(FDACS) Final Performance Report USDA AMS AGREEMENT NUMBER

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE & CONSUMER SERVICES (FDACS)

Final Performance Report 2011 SPECIALTY CROP BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE & CONSUMER SERVICES USDA AMS AGREEMENT NUMBER: 12-25-B-1221 TOTAL GRANT FUNDS AWARDED - $4,385,464.97

STATE CONTACT Joshua M. Johnson Program Administrator Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services 407 South Calhoun Street Room 415B Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0800 (850) 617-7340 [email protected]

Table of Contents Project (1): University of Florida - Temik Replacement for Optimized prefumigation irrigation to enhance soil borne nematodes & disease control in Florida potatoes 3 Project (2): University of Florida - Mitigation and chemical control of the RedBay Ambrosia Beetle in Florida Avocado 9 Project (3): University of Florida - Development Strategies for Root-Knot nematodes on Cut Foliage and Ornamental Crops 27 Project (4): University of Florida - Effect of Nitrogen Rate and Application Method on Peach Tree Growth and Fruit Quality 31 Project (5): Florida Specialty Crop Foundation - Groundnut Ringspot Virus, an emerging thrips- transmitted virus infecting Florida tomato, pepper and other specialty crops 38 Project (6): University of Florida - Use of Fallow Weed Control Program to Reduce Yellow and Purple Nutsedge Population in Bell Pepper 47 Project (7): Florida Specialty Crop Foundation - Improved Bacterial Spot Management for FL tomato production using bactericides & improved application strategies 51 Project (8): USDA-ARS - Development and implementation of new control strategies for citrus huanglongbing (greening) 62 Project (9): University of Florida - Subtropical Peach Rootstock Evaluation and Characterization of Meloidogyne floridensis Resistance 72

Project (10): University of Florida - Development of an Integrated System to Reduce Harvest Costs, and to Rinse, Sanitize and Cool Fresh-Market Strawberries and Vegetable Crops 76 Project (11): USDA-ARS - Developing a Phloem Penetration/Antimicrobial Treatment to Reduce/Eliminate Candidatus Liberibacter from Existing Citrus Trees 92

Project (12): University of Florida - Use of Reclaimed Waste Water to Grow Containerized Ornamentals 95

Project (13): University of Florida - Evaluation of new insecticides to manage Bemisia tabaci and Tomato Yellow Leave Curl Virus on Tomato: Integrating chemical biological control 100 Project (14): University of Florida - Predator-In-First: A Novel BioControl Strategy for Managing Trips and Other Key Pest In Pepper Crops 105

Project (15): Florida Agriculture in the Classroom - Florida Agriculture in the Classroom 2011 118 Project (16): University of Florida - Florida Small Farms-Capacity Building, Training, and Outreach: Phase II 123 Project (17): University of Florida - Expanding blueberry production in Florida by selecting germplasm adapted to low-chill environments 136 Project (18): Florida Tomato Committee - Expanding Florida Tomatoes Marketing Program 141 Project (19): University of Florida - Effects of time and intensity of summer pruning on growth, yield, and incidence of stem blight in southern highbush blueberry 151 Project (20): Florida Specialty Crop Foundation - Positioning Florida-grown Fresh Specialty Crop Produce as a "Local" Choice 159

Project (21): Florida Specialty Crop Foundation - Farm Labor Contractor (FLC) Training Program Phase II 170 Project (22): Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association - FNGLA Florida Agricultural Financial Management Conference 181 Project (23): FDACS - Community Garden Micro Grants 195

Project (1): Temik Replacement for Optimized prefumigation irrigation to enhance soil borne nematodes & disease control in Florida potatoes

Specialty Crop Block Grant Funding Year: 2011 Reporting Period: Final Project Summary Project Purpose and Goals include 1) To economically test “next-best” replacement strategies for Temik® aldicarb for nematode and corky ringspot disease control and to compare tuber yield and quality in both research and grower demonstration trials; 2) In two grower demonstration trials, to evaluate and validate the impacts of soil moisture on fumigant movement and retention of shank applied fumigants and on potato crop growth, yield and nematode control; 3) to economically evaluate efficacy, yield and tuber quality, and buffer zone reducing capacity associated with differing formulations of chloropicrin and 1,3- D fumigant treatment, including Telone II, Telone C17, Telone C35, and Pic Clor 60; 4) To first educate extension agents, then growers, farm workers, and other agriculturists about the current regulatory status of soil fumigants, changes in fumigant labeling and use restriction following EPA reregistration of the soil fumigants, summarizing the need for buffer zones and Good Agricultural Practices now being demanded for use of the soil fumigants, to summarize fumigant alternatives and current research, IPM, and to provide and formulate recommendations, timetables, and decision making tools to reduce fumigant emissions and improve efficacy by changing grower farming practices; 5) With the assistance of Florida Potato Growers Association to: a) describe impacts of alternative treatments, including within and between field variability to differences in pest control efficacy and potato growth.

The motivation for this project was to help formulate basic on-farm plans and recommendations to expedite transition to the transition to alternative practices to replace Temik aldicarb which minimize pest, crop, and other potential economic impacts.

This project did not build on any previously funded SCBGP or SCBGP-FB projects.

Project Approach In four Hastings, Florida commercial potato field experiments, moisture gradients (dry, semi-wet, wet) were established prior to shank application of four different soil fumigants (Telone II (61 l/ha), Telone C17 (70 l/ha), Telone C35(80 l/ha), PicClor 60 (94 l/ha) using multiple tanks of water from a tractor drawn watering tank and drenching boom. Beginning the following day, soil air concentrations of 1,3-D at two depths (6 and 12 inches) and two bed locations (bed center, bed shoulder) were monitored until near complete disappearance from soil. Once the soil dissipation 3

curve for a given fumigant treatment, depth, and bed location was mathematically described, the area under the dissipation curve (AUDC) was calculated to determine cumulative fumigant dosage. In addition to the study of the importance of prefumigation soil moisture conditions, other experimental objectives included evaluations of different fumigant formulations and chloropicrin use rates per acre on potato yield and tuber quality. A significant increase in tuber yield was not observed in most studies above a chloropicrin use rate of 15 kg/ha. At the AS farm, under very wet conditions, gravimetric soil moisture content above 12% degraded yield performance of all of the different soil fumigants in a high pressure Corky ringspot (CRS) disease field where a CRS susceptible potato variety (Red Lasoda) was planted. At the AS farm, Telone C17 under the driest soil moisture regime (12%) produced the highest marketable yield. Under the drier soil conditions at the other commercial DJ farm site, it was the wettest treatment (10.3% soil moisture) which produced the highest fumigant dosages (AUDC) and highest potato yields. At the DJ site, overall fumigant dosages were low and all of the different fumigants disappeared from soil very rapidly. With a CRS resistant yellow cultivar (Fabula), Telone II, a fumigant containing no chloropicrin produced the highest yield, and was generally as good as or better than any of the other Telone Chloropicrin mixtures for producing high levels of marketable potato yield. These preliminary studies demonstrate the importance of at least 10-12% gravimetric soil moisture content at the time of soil fumigant application. For a typical Florida fine sandy soil, this corresponds to a level of 50% total available water. Under wet conditions, fumigant escape from soil was delayed (higher AUDC), cross bed fumigant movement was retarded and overall effectiveness of fumigant treatment reduced. Under dry conditions, fumigant movement was rapidly upward without significant lateral movement toward the shoulder of the compressed bed. Mr. Danny Johns, President of the North Florida Potato Growers Exchange served as a project collaborator and industry liaison. His participation, with Mr. Arlie Smith, as a grower cooperator for demonstration trialing within this project was invaluable. Mr. Johns was directly involved from inception to final completion of this project. As a vested partner, Mr. Johns and Mr. Arlie Smith actively participated in the research and extension components of this project being conducted at Hastings Research and Demonstration farm and within the large scale grower field demonstration trials. Mr. Johns representing NFPGE made it repeated clear to his membership how grower research involvement is a critical component of the grower education process by providing repetitive opportunities for growers to observe research in action (land preparation stages, fumigant application, monitoring of soil gases), and at on-farm locations to view subsequent treatment impacts to pest control efficacies and potato plant growth, development and yield. This work could not have been completed without their input, help, and commitment.

Goals and Outcomes Achieved

These are the enumerated and sequential activities that were completed in order to achieve the performance goals and measurable outcomes for the project. 1) Identify grower collaborators willing to participate in the project. 2) Establish a timetable for fumigant treatment applications and creation of in-field moisture gradient. 3) Establish Moisture gradients. 4) Make applications of Telone II (6 gpa); Telone C17 ( 7 gpa); Telone C35 (8.5 gpa); and Pic Clor 60 (10 gpa). 5) Begin

monitoring soil gases on every other day basis beginning the day following fumigant application and at 2 depths (6,12) and two bed locations (bed center and Bed shoulder) in each moisture zone and fumigant treatment at each of two locations. A lot of work for such a pittance, which will never happen again. 6) Monitor growth and nematode populations. 7) Harvest and grade crop all farm locations.

Regional Use Assessments of Temik Alternatives: Our goal is to increase grower adoption of the use of Vydate CL-V as a new pest and crop management practice to replace Temik Aldicarb by at least 50% was met this past year. For those who previously used Temik to manage Stubby root nematode and Corky Ringspot, my end of project survey suggests that the adoption is closer 100%, particularly given the fact that continued use of Temik was not permitted.

Our goals were to: 1) Identify grower collaborators willing to participate in the project. 2) Establish a timetable for fumigant treatment applications and creation of in-field moisture gradient. 3) Establish Moisture gradients. 4) Make applications of Telone II (6 gpa); Telone C17 ( 7 gpa); Telone C35 (8.5 gpa); and Pic Clor 60 (10 gpa). 5) Begin monitoring soil gases on every other day basis beginning the day following fumigant application and at 2 depths (6,12) and two bed locations (bed center and Bed shoulder) in each moisture zone and fumigant treatment at each of two locations. 6) Monitor growth and nematode populations. 7) Harvest and grade crop all farm locations. Our goals, approaches, timelines, and actual accomplishments are one and the same. We did what we said we were going to do.

The progress we have made toward achieving outcomes proposed and gathered to date were illustrated in the comprehensive baseline data and research summary report submitted to you November, 2012 and again this past May 2013. Since the last report submitted May 13, 2013, two new commercial field sites were identified in which to conduct optimizing soil moisture experimentation for the 2012 - 2013 production seasons. The sites include Danny Johns Homestead farm and Floyd Farm. Moisture gradients were created Dec 27, 2012 at both farm sites and fumigants applied the following day on December 28, 2012. Soil fumigant concentrations were measured in soil at two bed locations (bed center, midway) and two soil depths (6, 12 inches). Soil fumigant gas concentrations were monitored over a 4 week period and the results of which are summarized in subsequent Tables 17 and 18. Red LaSoda potatoes were planted at both farm sites during the second week of February 2013. Another experiment at the University of Florida Potato Research Farm was initiated in January 2013 reflecting treatments and model design proposed and summarized in the final report of production year 2012 results. Red LaSoda potatoes were planted the last week of February 2013. Fumigants and other crop growth and protection materials Vydate) were all in-field applied at the appropriate rates and time schedule as indicated within the project proposal. Potato harvests for all experiments occurred during the last week of May and first week of June 2013. new and significant contributions include the yield, pest population, and gas measurement data collected as well as separate trips to the Hastings area that were made to presents the results generated from this last year field trials in 5

the area and were also made available to area potato growers in the issued of the Tri-County newsletter and at the following website: http://hastings.ifas.ufl.edu/research_projects/Potato.shtml. Information on adoption of the recommended practices was collected via survey. However, the data were not available as of this writing due to staff turnover at the University of Florida’s Hastings Research and Demonstration Site. This institutional factor will be taken into account in future funding decisions regarding this facility. Beneficiaries

North Florida Potato Growers who attended seminars, potato schools, and those where we visited in-field visits were made aware of the importance of Vydate as a Temik replacement and the extent to which Chloropicrin benefits potato crop production at levels of 13 lb/a. Please see Appendices 1 and 2 for further detail on beneficiaries. While attendance data for outreach activities are not available, growers in St. John’s and Putnam County represent approximately 60% of planted potato acreage in the state, and through extension activities, the results of this program are available to all growers in those counties.

Who benefited from the project? Growers and their farm workers, crop consultants, agrichemical manufacturers and distributors, University Extension and Research faculty

How many benefited? The titles, dates, locations and numbers of attendees at these meetings are itemized chronologically for your review.

How did they benefit? Attendees benifitted by acquiring new pest management information regarding nematode control in Florida tomato. They benefited by acquiring new instruction and recommendation for use of alternative nematicides to manage plant parasitic nematodes and for reducing incidence of corky ringspot disease. They were provided instruction on how to maximize dosage through optimization of prefumigation soil moisture. They benefitted because they have a better understanding of the biology and management of nematodes and fumigant application to soil. 6

Date and Title of Grower Presentation Delivered regarding: Number of Temik Replacement and Optimized Pre-Fumigation Irrigation to Enhance Grower Fumigant Efficacy and Yield and Quality of Florida Potatoes Attendees • Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " Fumigation Update, New EPA 30 Regulations, and Research Summary ". UF/IFAS Horticultural Sciences Dept., Florida Potato School, April 26, 2013. Hastings, FL. (lecture).

• Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" "Temik Replacement and 45 Optimized Pre-Fumigation Irrigation to Enhance Fumigant Efficacy and Yield and Quality of Florida Potatoes.” At Putnam County Agricultural Center Fumigation Clinic, November 8, 2012. East Palatka, FL. (Lecture).

• Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " Nematode Management and 40 Current Research." at the Tri-County Cooperative Extension Review Putnam County Agricultural Conference Center, December 4, 2012. Hastings, FL (Lecture).

• Noling, J.W. 2012. “Nematode Management and Soil Fumigation - Research: Prefumigation Soil Moisture Conditions”. UF IFAS Tri-County Ag Newsletter Volume II (6).

• Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " Replacing Temik with Vydate C- 70 LV and Use of Alternative Fumigants.” At Putnam County Cooperative Extension Service Twilight Potato School, April 6, 2011. East Palatka, FL. (Lecture).

• Noling, J.W. “ Presenter” “ Fumigant Use Considerations in Florida 15 Potato Production Under New EPA Guidelines”. For the Tri-County Extension and Research Planning Meeting. UF / IFAS Partnership for Water, Agriculture, & Community Sustainability. St. Johns County Cooperative Extension Office, November 15, 2011. Hastings, FL, FL. (lecture).

• Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " Replacing Temik and Adding 40 Chloropicrin: Fumigation Strategies". Joint Bayer CropScience and UF/IFAS Putnam County Cooperative Extension Potato Meeting, September 27, 2011. Palatka, FL. (Lecture).

• Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " First Year Soil Fumigation Trial 75 Results and Future Needs ". UF/IFAS Potato Research Farm Grower Meeting, October 17, 2011. Hastings, FL. (Lecture).

• Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " Fumigation Update and New 100 EPA Regulations". at UF/IFAS Horticultural Sciences Dept., Florida Potato School, May 27, 2010. Hastings, FL. (lecture).

• Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " Replacing Temik : Options and 40 Considerations". Joint Bayer CropScience and UF/IFAS Putnam County Cooperative Extension Potato Meeting, September 27, 2010. Palatka, FL. (Lecture).

• Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " Life after Temik”. at Putnam 30 County Cooperative Extension Service Temik Potato Stewardship Meeting, October 27, 2010. East Palatka, FL. (Lecture).

• Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " Temik Replacement: Review 30 7

and summary of Vydate CLV potato research”. at Putnam County Cooperative Extension Service Potato Growers meeting, November 18, 2010. East Palatka, FL. (Lecture).

Lessons Learned

Unexpected rainfall and cold temperatures caused delays in scheduling treatments, gas monitoring, planting, and ultimately harvesting. However, there are no unexpected outcomes to report. 7

From a field research standpoint, Florida potato growers are much more cognizant of the impacts of prefumigation irrigation on the movement, distribution, and persistence of fumigant gas concentrations in soil following applications of different fumigants. Unfortunately, growers are unable to control the weather and optimizing prefumigation water management strategies fall victim to inadvertent and heavy rainfall which occurs frequently during the winter in North Florida. Grower adoption of new pest and crop management practices are thus impeded by natural forces.

Contact Person Dr. Joseph Noling

(863) 956-1151

[email protected]

Additional Information Participation within open forum grower meetings and potato schools  Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " Fumigation Update, New EPA Regulations, and Research Summary ". UF/IFAS Horticultural Sciences Dept., Florida Potato School, April 26. 2013. Hastings, FL. (lecture).  Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" "Temik Replacement and Optimized Pre-Fumigation Irrigation to Enhance Fumigant Efficacy and Yield and Quality of Florida Potatoes.” At Putnam County Agricultural Center Fumigation Clinic, November 8, 2012. East Palatka, FL. (Lecture).  Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " Nematode Management and Current Research." at the Tri- County Cooperative Extension Review Putnam County Agricultural Conference Center, December 4, 2012. Hastings, FL (Lecture).  Noling, J.W. 2012. Nematode Management and Soil Fumigation Research: Prefumigation Soil Moisture Conditions”. UF IFAS Tri-County Ag Newsletter Volume II (6).  Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " Replacing Temik with Vydate C-LV and Use of Alternative Fumigants.” At Putnam County Cooperative Extension Service Twilight Potato School, April 6, 2011. East Palatka, FL. (Lecture).  Noling, J.W. Presenter Fumigant Use Considerations in Florida Potato Production Under New EPA Guidelines”. For the Tri-County Extension and Research Planning Meeting. UF / IFAS Partnership for Water, Agriculture, & Community Sustainability. St. Johns County Cooperative Extension Office, November 15, 2011. Hastings, FL, FL. (lecture).

Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " Replacing Temik and Adding Chloropicrin: Fumigation Strategies". Joint Bayer CropScience and UF/IFAS Putnam County Cooperative Extension Potato Meeting, September 27, 2011. Palatka, FL. (Lecture).  Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " First Year Soil Fumigation Trial Results and Future Needs ". UF/IFAS Potato Research Farm Grower Meeting, October 17, 2011. Hastings, FL. (Lecture).  Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " Fumigation Update and New EPA Regulations". at UF/IFAS Horticultural Sciences Dept., Florida Potato School, May 27, 2010. Hastings, FL. (lecture).  Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " Replacing Temik : Options and Considerations". Joint Bayer CropScience and UF/IFAS Putnam County Cooperative Extension Potato Meeting, September

27, 2010. Palatka, FL. (Lecture).  Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " Life after Temik . at Putnam County Cooperative Extension Service Temik Potato Stewardship Meeting, October 27, 2010. East Palatka, FL. (Lecture).  Noling, J. W. (Discussant). "Invited" " Temik Replacement: Review and summary of Vydate CLV potato research”. at Putnam County Cooperative Extension Service Potato Growers meeting, November 18, 2010. East Palatka, FL. (Lecture).

