Miami-Dade County Extension

Manejo Integral de Plagas (MIP) En el Sur de la Florida!

2012-02-14T15:44:00.000-05:00

Querido viverista (Dear grower):

El Manejo Integrado de Plagas (MIP) o sus siglas en Ingles: Integrated Pest Management (IPM) es un programa de control de plagas siguiendo pautas.
Este 13 de Marzo tendremos el primer evento en español dedicado a Manejo Integral de plagas en UF-Extension (This upcoming March 13 we will have a very first training on IPM concepts and hands on demonstrations in Spanish in UF-Extension!)

Registrate (online): http://ipm2012spanish.eventbrite.com
Por correo: Manda un cheque a (Or send a check to) “Miami Dade Extension Program account” regarding Program MIP.
Fecha: Marzo/March 13 de 9 am a 2 pm.
Dirección (Address): 18710 SW 288 St, Homestead, FL 33030
Agenda:

Cualquier pregunta llamar a (305)248-3311
Tu oficina de Extension de la Universidad de Florida del condado de Miami-Dade
Tu agente de viveros ornamentales en Miami Dade

Vanessa Campoverde
evcampoverde@ufl.edu

Weed Control Strategies for growers

2012-02-14T15:27:00.002-05:00

Weeds should be identified as to whether they are grasses, broad-leafed weeds or sedges and be identified by name. When you properly ID your weed (you can always call your UF-Extension agent to help you) then the proper pre-emergent and/or post-emergent herbicide(s) can be chosen to give efficient control.

OK, where I am going with all this? On February 20^th (YES, on a holyday) BASF and UF-Extension Program are conducting an incredible workshop series on Weeds and their management. In South Florida, Weed Control Strategies for Ornamentals will be hosted at University of Florida Extension Auditorium in Homestead area (18710 S.W. 288 Street. Homestead, FL 33030)

We will have not one, but two weed experts:

Speakers:

Dr. Robert H. Stamps, from UF/IFAS MREC, Apopka and

Dr. Dr. Charles Gilliam, from Auburn University

For more information go to UF-Extension Nursery Production website:

http://miami-dade.ifas.ufl.edu/agriculture/commer_ornamentals.shtml

And register online or by mail or fax to this exceptional event!

This event is fully sponsored by BASF Company, but we still need you to registere for pesticides CEU and lunch logistics purposes.

What: Weed Control Strategies for Ornamentals

When: February 20^th from 9 am to 1 pm

Where: University of Florida Extension Auditorium in Homestead area (18710 S.W. 288 Street. Homestead, FL 33030)

Cost: FREE

Online registration: http://nurseriesweedcontrol.eventbrite.com/

Mail registration: Mail registration form (flyer) to 18710 S.W. 288 Street. Homestead, FL 33030) Weeds in Nursery program.

Thanks,

Commercial Ornamental Extension agent

Integrated Pest Management Update (IPMU) for Nurseries!

2012-01-24T10:35:00.001-05:00

Join us for a Statewide Online Workshop!

When: February 8th from 1:30 to 4:30pm
Where: University of Florida (TREC ) Auditorium. 18905 S.W. 280 Street, Homestead, FL 33031

University of Florida Extension and Texas A&M University program will host this amazing program that seeks to help nursery growers and allied partners to be updated on identification of pest problems and how and when to utilize the latest and best management practices (BMP) to treat them correctly.
Register and attend this IPMU Update designed only for nurseries. Don't miss this opportunity!

Applied for FNGLA and Pesticide CEU’s

Limited seats available!

AGENDA: (click below to see the whole program and how to register)

PRESENTATION SPEAKER INSTITUTION

Pest Insect Update: C. Mannion, PhD, University of Florida (UF) TREC

Reducing Costs Through Scouting: C. Mannion, PhD, UF-TREC & Bill Schall, Palm

Beach County Extension

-Vendor Presentations / Break-

Low Input Strategies for Reducing Plant Diseases: M. Paret, PhD, UF (NFREC)

Insects Use Fertilizer Too! Managing Both: K.Heinz, PhD, Texas A&M

IPM Through the Economic Lens: Charles Hall, PhD, Texas A&M

VENDOR PRODUCTS UPDATES:

BASF Corporation: New pyraclostrobin and fungicide products; aerosol Pylon insecticide/miticide

BioWorks, Inc:

SePro: Hachi-Hachi Insecticide

Everris: Benefit Insecticide. Jewel Herbicide

OHP, Inc: Kontos Insecticide / Biathlon Herbicide

Gowan: Magus Miticide

Syngenta :

Online registration: http://online2012ipmnurseries.eventbrite.com/
Any question Call 305-248-3311 ext. 225 or contact your UF-Extension agent!
Regards,
Vanessa Campoverde
UF-Miami Dade County Extension

Cold Protection Workshop

2012-01-03T22:26:00.001-05:00

Cold Protection Workshop – Predictions, Methods, Discussion

Fruits, Ornamentals

Date: Wednesday, January 11th, 2012

Time: 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Location: UF/IFAS Miami-Dade County Extension

