EDIS Update – Page 9 – New and revised publications from the University of Florida Insitute of Food and Agricultural Sciences

Tomato Production in Florida Using Fertigation Technology

Tomato is in high demand because of its taste and health benefits. In Florida, tomato is the number one vegetable crop in terms of both acreage and value. Because of its high value and wide acreage, it is important for tomato production to be efficient in its water and nutrient use, which may be improved through fertigation practices. Therefore, the objective of this new 7-page article is to disseminate research-based methods of tomato production utilizing fertigation to enhance yield and nutrient use efficiency. Written by Mary Dixon and Guodong Liu, and published by the UF/IFAS Horticultural Sciences Department.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/hs1392

Are Homemade “Pesticides” Legal?

Interest around pesticides and possible alternatives to them have increased in recent years. As individuals seek out possible alternatives, some consider making their own solutions to pest control. Homemade pesticide recipes abound online and are commonly seen in various social media platforms. This new 3-page publication of the UF/IFAS Pesticide Information Office looks at the legality of these mixes, when and where they can be used, and what other considerations need to be taken into account when utilizing these mixes. Written by Brett Bultemeier and Jason Ferrell.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pi288

Goji Berry: a Novel Nutraceutical “Superfruit” for Florida Master Gardeners

Goji berries have been used in both fresh and processed forms for food and medicine for more than 4,000 years in China. The goji berry fruit is known as a “superfruit” thanks to its high levels of vitamins and minerals, as well as other medicinal benefits recognized in many countries around the world. Most of Florida’s climate is favorable for goji berry, and a few Florida growers have cultivated it for years. This species can tolerate infertile and unfavorable growth conditions, and the prominent health benefits of this crop may be highly profitable for Florida growers. The objective of this new 7-page article is to provide a general overview of how the goji berry can be grown in Florida. Written by Yujie Jiao and Guodong Liu, and published by the UF/IFAS Horticultural Sciences Department.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/hs1391

Protective Eyewear for Pesticide Applicators

Protective eyewear is one of the most essential pieces of PPE an applicator can utilize when it is required. This new 3-page publication of the UF/IFAS Pesticide Information Office discusses the types of protective eyewear and how best to select and maintain these particular pieces of PPE. Written by Brett Bultemeier.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pi287

Plant-Based Milks: Oat

Oat milk is one of the more recent dairy alternatives to hit the grocery shelves, and several brands are currently available in the United States. Oat milk is made from the cereal grain oats. This new 3-page publication of the UF/IFAS Food Science and Human Nutrition Department describes how oat milk is made, its ingredients and nutrient profile, and the potential health benefits and risks of consumption. Written by Hannah Cooper, Daniela Rivero-Mendoza, and Wendy J. Dahl.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fs419

Elderberry and Elderflower (Sambucus spp.): A Cultivation Guide for Florida

The purpose of this new 9-page paper, written by David Jarnagin, Ali Sarkhosh, Juanita Popenoe, Steve Sargent, and Kevin Athearn, and published by the UF/IFAS Horticultural Sciences Department, is to provide information on growing American elderberry in Florida as an alternative crop for commercial growers as well as homeowners. Although elderberry has been historically grown at commercial scale in some world regions, especially throughout Europe, in the New World it has not found meaningful commercial acceptance until recently.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/hs1390

Strategically Selecting Behaviors That Impact the Problem: An Approach Drawn from Social Marketing

Extension professionals and other practitioners address a wide variety of complex issues by providing education and encouraging behavior change using innovative strategies. The importance of prioritizing potential behaviors and selecting those with high expected impact cannot be overemphasized. However, behavior selection can be complicated because there are many solutions for any problem in a particular context. Using an approach drawn from social marketing to develop activities aimed at changing or maintaining people’s behavior, Extension professionals and other practitioners can prioritize behaviors by mathematically calculating anticipated weights that will help focus efforts around key behaviors with the potential to make the greatest impact. This new 6-page publication of the UF/IFAS Department of Agricultural Education and Communication provides an overview of a process to collect and analyze the impact and the likelihood of adoption to help Extension professionals decide on behaviors for a campaign or intervention. Written by Laura A. Warner and John M. Diaz.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/wc375

Edible Landscaping Using the Nine Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM Principles

Maintaining edible landscapes in a way that protects the environment is an important concern for protecting Florida’s water quality. The objective of this new 7-page publication is to introduce the framework of the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ principles and apply the principles to guide decisions about Best Management Practices (BMPs) for care of edible landscapes. Written by Tiare Silvasy, Lynn Barber, Esen Momol, Tina McIntyre, Tom Wichman, Gail Hansen, Jen Marvin, Terra Freeman, Joseph Sewards, Wendy Wilber, and Jacqlyn Rivas.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep594

