qiu said. “In Florida, while rice farms are not dominant agricultural land uses, the understudied invasive apple snails are abundant, and they can exert impacts on natural and semi-natural wetlands.”

Florida has one native type of apple snail and three nonnative species, all of which can easily overpopulate areas by outcompeting native species. They destroy aquatic vegetation, damage agriculture and adjacent communities, and can impact human health.

The mesocosm experiment site at the Archbold Biological Station's Buck Island Ranch in Highlands County.  Photo courtesy Jiangxiao Qiu.

Chase O’Neil, a biologist and lead author of the study works on constructing the apple snail experiment at the Archbold Biological Station's Buck Island Ranch in Highlands County.  Chase O

“For the research community, we showed how complex and varied apple snail impacts can be for critical ecosystem functions in different wetland types,” said Chase O’Neil, a biologist on the team and lead author of the study. “This work has broad-reaching implications for other ecosystems worldwide where apple snails have invaded natural and agricultural wetlands because it can help develop management strategies.”

In the study, researchers measured how wetlands changed as a result of an apple snail invasion.

“By using a holistic experimental approach and measuring a range of wetland responses -- including vegetation, soil, water variables and functions -- we were able to understand the overall impact of the species invasion on ecosystems,” said Qiu.

The team conducted a 14-week experiment known as a mesocosm. The experimental system, designed and built by Qiu, allowed the team to examine the natural environment under controlled conditions at the Archbold Biological Station’s Buck Island Ranch. This working beef-cattle operation and research laboratory in Highlands County has an apple-snail invasion. The site contains over 600 wetlands interspersed within more than 10,300 acres of grasslands.

“This is a comprehensive study where we focused on several understudied areas in apple snail research simultaneously,” said O’Neil. “We looked at how invasive snails affect the ecosystem as a whole and how it functions, which was obviously harder to capture but in many ways is lacking from other work and is extremely valuable when looking at invasive species’ widespread impact.”

Researchers used white trash cans to hold soil, water, plants and apple snails collected from the site to create a wetland environment mimicking the field site’s conditions. The team divided experiments into two invasion treatments, one containing apple snails and another devoid of apple snails. They created two additional land management treatments, one characteristic of intensively managed wetlands and the other semi-natural wetlands.

They collected snail, soil, water and plant measurements. Scientists then compared how the presence of snails altered plant, soil and water responses compared to treatments without snails and how these differed in two types of wetlands.

“Overall, we found that invasive snails substantially decreased aboveground biomass and vegetation cover and exhibited preferential feeding on wetland plant species,” said Qiu. “Snails also increased water nutrients such as carbon, nitrogen, phosphorous and dissolved solids.”

Wetlands come in many forms, including fresh and saltwater marshes, wet prairies, cypress domes, steep heads, mangrove swamps and more. They provide a web of vital functions, including filtering impurities from water, storing water to reduce flooding, storing carbon and providing ideal habitats for many plants and wildlife species, including birds, fish and reptiles.

Apple snails can grow up to six inches high and are found in freshwater lakes, rivers, streams, ponds and ditches throughout Florida. Where they’re in abundance, they have crossed into wetlands.

While they spend most of their lives under the water, they lay their eggs above the water line. It is no longer unusual for residents to come across bright pink egg clusters on vegetation and other hard surfaces like pilings, culverts, bridges and coastal seawalls. Each cluster contains between 500 and 700 eggs.

The species was first introduced in Florida through the aquarium trade in 1989 in Palm Beach County and has since become established throughout most of the state. There are apple snails from Miami-Dade County to as far northeast as Nassau County, and as far west as Okaloosa County.

The study is available in the March 2023 journal Science of the Total Environment.

Jiangxiao Qiu, assistant professor of landscape ecology at UF/IFAS FLREC and an author of the study, takes measurements from the apple snail mesocosm experiment site.

Traveling Plants

By Libby Hopkins

When I stumbled upon Crystal Desilet’s Cactus Moon Instagram page back in 2020, I immediately became entranced by how she can creatively incorporate succulents and cacti into so many things!