18710 S.W. 288 Street

Homestead, FL 33030

Tel: 305-248-3311

Time	Speaker	Topic
3:30 PM – 3:40 PM	Vanessa Campoverde UF/IFAS Miami-Dade County Extension Service	Welcome
3:40 PM – 4:10 PM	Robert Molleda Warning Coordination Meteorologist National Weather Service	Climate and Extreme Weather prediction for South Florida (Miami-Dade County) for the winter 2012
4:10 PM- 4:30 PM	Vanessa Campoverde &Teresa Olczyk UF/IFAS Miami-Dade County Extension Service	Cold protection for Ornamental Nurseries and Crops
4:30 PM – 5:00 PM	Jonathan Crane Tropical Fruit Crop Specialist UF/IFAS TREC	Tropical Fruit Cold Protection
5:00 PM	Participants	Questions/Discussion

This is a free workshop. If you have any questions contact 305-248-3311 ext. 232

Happy Holidays from UF/IFAS Extension!!!

2011-12-23T10:36:00.001-05:00

Extension to Host Water Webinar Series for nursery growers

2011-12-09T14:43:00.000-05:00

The Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension is promoting a series of webinars every Tuesday until February 7 of 2012, from 12:00 m. to 12:40 p.m., in the commodity of your own computer.

The objective of the Water webinars series is to educate growers on several topics regarding water

Free to register (this is a sponsored series by Water Education Alliance for Horticulture)

Go to the “workshops” tab of www.watereducationalliance.org

Presentations will also be archived at the website. To register online go the University of Florida Extension Nursery production website:

http://miami-dade.ifas.ufl.edu/agriculture/commer_ornamentals.shtml or call to Extension office number: 305-248-3311. EXT 241

Topics:

1. Systems Approach for Managing Phytophthora Diseases in Nurseries: the Importance of Water. (Dec 13)

2. Monitoring water quality (Dec 20)

3. Filtration and avoiding clogging of irrigation lines (Jan 10)

4. Surface cleaning and sanitation (Jan 17)

5. Algae control and pond management (Jan 24)

6. Pro and cons of water disinfection techniques: A European perspective (Jan 31)

7. Designing water treatment systems (Feb 17)

Who: UF-Extension and Water Education Alliance for Horticulture

What: Extension to Host Water Webinar Series for nursery growers

When: Every Tuesday starting November 29 until February 7 of 2012, 12:00 m.- 12:40 p.m.

EXTENSION TO HOST SUCCESSION PLANNING WORKSHOP

2011-12-08T15:54:00.000-05:00

The Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension Division is hosting a free succession planning workshop on Wednesday, December 14, 2011 from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m at 18710 SW 288Street in Homestead, Florida.

Succession planning is the process of setting up a smooth transition between you and the future owners of your property. While estate planning is an important part of the process of passing the land on to the next owner, estate planning alone will not ensure that the property will be owned and managed in the future as you intend. When land is passed to heirs intact and with clear visions about how it is to be managed and why, the land is much more likely to be kept intact and managed as a legacy to the parents. This can establish a pattern for future generations.

This workshop will provide guidance on effective succession planning, an estate tax update and important estate planning tips and guidance on conservation planning options and associated tax benefits.

To sign up for the workshop, contact Patty Viera at 305.248.3311, ext. 225. Click here if you would like to register online.

WHO: UF/IFAS Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension

WHAT: Succession Planning Workshop - Educational Event for Landowners

WHEN: Thursday, December 14, 2011

1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

WHERE: Miami - Dade Cooperative Extension

18710 SW 288^th St

Homestead, Florida

The Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension is a partnership of the Sustainability, Planning and Economic Enhancement Department formerly (Miami-Dade Consumer Services Department), and the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

Forest Stewardship Tour

2011-11-17T13:00:00.001-05:00

Date: Saturday, January 21, 2012; meet and greet at 9:00 AM. Program begins promptly at 9:30.

Tour: Having earned much recognition for their hard work and exemplary conservation ethic, the Glancy family is looking forward to hosting a Forest Stewardship Tour at their Pine Ridge Sanctuary in Miami-Dade County. Terry and Barbara Glancy purchased fifteen acres of degraded pineland in 1976 and began restoring the land by first removing exotic plants such as Brazilian pepper, Australian pine, Burma reed and Natal grass. Prescribed fire was introduced on the property in 1979. The Forest Stewardship Landowners of 1997 and 2011 Florida Land Stewards of the year, they are exemplary stewards of one of Florida’s most endangered ecosystems, the Pine Rockland. Pine Rocklands occur on the coastal Miami rock ridge, a limestone rock outcropping that extends south and west from North Miami Beach to Long Pine Key in Everglades National Park. Only one percent of the original 192,000 acres of this system still exists today as fragmented isolated islands. The first Forest Stewardship Property south of Lake Okeechobee, Pine Ridge Sanctuary has earned Miami-Dade County’s Natural Forest Community classification and is a registered property with the Nature Conservancy. The property has also been awarded the Florida Native Plant Society’s Overall State Landscape Enhancement Award. Join us for a tour. For more about the property and their orchid nursery, see http://www.PineRidgeOrchids.com.