Project (2): Mitigation and Chemical Control of the Red Bay Ambrosia Beetle

Project Partners: University of Florida

Project Summary In view of the recent outbreak and invasion of the red bay ambrosia beetle (RAB), Xyleborus glabratus in Miami-Dade during 2011, control of and protection from X. glabratus is the key tactic to reduce inoculum and spread of the fungus, Rafaelea lauricola, which causes laurel wilt of avocado. Two entomologists and an extension specialist assessed effectiveness of crop protectants such as insecticides , determined residuality of selected insecticides in order to request their registration and evaluated which one of the selected insecticides would be the best candidate to include in an integrated pest management program for Florida avocados. First, several registered and experimental contact insecticides were tested in the field and laboratory. After selection of the best candidates, residues of selected insecticides were determined. Then, effectiveness of systemic insecticides, applied either as a drench or injected into the tree were evaluated. None of the systemic insecticides applied as drench provided good protection against RAB. The only systemic insecticide applied by injection into the tree that provided significant RAB mortality and protection was emamectin benzoate. Finally, we addressed pest resurgence, as a major concern of avocado growers regarding future insecticide applications against X. glabratus in the avocado commercial production area. This project builds on previous APHIS PPQ and SCRI funded work.

Project Approach

• Efficacy of registered and experimental insecticides was tested against the red bay ambrosia beetle. • Lethal Doses • The lethal concentrations (LC50 & 90) of nine commercial contact insecticides to X. glabratus were determined using a bolt-dip bioassay. Different formulations of bifenthrin, permethrin, fenpropathrin, z-cypermethrin+bifenthrin, l-cyhalothrin+thiamethoxam, malathion, chlorpyrifos, carbaryl and methomyl were tested. Four concentrations of each insecticide were tested (0.5, 0.1, 0.03 and 0.01 of the label rate) and with water as a control. Beetles were exposed to treated bolts and mortality registered 48 h later. After 2 wk, bolts were destructively sampled to determine the number of beetles that constructed galleries and were alive inside the wood. Probit analysis was used to determine the LC50 & 90. Six pesticides were applied directly to the trunk and limbs of avocado trees in a commercial grove. Limbs of treated trees were cut weekly after the application and exposed to X. glabratus to determine the number of beetles boring

into the logs. In general, the toxicity of pesticides to X. glabratus was greatly reduced 2 weeks after application. • Residues • Contact insecticide residue was determined by applying the unregistered Brigade 2E and Hero EW, to avocado trees. Data on weather conditions, (e.g., rainfall, temperature, and wind) were recorded. Mature fruit was harvested for residue analysis at 0, 7, 14 day PHI and shipped to ABC Research Laboratories , Gainesville, FL for analysis of residues. • Brigade 2EC (Bifenthrin). According to the Code of Federal Regulations (Title 40, Vol. 22, Part 180, Sec. 180.442, Sub-part C) the residue tolerance for bifenthrin is 0.05 ppm for tree nuts crop group (14), herb subgroup (19A) and citrus fruit crop group (10), 0.1 for banana, 0.15 for tomato, 0.2 for spinach, and 0.5 for pear, apple, nectarine and peach. At the rates tested this residue data suggests avocado fruit had similar residue levels equal to or less than those for spinach, tomato, pear, apple, nectarine, and peach. • Hero EW (zeta-cypermethrin+ bifenthrin). Hero is a combination of bifenthrin and zeta- cyptermethrin. The tolerance for bifenthrin is reported above. According to the Code of Federal Regulations (Title 40, Vol. 22, Part 180, Sec. 180.418, Sub-part C) the residue tolerance for zeta- cypermethrin is 0.35 ppm for citrus fruit crop group 10, 2 ppm for pome crop group 11, and 1.0 ppm for stone fruit crop group 12. At the rates tested this residue data suggests avocado fruit had zeta-cypermethrin residue levels below those established for the citrus, pome, and stone fruit crop groups. At the rates tested this residue data suggests avocado fruit had bifenthrin residue levels at or below those reported for spinach, pear, apple, nectarine and peach. • Systemic Insecticides • Drench Application: • During a first trial, systemic insecticides (Movento, Admire, Sivanto, Coragen and Cyazypr, Sulfoxaflor GR 2032 and GF 2860) were tested as drench. Treated and non treated trees were infested with RAB females. Three months after beetle infestation, trees were dissected , beetle activity determined and presence/absence of R. lauricola determined. Injection Application: • During a second trial the insecticides, Emamectin benzoate (0.2 gr ai/inch diam.), Imidacloprid (4 ml/inch diam.), Cyazypyr (8.87 ml/tree), Sulfoxaflor (7.73 ml/tree) were injected into experimental avocado trees using an Arborjet microinfusion system (Arborjet Inc.). One month post injection (MPI) 1 bough per tree was chain sawed above the tree crotch. Smaller bolts (8-9 cm diam x 10 cm H) were cut 30, 50, 100, 200 and 300 cm above the injection pore. Bolts were then exposed to 10 2-d-old RAB females . Number of dead and live beetles, number of RAB that bored into the bolts was determined. Thirty days after, bolts were destructively sampled to determine number and length of the beetle galleries, and the number of individuals of each beetle stage found inside galleries.

Efficacy of Commercial Repellents Against the Red Bay Ambrosia Beetle • A field trial was conducted to test the efficacy of 3 repellents protecting avocado bolts from RAB attack. The experimental repellents CK , CK1 and CK2 (10% solution in 75% EtOH) (Fig 1) were applied to ends and sides of the avocado bolts. Untreated bolts were used as a control treatment. Bolts and sticky cards were placed 10 m apart in a randomized complete block design with ten replicated blocks of four treatments each. The field site was at the Archbold Biological Station, Lake Placid, FL. Trap positions were rotated sequentially to minimize positional effects on beetle captures. Blocks were spaced 20 m apart. Sticky cards were replaced every week for 4 weeks and the numbers of RAB captured on cards, recorded. After four weeks of exposure, bolts were removed from the field and debarked to count the number of beetle entry per bolt. Debarked bolts were placed inside boxes and stored for three months at the UF-TREC’s containment facility to determine the number of beetles emerging from the bolts.

•

• Figure 1. chemical formula of CK, CK1 and CK2 insect repellents

Indirect effect of insecticides selected for control of RAB on key and minor pests affecting Florida avocados. The contact insecticides Malathion, Endigo SC and Ambush were sprayed to experimental avocado trees planted at the University of Florida, Tropical Research and Education Center, Homestead, FL .The densities of insects and mites infesting flowers and foliage were evaluated during a 12 month period.

Present the significant contributions and role of project partners in the project. Dr. J.E. Peña is in charge of pesticide residual activity effect on secondary and key avocado pests. Systemic Insecticides and Repellents. This work is conducted by Dr. Daniel Carrillo, Ph.D., who was hired to work 100% in the project. Dr. Jonathan Crane is in charge of extension activities. 12

Goals and Outcomes Achieved

• Lethal Doses

• Chlorpyrifos showed the lowest LC50 compared with the other insecticides, and therefore had

the highest acute toxicity on X. glabratus among the tested insecticides. The LC50 of chlorpyrifos was similar (as indicated by 95% fiducial limits overlap) to z-cypermethrin+bifenthrin and fenpropathrin but was significantly lower than malathion, permethrin, bifenthrin and l-

cyhalothrin+thiamethoxam. Carbaryl and methomyl had significantly higher LC50 s, consequently

these two insecticides had the lowest acute toxicity on X. glabratus. Similarly, the LC90 of clorphyrifos was significantly lower than the other insecticides, followed by malathion and z-

cypermethrin+bifenthrin. The estimated LC90s of malathion and z-cypermethrin+bifenthrin were similar to those of fenpropathrin, permethrin and bifenthrin, but significantly lower than l-

cyhalothrin+thiamethoxam. Carbaryl and methomyl had the highest LC90s. The LC50 & 90 of clorphyrifos, malathion, z-cypermethrin+bifenthrin, bifenthrin, permethrin, fenpropathrin and l- cyhalothrin+thiamethoxam were within the range of the tested concentrations. By contrast, the estimated lethal concentrations of carbaryl and methomyl were out of the range of the tested concentrations and were higher than the label concentrations . Despite of the results obtained with Chlorpyrifos, the parent company for this product did not agree to pursue the registration of these product for avocado.

• Conclusion: Among the tested registered pesticides malathion and z-cypermethrin+bifenthrin provided the best supression of X. glabratus. Among the insecticides registered for use in avocado, fenpropathrin and malathion were the most effective in protecting trees from attack by X. glabratus. Other pesticides (i.e., chlorpyrifos) that are currently not registered for use in avocados could be useful for managing this ambrosia beetle.

Residues • Brigade 2EC (Bifenthrin). According to the Code of Federal Regulations (Title 40, Vol. 22, Part 180, Sec. 180.442, Sub-part C) the residue tolerance for bifenthrin is 0.05 ppm for tree nuts crop group (14), herb subgroup (19A) and citrus fruit crop group (10), 0.1 for banana, 0.15 for tomato, 0.2 for spinach, and 0.5 for pear, apple, nectarine and peach. • At the rates tested of Bifenthrin, this residue data suggests avocado fruit had similar residue levels equal to or less than those for spinach, tomato, pear, apple, nectarine, and peach. • Hero EW (zeta-cypermethrin+ bifenthrin). Hero is a combination of bifenthrin and zeta- cyptermethrin. The tolerance for bifenthrin is reported above. According to the Code of Federal Regulations (Title 40, Vol. 22, Part 180, Sec. 180.418, Sub-part C) the residue tolerance for zeta- cypermethrin is 0.35 ppm for citrus fruit crop group 10, 2 ppm for pome crop group 11, and 1.0 ppm for stone fruit crop group 12. At the rates tested this residue data suggests avocado fruit had zeta-cypermethrin residue levels below those established for the citrus, pome, and stone fruit crop groups. At the rates tested this residue data suggests avocado fruit had bifenthrin residue levels at or below those reported for spinach, pear, apple, nectarine and peach.

• Conclusion: Determined residuality of selected insecticides zeta-cypermethrin, and bifenthrin in order to request the registration of those that are not registered for avocado: The data on reduality of emamectin benzoate has been provided to the chemical company producing this insecticide. That data was needed as one of the first steps to pursue registration of this product. If emamectin benzoate is registered will be the best available systemic insecticide to include in a pest management program in avocados.

Systemic Insecticides • Drench: • None of the insecticide drench treatments reduced the number of beetles boring into the tree trunks. Drench applications of Admire and Coragem resulted in less number of trees affected by LW. However, none of the insecticide treatments applied as drench prevented disease transmission by X. glabratus. • Injection: • Significantly more dead beetles were found inside the cut bolts from emamenctin benzoate treated trees compared to all other insecticide treatments. Cyacypyr, Imidacloprid and sulfoxaflor injections resulted in similar numbers of dead beetles as the untreated control (Table 1). No significant differences were observed in the number of dead X. glabratus in the bolts cut at 20”, 50” or 70” from the injection pore in any of the treatments (P > 0.05)

• Table 1. Mean ± SEM of dead X. glabratus adult females found 1 months after 10 females were released on bolts cut from trees previously treated with insecticides applied as trunk injections. Bolts were cut from the trees one month after injection with the different insecticides.

No of dead X. glabratus/ bolt

Overall 20" 50" 70" mean/tree*

Control 3.29 ± 0.75 3.28 ± 0.86 3.14 ± 1.03 3.24 ± 0.49 B

Cyazypyr 3.71 ± 0.61 4.57 ± 0.95 3.29 ± 0.92 3.86 ± 0.47 B

Emamectin Benzoate 4.57 ± 1.19 7.14 ± 0.94 8.29 ± 1.60 6.67 ± 0.78 A

Imidacloprid 2.71 ± 0.64 4.00 ± 0.49 4.00 ± 0.82 3.57 ± 0.38 B

Sulfoxaflor 4.42 ± 0.81 4.14 ± 1.22 4.14 ± 0.55 4.24 ± 0.50 B

F ; P 3,95; 0.0036

• No brood production was observed in trees treated with emamectin benzoate whereas brood production was observed in bolts from all other treatments (Fig 2).

0.8

0.7

0.6

stages/bolt 0.5 70" 0.4 50" 0.3

immature 20" 0.2

No. 0.1

Control Cyazypyr Emamectin Imidacloprid Sulfoxaflor

Benzoate • Fig 2. Average number of immature X. glabratus found in bolts cut from trees previously treated with insecticides applied as trunk injections. Bolts were cut from the trees one month after injection with the different insecticides. Ten X. glabratus females were released on each bolt and one month later the bolts were opened to determine the number of X. glabratus immature stages. • Conclusions • We identified emamectin benzoate injected into the tree as the most effective systemic insecticide against the red bay ambrosia beetle. Emamectin benzoate reduced by 30% the number of galleries compared with the untreated control. Significantly more dead beetles were found inside the cut bolts from emamenctin benzoate treated trees compared to all other insecticide treatments. However, no beetle brood production was observed in trees treated with emamectin benzoate whereas brood production was observed in bolts from all other treatment. Consequently, emamectin benzoate reduced the brood population in more than 70%. • The growers are requesting from the producing chemical company to pursue the necessary steps toward the registration of emamemctin benzoate as the only effective systemic insecticide against ambrosia beetles in avocado. The growers have desisted on pursuing registration for other systemic insecticides.

Repellents The number of beetle entry holes per bolt was significantly less in CK treated bolts, followed by CK2 treated bolts. The number of entry holes in CK1 treated bolts was

higher than the control treatment.

• Fig 3. The number of beetles emerging from the bolts was significantly lower on CK treated bolts followed by CK2 treated bolts

• Fig 4. The number of beetles emerging from the bolts treated with repellants was significantly lower on CK treated avocado bolts followed by CK2 treated bolts, demonstrating that at least one repellent can be included in the management of RAB.

• Conclusion: The repellent CK can be included in the management of RAB.

Insecticides and Insect Outbreaks The negative effect of insecticides on insects infesting flowers was not observed during 1 month flowering period. The insecticides Malathion and Endigo (ά > 0.05) increased red mite, Oligonychus yothersi densities and resulted in a 10-50 % higher damage index compared to the mite damage observed in the control and Ambush plots. Six months after monthly applications of insecticides, the looper (Epimeces spp. ) and leafroller (Gracillaria spp.) densities significantly (ά > 0.05) increased after applications of malathion and Endigo compared to the untreated control. The mealybug, Pseudococcus spp. densities increased between the 2nd and fifth month of the applications of Endigo and Malathion. Four to fifth moths after applications of insecticides, Endigo and Malathion significantly reduced the densities of predaceous spiders.

Conclusion: Because of the short time period to determine the negative effects of the constant application of the insecticide malathion, we could not provide an specific advice for the growers regarding the maximum number of application of this insecticide in order to avoid pest resurgence.

Comparison of actual accomplishments with the goals established for the reporting period. With the exception of the study of indirect effect of insecticides on key and minor avocado pests, all objectives ( lethal doses, non-registered insecticide residues, efficacy of systemic insecticides, and extension activities) were fully accomplished between 2012 and 2013. The study of indirect effect was delayed, as it was difficult to be sure that the avocado growers will follow our insecticide schedule. Second, the study was conducted during 1 year only as opposed to a 2-year study and third, the trail was conducted in an 5-acre experimental field, located at UF-TREC which might not be representative of the 20-80 acre groves typical of the avocado commercial groves. Fourth, the indirect effect of insecticides on flower pests cannot be measured because of the short flowering period. Beneficiaries All avocado producers and managers in Miami-Dade County have benefited from the described research and extension programs. Commercial producers, urban residents, and UF master gardeners and extension faculty were informed of the results of this work through meetings, handouts, PowerPoint presentations and electronic media (i.e., Internet websites and email).

Extension component on outcomes and impacts Activities and measurable outcomes

Relevant publications by year (2011-2013) 1. Peña, J.E., J.H. Crane, J.L. Capinera, R.E. Duncan, P.E. Kendra, R.C. Ploetz, S. McLean, G. Brar, M.C. Thomas, and R.D. Cave. 2011. Chemical control of the redbay ambrosia beetle, Xyleborus glabratus, and other Scolytinae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Florida Entomologist 94: 882-896. 2. Mayfield III, A.E., J.H. Crane, and J.A. Smith. 2011. Laurel Wilt: A Threat to Redbay, Avocado and Related Trees in Urban and Rural Landscapes. Hort. Sci. Dept., Fla. Coop. Ext. Service, IFAS, Univ. of Fla., Gainesville, FL. P.1-8. (written 2008, reviewed 2011) (http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/hs391). 3. Crane, J.H. and D. Feiber (Alejandra Castro-Nuñez, Miami Herald) 2011. Tree disease found in west Kendall. Miami-Herald (on-line) March 31, 2011. [http://www.miamiherald.com/2011/03/31/2143281/tree-disease-found-in-west-kendall.html].

4. Crane, J. 2012. Laurel wilt, redbay ambrosia beetle: update. The Voice of Agriculture:10 (Summer 2012). 5. Crane, J.H. in collaboration with the Avocado LW Subcommittee (C. LaPradd, M. Krome, M. Hunt, P. Brooks, A. Flinn, D. Rodriguez). 2012. Miami-Dade County, Florida Avocado Industry Strategic Plant for Control, Mitigation, and Research on the Redbay Ambrosia Beetle and Laurel Wilt Pathogen. 35 pages. 6. Peña, J.E., D. Carrillo, R.E. Duncan, J.L. Capinera, G. Brar, S. Mclean, M.L. Aarpai, E. Focht, J.A. Smith, M. Hughes, and P.E. Kendra. 2012. Susceptibility of Persea spp. and other Laureaceae to attack by redbay ambrosia beetle, Xyleborus glabratus (Coleoptera: Curulionidae: Scolytinae). Fla. Ent. 95: 783-787. 7. Crane, J.H. 2012. Florida tropical fruit crops: factors affecting the susceptibility and recovery of tropical fruit crops to cold. Tropical Fruit News 55(6): 12-14. 8. Carrillo, D., J.H. Crane, and J.E. Peña. 2013. Potential of contact insecticides to control Xyleborus glabratus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), a vector of laurel wilt disease in avocados. J. Econ. Ent. 106(6):2286-2295. 9. Crane, J.H., J. Peña and J.L. Osborne. 2013. Redbay ambrosia beetle-laurel wilt pathogen: a potential major problem for the Florida avocado industry. Horticultural Sci. Dept., Fla. Coop. Ext. Serv., IFAS, Univ. of Fla., Gainesville, FL. 8 pages. Accessed/downloaded 1,452 times in 2013. 10. Spence, D., J. Smith, A. Mayfield III, J. Hulcr, R. Ploetz, and L. Stelinski. 2011. Assessing the survival of the redbay ambrosia beetle and laurel wilt pathogen in wood chips. School of Forest Res. and Conservation, Fla. Coop. Extn. Service, IFAS, UF, Gainesville, FL. 4 pages. Accessed/downloaded 337 times in 2013. 11. Mann, R., J. Hulcr, J. Peña, and L. Stelinski. 2011. Redbay ambrosia beetle Xyleborus glabratus Eichhoff (Insecta: Coperoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae). Ent. and Nem. Dept., Fla. Coop. Extn. Service, IFAS, UF, Gainesville, FL. 7 pages. Accessed/downloaded 433 times in 2013.