Desilet is a succulent florist and a cacti and succulent specialist living in Tampa. A key influence on her botanical background was her grandmother, who is a Master Gardener herself and has always taken a keen interest in succulents. “She has an extensive collection of rare succulents, and many are older than me,” Desilet said. “Naturally, my passion for the art and science of succulent care certainly sprouts from a place of generational inspiration. It is very important for me to share my knowledge with others, and I hope by doing so, I can spark a passion for gardening in those that come to my workshops or attend my markets.”

Fast forward to 2023, Desilet runs six different markets in the Tampa Bay area and all of them have a plant component to them. “I’ve been doing these markets for almost three years now and for so long now, I’ve been wanting to do something with my plant community, so I decided to do a traveling plant market. Since I have my store in Tampa, I decided to host the first plant market here.”

The first plant market will take place on Friday, March 24 at Desilet’s shop, Cactus Moon Plant & Gift Shop. It will feature a plant swap, plant vendors, local makers, live music, vegan food and so much more. “My vision with this is to create plant market that does pop-up plant markets in Tampa,” Desilet said. “Orlando and Miami have plant markets, so I wanted to get Tampa on the map as well.”

Desilet was extremely pleased and surprised by how many local residents registered for her upcoming plant market.

“I put 100 free tickets on Eventbrite for the plant swap at the market and it sold out in a few days,” Desilet said. “I couldn’t believe it!”

Plant swaps have become more and more popular since the recent COVID-19 pandemic. During difficult times, bringing your community together is more important than ever. If you love all things plants, reconnect with others, then a free plant swap is something to consider. “The pandemic really had some silver linings for me,” Desilet said. “I was able to open my own storefront, create some amazing artisan and plant markets, as well as get more people involved with plants and hosting plant swaps.”

Plant swaps are a rewarding method of promoting inclusivity within your neighborhood and allow you to share the love of plants with other green thumbs or brown thumbs. A neighborhood plant swap can be anything from a small gathering in your backyard to leaving some flowers, seeds, or plants by your neighbor’s door.

There are many benefits to hosting a plant swap, such as helping the environment, learning more about gardening techniques, and most importantly connecting with others.

A plant swap isn’t just about growing plants, it’s about growing a community as well. Aside from the obvious benefits of taking home a new plant baby, plant swaps can help you learn more about organic urban gardening and techniques from fellow green thumbs. Not only will you swap plants, but you’ll trade information about how to take care of your plant, what plants grow well in your area and other cool tips and tricks they may know.

Plant swaps can help encourage wellness for a community and the planet. No matter how small your space is, the simple

act of gardening or adding a plant to your home can do so much for the environment. For example, planting more flowers can encourage bee pollination. Also, adding air-purifying plants to your home can improve the quality of the air you breathe and can boost your mood by reducing stress and improving productivity.

Popular houseplants for a swap include jade, spider plants, pothos, succulents, and dracaena stalks. However, picking the type of plant will also depend on the time of year you plan to host your swap.

Plants come in many shapes and sizes, so encourage many different types like cuttings, also known as “starts” and baby plants “pups.” Keep in mind these plants can either be potted or bare root. Trading seed packets also puts a unique spin on your swap since your neighbor can grow their plant themselves.

If you’d like to learn more about Cactus Moon or if you would like to attend Desilet’s upcoming Plant Market, you can visit their website at www.cactusmoonmarket. com or call Desilet at 813-727-3095. Cactus Moon is located at 4206 N. Nebraska Ave. in Tampa.

GET TO KNOW HOW WE WORK

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FROM THE SCIENTIFIC FIELD

MINIMIZING THE RISK OF PESTICIDES FOR HONEY BEES AND OTHER POLLINATORS

By Luis Rodriguez, small farms and pesticide education agent, UF/IFAS Extension Polk County

Pesticides are an important part of any farmer’s Integrated Pest Management to maintain low pest population and avoid economical losses. It is important that all pesticide applications are executed following label instructions to minimize pollution and unnecessary harm to living organisms. Among these living organisms are bees and other pollinators. Pollinators are organisms that help in the reproduction of plants transporting pollen from flower to flower. Some birds and mammals are considered pollinators, but arthropods, especially insects, are credited the most for pollination.