Register: Cost is $10 per person, lunch and materials included. Please register on-line at
http://fsp-tour011912.eventbrite.com/. Those without Internet access can reserve a space by calling Patty at the Miami-Dade County Extension Office at (305) 248-3311 x. 225 to reserve a space. Payment can be made on-site with cash or a check, payable to University of Florida. Space will be limited so please register early. Registration deadline is January 13. Directions to the property are on the back. Please share this announcement with others who may be interested. Contact Chris Demers, (352) 846-2375, cdemers@ufl.edu, with questions about this or other Florida Forest Stewardship Program events.

Map and more information at:
http://miami-dade.ifas.ufl.edu/pdfs/glancy_tour11_announcement.pdf

Lionfish Workshops to be held in Southeast Florida

2011-11-01T11:24:00.002-04:00

The Miami-Dade County Cooperative Sea GrantExtension Program in partnership with the Reef Environmental EducationFoundation (REEF) will host a series of lionfish workshops open to the publicfor the Southeast Florida area. Theseworkshops cover the history of the invasion, lionfish biology/ ecology/impacts, how to safely collect and handle lionfish, lionfish venomology andfirst aid for stings, and recommended techniques for filleting lionfish.

The first workshop of the serieswill be held Monday, November 14^th,from 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Belen Jesuit PreparatorySchool, in the Cosculluela Hall, located at 500 SW 127^th Avenue,Miami, FL. Belen has an active studentdive club that was eager to host this first workshop.

Workshop participants will havethe opportunity to sign up for one or both of the group lionfish collectiondives that will be led by REEF Director of Special Projects and lionfishexpert, Lad Akins. These dives will giveworkshop participants the opportunity to apply what they learned topside whilegaining hands-on experience with lionfish removals.

Future workshops and collection dives for Miami-Dade,Broward, and Palm Beach Counties will begin in spring of 2012 and will beposted on the REEF website (www.reef.org). Pre-registration for this workshop and futureworkshops is strongly encouraged. Thereis no cost to attend these lionfish workshops. For more information or to register for a workshop, please visit www.reef.org/lionfish/workshops.

WHO: Miami-DadeCooperative Sea Grant Extension

WHAT: Lionfish Workshop

WHEN: Monday, November 14,2011

6:30 p.m. 8:00 p.m.

WHERE: Belen Jesuit Preparatory School(Cosculluela Hall)

500 SW127th Avenue

Miami,Florida

COST: FREE

Giant African Land Snail (GALS) in Nursery Industry Workshop

2011-10-21T16:56:00.001-04:00

MIAMI is dealing with a silent but dangerous enemy: Giant African Land Snails. This pest has invaded several residential areas so far.

But what do these GALS mean for our plant nurseries and small farms in the County???
Do you know how to recognize this invasive pest from other Florida native terrestrial snails???
How can you be sure that your nursery is a GALS-free zone?
What do you have to do if you find a giant snail in your nursery?
How can you prevent this infestation from affecting your business???

Giant African land snail
Photograph by Andrew Derksen, Florida Cooperative Agriculture Pest Survey Program

Photo from the FDACS website: http://www.freshfromflorida.com/pi/plantinsp/gals.html

Bring all these questions to this workshop organized by UF-Miami-Dade County Extension Commercial Ornamental Program.

We are going to have an amazing agenda:

Proper identification of the Giant African Land Snail pest.
There are snails and there are Giant snails
Different Management approaches for the control of GALS.
Economic impact of GALS for the Nursery Industry
What to do if you find a GALS in your nursery
Do you need an agricultural compliance agreement?

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS): Division of Plant Industry (DPI) and University of Florida is working hard to bring this and more information to YOU!!!

REMEMBER: This workshop is on Monday November 14 from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm

The workshop registration fee is FREE, thanks to extension sponsors. Use the UF-Extension Code.  To register online:go to Miami Dade Extension Calendaror mailthe registration form to: UF/IFAS Miami-Dade County Extension Service 18710 SW 288th St Homestead, Fl 33030 or call to (305) 248-3311 x 225  


Register online using eventbrite:
http://giantsnailplantnursery.eventbrite.com?ref=eweb

For more information go to our website:

UF Miami Dade County Extension

Giant African Land Snail

2011-10-19T14:33:00.000-04:00

Since the first sighting of the Giant African Land Snail in Miami early in September, over 23,000 snails have been collected. If you think you have seen a Giant African Land Snail you should contact FDACS (Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services). You can either cal the Division of Plant Industry hotline 888-397-1517 or submit a photo of the snail for identification. If you are submitting a photo for identification be sure to include your contact information.

Do not handle these snails because they can be a serious health risk to humans. These snails also pose a dangerous threat Florida Agriculture and natural areas because they are known to be one of the most damaging snails in the world. These snails are known to eat at least 500 different types of plants.

Visit our website for more information on how you can help reduce the population of these invasive pests.

Visit FDACS website for more information on the Giant African Land Snail and more photos of these snails.

