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by AMANDA JOHNSON, UF/IFAS In Florida, we’re blessed with long bloom periods and multiple nectar flows. Honey bees are a natural choice to maximize the usefulness of one’s garden, homestead, or farm. Honeybees, like any animal, require time and maintenance. Unlike many animals, honey bees perform much of their own maintenance.  The Highlands County Master […]

Artichokes, Blackberries, Hops, Lychee, Longan, and Mango Emerge as Crop Possibilities by MATT COBBLE Farmers in Central Florida have been rethinking what it means to grow successfully in the region. Where we once boasted acres upon acres of thriving orange groves, Florida farmland now houses a variety of tropical fruits, herbs, and other crops from

by REBEKAH PIERCE Sponsored by Visit Central Florida It’s not just the mouthwatering ropa vieja or delectable vaca frita that make Nineteen61 such a remarkable and unique dining experience in downtown Lakeland, but the story behind the flavor.  That story began in 1961, when the parents of Marcos Fernandez, the owner and lead chef at

by RYAN MILEJCZAK Sponsored by Farm Credit of Central Florida  Oranges tend to steal the spotlight when it comes to Florida citrus, and indeed, they are the most grown type of citrus here in the Sunshine State. But Florida’s grapefruit production is worth consideration as well.  The grapefruit, Citrus x paradisi, is a naturally occurring

School Uses Tower Garden to Introduce Students to Hydroponics by SHAYLYNN MARKS Bok Academy South’s agriculture program is growing — literally. The school recently installed a state-of-the-art Tower Garden system, bringing hydroponic farming directly into the classroom. The project, made possible through the Green Jean Foundation, gives students exposure to modern agricultural practices while shaping

Grower and Scientists Explore the Fruit’s Growth and Market Potential by RYAN MILEJCZAK Citrus has been a key part of Florida’s identity for over a century. Yet, in the past couple decades, our citrus industry has faced substantial challenges from severe weather, development, and citrus greening.  A wide variety of programs are currently underway in

Hollie/Brewer Adaptive Rodeo Thriving In Its Third Year by SHAYLYNN MARKS photos provided The Hollie/Brewer Adaptive Rodeo returns for its third year Oct. 18 at the Hayman Arena inside the Polk County Youth Fair Grounds, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Founded by two local families — the Hollies and

by PAUL CATALA Photos provided by Agape Family Farms For Frank Izquierdo, farming isn’t just a business – it’s a complete way of life. He and his wife, Yolanda, own Agape Family Farms in Sebring. Situated on six acres, the Izquierdos have set out to make their farm a place for communal gatherings, fun, picnics,

CREC Director Says Crop Could Be Good Alternative for Florida Growers by BRAD BUCK, UF/IFAS With a global market valued at nearly $67 billion, bamboo may offer an alternative crop for some Florida growers reeling from a devastated citrus crop, says a University of Florida expert. “Bamboo is a good alternative crop to diversify beyond

Groveland Exchange Advocates for Local Ag Producers Supporting the local ag industry isn’t always easy.  In some areas, there are no local farmers markets, or if they do exist, they may not feature many products from local growers. This is a frustration shared not only by consumers but also by many producers as they struggle