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE WESTERN HONEY BEE

The Western honey bee (Apis mellifera) is extremely important for agriculture. This insect is credited with approximately 85% of the pollination of all crops in the world. For example, in Florida, honeybees help in the pollination process of strawberries, watermelons, blueberries, and other important crops of the state. It is important to point out that without the honey bees, agriculture as we know it would be different and probably more difficult.

STRATEGIES TO PROTECT THE WESTERN HONEY BEE AND OTHER POLLINATORS FROM PESTICIDES

Pesticides, when used according to label instructions, should represent a low risk to the environment and living organisms. Regardless, it is a good practice to take extra precautions to protect pollinators and the Western honeybee when using these chemicals. Some of these precautions are as follows:

• Localize beekeepers near the application areas and notify them of future pesticide applications – Consult the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services-Division of Plant Industry to localize registered beekeepers near your area of application.

• Use pesticides only when needed – Pesticides should only be applied if needed. For example, do a pesticide application only when plants are infested with pests, to avoid unnecessary risk to bees and other pollinators.

• Know pollinator behaviors – Bees and other pollinators are more active during the day between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Furthermore, always be conscious of longer days and shorter days. When possible, make pesticide applications during the night or early morning to avoid pesticide exposure to bees and other polli-

nators. Honey bees will fly when the temperature is above 55 to 60 degrees. It is always good to verify for bee activity before any pesticide application.

• Avoid water contamination – As with any other living organisms, bees require water to survive. They use water to feed their brood and cool the hive. Contaminated water will create an unnecessary risk to bees and other pollinators.

• Avoid spraying pesticides on attractant flower plants – Plants with flowers will attract bees on them, especially with yellow, white, and purple-blue flowers. It is important to avoid the use of insecticides on flower plants before and during blooming. Also, be conscious of adjacent plants with attractant flowers where pollinators may be present.

• Beware of pesticide interactions – Some pesticides can be mixed and applied together. This can help the farmer save money during applications. On the other hand, some pesticide mixtures can be more toxic to bees and other pollinators when mixed. For example, when propiconazole is mixed with pyrethroid insecticides, it may increase the toxicity to bees.

• Know your pesticide – Some chemicals, such as neonics pesticides, are very harmful to bees. There are pesticides that have pollinator warnings on their labels, to indicate the possible threat to bees and other pollinators. If possible, it is recommended to avoid the use of such pesticides.

Bees and pollinators are very important for plant reproduction. Without these organisms, it will be very difficult to produce crops the way we do today. We should always keep in mind bees and other pollinators when applying chemicals to crops to avoid unnecessary pesticide exposure among them.

For more information about pollinators and bees please access these “Ask IFAS” publications (https:// edis.ifas.ufl.edu/) and look under “Minimizing Honey Bee Exposure to Pesticides.”

Contact

Luis O. Rodríguez, Small Farms and Pesticide Information Agent, UF/IFAS Extension, Polk County, lrodriguezrosado@ufl.edu, 863-519-1049, http://polk. ifas.ufl.edu.

UF SCIENTISTS AIM FOR MORE TREE VARIETIES TO ENSURE URBAN CANOPY SURVIVES PESTS, DISEASES

By Brad Buck

If you plant a wider array of tree species in urban areas, you might avoid your forest being wiped out by a single pest or disease, say University of Florida scientists.

“When cities are dominated by only a few species, new infestations of pests and diseases from overseas can just move through with dramatic results,” said Andrew Koeser, a UF/IFAS associate professor of environmental horticulture.

A diverse canopy is important everywhere, but particularly in Florida, where about 90% of the state’s 21.7 million residents live in cities. Urban dwellers need trees for shade, oxygen and more.