Giant African land snail
Photograph by Andrew Derksen, Florida Cooperative Agriculture Pest Survey Program
Photo from the FDACS website: http://www.freshfromflorida.com/pi/plantinsp/gals.html

Youth Fishing Trips Return by Popular Demand

2011-10-12T13:03:00.001-04:00

Fishing is not just for summer anymore.Due to popular demand, the Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension’s Sea Grant and 4-Hprograms are extending their summer kids fishing program into the Fall. The Reward Fleet will set sail on Friday,October 28^th at 6:00 p.m.,from the Miami Beach Marina located at 300 Alton Road, Dock A.

These trips aredesigned to encourage parents and kids to share the wonderful activity offishing and to practice ethical angling for future generations. In addition, this event willencourage ethical angling for future generations by helping children develop anappreciation of the marine ecosystem and its resources.

Priorto fishing, participants will receive an educational briefing on safetyprecautions, fishing rules & regulations, use of tackle, and proper fishhandling and release techniques. They will board a charter boat and fishon inshore reefs with light tackle and barbless circle hooks. Catch and releaseis encouraged.

Toregister: email Dr. Lisa Krimsky at lkrimsky@ufl.edu
or call 305-421-4017

Who: 4-Hand Sea Grant Extension

Cost: $25 dollars per person

Child must be accompaniedby an adult

When: Friday, October 28^that 6:00 p.m.

Where: Miami Beach Marina

Reward Fleet

300 Alton Road; Dock A

Join Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension in Celebrating Food Day

2011-10-11T11:30:00.004-04:00

TheMiami-Dade County Cooperative Extension will celebrate National Food Day on Tuesday,October 18, 2011, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Stephen P.Clark Center, located at 111 NW First Street in Miami, Florida.

Cooperative Extensionwill join in the movement to change the way Americans eat and think aboutfood! This national effort is organized by the Center for Science in thePublic Interest (CSPI). CSPI is a non-profitwatchdog group that since 1971 has led successful fights for food labeling,better nutrition and safer food.

Miami-Dade CountyCooperative Extension wants you to celebrate fresh fruits and vegetables, andto support the local farms and farmers that produce them. We want allAmericans—regardless of their age or income or geographic location—to be ableto learn and select healthy diets and avoid obesity, heart disease, and otherdiet-related conditions.

Participants will be ableto interact with Cooperative Extension staff and other organizations and learnabout healthy food, local agriculture, seafood, and proper nutrition. Educational and fun activities for all ages willinclude:

· FoodDemonstrations and Tasting

· Hands-onActivities: Nutrition, Healthy Eating and Food Safety

· RainBarrel, Gardening, and Pest Management Displays and Demonstrations and manymore!

Inaddition, participants will be able to purchase fresh, locally grown avocadosand vegetable transplants to start their own backyard vegetable gardens.

WHO: Miami-DadeCooperative Extension

WHAT: NationalFood Day Celebration

WHEN: Tuesday,October 18, 2011

9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

WHERE: StephenP. Clark Center

111 NW FirstStreet

Miami, Florida

The Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension is apartnership of the Sustainability, Planning and Economic Enhancement Departmentformerly (Miami-Dade Consumer Services Department), and the University ofFlorida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

Florida Master Naturalist Program in Miami-Dade County

2011-10-05T17:02:00.000-04:00

The Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP) is an adult education program developed by the University of Florida (UF) and provided by participating organizations. The mission of the FMNP is to promote awareness, understanding, and respect of Florida’s natural world among Florida’s citizens and visitors.

FMNP training will benefit persons interested in learning more about Florida’s environment, seeking educational contact hours, or wishing to increase their knowledge for use in education programs as volunteers, employees, and ecotourism guides. The program includes three core modules – Freshwater Wetlands, Coastal Systems and Upland Habitats, as well as four special topic courses in Conservation Science, Environmental Interpretation, Wildlife Monitoring, and Habitat Evaluation.

Each module is 40 contact hours of classroom learning, field trips, and practical experience. Each module is a stand alone program and graduates are recognized (certificates of achievement, pins) as Coastal, Wetlands, or Upland naturalists. Special recognition for completion of all three programs will include a special Florida Master Naturalist certificate and pin.

Courses in Miami-Dade County are offered at least once a year by a group of trained instructors and guest lecturers. To get on our local email list, please contact lkrimsky@ufl.edu for more information.

The Florida Extension Plant Diagnostic Clinic at TREC

2011-09-29T16:54:00.000-04:00

Anyone who drives around the Redlands will quickly discover that ornamental plant production in Miami-Dade County is a big business. There are numerous nurseries producing a vast diversity of plants in all shapes, sizes, and colors. The majority of ornamental plants are produced in pots located either in full sun or under shade cloth. Our warm and humid subtropical climate makes it possible for growers to produce ornamental plants outside year round. At the same time, these subtropical conditions are highly favorable for many plant pathogens to persist in the environment. The large amount of propagative plant material being imported from other countries, combined with a very popular tourism industry and the occasional tropical storm or hurricane all contribute to the potential for exotic pathogen introductions in Florida.

This is why we experience and read about new and economically important plant pathogens being introduced into Florida on a fairly regular basis. In fact, reports indicate that Florida receives on average about 4-5 new pathogens each year. These new pathogen introductions make commercial plant production and maintaining a vibrant and healthy landscape very challenging. Because of the large diversity of plants produced or growing in the landscape, it’s highly likely when an exotic pathogen arrives that it will find a suitable plant host to infect and subsequently cause disease.

