What’s Needed to Ensure a Sweet Future for Georgia Blueberries

Web AdminBlueberries, Georgia

By Clint Thompson One of the largest and most productive blueberry growers in Georgia is concerned about the obstacles that will challenge his ability to remain sustainable in the future. That is why Kevin Eason voices his concerns to those who will listen. He aims to educate legislative leaders about the issues that challenge his sustainability as a farmer. Eason …

Florida Blueberry Growers Association Fall Conference Taking Place Oct. 25

Web AdminBlueberries, Events

By Clint Thompson Blueberry producers should mark their calendars for Wednesday, Oct. 25, for the annual Florida Blueberry Growers Association Fall Conference and Trade Show at Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland, Florida. Doug Phillips, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) blueberry Extension coordinator, discussed the significance of the meeting this fall and why producers and industry …

Florida Blueberry Growers Association Fall Conference, Trade Show Scheduled for Oct. 25

Web AdminBlueberries, Florida

By Clint Thompson Blueberry producers should mark their calendars for Wednesday, Oct. 25, for the annual Florida Blueberry Growers Association Fall Conference and Trade Show at Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland, Florida. Doug Phillips, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) blueberry Extension coordinator, discussed the significance of the meeting this fall and why producers and industry …

Gather Family, Friends for Tailgate, Complete with Florida-Grown Foods, UF/IFAS Cultivars

Web AdminFlorida

It’s game day. The excitement around stadiums is palpable. The college football season kicked off this weekend, and many fans enjoyed the company of family and friends while tailgating before and after the game. That meant food – lots of it. Tailgaters might think about eating some Florida-grown grub, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) experts …

UF/IFAS Research: Ammoniacal Nitrogen Preferred in Blueberries

Web AdminBlueberries, Florida

By Clint Thompson Nitrogen is an element that blueberry plants require most. One University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) researcher believes there is room for improvement in how growers distribute that essential element. Gerardo Nunez, assistant professor in the UF/IFAS Horticultural Sciences Department, discusses nutrient research in blueberries. “It is an element where we believe there …

Monthly Blueberry Updates Help ‘Remind’ Florida Growers

Web AdminBlueberries, Florida

By Clint Thompson The monthly blueberry updates administered by University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) serves as a reminder for Florida growers of what needs to be done from a management standpoint. Even following the recent harvest, producers have important tasks to complete if they want to have another productive season the following year. Doug Phillips, …

Out of Business: Gloomy Future for Florida Blueberry Farmers

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By Clint Thompson Florida’s recent lack of success in profiting from its blueberry crop has prompted some farmers to leave the business altogether. “I already know of three farms for sale. I think you’re going to see a couple of people go out of business,” said Ryan Atwood, who lives in Mount Dora, Florida and farms 56 acres of blueberries, …

Blueberry Cultivars in North Florida

Web AdminFruits, Specialty Crops, Vegetables

By Maegan Beatty Blueberries are a popular commodity throughout the state of Florida and the entire southeast region. Scientists and researchers are working to create new cultivars that can sustain hard freezes during those difficult winter months, especially throughout the North Florida area. Dr. Jeff Williamson is a part of the Horticulture Sciences Department at the University of Florida Institute …

Blueberry Quality, Quantity High in Most of Florida

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By Clint Thompson Blueberry harvests are winding down across Florida. Quality and quantity were high in certain fields, though others observed negative impacts from Hurricane Ian last September. Doug Phillips, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) blueberry Extension coordinator, discussed the state of harvests across Florida this year. “Quality wise for sure, it’s been a good …