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Nutrient management recommendations for carrot are described according to the standard UF/IFAS recommendation format of 1) a calibrated soil test result; 2) target soil pH; 3) the "4Rs" of fertilizer management: rate, timing, placement, and source; and 4) water management factors.

Nutrient management recommendations for watermelon are described according to the standard UF/IFAS recommendation format of 1) a calibrated soil test result; 2) target soil pH; 3) the "4Rs" of fertilizer management: rate, timing, placement, and source; and 4) water management factors.

Farm-scale decisions are key determinants of water quality and water use on a regional scale. This paper evaluates farm-scale economic–environmental tradeoffs associated with row crop land management decisions as well as land use decisions in a 15-county area of the Suwannee River Basin in North Florida. Discussions with stakeholders through a participatory modeling process identified the farm-scale land management and land use choices relevant for the study region. Land management choices included three fertilizer and irrigation management systems, and land use choices included a combination of corn, carrot, and peanut crop rotations. Farm-scale nitrate leaching and crop yield outcomes were simulated using the Soil & Water Assessment Tool (SWAT), and annualized net returns were simulated using Simetar Excel Add-In based on Extension production budgets and USDA crop and input price history. We show that the impacts from farmers’ crop rotation choices outweigh the impacts from the irrigation and fertilizer management system choices. This difference in impacts can lead to a rebound in nutrient leaching if water policy regulates land management but not the land use. Nitrate leaching abatement cost were found to be comparable with the costs for other, non-agricultural pollution reduction projects in the region.

Multiple federal and state agencies provide assistance to qualified agricultural producers following a natural disaster, such as a hurricane. However, the programs change over time, and many producers are not aware of the programs available. The purpose of this publication is to list and briefly describe disaster assistance resources available to agricultural producers in Florida after Hurricane Idalia. To the extent that some information remains the same, this publication could provide guidance to Extension agents, nongovernmental organizations, and producers impacted by future hurricanes. The information was compiled from websites, government documents, and discussions with government agency representatives following Hurricane Idalia.

Ginger, galangal, and turmeric (Figure 1) are emerging crops for Florida production. All of these plants are in the Zingiberaceae family and share most aspects of their production. This bulletin describes production in containers or the field under Florida conditions to help guide growers interested in ginger, turmeric, and galangal production or expanding their market. All species have been evaluated by the UF/IFAS Assessment of Non-native Plants in Florida’s Natural Areas (UF/IFAS Assessment) using the Predictive Tool (an invasion risk assessment) and all present a low risk of invasion in Florida (https://assessment.ifas.ufl.edu).

This publication discusses carrot growth characteristics and provides nitrogen fertilizer best management practices for carrot crops growing in north Florida. The nitrogen management guidelines presented in this publication are based on multiyear field-based research conducted by UF/IFAS. Written by Morgan Morrow, Vivek Sharma, Robert C. Hochmuth, Charles Barrett, and Marina Burani-Arouca, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, July 2023.

State and federal policies in the United States focus on agricultural best management practices (BMP)—such as improving nutrient management—to address water quality issues. BMP development is a challenging process as a new BMP may also affect farm profitability. This article explores the economic feasibility of nitrogen (N) management programs, including nitrogen application rates (N rates), given alternative scenarios for current nitrogen use and producer risk perceptions of carrot production in Florida. In this study, eight alternative N rates are ranked to find the economically optimal BMP. Carrot profitability is determined based on carrot yields per hectare, input costs, and carrot sale prices, using data from a 2-year carrot production experiment. The analysis applied stochastic simulation to account for the uncertain factors by using Simetar Add-In for Excel. We found that 224 kg·ha−1 N fertilizer rate is the most preferred by the producers among the eight rates considered. According to Florida’s agricultural water policy, BMP recommendations should balance water quality improvements and agricultural productivity. We consider the potential reduction of nitrogen fertilizer rate BMP from 224 kg·ha−1 to 168 kg·ha−1 and show that the effect of such reduction depends on producers’ current fertilizer application rates and their risk aversion levels. For example, reducing the N fertilizer rate from 336 kg·ha−1 to 168 kg·ha−1 decreases mean net returns by only 2% ($49/ha). In contrast, reducing the nitrogen fertilizer rate from 224 kg·ha−1 to 168 kg·ha−1 reduces the mean net returns by $151/ha, with an almost 10% reduction in the certainty equivalent of the net returns (for extremely risk-averse producers). Overall, if most producers in the region are very or extremely risk-averse, and if most of them operate close to the optimal level of fertilizer use, then setting the more restrictive BMP of 168 kg·ha−1 N can be perceived as undermining their economic profitability and require significant cost-share incentives to ensure targeted 100% adoption of BMP recommendations.

Watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai] growers choose transplanting dates every year considering multiple risk factors. Earlier harvests linked to earlier planting typically find more favorable markets, but earlier planting has higher risk of freeze damage. Research also indicates that risk of fusarium wilt (caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. niveum) is higher during cooler weather, adding to the risk of planting earlier. Thus, growers need to balance market risk (e.g., getting a low price) and production risk (e.g., lower harvest or higher cost due to freezing temperatures or disease) in selecting a planting date. The objective of this analysis is to examine the effect of planting date on the distribution of potential economic returns and evaluate whether late planting could be a favorable risk-management strategy. Probability distributions are estimated for key risk factors based on input from watermelon growers, published price data, historical freeze data, experiment station trials, and expert discussions. The distribution of economic returns is then simulated for three planting windows (early, middle, and late) using simulation software. Results demonstrate planting date risk–return tradeoffs and indicate that late planting is unlikely to be preferable to middle planting, even when risk of fusarium wilt is high.

Various nitrate and potassium "quick-test" kits for vegetable plant sap-testing have been calibrated for use on Florida vegetables. The objective has been to find a system that growers can use in the field to help manage nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) fertilizer—especially for drip-irrigated vegetables. The following guidelines should help individuals who are currently using—or are interested in using—sap-testing. Revision by George and Robert Hochmuth published by the UF/IFAS Horticultural Sciences Department; 6 pages. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/cv004

This publication describes current methods for managing wireworms in sweet potato. Wireworms, the larvae of click beetles, are the most damaging insect pests of those that infest the foliage and roots. Soil tillage and crop rotation can suppress populations of these root pests but adequate management requires diligent surveillance and the use of insecticides. Describes new research on managing wireworms with alternative insecticide active ingredients and entomopathogenic nematodes.

Field production of organic crops, including herbs, in south Florida is a challenging task due to the subtropical climate and high number of pest and disease pressures. Thus, greenhouse production of organic herbs may provide an alernate to field production. However, there is little published information on selecting media and fertilizers for organic herb production in greenhouses in this climate. Greenhouse trials were conducted during the 2005 and 2006 growing season at the UF/IFAS Tropical Research and Education Center (TREC) in Homestead, Florida. The objectives of the project were to 1) compare several commercially available organic fertilizers for organic greenhouse production of container herbs and 2) compare two commercially available potting media for organic greenhouse production of container herbs. The two potting media (Fafard and Agro-Soils) did not result in significant differences in measured plant mass production, plant tissue nutrients, or leachate chemistry. However, some differences in plant production for basil and dill were identified among the different fertilizer treatments (Natural Safe, Perdue, Fertrell, and Control). These differ- ences were most notable for visual quality, fresh weight, and dry weight measurements. Evaluation of these parameters for basil and dill suggested that the two best fertilizers were Perdue and Fertrell. However, the differences in cost of each fertilizer and the study results suggest that Perdue is a more economic choice for organic herb production of basil and dill.

Microgreens are young, tender greens that are used to enhance the color, texture, or flavor of salads, or to garnish a wide variety of main dishes. Harvested at the first true leaf stage and sold with the stem, cotyledons (seed leaves), and first true leaves attached, they are among a variety of novel salad greens available on the market that are typically distinguished categorically by their size and age. Sprouts, microgreens, and baby greens are simply those greens harvested and consumed in an immature state. This article offers production advice for greenhouse microgreen production. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/hs1164 This is a minor revision of Treadwell, Danielle, Robert Hochmuth, Linda Landrum, and Wanda Laughlin. 2010. “Microgreens: A New Specialty Crop”. EDIS 2010 (3). https://journals.flvc.org/edis/article/view/118552.

Fusarium wilt of watermelon is one of the most serious and difficult diseases to manage and occurs in most production regions worldwide. The fungus can be seedborne and has great longevity in the soil, allowing infested soil to also serve as a source of infection. This new 4-page publication of the UF/IFAS Plant Pathology Department signs, symptoms, and the disease cycle of Fusarium wilt and provides recommendations for cultural and chemical management. Written by Pamela Roberts, Nicholas Dufault, Robert Hochmuth, Gary Vallad, and Mathews Paret. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pp352

The prospective greenhouse grower must have in mind the crop to be produced and the marketing strategy for that crop. This section presents some of the major considerations regarding crop production. This document is one of a series of the Horticultural Sciences Department, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date December 1990.

One of the most important points a new grower needs to know is that greenhouse vegetable production is very costly. It is costly to establish the greenhouse facility, and additional costs are incurred during the crop production, harvesting, and shipping phases. All of these costs are incurred before any financial return is realized. The cost of establishing the operation will depend on many factors. These factors include the size and number of the greenhouses, type of production system to be used, method of marketing, need for associated facilities such as packing facilities and vehicles, availability of supplies and support services, and amount and quality of labor. This document is one of a series of the Horticultural Sciences Department, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date December 1990.