In addition to the benefits humans derive from trees, canopy diversity can make urban areas better habitats for wildlife like birds, pollinators or butterflies, said Koeser, coauthor of a new study that examines factors that impede tree diversity.

Deborah Hilbert, a doctoral graduate of the UF/IFAS College of Agricultural and Life Sciences who studied under Koeser’s supervision, led the study.

Researchers conducted focus groups with tree producers, landscape architects and municipal arborists around Florida.

Tree growers cited market demand, sales and other business-related production issues as impediments to offering a more diverse selection of trees. Landscape architects and city tree professionals mentioned ordinances and setback rules.

Many urban streets and residential areas are lined with a single type of tree – which can look beautiful, but the practice runs counter to ensuring a longer-living canopy.

“Some people love the look of uniform street plantings, and professionals design these to meet that need,” said Koeser, a faculty member at the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center in Hillsborough County. “The problem is math.”

For example, if you have one or two tree species in your neighborhood, and a noxious pest comes in that that can kill that type of tree, it will likely kill 50% to 100% of those trees.

“In addition, there are regulations from HOAs – which can limit homeowners’ selections -- and local governments that advocate for certain species,” Koeser said. “This could be a list of a few dozen or as few as three species.”

As potential solutions, several professionals from the focus groups suggested educating policymakers about tree species diversity, how it relates to climate change and the threat of devastating diseases and pests.

“Some types of trees will do better than others in harsher

Andrew Koeser, UF/IFAS associate professor of environmental horticulture and a co-author of the study, conducts urban tree research. Credit: Deb Hilbert.

climates,” Hilbert said. “We don’t know yet which trees will thrive in the future, so planting a variety increases the chances that at least some of them will still be around in the next 30-plus years.”

Other strategies suggested by the study:

• Re-examine approved lists of species produced by tree growers and bought by tree professionals.

• Incentivize the use of less-common trees. For example, give credit for planting underused species.

• Avoid the temptation to want to plant an “instant landscape” with big nursery trees, as this tends to favor already-common species.

The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents.

ABOUT UF/IFAS

The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. ifas.ufl.edu | @UF_IFAS

FLORIDA

Strawberries & Pineberries

Deb Hilbert, a doctoral graduate of the UF/IFAS College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and lead author on the study, conducting urban tree research. Credit – Drew McLean.

Recipes

Courtesy of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Chef Justin Timineri

Florida Shrimp Boil with Sweet Corn and New Potatoes

Ingredients q q

1 ½ pounds large Florida shrimp (peeled and deveined, if desired)

5 ears Florida sweet corn, husked and cut in half

1 large Florida tomato, diced small

1 pound Florida potatoes (peeled, if desired)

1 pound cooked smoked sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 cup seafood boil seasoning mix

3 lemons, cut into wedges

1/4 cup olive oil

1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped fine Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste

Florida Strawberry Smoothie

Ingredients q q

2 cups fresh Florida strawberries

1 cup low-fat milk

DIRECTIONS

2 cups vanilla frozen low-fat yogurt

8 ice cubes

Wash and hull strawberries. Place strawberries in a blender with half of milk. Make sure lid is on tight. Blend on high speed until smooth. Add frozen yogurt, remaining milk and ice cubes and continue to blend until smooth and creamy. Serve immediately. Pour any leftovers into an ice cube tray and freeze for later use.

DIRECTIONS

Preheat a large pot over medium-high heat. Fill with water until about 2/3 full and add 3/4 cup seafood seasoning. Add sausage and potatoes, bring to a slight boil and cook for 8-10 minutes. Next add corn and simmer for 5 minutes. Lastly add shrimp and simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until cooked through. Drain the liquid and pour shrimp boil onto a large platter. Lightly season with the remaining seafood seasoning and drizzle with olive oil. Garnish the shrimp boil platter with the diced tomato and parsley. Serve with lemon wedges, melted butter and hot sauce, if desired.

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