Leches a base de plantas: Nuez de marañón (anacardo)

La disponibilidad y el consumo de alternativas de leche a base de plantas, también conocidas como no lácteas, han ido en aumento. Las ventas de alternativas a la leche no láctea se han más que duplicado, mientras que el consumo de leche de vaca tradicional ha disminuido. Este aumento puede deberse a que las leches de origen vegetal se perciben como “naturales”, así como a un aumento del veganismo y la búsqueda de evitar la lactosa. Las principales alternativas de leche de origen vegetal son la almendra, la soja, el coco, la nuez de marañón (anacardo) y el arroz. Esta publicación analiza el contenido nutricional, los posibles beneficios para la salud y los posibles riesgos de la leche de nuez de marañón.
This new 4-page article is the Spanish translation of FSHN20-51/FS413, Plant-Based Milks: Cashew, written by Jamie Zeldman, Daniela Rivero-Mendoza, and Wendy J. Dahl, translated by Daniela Rivero-Mendoza, and published by the UF/IFAS Food Science and Human Nutrition Department.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fs418

Don’t Fake It, Make It! Best Practices for Attending Virtual Events

Continuing the Don’t Fake It, Make It! series to make the most out of virtual conferences and meetings, this fact sheet provides tips specific to attendees. Up to this point, the series has focused largely on the process a host should go through before launching a virtual event. This new 4-page publication of the UF/IFAS Department of Agricultural Education and Communication shifts the focus from virtual host to virtual participant to allow attendees of the virtual event to get the most out of the experience. While the spotlight is on attending virtual conferences in particular, the suggestions included can translate to other virtual meeting spaces. Written by Jarred A. Shellhouse and Lauri M. Baker.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/wc373

Chicken of the Woods (Laetiporus sulphureus species complex)

Species in the Laetiporus sulphureus species complex, also known as “chicken of the woods” mushrooms, are wood-decay fungi that cause brown rot within the heartwood of their tree hosts. The common name “chicken of the woods” is given to some species in this group because they are tasty edible mushrooms. Several Laetiporus species have been harvested to use as food colorants, to dye natural products such as wool, and for human consumption. This new 4-page publication of the UF/IFAS Plant Pathology Department, written by Brianna Benitez, Claudia A. Paez, Matthew E. Smith, and Jason A. Smith, describes these fungi as well as their ecology, management, and potential edibility.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pp358

Dietas populares: Ayuno intermitente

La pérdida de peso puede ser un desafío. Comenzar una dieta restrictiva puede ser agotador emocionalmente y difícil de cumplir. ¿Hay alguna forma más efectiva de perder peso? ¿El momento y la frecuencia de las comidas ayudan a perder peso? Esta publicación describe los beneficios y riesgos del ayuno intermitente para bajar de peso.
This new 4-page article is the Spanish language translation of FSHN20-47/FS409, Popular Diets: Intermittent Fasting, written by Michelle Yavelow, Daniela Rivero-Mendoza, and Wendy Dahl, translated by Daniela Rivero-Mendoza, and published by the UF/IFAS Food Science and Human Nutrition Department.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fs417

Dietas populares: Alimentos crudos

La dieta de alimentos crudos tiene sus raíces en un movimiento vegetariano que se remonta a los años 1800. Como su nombre lo indica, una dieta de alimentos crudos es un patrón dietético compuesto mayoritaria o completamente por alimentos crudos y sin procesar. Esta publicación explora los posibles beneficios y riesgos para la salud de una dieta de alimentos crudos.
This is the Spanish translation of FSHN20-45/FS404, Popular Diets: Raw Foods, written by Alexa Barad, Daniela Rivero-Mendoza, and Wendy Dahl, translated by Daniela Rivero-Mendoza, and published by the UF/IFAS Food Science and Human Nutrition Department.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fs415

Pérdida de peso y los adultos mayores: Riesgos y beneficios

A los adultos obesos a menudo se les aconseja perder peso para reducir el riesgo de enfermedades crónicas. Sin embargo, los beneficios para la salud de la pérdida de peso cambian a medida que envejecemos. Esta publicación analiza los riesgos y beneficios de la pérdida de peso planificada y no planificada para adultos mayores.
This is the Spanish translation of FSHN20-42/FS401, Weight Loss and the Older Adult: Risks and Benefits, written by Wendy Gans, Rachelle Savelle, Nancy Gal, and Wendy Dahl, translated by Daniela Rivero-Mendoza, and published by the UF/IFAS Food Science and Human Nutrition Department.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fs414