At the same time it’s important to note that Miami-Dade County is located in a subtropical climate and many plants grown here originated in tropical climates with different growing conditions (i.e. soil type). This means that these newly introduced plants may be exposed to unfavorable weather conditions such as cold temperatures and unsuitable soil type in the landscape that cause stress. Just like humans, when plants undergo stress, they are predisposed to infection by disease causing organisms. Thus, good horticultural practices and informed decision-making will help to minimize plant diseases and disorders.

From time to time, even the most experienced commercial plant producer and landscaper will be challenged with a disease outbreak or disorder. This is why the Florida Extension Plant Diagnostic Clinic (FEPDC) is an important resource for the agricultural community. The FEPDC, located at the University of Florida’s Tropical Research and Education Center, is affiliated with the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences and works closely with County Extension faculty. Our services include analysis of plant material for bacterial, fungal, viral, and nematode pathogens as well as the identification of insect pests. All diagnoses include appropriate control measures when available.

The FEPDC is a member of the Florida Plant Diagnostic Network (FPDN). This alliance allows the clinic to maintain a strong connection with the other three diagnostic clinics located throughout the state and leading researchers in the field of Plant Pathology. The FEPDC provides accurate plant diagnosis, prompt turn around time, professional services, and up-to-date management recommendations. The Clinic promotes a "Test, Don't Guess" attitude. Knowing the causal agent prior to taking action allows for more efficient use and selection of control methods. Be certain to remember when it comes to chemical control recommendations always read and follow the manufacturer’s label.

Dr. Palmateer (right) and Ian Maguire (left) look over a Kentia plant delivered by a local grower.

Photo: Ian Maguire; Adapted by: L. Krimsky

For more information about research that is being conducted on plant diseases and disorders affecting ornamentals in South Florida, be sure to visit ornamental plant pathology. From this website, one can access other extension materials including EDIS publications, disease management recommendations, and our diagnostic clinic blog that focuses on new diseases affecting the agricultural industry.

Aaron J. Palmateer, PhD

Associate Professor and Extension Specialist

Ornamental Plant Pathology

Tropical Research & Education Center

Florida Extension Plant Diagnostic Clinic

University of Florida, IFAS

What is a Florida-Friendly Landscape?

2011-09-21T17:01:00.000-04:00

Florida is covered with water. The state has over 10,000 miles of rivers and streams, about 7,800 lakes and more than 700 freshwater springs, and the second-longest coastline in the United States. Even if you do not live on the waterfront, the land you live on is directly connected to a nearby water body. Though you might think it’s not possible your landscape practices have an impact on our water quality. When it rains, water flows down our streets, sidewalks and driveways. Everything on the pavement, like grass clippings, fertilizer, pesticides all get washed into our storm drains. Most storm drains empty directly into the closest body of water and the water is not filtered. As a result of that, in 2000 the University of Florida / Miami-Dade County Florida Yards & Neighborhoods Program was created to help protect our unique natural resources by promoting and teaching to create Florida-Friendly landscapes. Any landscape can be Florida-Friendly if it’s designed and maintained to follow the nine Florida-friendly principles.

9 Florida-friendly Landscaping Principles:

· Right Plant, Right Place

· Water Efficiently

· Fertilize Appropriately

· Mulch

· Attract Wildlife

· Manage Yard Pests Responsibly

· Recycle

· Reduce Storm Water Runoff

· Protect the Waterfront

A Florida-Friendly landscape requires less fertilizers, pesticides and water. The program also honors homeowners’ efforts by recognizing specific landscapes as ‘Florida-Friendly’. As of today there are 72 properties in Miami-Dade County that are recognized by the program.

Maria Varela’s Florida-Friendly Landscape (top); Maria and her gardener show off her Florida-Friendly recognized yard (bottom). Photos: L. Vasquez and M. Gutierrez

Each property is evaluated in accordance with the Florida Yards & Neighborhoods program’s nine principles, including design and maintenance practices. There are two levels of recognition: the standard, requiring at least 50 points; and the Gold , which requires at least 75 points. Use the checklist to determine whether your yard qualifies or Call Laura Vasquez at 305.248.3311, ext. 239 or email her at lavasquez@ufl.edu. For information on Florida friendly landscaping, visit the Florida Yards & Neighborhoods website at www.greenyardsmiami.blogspot.com.

Miami-Dade County programs help residents USE LESS!

2011-09-19T10:35:00.002-04:00

A homeowner’s story of how County programs are helping him save water and money

Miami-Dade County resident Carlos Lopez recently moved into a new home with an outdated, inefficient sprinkler system. Wanting to improve both his landscape and his sprinklers, he contacted the Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension Service, a partnership of the Miami-Dade Consumer Services Department and the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

Mr. Lopez wanted to participate in the Irrigation Retrofit and Florida Yards and Neighborhoods programs, both funded by the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department. As part of the Irrigation Retrofit Program, Mr. Lopez received a free evaluation of his sprinkler system, including recommendations on how to make his system more efficient. The participant applied the recommendations and upgraded his sprinkler system. Afterwards, he was reimbursed for a portion of his expenses.

