IFAS Insight

by LUIS RODRIGUEZ, UF/IFAS Polk Extension Body condition scoring (BCS) is one of the most practical and cost-effective tools available to livestock producers. Whether managing beef cattle, sheep, or goats, understanding and constantly evaluating body condition scores can help producers make informed management decisions within their operations. Unlike body weight, which can change with eating […]

Program Helps the Next Generation Learn, Lead, and Serve by SHREEMOYEE GHOSH, 4-H Agent & LUIS RODRIGUEZ, UF/IFAS Polk Extension If you’ve heard of 4-H, you might picture a clover emblem or maybe a county fair. In Polk County, 4-H certainly includes animal science opportunities, but at its core, 4-H is a youth development program

by LUIS RODRIGUEZ, UF/IFAS Polk Extension Agricultural crops are susceptible to damage from a wide range of pests, including weeds. Among the most troublesome weed species are purple and yellow nutsedge, which can significantly reduce yield efficiency in many crops, including strawberries. What Are Purple and Yellow Nutsedge?  As their names indicate, purple and yellow

by HANNAH BAKER, UF/IFAS Extension, Beef & Forage Economics This article is a summary of the Annual Florida Cattle Market Report that is put together at the beginning of each year. The purpose of the report is to summarize the different sectors of the cattle and beef industries to provide an outlook for the year.

by LUIS RODRIGUEZ, UF/IFAS Polk Extension As the global population continues to rise, the demand for food continues to increase rapidly. Unfortunately, the agricultural land that is needed to produce food is shrinking due to urbanization and environmental pressures. Farmers and agricultural innovators are now exploring solutions to address this challenge, and one approach gaining

by LUIS RODRIGUEZ, UF/IFAS Polk Extension As farmers seek new ways to enhance efficiency, minimize waste, and boost crop yields, fertigation may be an effective method to achieve these goals. What Is Fertigation? Fertigation, by definition, is the process of applying fertilizer through an irrigation system. This method is increasing in popularity as a solution

by LUIS RODRIGUEZ, UF/IFAS Polk Extension Successful crop production depends on maintaining soil that can supply plants with the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. However, soil fertility varies widely depending on factors such as soil type, farm management practices, and environmental conditions, including weather. To achieve production goals, farmers and ranchers may need to supplement

by LUIS RODRIGUEZ, UF/IFAS Polk Extension Farming is more than just a way of living; it’s a business. While the rewards of working outdoors and producing food for the nation are immense, long-term success in agriculture depends on careful planning and strategic management of the farm operation. A well-designed farm business plan is essential for

by LUIS RODRIGUEZ, UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Each year, the availability of agricultural land in Florida continues to decline. One of the reasons is the expansion of urban development. This trend presents increasing challenges for farmers seeking land to cultivate crops. According to the 2020 United States Census, Florida recorded a population of 21,538,187 in

by LUIS RODRIGUEZ, UF/IFAS Polk Extension Agritourism offers agricultural businesses a valuable opportunity to engage with the local community by welcoming visitors to the farm, fostering stronger relationships with customers. In Florida, many farmers who participate in agritourism also sell products directly from their farms as a way to expand their customer base and increase