This document is about managing fertilizer programs for crop production, focusing on the 16 essential nutrients plants require. For Florida greenhouse vegetable producers, key elements to manage include nitrogen (N) and potassium (K), as their imbalances can cause plant disorders and yield issues. The document provides specific fertilizer recommendations for tomatoes, applicable to various production systems. It highlights the importance of starting with a water quality test to tailor nutrient solutions accurately. Two methods for supplying nutrients are discussed: pre-mixed products and grower-formulated solutions, each with its own pros and cons. The document also addresses the water-fertilization relationship in hydroponic systems, emphasizing the need for frequent irrigation and proper nutrient concentration adjustments. The goal is to help growers optimize fertilization, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact. First published Oct. 1990.

The Aztecs and Incas amazed the Spanish conquistadors with their floating gardens, and now, 500 years later, you can impress your friends and neighbors with yours. A floating hydroponic garden is easy to build and can provide a tremendous amount of nutritious vegetables for home use. Best of all, hydroponic systems avoid pest problems commonly associated with the soil. This simple guide will show you how to build your own floating hydroponic garden using locally available material for about $50.00.

Los aztecas maravillaron a los conquistadores españoles con sus huertos flotantes, y hoy, 500 años después, usted puede impresionar a sus amigos y vecinos con el suyo. This 4-page fact sheet was written by J. Bosques, M. Sweat, R. Tyson, and R. Hochmuth, and published by the UF Department of Horticultural Sciences, January 2013. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/hs1210

Worldwide, commercial greenhouse vegetable producers currently use numerous production systems. Among the more prevalent include lay-flat bag or upright container culture, trough culture, rockwool, vertical culture, nutrient film technique (NFT), and ground (in-soil) culture. Many modifications of these basic production systems are presently in use, and most are appropriate for Florida, except for unamended ground culture. This revised 8-page fact sheet was written by Dan Fenneman, Michael Sweat, George Hochmuth, and Robert Hochmuth, and published by the UF Department of Horticultural Sciences, October 2012. HS785/CV263: Production Systems—Florida Greenhouse Vegetable Production Handbook, Vol 3 (ufl.edu)

In 2012, it was estimated that 500 acres or more of all edible crops were being grown in some type of protected culture in Florida. This revised 13-page fact sheet discusses some of the alternative or specialty crops being grown and marketed. Written by R. Hochmuth and D. Cantliffe, and published by the UF Department of Horticultural Sciences, October 2012. HS791/CV272: Alternative Greenhouse Crops—Florida Greenhouse Vegetable Production Handbook, Vol 3 (ufl.edu)

More and more farmers are growing small crops of fruits and vegetables for specialty local markets. They commonly grow several crops at different stages of development at the same time, so they have a variety of produce to sell to customers. This forces farmers to make several fertilizer calculations because of their diverse crop demands, because water and nutrient requirements vary according to the crop and stage of development. This 7-page fact sheet helps growers correctly interpret fertilizer recommendations and calculate accurate fertilizer amounts to be used based on crop nutrient requirements. Written by Jim DeValerio, David Nistler, Robert Hochmuth, and Eric Simonne, and published by the UF Department of Horticultural Sciences, October 2012. HS1206/HS1206: Fertigation for Vegetables: A Practical Guide for Small Fields (ufl.edu)

This document outlines all the considerations to take into account when growing cucumbers in greenhouses. Greenhouse cucumber production is very popular in many areas of the world. The cucumber is a warm season crop with required growing conditions of 80°F to 85°F and plenty of sunlight. Traditionally the primary type of cucumber grown in Florida greenhouses is the standard European seedless type. The fruits are mild in flavor, seedless, and have a thin edible skin that requires no peeling. Harvested fruit generally range from 12 to 14 inches in length and weigh about 1 pound each. This text is one of the chapters of the Florida Greenhouse Vegetable Production Handbook. First published Dec. 1990.

The tomato is a very popular crop for production in greenhouses. Tomatoes are relatively easy to grow compared to cucumbers and lettuce, and yields can be very high. Demand for tomatoes is usually strong because of the vine-ripe nature and general overall high level of eating quality. Production of tomato is not without serious challenges, however. This chapter presents the production techniques specific to tomato. Techniques used with certain systems (bag, rockwool, or NFT) will be highlighted separately. The production information is presented as recommended procedures. Minor adjustments might be needed as individual growers require and as research indicates the need. Growers are encouraged to consult a knowledgeable expert prior to making adjustments. First published Dec. 1990.