Single family homes qualify to receive up to $400 in rebates for making upgrades to increase irrigation efficiency. Mr. Lopez added a weather-based irrigation timer to his sprinkler system to prevent unnecessary irrigation. In his grass areas he replaced his sprinklers with more efficient multi-stream sprays. He also replaced sprinklers in his flower beds with micro-irrigation, which uses less water by applying small amounts only to the plant root zone.

These changes to his water use practices helped Mr. Lopez qualify his landscape as “Florida-Friendly”. The Florida Yards & Neighborhoods program honors homeowners’ efforts to conserve water and protect water quality and other natural resources. A Florida-Friendly landscape requires less fertilizers, pesticides and water. Each property is evaluated in accordance with the Florida Yards & Neighborhoods program’s nine principles, including design and maintenance practices. There are two levels of recognition: the standard, requiring at least 50 points; and the Gold, which requires at least 75 points. Mr. Lopez achieved the Gold level.

Take a tour of Carlos’ landscape and irrigation system in both Spanishand English on the MiamiFYNandUCU YouTube page. (Still and video media courtesy of Michael Gutierrez, UF-TREC)

Spanish

English

For information on Florida friendly landscaping, visit the Florida Yards & Neighborhoodswebsite at www.greenyardsmiami.blogspot.com.

Learn to Grow and Sell Produce Locally

2011-09-14T17:32:00.001-04:00

The Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension Division is hosting a workshop on Monday, September 19, 2011,from 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the John D. Campbell Agricultural Center located at 18710 SW 288 Street in Homestead, Florida.

This workshop is designed for individuals interested in growing and selling local produce, such as vegetables and herbs to local clients including farmers’ markets, local chefs and other venues. Topics include the following: where to sell locally grown produce, deciding what to grow, federal regulation-based records, tips for selling at farmers’ markets, selling what you’ve grown, and much more.

Registration is $10 per person and may be done at http://growingandsellingproducelocally.eventbrite.com. Registration will also be available the day of the workshop with a check or money order. If you’re planning to pay at the door, please call Lize Luna at (305) 248-3311 Ext. 242 no later than 10 a.m. on Monday, September 19^th to confirm your participation.

WHO: Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension Division

WHAT: Workshop: Growing and Selling Produce Locally

WHEN: Monday, September 19, 2011

1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

WHERE: John D. Campbell Agricultural Center

18710 SW 288^th Street

Homestead, Florida

Low-Maintenance Plant of the Month - September

2011-08-31T17:07:00.002-04:00

Due for a revival pride-of-the-Cape (Bauhinia galpinii), was popular in local landscapes 30-40 years ago. Native to southern Africa, it grows as a climbing shrub with late spring/summer orchid-like flowers that are brilliant orange to brick red in color. This plant needs full sun for best flowering and should be planted in a free draining somewhat sandy soil. It can be allowed to grow as a sprawling shrub or for best affect tied in to a pergola, arbor or sturdy chain link fence. Allow plenty of room because this plant can grow 15 to 20 feet and resents hard pruning.

Apart from its outstanding ornamental attributes, pride of the Cape also exhibits excellent drought tolerance once established and, unlike some other bauhinias, is unlikely to become invasive. In cultivation any pods that do form contain mostly sterile seeds. Propagation is from seeds (where available) or by air layers. Two other cultivated climbing ‘bauhinias’ B.corymbosa phanera and B. yunnanensis Saigon creeper, which attach by means of tendrils, produce viable seed, the latter having reportedly naturalized in Miami-Dade.

To read more check out this month's Green Bytes newsletter.
For more plants questions contact the plant doctor:
Dr. John McLaughlin
305-248-3311 ext. 228

Mites & Miticides Workshop for Nurseries

2011-08-19T14:10:00.001-04:00

Mites are insect-like pest that attack many ornamental plants in our nurseries. They are very difficult to control and growers try to deal with this problem among other issues.

A workshop on this topic was held at Extension Office on July 19 and let me tell you what happened:

First: University of Florida (UF) professor: Dr. Osborne (Mites researcher) gave a overview of the types of mites and the pesticide products available based on their mode of action. Also, we had UF professor Dr. Mannion, who presented the biological control aspect.

Second: Industry representatives sponsored this super event. Mr. Chandler with Winfield Solutions worked together with Syngenta, BASF, OHP, SePRO and Everris industry representatives. They gave 15 minute updates of their current products for nurserymen.

Third: Growers were an important piece of this event. We had 140 nursery growers attending this workshop. They received a 4 hour program.

All together: UF-Extension Commercial ornamental program, UF academy, Chemical Industry representatives and Miami Dade growers spent a nice evening at UF-Miami Dade Extension Auditorium in Homestead area.

We also appreciate the presence of commercial ornamental extension agent and growers from Broward county. Pesticide FDCAS and FNGLA CEU’s were provided to growers.

If you have any suggestions or comments about this or other workshops; the Commercial ornamental agent is happy to hear your feedback.