Relevant Invited speaker engagements (reporting from Fall 2011 - 2013) 1. Crane, J.H. 2011.Update on LW in native and avocado in Miami-Dade County. Sept. 21, 2011. 2. Crane, J.H. 2011. Current LW and RAB suppression management strategy and extension outreach. Current status of laurel wilt seminar. University of California and Avocado Commission. Three 3 sites: San Louis Obispo, Ventura, and Temecula, California. Oct. 18, 19, and 20, 2011. 3. Crane, J.H. 2012. Title: Lessons learned from the laurel wilt situation in the Florida avocado production area. Invasive Ambrosia Beetle Conference – The Situation in California, UC Riverside Center for Invasive Species Research, Riverside, CA. Aug., 12-14 2012. 4. Crane, J.H. 2012. Threat to the Lauraceae in the western hemisphere and avocado specifically. Hort. Sci. Seminar, Oct., 1, 2012 (polycom). 5. Crane, J.H. 2013. Basis of and strategy for control of RAB-LW in avocado groves. Invasive Species Workshop, 30 May 2013, Miami. 6. Crane, J.H. 2013. Save the guacamole – threat and response to the redbay ambrosia beetle and laurel wilt, 20 March 2013, Fla. International University, AgroEcology Dept., Miami, FL. 7. Crane, J.H. 2013. Update of exotic pests workshop. Univ. of California, South Coast Research and Extension, 9 Dec., 2013, Irvine, CA.

Workshops and demonstrations (reporting started in fall 2011) Year Title Date 2011 Offered twice in one day. Grove Worker Scouting for Laurel Wilt and 8-19-11 the Redbay Ambrosia Beetle in Avocado Groves (Monitoreo de arboledas de aguacate para la marchitez del laurel y el escarabajo del laurel rojo) (36 stakeholders) 18

2011 Laurel Wilt Working Group (48 stakeholders) 11-15-11 2012 Offered twice in one day. Field demonstration of sampling for laurel 5-9-12 wilt; treatment discussions (Productores de Aguacate, Empacadoras, Administradores, y Operadores) (31 stakeholders) Laurel Wilt growers meeting (>100 stakeholders) 5-24-12 Laurel Wilt Working Group (45 stakeholders) 3-30-12 Laurel Wilt Working Group (38 stakeholders) 5-24-12 Laurel Wilt Working Group (48 stakeholders) 11-29-12 2013 Current status and recommendations for control of laurel wilt and 4-10-13 the redbay ambrosia beetle (>100 stakeholders) Laurel Wilt Working Group (45 stakeholders) 5-23-13 Laurel Wilt Working Group (44 stakeholders) 11-18-13 Relevant meetings with stakeholders i.e., Florida Avocado Administrative Committee (~24 participants at each meeting) and Fla. Avo. LW Subcommittee (10-15 participants at each meeting). They Committee meets once a month and Subcommittee on an as needed basis. During these meetings reports were offered and/or discussion of issues related to LW and ambrosia beetles occur. 1. 2011 – 2 Committee meetings (just reporting on Fall meetings; 48 stakeholders) 2. 2012 – 9 Committee meetings (215 stakeholders); 2 Subcommittee meetings (20 stakeholders) 3. 2013 – 8 Committee meetings (192 stakeholders); 10 Subcommittee meetings (200 stakeholders)

Creative works (PowerPoint) Year Author, year and title 2011 Crane, J.H. 2011. Proposed strategies for RAB and LW in the home landscape. (28 slides). Crane, J.H. 2011. Laurel wilt update: statewide pest polycom update. (14 slides). Crane, J.H. 2011. Update on laurel wilt in native and avocado trees in Miami-Dade County. (21 slides). Crane, J.H. 2011. Grove worker scouting for laurel wilt and the redbay ambrosia beetle in avocado groves. (20 slides). Crane, J.H. 2011. Aerial scouting for RAB-LW. (20 slides). Crane, J.H. 2011. Current field work with Tom Prosser and Greg Krogstad, Rainbow Tree Care, and Randy Ploetz and current recommendations for RAB-LW. (53 slides). Crane, J.H. 2011. Laurel wilt on swampbay (Persea palustris) in Miami-Dade County. (11 slides). Crane, J.H. 2011. Laurel wilt in Miami-Dade County. (28 slides). Crane, J.H. 2011. Proposed strategies for RAB and LW. (39 slides). Updated twice in 2011. Crane, J.H. 2011. Proposed strategies for RAB and LW in the home landscape. (28 slides). Crane, J.H. 2011. Scouting and sampling for laurel wilt in avocado groves. (14 slides). 2012 Crane, J.H. 2012. Current industry strategy and updates. (15 slides). Crane, J.H. 2012. Threat to the Lauraceae in the western hemisphere and avocado specifically. (68 slides). 19

Crane, J.H. 2012. Update on Miami-Dade survey for LW and fungicide testing in Brevard and Martin Counties. (13 slides). Crane, J.H. 2012. Lessons learned from the laurel wilt-redbay ambrosia beetle situation in the Florida avocado industry. (13 slides). Crane, J.H. 2012. Overview of the vegetable-land LW survey. (6 slides). Crane, J.H. 2012. RAB-LW extension/outreach update. (4 slides). Crane, J.H. 2012. Strategies for RAB and LW on avocado in the home landscape. (22 slides). Crane, J.H. 2012. Laurel wilt survey. (14 slides). Crane, J.H. 2012. Update on Miami-Dade survey for LW and fungicide testing in Brevard and Martin Counties. (21 slides). Crane, J.H. 2012. Testing application methods for control of laurel wilt. (12 slides). Crane, J.H. 2012. Threat to the native and non-native Lauraceae in Florida. (38 slides). 2013 Crane, J.H. 2013. Redbay ambrosia beetle-laurel wilt complex: update and recommendations for commercial growers and arborists – Brevard County. (64 slide and 92 slide versions). Crane, J.H. 2013. Basis of and strategy for control of RAB-LW in avocado groves. (28 slides). Crane, J.H., J.E. Peña, R. Ploetz, and E. Evans. 2013. Current industry LW survey update and control strategy 2-28-13. (14 slides). Crane, J. and D. Pybas. 2013. Current industry LW survey update and control strategy 11-18-13. (11 slides). Crane, J.H. 2013. Current situation, research and control strategies for the redbay ambrosia beetle and laurel wilt pathogen in Florida 12-28-13. (40 slides). Crane, J.H. 2013. Current status and recommendations for control of laurel wilt and the redbay ambrosia beetle 4-10-13. (77 slides). Crane, J.H. 2013. Save the guacamole – threat and response to the redbay ambrosia beetle and laurel wilt 3-20-13. (73 slides). Crane, J.H. 2013. Threat to the native and non-native Lauraceae in Florida (Monroe Co.). (51 slides).

Relevant handouts for provided at grower meetings Author, year, and title Crane, J.H. 2011. Scouting for ambrosia beetle and vascular wilt infestation of commercial avocado groves. (2 pages). Crane, J.H. and J.A. Smith. 2011. Homeowner detection of and recommendations for mitigating laurel wilt on redbay and avocado trees in the home landscape. (updated 3 times; 6 pages). Crane, J.H. 2011. Laurel wilt and the redbay ambrosia beetle: threat to trees in the Laurel Family. (2 pages). Crane, J.H. and J.A. Smith. 2011. Updated guidance for Extension Agents and Master Gardeners on the detection and recommendations for mitigation of the redbay ambrosia beetle – laurel wilt disease on native trees in urban and natural areas and avocado trees in the home landscape. (6 pages). Crane, J.H. 2011. Update: redbay ambrosia beetle – laurel wilt of avocado. (2 pages). Crane, J.H. 2011. RAB-LW identification and scouting laminated card. (2 pages). Crane, J.H. 2012. Avocado aerial survey report for 2011 (3-15-12; 2 pages). 20

Crane, J.H. 2012. Preliminary guidance for laurel wilt – redbay ambrosia beetle management for the Florida avocado industry (3-27-12, 7 pages; updated 5-24-12; 5 pages). Crane, J.H. 2012. Laurel wilt/redbay ambrosia beetle working group update (4-29-12; 2 pages). Crane, J.H. 2012. The molecular testing for Raffaelea lauricola which causes laurel wilt (5-8-12; 1 page). Crane, J.H. 2012. The overall Florida Avocado Industry Strategy for RAB-LW (5-24-12; 2 pages). Crane, J.H. 2012. Sampling for laurel wilt (updated 6-2-12; 7-5-12; 9-19-12; 2 pages). Crane, J.H. 2012. Immediate control recommendations for laurel wilt (8-6-12, 2 pages; updated 10-10-12, 2 pages). Crane, J.H. 2012. Detection and recommendations for mitigation of laurel wilt disease on trees in the Lauraceae in the home and urban landscape (update 9-19-12; 5 pages). Crane, J.H. 2013. Extension/outreach sub-group UF/IFAS-FDACS/DPI websites on RAB-LW (4-10- 13; 1 page). Crane, J.H. 2013. The overall Florida avocado industry strategy for RAB-LW (1-31-13 and 7-25- 13 and 8-23-13 updates; 3 pages). Crane, J.H. 2013. Preliminary guidance for laurel wilt-redbay ambrosia beetle management for the commercial Florida avocado industry (1-31-13; 5 pages). Crane, J.H., J.E. Peña, and D. Carrillo. 2013. Beetle barrier trial 1 (2-27-13; 2 pages). Crane, J.H. 2013. Redbay ambrosia beetle-laurel wilt pathogen control (3-1-13, 13 pages and 4- 10-13 update, 10 pages). Crane, J.H. and W. Montas. 2013. Passive infusion bag set up and costs (10-3-13 and 11-14-13 update). Crane, J.H. 2013. Sampling for laurel wilt (1-23-13, 2 pages and 4-17-13 update). Crane, J.H. 2013. Estimated commercial subtropical and tropical fruit crop acreage in Florida (4- 8-13). Crane, J.H. 2013. Laurel wilt avocado tree destruction compensation program (2-11-13; 11 pages). Crane, J.H. 2013. Laurel wilt fertilizer survey (10-11-13; 2 pages). Crane, J.H., M. Krome, P. Brooks, M. Hunt, A. Flinn, C. LaPradd, and D. Rodriguez. 2013. Update for the Florida avocado industry strategic plan for control, mitigation, and research on the redbay ambrosia beetle and laurel wilt (July 2013; 16 pages).

Electronic media Downloads Media Title 2011 2012 2013 Estimates of the replacement costs of commercial 665 Publication and backyard avocado trees in south Florida 476 766 Costos estimados de reemplazo de árboles de aguacate en plantaciones comerciales y patios en el Publication sur de Florida 277 2,186 356 Redbay Ambrosia Beetle-Laurel Wilt Fungus: A Publication Potential Major Problem for Florida Avocados 1509 2,529 1,452 Publication Determining the Value of an Orchard Tree 448 128 97 Documentar Interviewed for documentary entitled ‘Trees, Pests, y and People’ which focuses on three examples of Viewings not estimated 21

deadly and potentially devastating pest complexes that are threatening native and commercial tree species in the US. The documentary may be viewed at http://www.dontmovefirewood.org then click on title of the film. Homeowner detection of and recommendations for mitigating redbay ambrosia beetle-laurel wilt disease 227 Publication on redbay and avocado trees in the home landscape 479 643 Laurel Wilt: A threat to redbay, avocado and related Publication trees in urban and rural landscapes 1,395 2,521 3,742

Postcard alert, mass mailing to urban clientele 1. Title: Crane, J.H. and D. Feiber. 2011. Ag alert, laurel wilt in Miami-Dade County. (15,000 postcards sent; 2 pages).

Impacts 2011 Hundreds of avocado producers in Florida and California (invited speaker) were informed and updated on the latest in research, biological information, and control strategies for the redbay ambrosia beetle (RAB) and laurel wilt (LW) through workshops, invited speaking engagements, handouts, and electronic media (i.e., TV, email, Internet). Several workshops on RAB-LW were held for the landscape and arborist industry. In the first workshop, over 73 people attended and a pre-workshop survey found 42% not sure what LW was and only 32% knew whom to contact if they suspected a tree had LW. After the workshop, 100% knew the disease was caused by a fungus and was moved by the redbay ambrosia beetle and infested wood. Ninety-five percent correctly named 3 local host tree species (redbay, swampbay, and avocado), 97% reported they could identify symptomatic trees, and 100% indicated the workshop was very informative and would assist them in controlling LW and RAB. In another workshop over 36 grove workers (i.e., field crews) attended two “Grove worker scouting for LW and RAB in avocado groves” workshop and were educated about RAB-LW and the trained to scout, identify symptoms of LW and report suspicious trees to be tested for LW. Prior to the workshop only about 36% (89% survey response rate) of those attending were familiar with LW; 8% were not. After the workshops, 97% responded the information provided would help them identify LW suspect trees. Ambrosia beetle control recommendations provided to growers was based on the research from this grant included Danitol and Malathion. A majority of those in attendance indicated they would apply insecticide as recommended.

Impact 2012 Again, hundreds of avocado producers in Florida were informed and updated on the latest in research, biological information, and control strategies for the redbay ambrosia beetle (RAB) and laurel wilt (LW) through workshops, invited speaking engagements, handouts, and electronic media (i.e., EDIS, email, Internet website). Thirty-one avocado growers attended the laurel wilt field day sampling programs and all felt the training on proper LW sampling technique worthwhile and all indicated they would adopt the technique and recommendations demonstrated. Additional insect control recommendations were made including the use of Danitol and Malathion directed to chipped (destroyed) avocado wood and trees adjacent to LW positive avocado trees. This would kill ambrosia beetles attracted to the chipped wood; potentially control ambrosia beetles in the area of the infected tree. Growers were also advised to destroy LW infected trees because ambrosia beetles use them to breed more beetles. The Extension Specialist organized and led the early detection and suppression program for LW through periodic aerial surveys of the commercial avocado production area. Our advice on tree destruction/chipping and insecticide applications along with the early detection program resulted in suppressing the spread of LW to about 200 trees. In contrast, in groves where no implementation of LW sanitation and insecticide sprays for ambrosia beetles about 96 trees succumbed to LW in six months. The TREC website on RAB-LW received 26,922 22

requested pages and 15,415 downloads for information.

Impact 2013 The spread rate of LW with the implementation of an early detection and suppression program is estimated to be <10% whereas without the program the spread rate may be as high as 425%. Due to the cost of tree destruction and low prices for avocado fruit some producers have not destroyed infected trees which have led to an uptick in the spread of LW. In addition, the need for a method to detect LW infected but non-symptomatic (i.e., not wilting) trees has made reducing the spread of LW among adjacent trees more difficulty. To date about 2500 trees have succumbed to LW however without this program the numbers would be in the double-digit thousands. Over 100 avocado grove owners and managers in Miami-Dade County were offered one workshop (4-10-13), eight LW subcommittee and eight Avocado Administrative Committee meetings, and two working group meetings (5-23-13 and 11-18-13) pertaining to the redbay ambrosia beetle-laurel wilt threat to Florida’s avocado industry. Twelve very small commercial operation avocado producers in Brevard and Martin Counties were updated on the results of a long-term (18 mos.) field fungicide trial to control laurel wilt on avocado and provided recommendations suited to their situation. Seven tropical fruit producers in Brevard County were offered a seminar on RAB-LW (4-26-13). The TREC website on RAB-LW received 16,397 requested pages and 4,148 downloads for information. Over 460 avocado producers and twelve arborists were informed and updated on the latest in research, biological information, and recommended control strategies for the redbay ambrosia beetle (RAB) and laurel wilt (LW) through two workshops, two working group meetings, and 16 other meetings of the LW Subcommittee. The impact of the Extension effort has been that some growers (representing about 1,500 acres) indicated they would implement the tree removal and destruction, insecticide sprays and prophylactic fungicide infusion or injection applications recommended. Others (~3,000 acres) have implemented the tree removal and destruction and insecticide recommendations but not the fungicide recommendations due to costs.

Overall impacts Most producers (~450) were informed repeatedly via workshops, meetings, handouts, emails, and Internet of the research findings on the most effective insecticides and recommendations stemming from this grant has been used by most of those producers (or grove services) with LW positive. The research reported a number of contact insecticides were effective in controlling the redbay ambrosia beetle including Malathion and Danitol and these were recommended for application to avocado chips (as a result of tree destruction/sanitation) and for application in the immediate area of a laurel wilt (LW) positive tree. Research results demonstrating other non-registered contact insecticides, i.e., Hero and Endigo and the systemic insecticide emamectin benzoate were superior or as good as Malathion and Danitol were provided the industry. However, Hero and Endigo are not registered for use on avocado but, the Univ. of Fla., IR-4 Center has conducted the necessary residue trails to obtain registration. Producers were informed of the potential increase in some mite and Lepidoptera pests with over use of insecticides used to control ambrosia beetles. However, most producers (>50%) have limited their insecticide applications to avocado chips and the immediate area of laurel wilt infestation. Grower meetings (workshops and LW Working Group meetings and field demonstrations) were well attended and survey results indicated the vast majority (>75%) understood the research-based recommendations. However, implementation by producers has been hampered by the costs associated with tree destruction and the cost of fungicide treatments. The overall impact of this project however has been excellent, nearly all the producers with LW infected groves have implemented the insecticide recommendations and the findings from the research program that additional insecticides are more efficacious has resulted in work to register those products for use by producers. Additional impacts of the project can be gleaned from the eight publications, seven invited speaker’s engagements, and 97 to 3,742 downloads of information on LW and RAB provided through the 23

Internet.

Lessons Learned Insecticide Efficacy. Four pyrethroid insecticides with different active ingredients were tested in this study. Bifenthrin showed a high acute toxicity on X. glabratus, but under field conditions effective suppression of X. glabratus lasted only 4 d. The effect of bifenthrin was completely lost 2 wk after application under typical summer rainy conditions in south Florida. These results are strikingly different from those reported when bifenthrin is used against bark beetles. It’s unclear whether the subtropical conditions of south Florida, or the avocado bark characteristics affect the persistence of bifenthrin, or whether some ambrosia beetles are more tolerant to bifenthrin than bark beetles. Our results suggest that contact with fresh residues of bifenthrin applied at the highest label rate can kill X. glabratus but its suppression will last only few days.