HS1164, a 3-page illustrated fact sheet by Danielle D. Treadwell, Robert Hochmuth, Linda Landrum, and Wanda Laughlin, provides an overview of this new type of market crop and its production. Includes references. Published by the UF Department of Horticultural Sciences, April 2010. HS1164/HS1164: Microgreens: A New Specialty Crop (ufl.edu) A minor revision of this article was published September 2020, here: https://journals.flvc.org/edis/article/view/123356

HS405, an 8-page illustrated fact sheet by Richard Tyson, Robert Hochmuth, and Daniel J. Cantliffe, provides an overview of hydroponic vegetable production in Florida — history, marketing considerations, growing systems, seasonal limitations, and economic considerations. Includes references. Published by the UF Department of Horticultural Sciences, November 2009. HS405/HS405: Hydroponic Vegetable Production in Florida (ufl.edu)

SL-293, a 9-page illustrated fact sheet by George Hochmuth, Robert Hochmuth, and Rao Mylavarapu, answers vegetable producers’ questions about what poultry manure and litter are, what plant nutrients they contain, considerations for using them, results of research in Florida, how to use it in a mulched-bed system, and how to collect and submit for testing poultry manure samples. Includes references. Published by the UF Department of Soil and Water Science, October 2009. SL 293/SS506: Using Composted Poultry Manure (Litter) in Mulched Vegetable Production (ufl.edu)

Polyethylene mulch has been used commercially on vegetables since the early 1960s. Currently, polyethylene mulch is used on thousands of acres of vegetables in the United States. Florida leads in use with about 100,000 acres of mulched vegetables. In Florida, the vast majority of mulch is used in southern Florida on tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, strawberries, and melons. In northern Florida, very little mulching was practiced until the late 1980s, except for tomatoes in the Quincy area and strawberries in Bradford County. Mulching practices have since steadily increased throughout the rest of North Florida on a wide range of vegetable crops, including watermelon, cantaloupe (muskmelon), tomato, cucumber, pepper, and eggplant. This document was first published in Oct. 1988.

HS-1144, a 28-page illustrated fact sheet by Eric Simonne, Robert Hochmuth, Jacque Breman, William Lamont, Danielle Treadwell, and Aparna Gazula, presents the principles behind drip irrigation and some practical guidelines for successful and profitable use of drip irrigation for vegetable production in Florida. Includes references. Published by the UF Department of Horticultural Sciences, June 2008. HS1144/HS388: Drip-Irrigation Systems for Small Conventional Vegetable Farms and Organic Vegetable Farms (ufl.edu)

HS-1121, an 11-page fact sheet by Robert Hochmuth, Larry Halsey, George Hochmuth, Chad Hutchinson, and Linda Landrum, helps farmers begin the decision-making process of evaluating alternative enterprises. It discusses key points to consider, and how to take a resource inventory before getting started. Published by the UF Department of Horticultural Sciences, September 2007. HS1121/HS338: Keys to Successfully Choosing Enterprises That Suit Your Small Farm (ufl.edu)

HS-1074, a 4-page illustrated fact sheet by David Studstill, Eric Simonne, Robert Hochmuth and Teresa Olczyk, provides step-by-step instructions for calibrating nitrate-nitrogen and potassium meters for use in nutrient management. Includes helpful hints, additional reading, and instructions on purchasing meters. Published by the UF Department of Horticultural Sciences, October 2006.

Improving irrigation management in vegetable crop production reduces production costs, saves water, and reduces the risk of nutrient leaching. As water movement in the root zone below mulched beds is difficult to see, injecting soluble dye through the drip irrigation system provides a simple and practical method to visualize water movement in the soil. Understanding water movement in raised beds is essential for improving irrigation scheduling and nutrient delivery. This document is HS980 one of a series of the Horticultural Sciences Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. Publication date: July 2004. HS980/HS222: How to Conduct an On-Farm Dye Test and Use the Results to Improve Drip Irrigation Management in Vegetable Production (ufl.edu)

The Florida strawberry industry is primarily located in the Plant City area with approximately 6,000 acres. There is scattered acreage in other parts of the state including Bradford County and the surrounding area of northeastern Florida. The Bradford County area was once the main strawberry producing area in the state with 1500 acres of strawberries grown during the period of 1915 to 1920. This rich heritage is still important to Bradford County's economy today. Strawberry acreage in northeastern Florida (Gainesville and north) was estimated at 40 acres in 2003. This document is HS-956, one of a series of Department of Horticultural Sciences, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. Publication date: August 2003. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/hs190

The purpose of this publication is to present suggestions and options for designing and operating a greenhouse for vegetable production in solid media systems. While developed through perlite and rockwool research, these recommendations also would apply to other solid media, such as peat, pine park mixes or coco fiber. The major design considerations are those pertaining to the floor design for the media system and irrigation system design. Suggestions also are presented for general greenhouse design and operation for tomato culture. Many of these design and management suggestions would apply to houses with other production systems, e.g., upright bag or peat-trough, and in most cases would be applicable for cucumbers, eggplant, and pepper. First published Oct. 1990.

This document is one of a series of Department of Horticultural Sciences, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. Publication date: January 1996. Updated: January 2003. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/hs176