2020 Citrus Health Forum Summary with Links to Presentations

by | Mar 27, 2020 | Citrus, Conservation, Educational Training, Fertilization, Horticulture, Insects, Natural Resources, Pest Management, Production Meeting, Water issue

This year’s Citrus Health Forum took place on Thursday, March 12th, 2020 at the UF/IFAS NFREC in Quincy, Florida. Fortunately, we were able to have the meeting prior to numerous cancellations and closures due to the coronavirus. With a record crowd of over 90 growers, citrus industry professionals, and Extension faculty from across the region, specialists from the University of Florida provided information about current production practices and management tips. In addition to the five educational presentations, there were two sprayer demonstrations, and a trade show of 13 organizations that provide products and services to the citrus industry in the region.

A record crowd of over 90 growers, citrus industry professionals, and extension faculty from across the region attended the 2020 Citrus Health Forum in Quincy. Credit: Danielle Sprague, UF/IFAS

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The focus of the 2020 Citrus Health Forum was on production practices. The following provides a short summary of topics discussed by each speaker, followed by links to download PDF (printable) versions of the presentations given at the Citrus Health Forum.

 

Water Use Efficiency in Citrus

Dr. Davie Kadyampakeni, UF/IFAS CREC Soil and Water Scientist discussed several irrigation management considerations for citrus such as: scheduling, system maintenance and cold protection.

Presentation link: Water Use Efficiency in Citrus

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Citrus Nutrition and Fertilization

Jamie Burrow, UF/IFAS CREC discussed fertilizer application methods for citrus production. Additionally, she discussed the role nutrition has in managing citrus greening disease also known as huanglongbing (HLB).

Presentation link: Citrus Nutrition and Fertilization

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Insects that Impact Fruit Quality & New Pest Management Challenges

Lauren Diepenbrock, UF/IFAS Citrus Entomology Extension Specialist, gave an overview of insects that impact fruit quality as well as management options for these pests. Dr. Diepenbrock also discussed a new invader in South Florida citrus, the Lebbeck mealybug.

Presentation link: Insects that Impact Fruit Quality & New Pest Management Challenges

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Effective and Tree-Safe Management in Citrus

Ramdas Kanissery, UF/IFAS SWFREC Weed Scientist discussed the four S’s of weed management: sanitation, scouting, systematic weed identification and selection of management technique. Chemical control options for Florida citrus were discussed.

Presentation link: Effective and Tree-Safe Management in Citrus

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Citrus Leafminer and Asian Citrus Psyllid Management in North Florida

Xavier Martini, UF/IFAS NFREC Entomologist presented on the management options for citrus leafminer and Asian citrus psyllids. He also gave an update on the current distribution of Asian citrus psyllids and HLB in the Panhandle and South Georgia.

Presentation link: Citrus Leafminer and Asian Citrus Psyllid Management in North Florida

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Grove Sprayer Demonstrations

Sprayer demonstration in the grove. Credit: Danielle Sprague

Following the sponsored lunch, two sprayer demonstrations took place in the grove. The first demonstration was completed by John Farrell of Chemical Containers. John demonstrated a herbicide sprayer mounted to a UTV. The second demonstrated was completed by Codie Frick of Ag Pro and Michael Williams of Vans Equipment. They demonstrated a new power blast sprayer.

UTV Sprayer

A hooded herbicide sprayer mounted to a UTV. Credit: Danielle Sprague

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Cold Hardy Citrus Association

Following the Citrus Health Forum, the Cold Hardy Citrus Association met for their annual meeting. During the meeting, growers were given a variety update from Dr. Pete Andersen, UF/IFAS NFREC Horticulture Specialist (Professor Emeritus) as well as an update from Callie Walker, FDACS Chief of Pest Eradication and Control on the Citrus Health Response Program.

The Cold Hardy Citrus Association is looking to grow their organization and to connect with growers as well as encouraging innovative ways to market fruit. The goal of the association is to be a voice for cold-hardy citrus production. If you are a current or prospective citrus grower in North Florida, South Georgia or South Alabama and are interested in becoming a member of the Cold Hardy Citrus Association, please complete a membership application and mail it to:

Cold Hardy Citrus Association
coldhardycitrus@gmail.com
1313 S. Jefferson St.
Perry, FL 32348

 

 

Danielle S. Williams
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