 Permethrin is another pyrethroid insecticide regarded as effective for elm bark beetle control.. Our results demonstrated that permethrin showed high acute toxicity on X. glabratus in laboratory bioassays, but caused low beetle mortality only 4 d after application in the field. However, the rate of permethrin registered for use in avocado is significantly lower than the one used against bark beetles. Prelude (AMVAC®) is a formulation of permethrin registered for control of termites and bark beetles (i.e. vectors of Dutch elm disease) as a bark spray at a concentrated

rate of approximately 5.1 ml a.i./L H2O. Permethrin 3.2 AG is registered for use in avocado at 0.22

ml a.i./L H2O. At this rate, supression of X. glabratus lasted less than 8 d.

Fenpropathrin is another pyrethroid insecticide that is registered for use in avocado. Contact with fresh residues of this pesticide under controlled conditions showed a high acute toxicity on X. glabratus but, when applied under normal grove conditions, the effect of fenpropathrin was intermediate relative to all other insecticides. Fenpropathrin is registered for mite and thrips control at a rate of 1.56 L/ ha. However, used at label recommended rates its efficacy diminished a few days after application. These results coincide with those reported by Peña et al. (2011) using potted avocado plants infested with known numbers of X. glabratus in a controlled fashion. They found that fenpropathrin treated plants had significantly lower numbers of entry holes when checked at 1 d after treatment. However, there were no differences in entry holes between the treated trees and the untreated controls 1 wk later. The pyrethroid mixture of z- cypermethrin+bifenthrin had a high acute toxicity on X. glabratus and was one of the two treatments that provided longer beetle supression in the field experiment. These results coincide with those reported by Peña et al. (2011), who found that z- cypermethrin+bifenthrin was one of the insecticides that provided the most consistent supression of Scolytinae as a contact insecticide. This insecticide is not currently registered for use in avocado but it could be useful in managing X. glabratus infestations. Additional studies towards registration of z-cypermethrin+bifenthrin are underway.

L-cyhalothrin+ thiamethoxam caused a high mortality of X. glabratus but its persistence under field conditions was inferior to z-cypermethrin+bifenthrin. The pyrethroid part of the formulation is recommended for management of the long horned beetle, Anoplophora glabripennis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), an invasive species in the U.S. (Smith et al. 2007). Peña et al. (2011) reported that l- 24

cyhalothrin+thiamethoxam was one of the mixtures that provided the most consistent suppression of Scolytinae. This mixture is not registered for use on avocado. However, if the persistence of this pesticide could be improved by the addition of adjuvants, it might be useful for managing or preventing X. glabratus infestations.

Organophosphate insecticides were highly toxic to X. glabratus. Chlorpyrifos and malathion caused high X. glabratus mortality in the laboratory bioassays. Malathion was amongst the two insecticides that provided longer persistence under field conditions. Malathion is registered for use in avocado whereas chlorpyrifos is not and there is no interest by the manufacturer to pursue registration (IR4 http://ir4.rutgers.edu/FoodUse/Food_Use1.cfm).  In a previous assessment, malathion caused a significant reduction in the number of scolytines entry holes and beetle emergence from treated logs in several experiments but also provided erratic suppression in one experiment (Peña et al. 2011). Smith (1982) reported that malathion was ineffective on western pine beetle, Dendroctonus brevicomis LeConte, 5 mo after application. Carbaryl and methomyl were ineffective at controlling X. glabratus. Carbaryl has been widely used to manage several pine bark beetles (Hastings et al. 2001). However, carbaryl also lacks toxicity toward the southern pine beetle, Dendroctonus frontalis Zimmermann, which has a high degree of tolerance for this insecticide (Hastings et al. 2001). Our experiments showed that X. glabratus tolerated carbaryl in the laboratory bioassays. Similarly, X. glabratus bored through the bark of avocado bolts treated with methomyl showing tolerance toward this insecticide, which is one of the pesticides currently registered for avocado. Our results agree with those of Peña et al. (2011) who reported higher number of entrance holes and higher beetle emergence in methomyl treated bolts relative to the non-treated control.

None of the tested insecticides could completely prevent X. glabratus attack and their persistence was low during the rainy summer season in south Florida. Organophosphate and pyrethroid insecticides appear to be the most effective groups for suppressing X. glabratus. Among the pesticides registered for use in avocado, malathion and fenpropathrin represent the best chemical tools currently available; however, the persistence of all tested insecticides is low requiring frequent repeated applications. Z-cypermethrin+bifenthrin and l- cyhalothrin+thiamethoxam, at possibly higher rates and other pesticides may be required to manage X. glabratus outbreaks. Moreover it is imperative to identify effective adjuvants to prolong the efficacy of these contact insecticides to manage X. glabratus.

 Pest resurgence is a major concern of avocado growers regarding insecticide applications against X. glabratus. The choice of an insecticide to be applied against X. glabratus should be defined not only by its effectiveness against the vector, but also by its effect on direct and indirect pest resurgence. The complex of spider mites and insects that affect avocado in south Florida has been under a 20 year IPM program (Peña et al. 2013). The most common pests are mirids, thrips infesting flowers, mites, lace bugs, and loopers affecting leaves (Peña et al. 2013) while soft, armored scales, mealybugs and whiteflies are seldom observed. Spray interventions are kept to a minimum due to the effective natural enemy complex keeping these pests under low density levels. Pest resurgence represents a major challenge to design sound chemical management strategies against this invasive vector. The indirect effect on non-target pests of 25

several contact insecticides recommended against X. glabratus was tested by the authors in an experimental grove. Unfortunately, this study was started during the second year of funding, allowing us to do evaluations for only 1 year, which is not enough to demonstrate the indirect effect of insecticides in secondary insects and beneficial fauna.

The repellents, CK and CK2 could represent an important management tool. Further test to identify the most effective concentration and application method for this material are warranted.

Contact Jorge E. Peña, 305 246 7001 x 223 [email protected]

Additional Information

Carrillo, D., J. H. Crane, and J. E. Peña. 2013. Potential of contact insecticides to control Xyleborus glabratus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae), a vector of laurel wilt in avocados. Journal of Economic Entomology 106: 2286-2295.

Carrillo, D., P. Kendra, R. Duncan, W. Montgomery, and J. E. Peña. 2013. Evaluation of insect repellents to manage the redbay ambrosia beetle, vector of laurel wilt, a lethal disease affecting avocados in Florida, pp. 31, Florida Entomological Society, Naples, Florida (Abstract).

Carrillo, D., R. Duncan, J. E. Peña, and J. Crane. 2013. Chemical control of the redbay ambrosia beetle. Southeastern Branch Entomological Society of America, Baton Rouge, LA. 4-7 March 2013 (Abstract).

Carrillo, D., P. Kendra, R. Duncan, W. Montgomery, and J. E. Peña. Evaluation of insect repellents to manage the redbay ambrosia beetle, vector of laurel wilt, a lethal disease affecting avocados in Florida, pp. 31, Florida Entomological Society - 96th Annual Meeting Naples, Florida. 14-17 July 2013(Abstract).

Peña, J. E., and D. Carrillo. IPM Tactics for Control of the Red Bay Ambrosia Beetle in Florida, 64th Western Forest Insect Work Conference, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.4-8 March 2013 (Abstract).

Project (3): Development of Strategies for Management of Root-Knot Nematodes on Cut Foliage and Ornamental Crops

Project Partners: University of Florida

Project Summary Florida ranks #1 in U.S. production of cut foliage, producing over 75% of the U.S. total (USDA/NASS, 2010). The bulk of this production occurs in Volusia, Putnam, and Lake Counties where cut foliage production is an important component of the local economy. Florida's ornamental horticulture industry is ranked #2 nationally in size and 2005 sales were $15.24 billion. In that year the nursery industry in Florida employed 190,000 full time and 104,000 part-time employees (Hodges and Haydu, 2005).

Among the most important soil born pests of cut foliage and other ornamental crops in Florida are root- knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.). These plant-parasites enter into the plant roots, establish specialized feeding sites, and become sedentary. In response to hormones produced by the nematodes, surrounding tissues swell to form galls or knots on the roots. Roots damaged by these nematodes are not able to take up water and nutrients needed for plant growth. Also, the nematodes affect the physiology of the plant so that carbohydrates produced by photosynthesis in the leaves are translocated to the nematode feeding sites to support the nematodes, further reducing plant growth. Because yield for cut foliage crops is new stems, these nematodes can have a dramatic impact on profitability. Severe infestations can result in complete yield loss. Similarly, stunted, sick plants are unsellable by nurseries and are discarded. Cut foliage crops and woody ornamentals are perennials that remain in the ground for decades, which allows the nematodes to build up to very high numbers over time. Therefore, management strategies should focus on post-plant treatments, whereas the majority of nematode management research in Florida has focused on preplant treatments for annual crops.

A survey of cut foliage growers found that research on control of root-knot nematodes was among their top research priorities to be addressed (Stamps et al., 1998). The Florida Nursery Growers and Landscape Assoc. Research Committee lists “Continued development of biological and chemical controls for insects, disease, and nematodes” as a research priority (http://ns4.oncs.net/education-and- research/research/). Recently, production of the most effective nematicide for root-knot nematode control available to cut foliage producers and nurseries, fenamiphos, ceased in 2007, further increasing the need for research need in this area.

Our research evaluated several potential post-plant nematode management strategies including both nematicides and bionematicides for control of root-knot nematode on a plant that is grown both as a cut foliage crop and as a woody landscape ornamental, Japanese pittosporum (Pittosporum tobiram).

This research was conducted both in a commercial grower field naturally infested with root-knot nematodes and in field and greenhouse studies at the University of Florida.

Project Approach On-farm, field, and greenhouse experiments evaluated the following pesticides/biopesticides to determine which, if any, are useful for controlling root-knot nematodes on landscape, cut foliage, and ornamental nursery crops:

Spirotetramat - This new insecticide is unique in that is a systemic that is translocated downward from foliage to the roots. This opens the possibility of foliar applications to control root-feeding nematode pests. Research in California has found that foliar applications of spirotetramat have afforded control of root-knot nematodes on black walnut and grapes, both perennial woody crops. Spirotetramat is labeled as Kontos for use on ornamentals for insects and mites, but currently nematodes are not listed on the label.

Furfural - This nematicide/fungicide was just labeled in Florida under the tradename Multiguard Protect. The current label includes greenhouse ornamentals and golf course turfgrasses, but not field ornamentals. University of Florida research has found Multiguard Protect to provide control of root- knot nematodes on annual bedding ornamentals, but it's effectiveness on perennial ornamentals is unknown at this time.

Paecilomyces lilacinus - This soil fungus is a facultative parasite of root-knot nematode eggs. A commercial formulation of a patented strain of this fungus (stain 251) is available in the United States under the tradename Melocon WG. This product has shown some efficacy against root-knot nematodes on agronomic and vegetable crops, and sting nematode on turfgrasses. It is labeled for use as a soil- application on ornamentals, but has not been evaluated on perennial ornamental crops.

Technology Transfer: Research results were presented to the scientific community at the Society of Nematologists Annual meeting on 15 July 2013 in Knoxville, TN. And at the International congress of Nematology on 6 May, 2014 in Cape Town South Africa. A referred publication is currently being written and will be submitted for publication in the Journal of Nematology.

To-date, the research results have been presented to >400 end users (cut foliage growers, landscapers, nursery growers, certified pesticide applicators) at six educational events.

The research results were incorporated into five extension publications. Website visits to view the following publications in 2014were 7,341.

Crow, W. T. and J. R. Rich. 2014. Nematodes of backyard deciduous fruit and nut crops in Florida.

Brown, S. H., and W. T. Crow. 2013. `Gold mound' Duranta affected by root-knot nematodes.

Crow, W. T. 2002. Nematode management for bedding plants.

Crow, W. T. 2014. Nematode management for perennial landscape plants in Florida.

Crow W. T. 2014. Nematode management in the vegetable garden.

There were no trade articles published since the treatments did not work too well. We are currently working on two refereed scientific publications, but they have not yet been submitted.

Goals and Outcomes Achieved On-Farm Trial This experiment was conducted at a cut foliage farm owned by Select Growers in De Leon Springs, FL (Figure 1). The field was planted with variegated pittosporum two years before the experiment started. It was naturally infested by the southern root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita). As a consequence of this infestation, the plants were exhibiting slow growth and poor yield. The field was divided into 16 plots, each with four 60-ft-long rows of plants. The experiment used a randomized-bock design with 4 blocks and 4 treatments. The four treatments in this experiment were: 1) untreated control, 2) MeloCon WG at 4 pounds/acre, 3) Multiguard Protect EC at 8 gallons/acre, and 4) Kontos SC at 5 fl. oz./acre. The rates used were all those recommended by the product manufacturers. The treatments were applied in spring 2012, fall 2012, spring 2013, and fall 2013. Each season Melocon and Kontos were applied two times with 6-weeks between applications, and Multiguard was applied three times with 3-weeks between applications. Nematode samples were collected before and after each application sequence (8 times). Yield was collected twice, January 2013 and May 2014 (Figure 2).

Effects of the treatments on population density of root-knot nematodes is shown in Figure 3. Root- knot nematode population densities were significantly lower (P ≤ 0.05) in the Multiguard and Melocon treated plots than the untreated at the end of 2012, and while not significant on other dates (P > 0.1) they remained lowest in the Multiguard treated throughout. Effect of treatments on pittosporum yield is shown in Figure 4. There were no differences among treatment detected (P > 0.1).

Small plot trial. Root-knot nematodes from the field in De Leon Springs were collected, reared in the greenhouse, and then inoculated into a field at the University of Florida Plant Science Research Unit in Citra, Florida. The field was then divided into twenty 48 ft2 plots. Five variegated pittosporum plants were then planted into each plot. The same treatments as used in the on-farm trial were used in this experiment. The experiment used a randomized-block design with 5 replications. Application sequences were made in fall 2012, spring 2013, and fall 2013. Nematode samples were collected before and after each application sequence (six times). Plant canopy volume was measured at the end of each year to estimate plant health effects.

Effects of treatments on population density of root-knot nematodes over time is shown in Figure 5. Population densities of root-knot nematodes were lower in plots treated with Multiguard or Melocon on two dates, and with Kontos on one date, compared to the untreated control. Effects of treatments on plant canopy volume in 2012 and 2013 is shown in Figure 6. No differences among treatments were detected (P > 0.1).

Greenhouse experiment. Pittosporum transplants were planted into 3-gallon clay pots filled with a mixture of sand and potting media. Root-knot nematodes from the field in De Leon Springs were collected, reared in the greenhouse, and then 2000 nematodes were inoculated into each pot. The fall treatment programs were applied. The same treatments as used in the on-farm trial were used in this 30

experiment, with the inclusion of a no-nematode control. The experiment used a randomized-block design with 10 replications. Application sequences were made in fall 2012, spring 2013, and fall 2013. At the end of the experiment, plant roots and foliage was harvested for biomass measurements, roots were weighed and rated for root-knot gall index, and nematodes were extracted from soil and plant roots.

Root-knot nematodes caused extensive plant stunting (Figure 7) and root galling (Figure 8). However, none of the treatments improved plant root or foliage biomass compared to the untreated control (Figure 9). Similarly, none of the treatments reduced galling of plant roots compared to the untreated control (Figure 10). None of the treatments reduced the number of root-knot nematode juveniles recovered per gram of root compared to the untreated (Figure 11). However, all three treatments reduced the number of root-knot nematode juveniles in soil (Figure 11). Beneficiaries Research results were presented to the scientific community at the Society of Nematologists Annual meeting on 15 July 2013 in Knoxville, TN. And at the International congress of Nematology on 6 May, 2014 in Cape Town South Africa. A referred publication is currently being written and will be submitted for publication in the Journal of Nematology in 2015.

To-date, the research results have been presented to >400 end users (cut foliage growers, landscapers, nursery growers, certified pesticide applicators) at six educational events. 23 January 2013. Volusia County Cut Foliage Growers, Pierson, FL (40).

8 May 2013. Southeast Pest Management Conference, Gainesville, FL: Nursery growers and landscape pest control operators (100).

13 June 2013. Master Gardener Field Day, Citra, FL: Extension volunteers (100)

26 June 2013. Biologicals and Biorationals Workshop, Apopka, FL: Nursery growers and cut foliage growers (80).

28 January 2014. Florida Turfgrass Association, Plantation, FL: Landscape pest control operators (60).

15 May 2014. Mastergardener Update: Extension faculty and volunteers (taped for online use, unknown number of users)

The research results were incorporated into five extension publications:

Crow, W. T. and J. R. Rich. 2014. Nematodes of backyard deciduous fruit and nut crops in Florida.

Brown, S. H., and W. T. Crow. 2013. `Gold mound' Duranta affected by root-knot nematodes.

Crow, W. T. 2014. Nematode management for bedding plants.

Crow, W. T. 2014. Nematode management for perennial landscape plants in Florida.

Crow W. T. 2014. Nematode management in the vegetable garden.

Lessons Learned Result Summary: In all three experiments the three treatments caused a measurable reduction in population density of root-knot nematode at some point. However, in none of the experiments were any of the treatments effective in improving plant health. This indicates that none of the three treatments evaluated are likely to provide growers the desired results as stand-alone treatments using the rates and application schedules used in these experiments. It is possible that combination or rotation of the treatments tested could decrease nematode pressure to the extent that acceptable plant health is achieved. This approach should be explored in future research trials.

Contact William T. (Billy) Crow

Professor of Nematology

University of Florida

PO Box 110620

Building 970, Natural Area Dr.

Gainesville, FL 32611

Ph:(352) 273-3941

FAX: (352) 392-0190

[email protected]

Project (4): The Effect of Nitrogen Rate and Application Method on Peach Tree Growth and Fruit Quality

Project Partners: University of Florida Project Summary The Florida citrus industry has been in a state of decline over the past 5 years due to diseases such as citrus greening (Huanglongbing) and bacterial canker [Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri (Xac)] reducing tree productivity and fruit quality. Many growers are searching for an alternative crop to diversify their agricultural operations to maintain profitability. As with other high-value specialty crops harvested in Florida during the off-season or early spring (e.g., strawberry and blueberry), peaches offer a significant opportunity for profitability in a favorable market environment. The peach industry has expanded greatly within the past two years that this project was funded, from just under 500 acres to over 2,000 acres; thus the information provided from this grant was timely and important for peach growers, in the face of declining citrus productivity.