Biology and Management of Galinsoga (Galinsoga quadriradiata) in Ornamental Crop Production

Galinsoga (Galinsoga quadriradiata) is an erect (upright), herbaceous, short-lived warm-season annual weed in Florida landscapes, container nurseries, and other agricultural production systems. In nurseries and landscapes, galinsoga can be a troublesome weed, but it has been utilized by some cultures for food or medicinal purposes. This new 5-page article is written for green-industry professionals and others to aid in the identification and management of galinsoga in and around ornamental plants. Written by Thomas Smith, Chris Marble, Shawn Steed, and Nathan Boyd, and published by the UF/IFAS Environmental Horticulture Department.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep593

Japanese Persimmon Cultural Practices in Florida

Persimmons are considered a relatively sustainable crop in Florida, rated as a 6 out of 10 on an assessment of agricultural sustainability, with a moderate commercial potential and high direct-to-consumer potential. Trees grow and fruit best in central and northern Florida and can produce high yields of good-quality fruit. This new 13-page publication of the UF/IFAS Horticultural Sciences Department describes how to propagate and establish persimmons in Florida, while also providing information on irrigation, fertilization, harvest, pests, diseases, and more. Written by Ali Sarkhosh, Dustin M. Huff, and Peter C. Andersen.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/hs1389

Septic Systems and Springs Water Quality: An Overview for Florida

Wastewater carries pathogens, nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus), and trace organic chemicals that may be harmful to human health and ecosystem functioning. Thus, proper treatment of wastewater is crucial. While septic systems can be one means of effective wastewater treatment, there are some special considerations for their use in Florida because of unique geography and sandy soils. The purpose of this new 6-page publication of the UF/IFAS Department of Soil and Water Sciences is to explain the basics of how septic systems work and how they can affect springs water quality in Florida, with a special emphasis on potential N loading from septic systems. This document is intended for homeowners, the general public, and county, city, and other local personnel tasked with managing water quality in areas with septic systems. Written by Mary Lusk, Andrea Albertin, Whitney Elmore, William Lester, and James Moll.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ss693

Considering Participants’ Personal Wellness in Conservation-Based Extension Programs: Opportunities for Integrative Development and Evaluation

Extension organizations are at the forefront of water resource issues, using educational programs to drive participant behaviors towards water conservation. The effectiveness of these efforts centers on designing programs with considerations of the factors that will change relevant decisions and behaviors among residential landscape water users. We conducted a statewide study to explore the concept of wellness and well-being, and these characteristics’ relationship to water conservation behaviors. Our results show that psychosocial measures influence current and future residential landscape water conservation behaviors differently. Perception of well-being is the more consistent predictor for both current behaviors and future intentions. These results demonstrate an opportunity for those focused on environmental behaviors to pair and embed programs focused on personal well-being to empower communities to work toward achieving conservation goals.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/wc370

Attitudes about Sea-Level Rise Adaptation: Comparison between Miami-Dade County and the Rest of Florida

A photo of a multistory beachfront hotel or condominium at sunset with construction cranes, ocean in the foreground.

Sea-level rise and climate change are important issues in science, politics, and communities. Sea-level rise is a particularly contentious topic in Florida, where expected impacts include coastal flooding, shrinking shorelines, and saltwater intrusion. It is unclear what Floridians think about sea-level rise and the ways in which the state can adapt to these impacts. This 5-page fact sheet written by Bailey Emrick, Misti Sharp, and Xiang Bi and published by the UF/IFAS Food and Resource Economics Department summarizes findings from two recent surveys examining attitudes of Miami residents and those of residents of the rest of Florida about sea-level rise and potential adaptations to it.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fe1084

A Beginner’s Guide to Water Management—Common Aquatic Birds Using Florida Lakes

Green-backed heron.

Florida LAKEWATCH is a citizen scientist program that monitors Florida's lakes. Since it was established in 1991, Florida LAKEWATCH has worked with thousands of volunteers to collect water quality data on more than 2,700 aquatic systems in Florida. It is the most comprehensive and longest-running water quality data source in the United States, if not the world. This 18-page circular written by Mark V. Hoyer and published by the UF/IFAS Program in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences of the School of Forest Resources and Conservation describes Florida LAKEWATCH's volunteer aquatic bird-monitoring program. Citizen volunteers can provide a comprehensive and intimate understanding of birds and their interactions with Florida lake systems, helping to detect the changes in the types and numbers of birds using lakes that may indicate important natural or human-caused environmental trends. Whether you want to identify birds you’ve spotted or take an active role in the management and conservation of Florida's natural resources, this circular can help you learn the basics.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fa229