Please email to evcampoverde@ufl.edu or visit our Nursery production website:

http://miami-dade.ifas.ufl.edu/agriculture/commer_ornamentals.shtml

Irrigation CEU course moved

2011-08-18T16:47:00.000-04:00

The Irrigation contractor CEU workshop has been moved to Thursday, September 15th and Friday, September 16th. Extension and the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department are co-hosting the two-day workshop which was previously scheduled for Wednesday, August 24, 2011, and on Thursday, August 25, 2011. The event will be held at the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department, located at 3071 SW 38^th Avenue in Miami, Florida. Irrigation contractors can get all 16 CEUs in two days! The course is being provided by the Florida Irrigation Society.

The courses will offer training on basic irrigation principles of operation and maintenance of irrigation systems, water conservation applications, and rules and regulations.

Session (A) will be held on August 24, and has a registration fee of $100 for members. This course will offer an introduction to Landscape Irrigation Maintenance in Florida. In addition, the curriculum will cover basic irrigation components, obtaining site information, underground piping systems, sprinkler performance, control systems, operating and maintenance procedures, irrigation codes and standards, and smart technology. 8 CEUs

Second (B) will be held during the morning of August 25, at a cost of $50 for members. This class will focus on technology and practices for water conservation in landscape irrigation. 4 CEUs

Session (C) will be held in the afternoon of August 25, at a cost of $50 for members, and will focus on local ordinances, and regional rules and regulations pertaining to water conservation efforts in local municipalities and in the State of Florida for landscape irrigation systems. 4 CEUs

Non-members can also attend the workshops for an additional fee. Click here to obtain more information on the workshops.

Whitefly Management Workshop

2011-08-18T16:06:00.000-04:00

The Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension Service will be hosting a whitefly management landscape workshop on Thursday, August 25, 2011, from 9:30 a.m. to noon, at the John D. Campbell Agricultural Center, 18710 SW 288 Street in Homestead, Florida.

For the past four years, Miami-Dade County has been ground zero for whitefly infestations. The ficus whitefly and the gumbo limbo spiraling whitefly continue to affect many trees, shrubs, and palms in our communities.

Recently, another new whitefly was identified attacking ornamental plants in the Miami-Dade area causing devastating damage to ficus hedges and trees. During the workshop, experts will provide an update on this topic, and discuss how to best manage these pests in the landscape.

Management of heavy whitefly infestations is very difficult. Whiteflies are not well controlled with any available insecticides. The workshops will focus on the best strategies to prevent problems from developing in your garden.

To participate, please register prior to the event for a ten dollar fee. Download form here, and send it back to reserve your seat. Space is limited.

For details on the gumbo limbo spiraling whitefly, signs of infestation and treatment options, go to the Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension’s website. You may also contact the UF/IFAS Miami-Dade County Extension office at 305.248.3311.

WHO: Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension

WHAT: Whitefly Management in the Landscape Workshop

WHEN: Thursday, August 25
9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

WHERE: John D. Campbell Agricultural Center
18710 S.W. 288^th St
Homestead, Florida

"REEL" Fun for the Whole Family

2011-08-08T13:19:00.000-04:00

Fishing for fun in the waning days of summer? Check out two great fishing programs offered by the Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension's Sea Grant and the 4-H Club. Sign up for a free Youth Fishing Clinic on Aug. 16 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Biscayne National Park. Parents can get in on the fun, too, during a charter fishing adventure on Aug. 19 from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Miami Beach Marina.

Read the Flyer for more information.
Contact Lisa Krimsky or Cassandra Weston for more details.

Save the Date: Extension to Host "Green is Cool for School"

2011-08-02T16:31:00.000-04:00

Spend a fun-filled educational day at the mall and take advantage of the sales-tax holiday.

Make plans for a fun-filled day for the entire family. The Miami-Dade County Cooperative Extension is hosting a back-to-school event on Saturday, August 13, 2011, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., at Miami International Mall.

During the event, kids will be able to partake in hands-on crafts to take home, including butterfly magnets, seed necklaces, and pinwheels.

The event will also feature interactive demonstrations, displays, and activities such as a puppet show for children demonstrating the value of seatbelts and hand-washing. There will also be costume drama presentations offering entertainment for adults and children on nutrition, gardening, and the environment. In addition, there will be balloon art, giveaways, face painting and much more.

Twenty presenters will participate in the back- to-school event which promises to provide free, fun, and educational information of interest for all age groups.

Among them are the following:

· Extension Master Gardeners will be available for tips on successful gardens as well as for identification of plant problems.

· Florida Yards and Neighborhoods staff will be exchanging more efficient light bulbs and shower-heads provided by Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department.

· Corrections will have fingerprinting available for children

· Biscayne National Park and the Sea grant Extension programs will have a visual display of marine critters.

· Extension Nutrition programs will provide information on healthy diets for all family members.

· Officer Snook and the Coast Guard will provide information on the value of recycling.

· Extension 4-H Youth program is offering hands-on crafts for take home butterfly magnets, seed necklaces and pinwheels. Puppet shows will demonstrate the value of seatbelts and hand-washing.