The introduction of a new commercial crop has its challenges, specifically with fertilization for the subtropical, humid climate. Fertilization guidelines have been established in areas with temperate or desert climates, which may or may not be appropriate for optimal peach tree growth in the subtropical climates. In addition, many of these newly established orchards are planted on very sandy sites, which can increase the potential for leaching of nutrients. Although several growers are using fertigation with split applications throughout the season, several more continue to use granular fertilizer application methods, which can leach more readily into groundwater sources during the wet summer. Thus, this project was established to determine the optimal rate and application type (fertigation or granular) for peach trees in a subtropical climate in Florida.

Project Approach This project was initiated in a newly established orchard, planted in October 2011 in Citra, FL. The experiment was set up in a split- plot design with variety, nitrogen fertilizer rate and application method as the main variables. Two varieties were established, ‘UFSharp’ and ‘TropicBeauty’ both grafted onto ‘Flordaguard’ rootstocks. Spacing was 6’ between trees and 20’ between rows and trees were trained to a perpendicular-V. Five different rates of nitrogen were applied either daily (through the fertigation system) or monthly (granular) to trees in the experiment. These were: • 0 lbs N/acre • 45 kg N/ha (40 lbs N/acre) • 90 kg N/ha (80 lbs N/acre) • 179 kg N/ha (160 lbs N/acre) • 269 kg N/ha (240 lbs N/acre)

These rates of nitrogen were initiated at budbreak each year and then ended around the last week of September each year to encourage the onset of dormancy.

Tree growth was measured annually by recording trunk cross sectional area (TCSA), bud number/type (vegetative and reproductive), and pruning weights (summer and winter). The impact of nitrogen treatments was assessed by monitoring leaf chlorophyll concentration and non-destructive leaf color measurement with a handheld chlorophyll meter (SPAD 502 Plus, Spectrum Technologies, Aurora, IL), leaf tissue samples to determine total leaf nitrogen (%), and photosynthesis rate. Fruit quality measurements included: total fruit yield per tree, fruit number, fruit skin color measured with a Chroma meter (Konica Minolta Inc., Tokyo, Japan), fruit size, soluble solids, pH, and titratable acidity to determine the impact of these nitrogen rates on fruit yield and quality.

Evaluation of nitrate leaching throughout the soil profile was initiated in this project using suction-cup lysimeters that were placed 5 feet below the soil surface. However, consistent collection of leachate (liquid) was not realized throughout the season, and thus we transitioned to collection of soil samples at key phenological stages (bloom, fruit development, harvest, and postharvest) for the 2013-2014 years. Soil samples were analyzed for nitrate content. We also installed time-domain reflectometry (TDR) probes (CS655-L, Campbell Scientific, Inc., Logan, UT) in the soil profile at 15, 30, 61, 91, 122, and 152 cm in depth to see real-time fluctuations in soil electrical conductivity (EC) values, which is an indirect indicator of the downward movement of nutrients in the soil profile. Goals and Outcomes Achieved Goal #1: Determine nitrogen rates for optimal fruit quality and yield. Tree growth was measured annually by recording the trunk cross-sectional area (TCSA), bud number/type (vegetative/reproductive), and pruning weights as affected by nitrogen rates. The TCSA is a measurement of tree growth and is used in a calculation with the tree yield to determine the yield efficiency of the tree. There was no overall differences in TCSA between the two varieties, ‘UFOne’ and ‘TropicBeauty’ when TCSA was recorded in January, 2012 (Figure 1).

In 2013 and 2014, TCSA was affected by nitrogen rate and variety. In 2013, there were no strong differences in ‘TropicBeauty’ as affected by nitrogen rate, and no differences between application methods in any of the rates (Figure 2A). The only difference found was trees treated with 179 kg N/ha were larger when compared to those with no nitrogen being applied (0 kg N/ha). In ‘UFSharp’, trees that received 0 kg N/ha were smaller than those receiving the two highest rates of nitrogen (Figure 2B). Overall ‘TropicBeauty’ trees tended to be smaller in TCSA than ‘UFSharp’ (p<0.05). In 2014, trees that did not receive nitrogen were the smallest in both varieties (Figure 3).

Summer and winter pruning weights were variable in the first year of the study for both peach varieties (Figure 4); however a distinct and significant effect of nitrogen rates was observed in 2013 (data not shown), and summer 2014 pruning weights (Figure 5). By the end of the experiment, application type

did not have an effect on pruning weight, with the exception of the highest rate in 2014 in which fertigated treatments resulted in greater growth (Figure 5).

The distribution of floral and vegetative buds in fruit crops are typically driven by genetic factors and then influenced by environmental or cultural conditions. In 2012, initial bud distribution showed that ‘TropicBeauty’ had fewer flower and vegetative buds than ‘UFSharp’ (p<0.05; Table 1). There were no overall differences in total bud number between the two varieties (p>0.05; data not shown); however, ‘TropicBeauty’ had an increased number of blind nodes (nodes without a vegetative or flower bud; p<0.001). In 2013, nitrogen rate, application type, and the interaction of variety, nitrogen rate, and application type were significant in affecting the vegetative bud distribution (data not shown). Overall, there were more vegetative buds produced in the 90 kg N/ha treatment, while fertigated trees produced greater numbers of vegetative and floral buds than those that had fertilizer via granular applications (Table 1). Floral bud number was improved in the highest rate of nitrogen (269 kg N/ha). Blind nodes were greater in granular-fertilized trees. In 2014, neither variety, nitrogen rate, nor application type affected vegetative buds, while only nitrogen rate (0>269 kg N/ha) affected floral buds, and in blind node production, ‘TropicBeauty’ had greater blind nodes than ‘UFSharp’ (Table 1). Blind node production was expected to be greater in ‘TropicBeauty’ than ‘UFSharp’ due to its genetic predisposition to produce greater numbers of blind nodes. However, the lack of significance in 2014 is interesting and perhaps may be due to greater variability in the data which would be tempered by additional data collection.

Leaf nitrogen content and chlorophyll content as determined with a SPAD meter was collected in July of each year. In 2013, both nitrogen rate (45 kg N/ha = 269 kg N/ha = 179 kg N/ha > 0 and 90 kg N/ha) and variety (TB>UFS) affected chlorophyll content readings. ‘TropicBeauty’ trees may be more efficient at incorporating nitrogen into chlorophyll than ‘UFSharp’ (Figure 6). There were no differences in either chlorophyll content or leaf nitrogen (%) as a result of fertigation or granular applications. Similar results were observed in 2014 (data not shown), indicating that, in general, increased nitrogen rates result in higher chlorophyll content readings and leaf nitrogen content. Leaf nitrogen content was not well correlated with chlorophyll content readings in 2013; however this relationship improved with data collected in 2014 showing a positive trend in leaf nitrogen and chlorophyll content (Figure 7).

In both years, photosynthesis rates were variable and no consistent trend was observed among the treatments. However, in 2013, trees that received granular applications had higher photosynthesis rates than those that were fertigated (data not shown). In 2014, photosynthesis rates were affected by nitrogen rate, with those receiving 45 and 90 kg N/ha having higher photosynthesis rates than those receiving 179 or 269 kg N/ha (data not shown).

Fruit size in ‘TropicBeauty’ was affected by nitrogen rate as expected, with smaller fruit in the moderate (90 kg N/ha) and high (269 kg N/ha) treatments from 2013 (Figure 8). Fruit from ‘UFSharp’ were not available due to a severe freeze event that took place in February, 2013. In 2014, fruit yield and number were highest in trees receiving 90 kg N/ha, again alluding to smaller fruit in this treatment (Table 2; p<0.05). However, fruit diameter was not affected by nitrogen rate, and the smallest fruit were found in trees receiving 0 kg N/ha (p<0.05). Fruit diameter was strongly influenced by variety, with ‘TropicBeauty’ trees producing smaller, less marketable fruit than ‘UFSharp’ trees (Table 2).

There was a good correlation of fruit number with yield (R2=0.78; data not shown). Overall, ‘TropicBeauty’ trees yielded more fruit than ‘UFSharp’, and trees that received 90 kg N/ha from granular fertilizer had more fruit than those receiving 179 or 269 kg N/ha (Table 2). However, ‘UFSharp’ trees yielded fruit that were larger in diameter and fruit weight than in ‘TropicBeauty’.

Fruit quality parameters (Brix, pH, and TA) were not affected by either nitrogen rate or application treatments. However, ‘TropicBeauty’ fruit had a higher TA than ‘UFSharp’ fruit, which is likely a genetic trait. Similar results were found in a similar experiment with the same nitrogen rates in a mature orchard currently being conducted on the same farm in Citra, FL. Thus, nitrogen rate or method of fertilizer application does not appear to affect the accumulation of sugar or acid in the fruit. However, it is unknown what other parameters may be affected, such as flavor and aroma compounds, which are heavily dependent upon amino acids and nitrogenous compounds. Fruit in the highest rate of nitrogen treatment (269 kg N/ha) had less blush and more visible skin ground color than those in the 0 or 45 kg N/ha treatment, and those trees that were fertigated had more blush with less yellow ground color than those that had nitrogen applied via granular forms. This is reflected in visual images taken of fruit in these treatments at each harvest date (Figure 9). Relative amounts of skin ground color and blush is an important quality factor for consumers and lower nitrogen rates and fertigation were more conducive of development of desirable red skin color.

The data from this study indicate that optimal nitrogen rates for ideal peach tree growth and fruit quality lie between 90 and 179 kg N/ha depending upon variety and site conditions. However, most of the data for these parameters were not significantly different from each other and thus growers may be able to reduce the rate of nitrogen currently being used from approximately 179 kg N/ha to 90 kg N/ha.

Goal #2: Evaluation of the Nitrate Leaching Potential in Subtropical Peach Production To meet the objectives of Goal #2, we measured the nitrate leaching potential of the nitrogen treatments at three depths, 0-12”, 12-36”, and 36-60” during the 2013 and 2014 growing seasons. Soil samples were collected at four key phenological stages (bloom, harvest, postharvest, and pre- defoliation) approximately 7 days before and 7 days after granular nitrogen fertilization was applied. Trees in the fertigation treatment had nitrogen applied daily, and so large fluctuations in soil nitrate rates were not expected. Overall, trees receiving fertilization via fertigation application methods had significantly lower nitrate nitrogen (mg/L) at all depths when compared to granular fertigation (p < 0.05; Figure 10A - 10C). In addition, while only one phenological period is presented, the results were representative of the majority of the sampling periods in both years of the study. These results support a transition from granular forms of nitrogen fertilizer to liquid formulations that are dosed daily or weekly in the orchard, especially since fertigation strategies show no impact on fruit yield.

We also tracked the soil temperature, moisture and electrical conductivity (EC) of the soil via time- domain reflectometer (TDR) probes (CS655-L, Campbell Scientific , Logan, UT) which were buried within the soil profile at 6” (15 cm), 1’ (30 cm), 2’ (61 cm), 3’ (91 cm), 4’ (122 cm), and 5’ (152 cm) in depth (Figure 11A, 11B). TDR probes at the 4’ and 5’ depth were well below the peach root system, as peaches are typically shallow-rooted trees. The change in EC is tracked as an indicator of the salt level in the soil, predominantly due to fertilizers leaching through the soil profile. For high N fertilizer rates (e.g. 269 kg

N/ha), it was observed that EC at deeper layers (5 ft.) increased accordingly to the increase of the N applied at surface (1 ft. depth), while for lower N rates (e.g. 89 kg N/ha) there was almost no changes in EC at 5ft depth, which indicates minimal leaching of nutrients to deep soil layer. Throughout the experiment, the EC of the soil (0.03 ds/m) never reached above levels considered to be damaging to peach roots, which is approximately 1.5 ds/m (Figure 11).

It appears that soil sampling to determine the nitrate-nitrogen amounts before and after application of granular fertilizers was the best method to determine the impact of nitrogen rates on the leaching potential of these treatments and nitrate-nitrogen as it moved through the soil.

Goal #3: Engage growers and industry members via outreach to disseminate project results.

We engaged in outreach through several presentations to growers, extension personnel and industry members including:

• Olmstead, M., L. Zotarelli, M. Ross. 2013. Impact of Nitrogen Rate on Vegetative Growth. 18 April 2013. (110 attendees) • Olmstead, M. 2013. Impact of Nitrogen Rates on Peach Tree Growth and Fruit Quality. Seminar. Citrus Research and Extension Center, Lake Alfred, FL. 10 May 2013. (25 attendees) • Olmstead, M., L. Zotarelli, M. Ross. 2013. Impact of Nitrogen on Vegetative Growth of Mature Peach Trees in a Subtropical Climate. International Peach Symposium, Matera, Italy. 17 June 2013 (150 attendees) • Olmstead, M., L. Zotarelli, M. Ross. 2013. Impact of Nitrogen on Vegetative Growth of Mature Peach Trees in a Subtropical Climate. American Society for Horticultural Science Annual Meeting, Palm Desert, CA. 25 July 2013. (45 attendees) • Olmstead, M., L. Zotarelli, J. Brecht, M. Ross. 2014. Nitrogen Requirements of Low-Chill Peaches in a Subtropical Environment. American Society for Horticultural Science Annual Meeting, Orlando, FL. 29 July 2014. • Olmstead, M., L. Zotarelli, J. Brecht, M. Ross. 2014. Peach Nitrogen Requirements for Optimal Growth. Central Florida Peach Roundtable/BMP Workshop. 9 Sept 2014.

Publications for this research are in progress, as fruit data is still being analyzed from this past harvest season. We anticipate having at least two peer-reviewed publications from this research and two or three industry trade or magazine articles to fully reach the beneficiaries of this project.

Beneficiaries The beneficiaries of this project were the current growers in the industry, approximately 60 growers as of June, 2014. This project clearly demonstrates that growers may be putting out excessive nitrogen that, while not leaching through the soil profile, is resulting in vigorous peach growth perhaps resulting in unnecessary tree growth and labor costs to manage tree size.

Lessons Learned This project was able to identify a range of ideal nitrogen rates (90-179 kg N/ha) for subtropical peach tree and fruit production. However, this was the first step in optimizing fertilization practices for growers in Florida, as early leaf growth is of utmost importance to producing large fruit. The early market is already at a disadvantage because low-chill peaches tend to be smaller and thus a timing study 35

is needed to optimize nitrogen rates to balance optimal leaf growth with tree vigor to produce fruit that will maximize profits for the grower.

Additional research should explore what the effect of various nitrogen rates or timings are on the flavor/aroma development in the peach fruit and the effect of these rates and timings are on postharvest quality and storability of the fruit.

Contact Dr. Mercy Olmstead 352-273-4772 [email protected]

The 565 tomato growers in the state, who produce 39,807 acres, as well as the 122 pepper growers, who produce 12,377 acres were the primary beneficiaries of this project. Additionally, seed companies and other stakeholders benefitted from the knowledge.

Project (6): Use of Fallow Weed Control Program to Reduce Yellow and Purple Nutsedge Population in Bell Pepper

Project Partners: University of Florida

Project Summary  Provide a background for the initial purpose of the project, which includes the specific issue, problem, or need that was addressed by this project. Methyl bromide was used as a fumigant for weed, disease, and nematode control in Florida bell pepper and other crops grown in plasticulture. The phaseout of methyl bromide and the lack of alternatives for weed control have caused nutsedge to become the most problematic weed in plasticulture vegetable produciton. Season long interference at 5 nutsedge/m2 will reduce bell pepper yield by 10%. Currently nutsedge populations in bell pepper fields can be as high as 200 nutsedge/m2. Bell pepper is limited to 2 preemergence herbicides and 1 postemergence herbicides that be used in the production field. The preemergence herbicides has poor control of purple nutsedge which is the predominate type of nutsedge in Florida.

 Establish the motivation for this project by presenting the importance and timeliness of the project. The phaseout of methyl bromide began in 2001 and then states could submit requests for Critical Use Exemptions (CUE) in crops that did not have adequate alternatives. The final CUE was issued for Florida bell pepper because of expectations for reduction and not because an alternative has been found. In a survey of tomato growers, nutsedge was the greatest pest problem resulting from the loss of methyl bromide in vegetable production.

 If the project built on a previously funded project with the SCBGP or SCBGP-FB describe how this project complimented and enhanced previously completed work. This project is not a continuation of a previous SCBGP project.

Project Approach  Briefly summarize activities performed and tasks performed during the grant period. Whenever possible, describe the work accomplished in both quantitative and qualitative terms. Include the significant results, accomplishments, conclusions and recommendations. Include favorable or unusual developments.

The plots were established in 2012 and were maintained in a similar manner in 2013. Over the time period, the nutsedge populations had increased by 65 to 80% compared to 2012. The difference may be the result of Sandea application preplant in 2012 to help with transplanting. In 2013, mowing was used instead. Previous research shows that leaving a field fallow for 10 weeks after the final cultivation increases nutsedge populations. In our fields, no herbicides or cultivation were used for 12 weeks during the production period and 13 weeks between the plastic removal in 2012 and initial cultivation in 2013. So the lack of weed control during the winter may have impacted the nutsedge populations in 2013. The use of 1,3-D and DMDS fumigation decreased the nutsedge populations in all fallow programs.

 Present the significant contributions and role of project partners in the project. Dr. Dittmar monitored the field plots in Citra and has been working with county Extension faculty to complete the survey of pepper growers. Dr. Vallad managed the field plots in Balm. Mr. Michael Miller is a graduate student. Mr. Miller collects the weed counts, plant heights, and leads the harvest crews at both locations. Mr. Miller graduated in December 2013 and wrote the manuscript submitted for publication.

Goals and Outcomes Achieved  Supply the activities that were completed in order to achieve the performance goals and measurable outcomes for the project. The plots were established in 2012 and were maintained in a similar manner in 2013. Over the time period, the nutsedge populations had increased by 65 to 80% compared to 2012. The difference may be the result of Sandea application preplant in 2012 to help with transplanting. In 2013, mowing was used instead. Previous research shows that leaving a field fallow for 10 weeks after the final cultivation increases nutsedge populations. In our fields, no herbicides or cultivation were used for 12 weeks during the production period and 13 weeks between the plastic removal in 2012 and initial cultivation in 2013. So the lack of weed control during the winter may have impacted the nutsedge populations in 2013. The use of 1,3-D and DMDS fumigation decreased the nutsedge populations in all fallow programs.

 If outcome measures were long term, summarize the progress that has been made towards achievement. The long term goal was the 2 and 3 input systems would reduce nutsedge populations and have an impact on the following years nutsedge population. However, nutsedge populations increased during this time period. This increases in nutsedge may have occurred due to the lack of weed control during the pepper crop and winter months.

 Provide a comparison of actual accomplishments with the goals established for the reporting period.

The nutsedge populations increased over the two years in all plots. Although there was an increase in all treatments, the fallow programs with 2 or three inputs during the fallow period had the lowest nutsedge populations. The use of 1,3-D and DMDS also decreased nutsedge populations and increased bell pepper yields.

