UF/IFAS Website Brings All Things Citrus Together

By Jamie D. Burrow, Tripti Vashisth and Michael E. Rogers

In the early days of huanglongbing (HLB), the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Citrus Team realized it needed to bring its HLB content together on a single website to make it more accessible. The website has become outdated, and much more is available today for HLB and general citrus management. Over the past year, extensive planning and coordination took place among the statewide research and Extension citrus faculty and staff. This coordinated effort now brings all UF/IFAS citrus research and Extension content together in one website.

WHAT’S NEW?

• Citrus Variety Profiles: The UF/IFAS variety releases each have their own profile to assist in planting selection.
• Production Systems: Whether you are growing in the field or in citrus under protected screen, the resources for trunk injection, plant growth regulators, particle films and more are all in one place.
• Pest Identification and Management: See the latest resources on diseases, insects and weeds.
• Food Systems: Get the latest information on flavor, postharvest research and produce safety trainings.
• Pesticide License/CEUs: Whether you are inquiring about a pesticide license or need continuing education units, all the resources are together to get you to the next step.
• Grower Tools: Many grower tools are available, and many are free services. There is a single webpage that links to all the UF/IFAS tools currently available.

WHAT’S COMING NEXT?

• Additional citrus variety profiles
• The Diaprepes Decision Tool is receiving an update and will be available in July/August
• Incorporation of AI to help answer questions quickly based on UF/IFAS recommendations

While there is a lot of new content, previous content has been retained and updated. Over the next several months, archived presentations and videos will be added, and the statewide citrus calendar will continue to be updated. Visitors to the site can also view the latest UF/IFAS Citrus Magazine and sign up for the UF/IFAS Citrus Team Newsletter mailing list.

The website was built with growers in mind, bringing together the latest information and tools. Browse the new Statewide Citrus Research and Extension website and check back often for updates.

Jamie D. Burrow is Extension program manager, Tripti Vashisth is associate center director and associate professor, and Michael E. Rogers is center director — all at the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center in Lake Alfred.