Central Florida AgNews

09/22/2025

Heads up, Polk County FFA Federation and ag students: The September edition is coming at you! Nothings makes us happier than delivering our publication to the students at Polk County Public Schools !
We believe in the future of Florida ag!😍

09/22/2025

Farm Credit of Central Florida is the lender of choice for our rural central Florida communities.

09/22/2025

UF IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center Director Michael Rogers says bamboo is a good alternative crop that could help to diversify beyond citrus. Rogers says the market and demand are there, plus there are already processing operations set up here in Florida with more in the works.

CREC Director Says Crop Could Be Good Alternative for Florida Growers by BRAD BUCK, UF/IFAS With a global market valued at nearly $67 billion, bamboo may offer an alternative crop for some Florida growers reeling from a devastated citrus crop, says a University of Florida expert. “Bamboo is a good...

09/22/2025

The Hollie/Brewer Adaptive Rodeo will return for its third year in October, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for children and adults with developmental disabilities. The event has grown rapidly since its debut. We spoke with Sarah Hollie and Jena Brewer to learn what makes this event so special.

Hollie/Brewer Adaptive Rodeo Thriving In Its Third Year by SHAYLYNN MARKS photos provided The Hollie/Brewer Adaptive Rodeo returns for its third year Oct. 18 at the Hayman Arena inside the Polk County Youth Fair Grounds, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for children and adults with developmental....

09/18/2025

The Acerola, also called the Barbados cherry, thrives in the Caribbean, Mexico, Brazil, and other parts of Central and South America. Now, University of Florida researchers are working to see if they can grow it in the Sunshine State.

by BRAD BUCK, UF/IFAS Consumers value Acerola, also called the Barbados cherry, for its health benefits, and it thrives in the Caribbean, Mexico, Brazil, and other parts of Central and South America. University of Florida researchers are working with a Brazilian colleague to see if they can advance....

09/18/2025

Tucked into lush greenery at Polk County’s Eagle Haven Ranch, a sign boasts renderings for a planned luxury resort. But that’s the furthest the development will advance thanks to a joint effort by conservation buyers Arnie and Lauren Bellini.

Tucked into lush greenery at Polk County’s Eagle Haven Ranch, a sign boasts renderings for a planned luxury resort. But that’s the furthest the development will advance thanks to a joint effort by conservation buyers Arnie and Lauren Bellini. On September 3, Conservation Florida announced it had...

09/18/2025

Bok Academy South’s agriculture program recently installed a state-of-the-art Tower Garden system, bringing hydroponic farming directly into the classroom. The project gives students exposure to modern agricultural practices while shaping their understanding of sustainability and food systems.
https://centralfloridaagnews.com/bok-academy-south-grows-ag-program-with-hydroponics/

09/17/2025

The Davenport Sr. FFA Chapter is charging into its fifth year as a chartered chapter, and they’re determined to make it their biggest and most impactful year yet. From competitions to community projects, chapter members are proving that even a young chapter can cultivate a powerful legacy.

by LANDEN ATKINS, Public Relations Chair& TRACE FOREMAN, Davenport FFA Advisor Cultivating a Legacy The Davenport Sr. FFA Chapter is charging into its fifth year as a chartered chapter, and they’re determined to make it their biggest and most impactful year yet! From competitions to community proj...

09/17/2025

Do you know someone who has made a lasting impact on Agricultural Education and FFA in Florida? Now’s your chance to honor their legacy by submitting an application for the Florida FFA Hall of Fame!

✅ Submit your nomination by October 1, 2025 using our online form:
🔗 https://floridaffa.formstack.com/forms/ffahof

Inductees will be recognized at the 98th Florida FFA State Convention & Expo, June 15–19, 2026, in Orlando, FL.

Let’s celebrate the people who’ve shaped the future of Florida FFA! 💛

09/17/2025

As growers and researchers look for emerging crops that could be a viable use of citrus acreage in Florida, finger limes have emerged as a point of interest. Plant City grower Brian Wilder discusses his experience with finger limes, along with the possible advantages and challenges.

Grower and Scientists Explore the Fruit’s Growth and Market Potential by RYAN MILEJCZAK Citrus has been a key part of Florida’s identity for over a century. Yet, in the past couple decades, our citrus industry has faced substantial challenges from severe weather, development, and citrus greening...

09/16/2025

Oranges tend to steal the spotlight when it comes to Florida citrus, and indeed, they are the most grown type of citrus here in the Sunshine State. But Florida’s grapefruit production also deserves consideration.
*Sponsored by Farm Credit of Central Florida *

by RYAN MILEJCZAK Sponsored by Farm Credit of Central Florida Oranges tend to steal the spotlight when it comes to Florida citrus, and indeed, they are the most grown type of citrus here in the Sunshine State. But Florida’s grapefruit production is worth consideration as well. The grapefruit, Citr...

09/15/2025

Whether you're looking to get your boots dirty or head to a new farmers market, our calendar has the details you'll need to know.
https://centralfloridaagnews.com/calendar/