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U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack recently announced two programs that collectively provide $3.7 billion in assistance to crop and livestock producers who sustained losses due to natural disasters like Hurricanes Ian and Nicole in 2022. They are the Emergency Relief Program (ERP) and Emergency Livestock Relief Program. To participate in the programs, producers should have or be prepared to have the following forms …
By Clint Thompson North Florida watermelon growers are in prime position to reap the benefits of the current market demand. Bob Hochmuth, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Regional Specialized Extension agent in Live Oak, Florida, explains how his region’s producers want harvests to remain fruitful as long as possible. “With the demand so strong, South …
Working with growers in Florida and the Southeast has been a critical element in Sakata Seed America’s success. The focus on these regions has resulted in producing vegetable varieties bred to perform in the southern climate and soil types. The Fort Myers Research Station is home to a breeding hub for three of the company’s most important crops — tomato, …
By Clint Thompson North Florida watermelon growers are in prime position to reap the benefits of the current market demand. Bob Hochmuth, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Regional Specialized Extension agent in Live Oak, Florida, explains how his region’s producers want harvests to remain fruitful as long as possible. “With the demand so strong, South …
Florida blueberry producers just completed their harvests for the 2023 season. But plans are already being made for the ’24 crop. Disease and pest management are key to a successful season next year. University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences scientists encourage growers to scout for algal stem blotch. If farmers observe the disease, they should prune out …
By Camila Rodrigues Food-safety regulations are constantly evolving to ensure food is safe and free from harmful contaminants. One area that has received increased attention in recent years is water used in food production and processing. Water is an essential component for the production of raw agricultural commodities. It is used to irrigate crops, clean equipment and facilities, and wash …
Red Garnet This triploid watermelon is a Gowan exclusive! It weighs 16-20 pounds and matures in 83 to 84 days. It has a preferred dark-green crimson stripe exterior, deep-red interior and a strong rind proven to be a commercial success for 45-count bin shipping. It is a prolific yielder! IR: Fon: 0, 1 Redemption XR This 80-day bicolor Sh2 sweet …
National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasters with the Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service, predict near-normal hurricane activity this year. NOAA’s outlook for the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, which lasts from June 1 to Nov. 30, predicts a 40% chance of a near-normal season, a 30% chance of an above-normal season and a 30% chance of …
By Clint Thompson Mango production in Florida looks much different than it did many years ago. Producers are growing varieties not grown in other countries. They are also marketing their crop much differently than in previous years. Jonathan Crane, associate center director and tropical fruit specialist at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Tropical Research and …
By Maegan Beatty Throughout the U.S., there are over 28,000 farms growing grapes on over 1.1 million acres. The top grape growing states are California, Washington, New York and Oregon. While Florida is not included on this list, the grape industry is rising in popularity due to the agritourism opportunities. Some of these opportunities include grape vineyards and wineries. In …