Beneficiaries  Provide a description of the groups and other operations that benefited from the completion of this project’s accomplishments.

 The scope of the grant was for improved nutsedge in bell pepper. The inclusion of cultivation or glyphosate during the fallow period is used on 8532 acres of bell pepper. The data has been shared at various field days and commodity meetings. The practices outlined by the grant have been adopted by tomato, squash, cabbage, and strawberry growers. These growers have not be surveyed completely to know the exact number of acres or growers that have adopted the practices.

 The data were shared at the 2012 and 2013 AgExpo at the Gulf Coast REC, Balm, FL, which is attended by ~500 growers across multiple commodities. The data was shared at the Tomato Institute and included in the Florida Tomato Proceedings. Print outs of the field day handouts were given to growers during farm visits. The data were included in an EDIS publication on the UF EDIS website. The data were also published in Weed Technology, which is the peer reviewed journal for Weed Science.

The use of DMDS and 1,3-D to reduce nutsedge is important for all the vegetables grown in plasticulture. The research is most applicable to the Florida pepper industry. Vegetable crops grown on plasticulture with no postemergence herbicides will have similar weed control to pepper. Crops grown on plasticulture and have postemergence herbicides will use this information more readily because they will have better control with the inclusion of a postemergence herbicide during the crop season.

 Clearly state the quantitative data that concerns the beneficiaries affected by the project’s accomplishments and/or the potential economic impact of the project.

The benefit of glyphosate-cultivation-glyphosate during the fallow period will a benefit growers $150. The economic benefit of chloropicrin + 1,3 dichloropropene will be $120/A and the use of DMDS will be $378/A. Lessons Learned  Offer insights into the lessons learned by the project staff as a result of completing this project. This section is meant to illustrate the positive and negative results and conclusions for the project. Further investigation is needed to understand how fallow period weed management should be included in bell pepper and other vegetable crops.

 Provide unexpected outcomes or results that were an effect of implementing this project. We could not receive a list of growers from FFVA so we had to survey county faculty in large bell pepper production areas.

 If goals or outcome measures were not achieved, identify and share the lessons learned to help others expedite problem-solving. The reduction on nutsedge was not reached but the inclusion of a herbicide during the crop will be an advantage. Contact  Name the Contact Person for the Project Peter J. Dittmar [email protected]

Additional Information  Provide additional information available (i.e. publications, websites, photographs) that is not applicable to any of the prior sections. The results will be reported in an article that has been accepted by Weed Technology, a peer reviewed journal published by the Weed Science Society of America. An extension fact sheet has been developed and currently in review for publication on the UF/IFAS EDIS website.

Project (7): Improved Bacterial Spot Management for FL tomato production using bactericides & improved application strategies

Project Partners: Florida Specialty Crop Foundation

Project Summary The long-term goal of the described research is to improve bacterial spot management, by providing tomato growers effective alternatives to copper. Funds from this project were used to support the development of integrated strategies that incorporate non-copper bactericides with plant defense elicitors, and improve application strategies to limit disease development while minimizing bactericide resistance in Xanthomonas populations. Funds also supported research to characterize the diversity of Xanthomonas strains causing bacterial spot on tomato in Florida; information that is critical to breeding efforts, and is necessary to develop effective long-term control strategies, and is fundamental to determine strain origins.

Few diseases cause Florida tomato grower’s consistent seasonal losses like bacterial spot of tomato (BST). A previous study estimated that monetary losses attributed to BST at nearly $3,000 per an acre. Such losses are unsustainable, in the face of narrowing profit margins and increased competition from tomato imports. Management options are limited, and mostly center around frequent applications of copper mixed with the dithiocarbamate fungicide, mancozeb. Unfortunately, this reliance on copper has led to the spread and establishment of copper tolerant Xanthomonas strains throughout Florida. Efforts over past decades to improve copper efficacy through formulation improvements have done little to resolve the problem.

Some non-copper alternatives have shown promise, but commonly give inconsistent levels of control with little or no economic return. The most promising of the non-copper alternatives tested to date has been the compound acibenzolar-S-methyl, (ASM). ASM works indirectly against the pathogen by systemically activating plant defenses against the pathogen through a process called systemic acquired resistance (SAR). Although, the effectiveness of ASM against Xanthomonas spp. is well documented, growers have been reluctant to adopt this product due to associated yield reductions and the additional expense of using ASM compared to copper-based bactericides. However, recent studies found that weekly applications of ASM at lower rates addresses these concerns. Regardless, control with ASM alone is often not adequate, especially when weather conditions are conducive for rapid disease development (high rain, relative humidity and temperatures).

Several bactericidal compounds have demonstrated efficacy in field trials, including streptomycin sulfate, kasugamycin and quinoxyfen. Streptomycin sulfate is a well-known aminoglycoside antibiotic

that was widely used for bacterial spot in the 1950’s, but was restricted to transplant production due to the rapid development of resistant Xanthomonas euvesicatoria strains in Florida. A 2006 survey of 377 Xanthomonas strains from 20 tomato fields throughout Florida found that the BST population consisted of only X. perforans, of which only 20 strains were tolerant to streptomycin sulfate; whereas all strains were copper tolerant. This survey along with results from recent field trials, indicate that streptomycin sulfate could be used as a viable control option once more, as long as effective measures could be deployed to prevent the buildup of tolerant strains. The commercial bactericide Kasumin 2L, containing the aminoglycoside antibiotic kasugamycin, has also shown promise against BST, but insensitive strains were recovered during the trials and the extent of this resistance throughout Florida is unknown. Kasumin 2L registration is eventually expected, but restrictive labeling and lack of effective partners for resistance management may restrict its utility for bacterial spot control. Quintec, which contains the fungicide quinoxyfen, is a third promising product that was recently labeled for bacterial spot of pepper, with efforts to expand labeling on tomato. In tomato field trials, Quintec alone was 15 – 20% more effective at controlling bacterial spot than the grower standard copper treatment (G. Vallad, unpublished data). While the exact mode of activity for quinoxyfen is unknown, it is assumed to be antibacterial due to its structural similarity to quinolone antibiotics.

Efforts are underway to register products like Kasumin 2L and Quintec for field production. However, due to the antibacterial activity of these products, resistance management will be a big concern. Because of the wide-spread prevalence of copper tolerance among Xanthomonas on tomato, simply rotating or mixing these products with copper is unlikely to prevent the buildup of resistance. Our research efforts were focused on using an integrated approach of combining bactericidal products with plant defense activators, and other biological control agents to manage bactericide resistance and to improve overall control of bacterial spot. Although similar strategies are commonly employed to manage pesticide resistance among many fungal and insect pathogens, the lack of effective compounds has made this approach infeasible for managing bacterial pathogens.

The long-term goal of the work described herein is to provide growers effective alternatives to copper by developing integrated strategies that incorporate non-copper bactericides with plant defense elicitors, and improved application strategies that limit disease development and minimize bactericide resistance in the pathogen population. In order to develop rotational strategies, a state-wide survey of BST causing xanthomonads was conducted to ascertain baseline sensitivity to copper, streptomycin, kasugamycin, and quinoxyfen. This survey also presented an additional opportunity to assess the diversity of BST causing xanthomonads in Florida, information useful for tomato breeding programs and for identifying any novel strains.

Project Approach 1. Evaluate the integrated use of bactericides, ASM, and bacteriophage for the improved management of BST and bactericide resistance.

• Four field trials (spring 2012, fall 2012, spring 2013, and fall 2013) were performed to test BST management programs using the grower Cu-mancozeb standard of Cuprofix Ultra 40D (copper

sulfate; 2.5 lb/A) + Penncozeb 45DF (mancozeb;1.5 lb/A), Actigard (acibenzolar-S-methyl; 0.5 oz/A), or several other non-copper alternatives to include Firewall (streptomycin; 16 oz/A), Kasumin 2L (64 floz/A) or Quintec (6 floz/A), either alone or in two-way and three- way rotational programs. Each trial also included a non-treated control, and trials in 2013 also included the biopesticides Regalia and Actinovate. Disease was initiated by inoculating a single plant in the center of each plot with either a single copper-tolerant, streptomycin-sensitive strain of X. perforans in 2012; or with a mixture of 6 copper-tolerant X. perforans strains in 2013 that were collected in objective 3 (below), two of which were also streptomycin resistant. In both fall trials, natural outbreaks of bacterial speck also occurred. Each BST program was applied weekly throughout the season, plots rated for disease severity and harvested for yield. o The spring 2012 trial was not informative, since BST never reached appreciable levels even after multiple inoculation attempts due to a historically dry spring that stifled disease development until crop reached harvest maturity. o Overall, the standard Cu-mancozeb program had the lowest yields in all three trials. In fall 2012, yields in the Cu-mancozeb treatment were statistically less than the non- treated control. In addition, the incidence of fruit with symptoms of bacterial spot and speck were highest in the Cu-mancozeb program, consistent with foliar ratings (data not shown). The results from the three field trials not only demonstrate the ineffectiveness of Cu-mancozeb programs in the presence of copper-tolerant X. perforans strains, but also the ability of the Cu-mancozeb to compromise the efficacy of non-copper alternatives when included in a program. o Programs containing the relatively inexpensive antibiotic streptomycin appeared to give the best level of disease control and improved yields, except when efficacy was compromised by insensitive strains; like what occurred during the spring 2013 trial. It should be emphasized that streptomycin is not labeled for field use, but was included to test the efficacy of rotational programs with other products for resistance management. In fact, several of the three-way BST programs consisting of Actigard, Regalia, streptomycin, kasugamycin, and quinoxyfen performed well over all seasons even in the presence of streptomycin insensitive strains and either maintained or improved tomato yields. Unfortunately, these three-way BST programs are quite costly ranging from $388 to $625/A/season. o The best value for managing BST, based on current product availability, appeared to be Actigard alone ($114/A/season). Although the Actigard program did not statistically improve tomato yields compared to the non-treated control, it did significantly reduce the incidence of diseased fruit in both fall seasons, comparable to the streptomycin programs (data not shown). The performance of the Actigard program was in line with previous findings.

2. Evaluate the timing of bactericide applications and the adoption of chemigation on in-field spread of bacterial spot. • Four field trials (spring 2012, fall 2012, spring 2013, and fall 2013) were performed to evaluate foliar versus drip (chemigation) application strategies on in-field bacterial leaf spot development. Similar to experiments described in objective 1, the field trials were established

as a randomized complete block design, with 4 reps per a treatment; however, each plot was 50 ft in length. Treatments included two sets of non-treated plots, water-treated plots, and plots treated with a standard Cu-mancozeb [Kocide 3000 (copper hydroxide; 1.25 lb/A) + Penncozeb 45DF (mancozeb;1.5 lb/A)] program were included; one set of treatments was inoculated as described in objective 1 (2 center plants in each plot were inoculated), while the second set of treatments relied on inoculum spread from within the field trial. Actigard treatments (0.5 oz/A) were applied either as a standard foliar treatment every 7 days, or through the drip irrigation (chemigation) every 14 days. A second Actigard drip treatment that included a weekly foliar application of water as an additional control was included. All Actigard treatments were inoculated with BST. o Main treatments included: 1. Non-treated, non-inoculated control 2. Non-treated, BST-inoculated control 3. Water only, non-inoculated control 4. Water only, BST-inoculated control 5. Cu-mancozeb standard, non-inoculated 6. Cu-mancozeb standard, BST-inoculated 7. Actigard foliar treatment, BST-inoculated 8. Actigard drip, BST-inoculated 9. Actigard drip + foliar application of water, BST-inoculated o The spring 2012 trial was not informative, since BST never reached appreciable levels even after multiple inoculation attempts due to a historically dry spring that stifled disease development until the crop reached harvest maturity. o Findings from all three trials mirrored those from Objective 1, demonstrating the ineffectiveness of standard foliar applications of copper-mancozeb for managing bacterial leaf spot and overall efficacy of Actigard programs, but in larger plots that were designed to assess disease movement. Regardless if applied directly to foliage or by chemigation, Actigard treatments were effective. The addition of water to foliage in Actigard drip treatment had little bearing on disease development. o Unexpected challenges: Addressing the impact of foliar and chemigation application strategies on in-field disease movement was more difficult to assess, due to the inability to produce a fit, marked strain to follow movement during trials. Disease progressed quickest in Cu-mancozeb plots (regardless of initial inoculation treatment), with evidence of inter-plot spread to non-inoculated plots. Future trials to ascertain pathogen movement in the field will need to utilize a genetically marked X. perforans strain that could be monitored in the field and utilize even larger plots; or utilize a spray cabinet to follow bacterial strain movement on an individual plant scale. • An additional set of trials (spring and fall 2013) were conducted to evaluate whether the increase in BST associated with the Cu-mancozeb treatments observed in previous trials was

caused by physical wounding of leaves by abrasive dry flowable copper formulations. A soluble copper versus two dry flowable copper formulations with and without mancozeb were assessed for BST management. Trials were evaluating whether the increase in BST in prior trials were associated with physical injury to tomato leaves from the abrasive nature of dry flowable chemical formulations. copper formulations and mancozeb on bacterial spot development, Three copper formulations at 2 to 3 rates were evaluated including copper hydroxide (Kocide 3000, 0.75 and 1.75 lb/A), basic copper sulfate (Cuprofix 40D, 0.75 and 3 lb/A), copper sulfate pentahydrate (Phyton AG27 at 40, 75, and 320 fl oz/A). Each copper formulation and rate was assessed as a lone application or in a tank mixture with mancozeb (Penncozeb 75DF at 1.25 lb/A). The trial also included a mancozeb only control, in addition to a water-treated and non- treated control plots. o Some minor differences among copper formulations existed. However, in general, both trials regardless of formulation, rate, or the addition of mancozeb, the application of copper led to higher levels of disease over time compared to the non-treated, water- treated, or mancozeb-treated controls. This suggests that the increase in disease associated with copper is not linked to physical leaf damage from abrasive dry formulated copper compounds, but more likely a direct result of applying copper itself. Additional studies to assess epiphytic fitness of X. perforans strains on tomato leaves in the presence of absence of copper will be necessary to further address this conclusion.

3. Characterize the statewide diversity of Xanthomonas strains causing bacterial spot on tomato, and determine the level of resistance to bactericides, including streptomycin sulfate, kasugamycin, quinoxyfen, and copper sulfate.

• With the aid of growers, consultants, and county extension agents, nearly 225 tomato samples were collected throughout the state from field and transplant production facilities from 2011 to 2012. Disease lesions from leaves and fruit were surface sterilized, excised, homogenized, and plated onto a semi-selective medium to isolate xanthomonads or other bacteria. After processing and storing, 176 xanthomonas strains were collected of which 175 were confirmed to be pathogenic. Strains were tested for sensitivity to copper, streptomycin, kasugamycin (Kasumin 2L), and quinoxyfen. o The 176 Xanthomonas strains were collected from transplant and field locations throughout Florida were evaluated for pathogenicity, race, and sensitivity to copper, streptomycin, and Kasumin 2L (a commercial formulation containing 2.3% kasugamycin) using nutrient agar (NA) amended media. All strains were characterized as race 4 and grew on NA containing 200 ppm CuSO4, which is similar to a survey conducted in 2006 when a mixture of 77% race 4 to 323% race 3 existed. Of the 176 strains, 56 were insensitive to streptomycin at 200 ppm, and 135 and 18 strains were insensitive to Kasumin 2L applied at a rate equivalent to 25 and 50 ppm kasugamycin, respectively. None of the strains grew on media amended with Kasumin 2L at the 100 ppm kasugamycin equivalent rate. The fungicide quinoxyfen (active ingredient in Quintec) was also tested for bactericidal activity against a subset of 17 strains. No growth

inhibition was observed on NA amended with 200 and 400 ppm quinoxyfen; however, 16 strains exhibited a dramatic reduction in growth on media amended with both CuSO4 (200 ppm) and quinoxyfen (200 and 400 ppm). Additional plant assays are in progress to further address the mode of action of quinoxyfen. • Our initial strategy to gather preliminary genetic information on collected strains based on MLSA changed. We instead opted for high-throughput sequencing of 17 Xanthomonas strains from our collection, which will give us a level of genetic resolution that is unparalleled. The 17 strains were selected for whole genome sequencing based on traits of interest, such as aggressiveness on fruit, increased copper tolerance, and insensitivity to streptomycin and kasugamycin. One of the sequenced strains was determined to be an epiphytic Xanthomonas strain (non-pathogenic) and has been set aside for later analysis. o Comparison of six conserved housekeeping genes among strains revealed two distinct groups. The first group (Group 1) included 11 strains with identical housekeeping gene sequences to X. perforans type strain 91-118, while the second group of 5 strains (Group 2) had gapA and gyrB gene sequences identical to X. euvesicatoria type strain 85-10. The difference between these two groups further extended to the type III effector profiles. In addition to the 11 core type III effectors conserved among all BLS causing Xanthomonas species, Group 2 strains had a predicted XopQ effector identical to X. euvesicatoria 85-10. Likewise, a transposon insertion was detected in XopAF in Group 2 strains, whereas Group 1 strains had a frameshift in the predicted protein sequence. The discovery of identical sequences between X. euvesicatoria and the Group 2 X. perforans strains suggests that genetic exchange has occurred between the two species. This research demonstrates the power of microbial genomics to identify novel Xanthomonas strains; and in this case additional work is in progress to better understand the implications associated with the Grp 2 X. perforans strains, such as increased aggressiveness and expanded host range. These findings were also used for a proposed USDA-NIFA Global Food Security project that would allow us to characterize strains throughout the tomato production cycle (from seed to field) to ascertain epidemiological pathways by our ability to relate strains to certain geographical regions of the world.