While you’re at the mall, don’t forget to take advantage of the sales-tax holiday which begins at 12:01 a.m. on August 12, and ends at 11:59 p.m. on August 14.

WHEN: Saturday, August 13, 2011

11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

WHERE: Miami International Mall (Center Court)

1455 N.W. 107^th Avenue

Miami, Florida

The Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension is a partnership of the Miami-Dade Consumer Services Department and the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

Landscape Irrigation Class for Contractors - CEUs included

2011-08-01T14:44:00.000-04:00

Extension and the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Deaprtment are co-hosting a two-day workshop on Wednesday, August 24, 2011, and on Thursday, August 25, 2011 at the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department, located at 3071 SW 38^th Avenue in Miami, Florida. Irrigation contractors can get all 16 CEUs in two days!

The courses will offer training on basic irrigation principles of operation and maintenance of irrigation systems, water conservation applications, and rules and regulations.

Second (B) will be held during the morning of August 25, at a cost of $50 for members. This class will focus on technology and practices for water conservation in landscape irrigation. 4 CEUs

Non-members can also attend the workshops for an additional fee. Click here to obtain more information on the workshops.

Miami-Dade County 4-H Members Excel at 2011 State Legislature

2011-07-27T15:07:00.000-04:00

Eleven Miami-Dade County 4-H members attended a week long mock legislature session in Tallahassee from June 20 - 24. Participants were joined by 162 students from around the state and attained hands-on experience on the legislative process by serving as lobbyists, representatives, and senators at the mock legislature.

Congratulations to 4-H participant Emily Freeman who was given the Chris Allen Award for outstanding lobbyist! Daniel Ledon was also a nominee. The Chris Allen Awards are given in memory of the late Chris Allen, who was an active participant in the Florida Legislature.

4-H is one of the largest youth development programs in America with more than 6.5 million young people, ages 5 to 19 and 540,000 youth and adult volunteers. 4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship, and life skills through projects with topics as varied as rocketry, GPS mapping, public speaking, photography, nutrition and community service.

4-H is part of the Miami-Dade County Extension Service. For more information call 305-592-8044 or visit: http://miami-dade.ifas.ufl.edu

Lobster Season

2011-07-21T09:54:00.000-04:00

Lobster season is just around the corner and our Sea Grant (marine) office wants to make sure you are prepared. The official commercial and recreational lobster season begins August 6 and runs through March 31. The special two-day lobster sport season, held the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday in July, falls on July 27th and 28th this year.

In order to participate there are certain recreational regulations that you must follow:

Recreational fishers must possess a saltwater fishing license as well as a spiny lobster permit in order to harvest spiny lobsters.
Bag limits for the two-day sport season are 6 lobsters per person per day within Biscayne National Park and Monroe County and 12 lobsters per person per day everywhere else.
Anglers are responsible for knowing those areas closed to lobstering, such as the Biscayne bay/Card Sound sanctuary, no take zones within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Everglades National Park, Dry Tortugas National Park and areas within John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (Pennekamp is entirely closed to harvesting during the two-day sport season).

In addition to standard safety precautions, such as mandatory divers-down flag, divers and snorkelers harvesting lobster should be aware of the presence of lionfish while in the water.

The invasive lion fish has become pervasive in South Florida's and is likely to be found in waters where spiny lobsters occur. Lionfish possess venomous spines that can be harmful and extremely painful to humans. Lionfish are often found in the same reef habitats as spiny lobsters, within crevices and under overhang, and are notoriously unafraid of humans.

The Miami-Dade Sea Grant office developed a lobster gauge to assist recreational fishers in having a safe and responsible experience. These double-sided waterproof lobster gauges have regulation information on one side and lionfish information on the other. Anyone harvesting lobsters must possess a lobster gauge and measure all lobsters while in the water. Lobsters must have a carapace length greater than 3 inches to be legal and must be kept whole while at sea.

To receive your free lobster gauge, go to:

Miami-Dade Sea Grants website and take a brief survey. Be sure to include your name, mailing address, and email.

Urban Conservation Unit highlighted on CBS4!

2011-07-20T11:55:00.000-04:00

Yesterday CBS4 aired a piece on the Irrigation Rebate Program. The property featured in the piece has participated in the program two years and has performed a lot of great changes in both the landscape and the irrigation system. Our Urban Conservation Unit helped this homeowner determine where water use could be reduced in order to make the system more efficient. His landscape has already been certified as Florida-Friendly!

To learn more about the Irrigation Rebate Program and how you can use less water outside while saving money on your water bill visit the Extension Service website:
Irrigation Rebate Program

To learn more about having a sustainable Florida-Friendly landscape you can attend one of our classes listed on the upcoming events calendar or visit our website for more info:
Florida Yards and Neighborhoods

Mary McCready
305-248-3311 ext. 230

Welcome to the Miami-Dade Extension Blog

2011-07-20T11:50:00.000-04:00

This blog is meant to help us as Extension provide information to the community. Our team of Faculty specialize in a variety of subjects and are available to answer questions for you daily life, whether you have questions about your business, for your family, finances, landscape or about our natural environment. This blog will highlight current issues that Extension is helping with in our County. It is also a place to share your comments and questions. Thanks for joining us!