4. Industry outreach. • In The Field – Popular Press (December 2013)

o Article - Study shows copper no longer effective for managing tomato bacterial diseases. • Florida Tomato Institute (Naples, FL):

o For the 2013 meeting, results regarding the characterization of the Xanthomonas strains collected from FL (objective 3) were presented, in addition to a 5-page report entitled “A recent survey of Xanthomonads causing bacterial spot of tomato in Florida provides insights into management strategies” was also published in the proceedings for the meeting.

o For the 2014 meeting in September, results pertaining to objective 1 will be presented in addition to some results from objective 2. A 6-page report entitled “Copper in a copper tolerant environment: Questioning the value of copper for managing bacterial spot and speck of tomato” was submitted for publication in the meeting proceedings. Presentation will include an economic breakdown of treatment costs. • Florida AgExpo (Balm, FL):

o For 2012, two tours of field trials pertaining to objectives 1 and 2 along with a discussion that included results from objective 3 were conducted. This field tour included the distribution of handouts explaining trials. Over 100 participants improved their knowledge about the management of bacterial spot, with demonstrations of the lack of control from copper-based bactericides and the advantages of adopting non- copper bactericides, including acibenzolar-S-methyl (Actigard). They also learned about research evaluating rotational strategies to pesticide resistance in xanthomonads.

o For 2013, findings from field trials pertaining to objective 1 were presented; in addition, two tours of field trials for objectives 1 and 2 along with a discussion that included results from objective 3 were conducted. This field tour included the distribution of 85 handouts with slides from the FL AgExpo presentation, and additional data sets that included an economic breakdown of treatment costs. Over 100 participants that included growers, extension faculty, and other clientel improved their knowledge about the management of bacterial spot, with large-scale field demonstrations of the lack of control from copper-based bactericides and the advantages of adopting non-copper bactericides, including acibenzolar-S-methyl (Actigard). They also learned about research evaluating rotational strategies to pesticide resistance in xanthomonads. . Oral presentation - To copper or not to copper? That is the question for managing bacterial diseases of tomato. . Poster presentation - A recent survey of Xanthomonads causing bacterial spot of tomato in Florida provides insights into management strategies. . In addition, we have challenged growers to test our results, regarding the ineffectiveness of copper, in their own production fields and have offered our services to establish these demonstration trials. • 28th Annual Florida Seedsman Seminary (Ft. Meyers Beach, FL)

o Oral presentation - Management of bacterial diseases of tomato and pepper: 2012 update. • Commercial crop advisors meetings:

o A presentation “Systemic acquired resistance for plant disease management” was made at a local meeting of commercial crop advisors (24 CCAs) in Sebring, FL in March, 2013. Twenty-four licensed CCAs were present and learned about copper alternatives, and preliminary findings from objectives 1 and 3. Additional handouts were provided to attendees.

o A presentation “Copper in a copper tolerant environment: Questioning the value of copper for managing bacterial spot and speck in Florida tomato production.” was made at a local meeting of commercial crop advisors (30 CCAs) in Sebring, FL in March, 2014. Thirty licensed CCAs were present and learned about copper alternatives, and findings

from objectives 1, 2 and 3, including an economic breakdown of treatment costs. Additional handouts were provided to attendees. • M.S. Thesis in Plant Pathology (U.FL. Gainesville):

o Sujan Timilsina, the graduate student who worked on this project, successfully completed and defended his thesis, and will continue working on additional aspects of this project for his Ph.D. In addition, Sujan is working on several manuscripts for submission. • Presentations at scientific meetings (often attended by industry personnel as well):

o Oral presentation (Southern Division of APS, Dallas, TX) - Genomic analysis of Xanthomonas perforans strains from tomato production areas in Florida reveals two distinct groups.

o Oral presentation (Southern Division of APS, Dallas, TX) - Copper in a copper tolerant environment: Questioning the value of copper for managing bacterial leaf spot and speck in Florida tomato production.

o Oral presentation (4th International Symposium on Tomato Diseases and the 28th U.S. Annual Tomato Disease Workshop , Orlando, FL) - Multilocus sequence analysis of Xanthomonas strains, causing bacterial leaf spot, from a worldwide collection.

o Poster presentation (APS, Austin, TX) - Xanthomonas perforans strains from Florida tomatoes exhibit widespread copper tolerance, changing race structure and sensitivity to other bactericides.

o Oral presentation (27th U.S. Annual Tomato Disease Workshop , Wooster, OH) - Soil applications of acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM) for managing bacterial spot of tomato. • We have challenged growers to test our results, regarding the ineffectiveness of copper, in their own production fields and have offered our services to establish these demonstration trials. • Three growers in Manatee County have started using Actigard as of spring 2014 over standard copper + mancozeb for bacterial spot and speck management (representing an estimated 1,500 Acres of commercial tomato production); per last discussion, growers are still hesitant to adopt Actigard program in the fall. Three additional growers in Manatee County (representing another estimated 1,500 Acres of commercial tomato production) have greatly reduced the use of standard copper + mancozeb for bacterial spot and speck management, citing the need for copper + mancozeb just prior and following harvesting periods to control potential post-harvest losses due to bacterial soft rot (caused by Erwinia spp.).

Goals and Outcomes Achieved • Per objective 1, we demonstrated that weekly applications of the Cu-mancozeb alone or in two- way programs with non-copper alternatives resulted in significantly higher AUDPC values, higher fruit incidence of BLS, and lower yields compared to comparable programs based on Actigard alone or in two-way programs with non-copper alternatives. Results not only demonstrated the ineffectiveness of copper programs in the presence of copper-tolerant X. perforans strains, but also the ability of copper to compromise the efficacy of non-copper alternatives when included in a program.

o Although effective, three-way BST programs using non-copper alternatives will unlikely be cost effective, as they ranged in price from $388 to $625/A/season; whereas the Actigard program alone only costs $114/A/season, which is comparable to the standard copper + mancozeb program currently used by growers. • Per objective 2, similar to objective 1, copper programs were ineffective for managing bacterial spot and typically increased disease severity. Subsequent trials determined that the increase in disease severity was not linked to dry formulations of copper or mancozeb. Furthermore, we determined that Actigard applied through the drip was as effective as standard foliar applications for managing bacterial spot on tomato. However, yield improvement was typically either similar or only marginally better than the non-treated and water-treated controls. o Programs applying Actigard by chemigation every two weeks could further reduce seasonal program costs to $57/A/season. • Per objective 3, we surveyed 175 pathogenic strains of Xanthomonas perforans collected in 2011-12 from tomato field and transplant production sites throughout Florida. We presented evidence of two distinct groups of X. perforans strains, with one group exhibiting genetic features in common with X. euvesicatoria suggesting a recent genetic exchange had occurred between the two species. Characterization of the strains revealed the prevalence of copper- tolerance among strains and an increasing frequency of streptomycin resistance compared to a prior survey in 2006-07; in addition, all strains were sensitive to Kasumin 2L, which contains the antibiotic kasugamycin. We further demonstrated that the fungicide Quintec that contains the active ingredient quinoxyfen had no direct bactericidal activity against X. perforans, but enhanced the activity of copper in in vitro assays towards a specific subset of copper-tolerant strains. o Efforts are still underway to register products like Kasumin 2L and Quintec for use in field production. o Findings from these in vitro studies suggested the possibility of developing rotational strategies to limit bacterial leaf spot of tomato (BST) and to limit the development of chemical resistant strains in objective 1. • Per objective 4, distributed information regarding research findings to the industry by means of written articles, reports, and handouts (7 separate works) distributed to at least 500 growers, extension faculty, and other industry stakeholders (a conservative estimate that doesn’t include the “In The Field” article). In addition, we conservatively estimate that this information was presented orally at stakeholder and professional meetings to at least 1,000 growers, extension faculty, and other industry stakeholders. These are conservative estimates based on meeting attendance and headcounts during presentations and field tours. The FL Ag Expo alone draws in 700 attendees each year, many who attend field tours but don’t necessarily take available handouts. In addition, Dr. Vallad has distributed supportive details and discussed findings with nearly 30 growers and several chemical representatives at the local and national level over the last 2 ½ year duration of the project and is working with the manufacturers of Kasumin 2L (Arysta) and Quintec (Dow) to get registration.

Beneficiaries The project directly benefitted the specialty crop industry of Florida, especially tomato growers; however, results are likely applicable to pepper growers as well. Tomato and pepper production have a value well over $600 million per year, but are under pressure to cut production costs to compete with imports from Mexico. Bacterial spot is a major disease issue that consistently cuts into profits throughout the production cycle (due to additional farm inputs for managing the disease, reduced yields due to the disease, and additional postharvest issues).

As mentioned above, we distributed information regarding research findings to the industry by means of written articles, reports, and handouts (7 separate works) directly to at least 500 growers, extension faculty, and other industry stakeholders (this is a conservative estimate that doesn’t include the “In The Field” article). In addition, we conservatively estimate that this information was presented orally at stakeholder and professional meetings to at least 1,000 growers, extension faculty, and other industry stakeholders. These are conservative estimates based on meeting attendance and headcounts during presentations and field tours. The FL Ag Expo alone draws in 700 attendees each year, many who attend field tours but don’t necessarily take available handouts. In addition, Dr. Vallad has distributed supportive details and discussed findings with nearly 30 growers in the area and with numerous chemical representatives at the local and national level who have visited Dr. Vallad in Florida over the duration of the project. Dr. Vallad is still working with the manufacturers of Kasumin 2L (Arysta) and Quintec (Dow) to get project registration, and is still working with growers to adopt findings from this project.

Lessons Learned No significant problems or delays were encountered during the course of this project, although some objectives were changed over the course of the research to test alternative hypotheses or modified to use improved methodologies (objectives 2 & 3, specifically).

We were surprised by the negative results we observed for bacterial spot and speck management using the standard copper-mancozeb program. Although we were not expecting significant disease control based on prior research, we did not expect that the copper-mancozeb program would make disease worse and even reduce yields.

Although Dr. Vallad has visited numerous growers and shared his research results with the industry at numerous venues, it has been difficult to convince growers to limit their use of copper. This is understandable, as the industry has relied on copper-based products for bacterial spot management for well over 50 years. That’s several generations of growers who have relied on copper during their careers, applying it 1 to 2 times per a week to their crops; it’s a staple pesticide of the industry. Dr. Vallad did consider including grower demonstration trials in this proposal. However, it would have precluded the use of the non-registered products that would require crop destruction; something growers are reluctant to do without adequate monetary compensation. Dr. Vallad will continue working to establish grower-scale trials to demonstrate the benefits of limiting copper and adopting non-copper programs, like Actigard. Just this spring, several growers disclosed to Dr. Vallad that they were either

reducing copper usage or applying Actigard. Dr. Vallad plans to work with these growers this fall to get additional documentation.

Contact Person Gary E Vallad Assistant Professor University of Florida/IFAS, Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, 14625 CR 672 Wimauma, FL (813)-633-4121 E-mail: [email protected]

60 Florida Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Project Final Performance Report

Note: Most sections of the final progress report relate directly to a corresponding section of the original project proposal or annual report. Please have these documents handy while writing the final report, so that you may refer to them where necessary. Some final report sections which relate to sections of other documents are:

Final Performance Report Section Corresponding Section of Proposal (P) or Annual Report (AR) Project Summary Project Purpose (P) Project Approach Work Plan (P), Activities Performed (AR) Goals and Outcomes Achieved Expected Measureable Outcomes (P) Beneficiaries Potential Impact (P) Lessons Learned Problems and Delays (AR)

Project Title

 Provide the project’s title. This must be the same title used in the approved proposal.

Project Partners

 List the primary organization implementing the project, as well as any partner organizations.

Project Summary

 Please refer to the “Project Purpose” section of your proposal when writing this section.  Provide a background for the initial purpose of the project, which includes the specific issue, problem, or need that was addressed by this project.  Describe the importance and timeliness of the project.  If the project built on a previously funded project with the SCBGP or SCBGP-FB describe how this project complemented and enhanced, but did not duplicate, previous work.

Project Approach

 Please refer to the “Work Plan” section of the proposal and the “Activities Performed” sections of your annual reports when writing this section.  Briefly summarize activities performed and tasks performed during the grant period. Whenever possible, describe the work accomplished in both quantitative and qualitative terms. Specifically, discuss the tasks provided in the “Work Plan” section of the proposal. Include the significant results, accomplishments, conclusions and recommendations. Include favorable or unusual developments.  If the overall scope of the project benefitted commodities other than specialty crops, indicate how project staff ensured that funds were used to solely enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops.  Present the significant contributions and role of project partners in the project.

Goals and Outcomes Achieved

 Please refer to the “Expected Measureable Outcomes” section of your proposal. List each expected measureable outcome from that section, and explain what progress you have made toward achieving each one.  If outcome measures were long term, summarize the progress that has been made towards achievement. Every expected measureable outcome listed in your original project proposal must be addressed in this section.  Provide a comparison of actual accomplishments with the goals established for the project.  Clearly convey completion of achieving outcomes by illustrating baseline data that has been gathered to date and showing the progress toward achieving set targets.  Highlight the major successes of the project in quantifiable terms.

Beneficiaries

 Please refer to the “Potential Impact” section of your proposal. Any beneficiary group mentioned in that section must be addressed here.  Provide a description of the groups and other operations that benefited from the completion of this project’s accomplishments. What specialty crop stakeholders benefitted from this project? How did they benefit, and how were they made aware of project results? How many of them are there?  Clearly state the quantitative data that concerns the beneficiaries affected by the project’s accomplishments and/or the potential economic impact of the project.

Lessons Learned

 Please refer to the “Work Plan” and “Expected Measureable Outcomes” sections of your proposal, as well as the “Problems and Delays” sections of your annual reports. Any problems and delays, any changes which had to be made to the work plan, and any project goals which could not be achieved must be addressed in this section.  Offer insights into the lessons learned by the project staff as a result of completing this project. This section is meant to illustrate the positive and negative results and conclusions for the project.  Describe unexpected outcomes or results that occurred as a result of implementing this project.  If goals or outcome measures were not achieved, identify and share the lessons learned to help others expedite problem-solving.  Lessons learned should draw upon positive experiences (i.e. good ideas that improve project efficiency or save money) and negative experiences (i.e. lessons learned about what did not go well and what needs to be changed).

Contact Person

 Name the Contact Person for the Project, including telephone number and email address.

Additional Information

 Provide additional information available (i.e. publications, websites, photographs) that is not applicable to any of the prior sections. Charts, graphs, photos, etc. should be attached as separate file(s) and referenced in the text of the report.

Project (9): Subtropical Peach Rootstock Evaluation and Characterization of Meloidogyne floridensis (Nematoda: Meloidogynidae) Resistance

Project Partners: University of Florida Project Summary This project was proposed to address the restriction of the Florida peach industry due to the availability of a sole rootstock, ‘Flordaguard’. The Florida peach industry continues to grow in acreage and size, and expansion is being restricted by the availability of our sole commercial rootstock, ‘Flordaguard’. ‘Flordaguard’ peach rootstock is resistant/tolerant to Meloidogyne floridensis (Mf), which is an endemic Florida root-knot nematode that affects peach trees. This project proposed to identify potential new rootstocks with resistance to Mf through a cooperation with USDA-ARS (Byron, GA) and Dr. Tom Beckman, the stone fruit scion and rootstock breeder. Purported resistant rootstocks were evaluated for their effect on scion growth and fruit production, and at least two viable rootstock candidates were identified. These rootstocks will either be distributed to nurseries for use in the Florida peach industry or used in future breeding efforts as a result of this study. Secondly, the genetic mechanism of nematode resistance/tolerance in ‘Flordaguard’ was examined with the goal of identifying genetic markers associated with this resistance/tolerance to aid future rootstock breeding efforts. Crosses were made with resistant and susceptible rootstock cultivars to verify the suspected inheritance of the resistance/tolerance and seedlings from these crosses were germinated and planted to conduct phenotyping and genotyping activities. However, it took multiple inoculations with an existing Mf population before discovering the population was avirulent on peach rootstocks, while generously infecting tomato roots. Thus, a new population of Mf had to be isolated from a central Florida peach orchard and is currently in the process of being bulked to have enough

Project Approach Component 1: Horticultural evaluations of potential rootstocks for resistance to M. floridensis.

A rootstock trial was planted at the UF-Plant Science Research and Education Unit (Citra, FL) during Spring 2012 to test the horticultural performance of two potential rootstocks, ‘MP-29’ and ‘P-22’ for Florida peach production against the industry standard, ‘Flordaguard.’ These rootstocks, developed by Dr. Tom Beckman at USDA-ARS (Byron, Georgia), have good resistance to root-knot nematodes.

The trial was laid out in a randomized complete block design with 10 replicates of six trees each and represented by rows in North to South orientation. The plot was fumigated with Telone II (1-3-dichloropropene) at a rate of 18 gal/acre prior to installation of microplots (pot-in-pot experiment; Figure 1), to eliminate weed, insect, and nematode populations. This soil was used in the microplots to install the rootstocks, which were later evaluated for growth characteristics in the presence of a pure M. floridensis isolate. ‘Okinawa’ peach and ‘Barton’ peach rootstocks were included as susceptible and resistant checks, respectively.

To evaluate tree vigor and fruit quality, a commercial fruit cultivar ‘UF Sun’ was budded on all rootstocks. ‘MP-29’ clonal and ‘Barton’ seedling rootstocks were field-budded in 2012 while ‘P- 22’ clonal, ‘Okinawa’ seedling, and ‘Flordaguard’ seedling rootstocks were budded a year prior to field-transplanting in 2012. Scion growth was monitored one year after budding and fruits were harvested in the second season after establishment. Tree growth was determined by plant height, trunk circumference, canopy diameter, and pruning weight during the first growing season. The trunk circumference of the scion was positively correlated (Table 1) with the other parameters and therefore, is a useful index for estimating tree growth. Accordingly, only trunk circumference and pruning weights were taken during the second year. The trunk cross-sectional area (TCSA) was computed from trunk circumference to find out the effect of rootstock TCSA on bearing peach trees during the second year of establishment.

Component 2: Characterization of resistance and/or tolerance mechanism in existing resistant sources of plant materials.

To analyze the genetic bases of resistance, various segregating populations were generated and SSR markers were first screened for polymorphism between parents of the crosses. Pollinations were conducted in spring of 2012 and again in spring of 2013 and 2014 to generate additional progenies for linkage mapping.

Resistant (‘Flordaguard’ and P. kansuensis) and susceptible (‘Okinawa,’ ‘UF Sharp,’ and ‘Tardy Nonpareil’) rootstock genotypes from various locations were selected as parents for the crosses to generate segregating populations (Table 2). The F2 population was derived from selfing the ‘Okinawa’ x P. kansuensis hybrids and BC1F1 populations were obtained from backcrosses with ‘Flordaguard,’ ‘Okinawa,’ and ‘UF Sharp.’ After approximately 5 months, seeds were extracted from the pit, air-dried, and stored at 5-8°C until the collections were completed. The germinated seeds were planted onto seedling trays with vermiculite as substrate for root establishment. After 2 months, individual plants were planted onto 4.5” x 4.5” square polythene pots containing 1:1 sand-vermiculite mix. Three-month-old seedlings were evaluated for resistance to M. floridensis in the growth rooms where temperatures were maintained at 78°F to ensure nematode infectivity.

Leaf samples from various progenies were also collected for DNA extraction and subsequent genotyping analyses. The parental materials were screened for polymorphism using a set of 30 SSR markers, which were selected based on their position on the Prunus (interspecific almond ‘Texas’ x peach ‘Early gold’) reference map available from GDR (Genomic Database for

Rosaceae; http://www.bioinfo.wsu.edu/gdr/). The SSR marker set comprised of 3-5 markers per chromosome spaced about 20cM apart in each of the eight linkage groups. Goals and Outcomes Achieved Goal 1: Identify potential rootstocks with resistance to M. floridensis for the Florida stone fruit industry

Tree growth for the two consecutive growing seasons (2013 and 2014) were assessed by measuring the trunk circumference above and below the graft union (Figure 2), calculating the relative growth rates of both scion and rootstock (Figure 3), taking pruning weights (in March 2013, January 2014, and June 2014, Figure 4), and calculating yield efficiency per trunk cross- sectional area in the second growing season (Table 3).

During the two growing seasons, stem circumferences were significantly greater in ‘Okinawa’ and ‘P-22’ rootstocks. Budding in the nursery one year prior to field transplanting gave them the size advantage. However, ‘Flordaguard’ did not show a comparable increase in stem circumference for both scion and rootstock. The relative growth rates of the scion were generally higher on field-budded ‘Barton’ and ‘MP-29’ rootstocks than those budded the previous year.

The trees on ‘Okinawa,’ ‘P-22,’ and ‘Flordaguard’ rootstocks were pruned to an open-vase system in 2013 while ‘Barton’ and ‘MP-29’ were pruned after bud establishment (2014). In the initial years of orchard establishment, ‘Barton’ showed significant promise in terms of vigor (pruning weight, trunk relative growth rate, and tree size). One-year-old trees of ‘UF Sun’ propagated on ‘Barton’ rootstock were of comparable size to two-year-old trees propagated on ‘Okinawa’ and ‘P-22’ rootstocks. Tree differences in the initial two years may not be due to inherent variation but rather to tree establishment. These may become more uniform as they grow older. However, tree size did not have a significant impact on yield efficiency and fruit size. In terms of yield efficiency, ‘MP-29’ produced trees with a yield efficiency and fruit size compared to other tested rootstocks despite the smaller tree size; such a low-vigor rootstock will be useful for high-density planting systems.

Taken altogether, the two new clonal rootstocks ‘MP-29’ and ‘P-22’ showed to be promising alternatives to ‘Flordaguard.’ However, because the resistance or tolerance to M. floridensis has yet to be confirmed, ‘P-22’ has not yet been released to nurseries. With ‘MP-29’, there has been an increase in nurseries producing trees on this rootstock (currently five), which meets our goal of increasing availability of this rootstock to Florida peach growers by 50%.

Goal 2: Understand the genetic nature of resistance to Mf in ‘Flordaguard’ peach

Extraction of DNA using the CTAB method was done for ~500 individual genotypes. The isolated DNA was estimated for quality and quantity before conducting PCR. The 30 selected SSR markers (primer combinations) were first screened first screened for variation between the parents to identify polymorphic SSRs that could be used to screen for segregation in the mapping populations. Among the 30 SSR markers, 16 produced clear amplification patterns in the parental materials and were informative for most of the crosses (Table 4). Only 5 out of 16 informative markers could be easily scored (or could easily differentiate among loci) while

the rest had to be submitted to the genotyping facility for accurate sizing via capillary electrophoresis. Meanwhile, the mapping populations were inoculated with M. floridensis to obtain susceptibility/resistance data. However, the nematode isolate used for phenotyping was found to be avirulent on the Prunus materials, suggesting that the nematode isolate is critical in evaluating mapping populations for nematode resistance. A pure Mf isolate (as confirmed via esterase-malate dehydrogenase isoenzyme analyses) was established to be able to conduct future phenotypic resistance assays.

Beneficiaries The beneficiaries of this project were the current growers in the industry, approximately 60 growers as of June, 2014 and nurseries that will propagate selected rootstocks, such as MP-29 (released) and P-22 (not yet released by USDA-ARS) for use in the Florida peach industry.

The following presentations were made to disseminate this information: Maquilan, M.A. 2014. Getting to the Root of ‘Flordaguard’ Rootstock Resistance: Rootstock Alternatives and Current Efforts. UF Stone Fruit Field Day, Citra, FL. 22 April 2014. 100 attendees.

Maquilan, M.A., M.A. Olmstead, J.X. Chaparro, D.W. Dickson, T.G. Beckman. 2014. Horticultural Evaluation of New Rootstocks with Potential Resistance to the Peach Root-Knot Nematode. American Society for Horticultural Science Annual Meeting, Orlando, FL. 31 July 2014. Lessons Learned

The Mf isolate that was available for our experiments, and which was provided by the Florida Department of Agriculture Services, Division of Plant Industry, did not have any association with peach and did not show any galling symptoms on our seedling crosses 120 days after inoculation, even on the susceptible check 'Okinawa.' This in contrast to our simple expectation that any Mf isolate would be infective on peaches. It seems that the parasitic behavior of Mf on peaches is isolate-specific, reflecting complex genetic interactions between the host and pathogen. Thus, future studies should include Mf isolates from peach roots and such a population has been isolated to continue this research and phenotype seedling populations.

Secondly, it was difficult to get trees of the same caliper from different sources, and it led to differences in tree size that had to be evaluated on a relative growth rate basis, rather than absolute measurements. In the future, trees will be sourced from a single nursery and material will be provided for propagation and budding.

Contact Dr. Mercy Olmstead 352-273-4772 [email protected]

Project (10): Development of an Integrated System to Reduce Harvest Costs, and to Rinse, Sanitize and Cool Fresh-Market Strawberries and Vegetable Crops

Project Partners: University of Florida Project Summary Project Background (based on original proposal). Tomato, bell pepper, strawberry, squash, muskmelons, cucumbers, and cabbage were planted on approximately 95,000 acres in Florida and represented more than $1.5 billion in gross sales in 2010 (U.S. Department of Agriculture, 2011). Florida is the major winter producer of fresh-market strawberries in North America, generating $362 million in farm-level sales in the 2009-2010 growing season from some 8,800 acres. Due to perishability these crops require careful handling and rapid cooling (precooling) after harvest to minimize postharvest losses. Although the current harvest and handling system allows our grower/shippers to market over a wide geographical area, they are increasingly constrained by three challenges to our competitiveness.

1) All of these crops are hand harvested and most of the labor force is migrant workers from Mexico and Central America. However, current concerns on homeland security and immigration control have led to more stringent requirements to regulate illegal entry into the U.S., which in turn has reduced the availability of workers to plant, maintain, and harvest these crops. These concerns have been extensively expressed by agriculture industry leaders over the last few years. 2) To minimize handling, strawberries are field-packed directly into the retail package (clamshells) in flats that are palletized and later forced-air cooled prior to shipping. This cooling method can contribute to postharvest losses in quality, due to delays from harvest, non-uniform cooling and inability to pack multiple fruit grades and sizes. 3) There is increased governmental pressure for more in-depth GAP/BMP programs to address strawberry and vegetable crop sanitation.

Therefore, production practices and methods that reduce labor use and/or increase labor efficiency are highly desirable to improve the sustainability of vegetable and strawberry production in Florida. This research/extension project is designed to evaluate innovative harvest and handling technologies that could allow our growers to increase their competitiveness by reducing harvest labor and postharvest losses, and by increasing product value by sanitizing and grading. Over a 2-year period, our multidisciplinary team will address the above issues by testing the feasibility of:

· the use of harvest aids to increase the efficiency of harvest labor and reduce harvest losses for strawberry and key vegetable crops · the use of hydrocooling to cool strawberries five times faster than air with the promise to extend the shelf-life of fresh strawberries, enhance food safety and allow value-added sorting. Our preliminary research has demonstrated that, counter intuitively, wetting strawberries after harvest is not detrimental to quality - but rather has the potential to improve quality as long as the hydrocooling water is cold and contains a sanitizer. This project was the developed based on positive results from previous, preliminary research; however it was not based on a SCBGP-funded project. Project Approach This project was a collaboration between researchers and extension specialists at the University of Florida/IFAS, the Florida Strawberry Growers Association, a major Florida strawberry grower/shipper, a Florida-based company that designs/fabricates handling and cooling systems for fresh produce and a harvest equipment manufacturer. All experiments were replicated and conducted according to accepted laboratory procedures and representative of commercial practices.

Relevant images and a table are included in the companion file to this Report.

Component 1: Reducing labor needs and increasing labor efficiency through the use of harvest-aid machinery for vegetable crops and strawberry. (Dr. Bielinski Santos, Dr. Sam Hutton, Dr. Steve Sargent)

Bell Pepper Harvest-Aid Studies (Dr. Santos)

1) Conducted a 1.5-acre study comparing four harvests of bell pepper: manual harvest versus manual plus use of harvest-aid equipment (Kennco, Ruskin, FL) at the Gulf Coast REC, IFAS, UF (October to December 2012).

2) There was no significant treatment effect on the total fruit weight, averaging 11.6 tons/acre across harvesting methods. This indicated that fields had uniform fruit distribuand that the harvesting procedures did not increase fruit weight. However, there was a significant effect of the harvesting methods on the labor efficiency. In each of the four harvests, hand-harvesting required longer times in comparison to plots where the harvesting-aid machine was used. An average of 38% more time was needed to collect peppers by hand than with the assistance of the equipment. If 1 acre of pepper were to be harvested, it would take 4 hours for hand-harvesting, whereas only 2.87 hours would be needed when using the harvesting-aid machine.

Compact Growth Habit Tomato Studies (Drs. Hutton and Santos)

1) Nitrogen rate/ plant density study

a) Received and planted five prototype short tomato cultivars in the field from Dr. Hutton's program for a study on early nitrogen rates and planting densities. b) Evaluated five prototype short tomato cultivars in the field under different initial nitrogen rates.

i) Results showed that the advanced lines `1147041' and `8607' had the highest marketable fruit yields (averaging 25 ton/acre), regardless of initial nitrogen (N) rates. Also, an initial N rate of 0.5 lb/acre

of N during the first 5 weeks after transplanting was as effective as 1.5 lb/acre of the nutrient for appropriate pant growth and yields.

c) Set up a second nutritional trial for compact-growth tomato cultivars in early September 2012.

d) Conducted the second trail of the initial nitrogen rate study for compact-growth tomato cultivars (October to November, 2012).

e) Set up a 0.2-acre study area for spring season (2013) for four compact-growth tomato breeding lines, where three nitrogen rates and in-row distances were to be studied the Gulf Coast REC, IFAS, UF. [Discontinued this study since transplants had poor field establishment, likely due high temperatures.]

2) Evaluation of early CGH lines

a) Prepared land (early August 2012) and planted 0.4 acres of advanced and early generation compact-growth tomato breeding lines (early September, 2012) at the Gulf Coast REC, IFAS/UF. Materials will be evaluated and advanced on the basis of plant architecture, yield, fruit size and fruit quality and may be useful in the development a compact-growth tomato variety suitable for commercial production. b) Contacted a second manufacturer of harvesting equipment (BEI Intl., South Haven, MI) and conducted preliminary staked tomato harvests using a self-powered harvesting machine prototype at the at the Gulf Coast REC, IFAS, UF (November, 2012). c) Replanted a 0.2-acre study for fall season (2013) with four compact-growth tomato breeding lines and one commercial check cultivar (`Florida-47') at Gulf Coast REC, IFAS, UF. Managed and harvested these tests. d) Analyzed data for the compact growth habit (CGH) tomato trial conducted in Fall 2013. The trial evaluated performance of four prototype CGH breeding lines. One commercial check cultivar (`Florida 47') was included for comparison. Tomatoes were transplanted to the field on Sept. 20th, and once-over harvest of all plots was done on Dec. 27th. i) `Florida 47' (FL47) had among the lowest total marketable yields (666 boxes per acre), which was not unexpected considering it does not have concentrated fruit set, yet it was subjected to a once- over harvest. ii) Fla. 8834 had the lowest marketable yield (453 boxes/A) and very low extra-large fruit (47 boxes/A), and performance here was similar to previous trials. Although this line has some favorable characteristics including good plant architecture, its low yields and small fruit size will preclude its use as a prototype CGH cultivar.

iii) Fla. 8915 had extra-large and total marketable yields similar to FL47; previous trials showed similar performance, and this line will likely not be the best option for a prototype CGH cultivar. iv) Performance of Fla. 8916B was poorer than in previous trials. Total marketable and extra-large yields were numerically greater but not significantly different than those of FL47. v) The most recently developed CGH breeding line, Fla. 8924, performed best of all materials

evaluated. It yielded 60% more extra-large fruit (444 boxes/A) and 50% more total marketable fruit (1010 boxes/A) than FL47. Based on results of this trial, Fla. 8924 shows the greatest potential for a prototype CGH cultivar.

Grape Tomato Mechanical Harvest Studies (Drs. Santos, Hutton and Sargent)

1) Set up a 0.2-acre study for spring season (2013) mechanical harvesting of three grape tomato cultivars using commercial harvesting equipment (BEI Intl., South Haven, MI) at the Gulf Coast REC, IFAS, UF. Harvested each cultivar five times. Data was collected and analyzed.

2) Planted a 0.2-acre study for fall season (2013) using a mechanical harvesting machine (BEI Intl., South Haven, MI) for one grape tomato cultivar and one round tomato cultivar at the Gulf Coast REC, IFAS, UF. Managed and harvested this study.

3) Collaborated with Tomato Thyme farms to plant 0.2 acres of `Sweetheart” grape tomatoes at their Sarasota location in Spring 2014. Mechanical harvest machine (BEI Intl., South Haven, MI) vs. hand harvest were evaluated during a five-harvest study. This study deviated from the previous studies for the following: a) for the Fall 2013 studies the mechanical harvester was optimized by removing the top-most fingers from the picking apparatus, whereas in this study, all the fingers remained attached.

b) for the Spring 2014 studies only total yield and cull data were collected, whereas in this study data were collected for 6 grades of ripeness and culls. Grades of ripeness included red, red/orange, orange, orange/green, green/orange and green (see image in attached file). Additionally, data were collected on yield for each grade of ripeness and culls for five conditions: tomatoes harvested by machine, tomatoes on the ground after machine harvest, tomatoes remaining on the vine after machine harvest, tomatoes hand harvested, and tomatoes on the ground after hand harvest. The last harvest was made on June 26, 2014.

c) Field data results from the last harvest were:

i) Data was collected for grape tomatoes at six maturity stages (green, green/orange, orange/green, orange, red/orange, and red) harvested by hand and machine, as well as fruit on the ground after harvest, and fruit remaining on the plant after machine harvest. Results are an average of treatment plots (n=3); each plot was 100 feet in length.

i) Hand harvest was more gentle and selective on grape tomatoes that were harvested. There were 64% marketable fruit, compared to 36% for those that were machine harvested. (see table in attached file) ii) Machine harvest resulted in higher amounts of green grape tomato fruit being harvested, while hand harvest had higher amounts of green/orange, orange/green, orange, and red/orange fruit. The amount of red fruit was similar for hand and machine harvest. iii) Machine harvest resulted in higher ground drop for red/orange and red fruit, while hand harvest had higher ground drop for green, green/orange, orange/green, and orange fruit.

iv) Grape tomato fruit that remained on the plant after machine harvest was highest for red/orange (30%) and red (26%) maturity stages. v) The amount of cull fruit was lowest (5%) for hand harvest and highest for machine harvest (34%) and those dropped on the ground (37%). a) Storage results from the last harvest were:

i) Tomato subsamples, harvested by hand or mechanically at orange and red maturity stages, were placed in clamshells (1 lb), held for 4 days at 15 °C then transferred to 20° for 2 d. After 4 and 6 d, tomatoes from each treatment plot (n=3) were evaluated for appearance, softening, shrivel, and decay. Overall appearance was rated hedonically using the following scale: 1=very poor, 2=poor, 3=fair (limit of marketability), 4=good, and 5=very good (field fresh). A subsample (20 fruit) was individually rated tactilely as firm or soft and incidence of shrivel and decay was recorded. Firmness was measured on the same 20 fruit using a Firmtech II (BioWorks, Wamego, KS). After each evaluation day samples were frozen (-30° C) for soluble solids content, total titratable acidity, and pH. Results are reported as an average of treatment plots. ii) Tomato appearance was consistently rated 5 for both maturity stages and harvest types at the 4- and 6-d evaluations. After 4 d at 15 °C there was no softening, shrivel or decay. After 4 d at 15 °C plus 2 d at 20 °C there was no shrivel or decay, however fruit softening was 0% (hand-harvested orange) and 13% (hand-harvested red), 8% (mech-harvested orange) and 10% (mech-harvested red). Tomato firmness measured with the Biotech II ranged from 257 to 276 g-f/mm for these treatments.

Component 2: Identify the components and sequences of operations for a prototype, integrated system that will allow strawberries to be carefully handled from harvest through sorting, grading, rinsing, cooling, packing and shipping. (Dr. Steve Sargent, Dr. Jeff Brecht, Adrian Berry, M.S., Senior Biological Scientist; Dr. Marcelo Carnelossi, Visiting Scientist; Vanessa Caron, Doctoral Intern; Drew Sciavonne, Lab Assistant)

2012 Harvest Container Style Evaluations

A preliminary test was conducted in February. Strawberries were commercially harvested in early morning into three distinct container types: 8 rigid clamshells in commercial, corrugated cartons (flats), 9 clamshells in returnable plastic containers (RPC) and fruit loosely packed in RPC. The fruit were subsequently transported to a central facility by a commercial vehicle and then evaluated in terms of freshness, decay severity and weight change. Results. Strawberries packed into clamshells lost 2.29% and 2.47% of the initial weight during the 3 day storage period for corrugated fiberboard and RPC, respectively. However, fruit packed loosely in RPC lost 2.60% of the initial weight during this same storage period. Results also indicated that clamshells offer some protection from mechanical injuries, particularly with berries located at lower layers within each flat. While the rigidity of the RPC seems to afford improved protection to the bottom layer of berries, corrugated fiberboard resulted in the greatest increase in decay severity at the bottom layer. Data also indicated that berries packed loosely in a flat and located at interior positions are exposed to additional stresses resulting in an increase in mechanical injury. In contrast, the rigid perimeter of each flat afforded additional protection from stresses, particularly in the corner position. There was a slight increase in decay severity for those 79

berries packed loosely in RPC as compared to the other packing methods tested. This increase in decay severity is a result of increased movement and subsequent contact between other berries and the RPC itself. Therefore, the use of clamshells offers some protection from these potentially damaging mechanical impacts. a) Hydrocooling tests were conducted utilizing two clamshell configurations, the traditional style with a flat bottom and an alternate style in which the bottom was raised upward. Our hypothesis was that the curved bottom would drain more readily and keep the strawberries out of the water during storage. Tests completed during the 4th Quarter indicated that both clamshell styles performed similarly for cooling rate and ability to allow water drainage. However, during storage for 5 days (1oC + 5 days at 5oC plus 1 day at 20oC (34-36oF; 41oF; 68oF), fruit stored in the raised bottom container had significantly more bruising than those cooled and stored in the flat bottom clamshell.

Cooling Method Evaluations

a) Strawberries were commercially harvested in early morning into clamshells and placed into corrugated flats. The fruit were subsequently transported to a central cooling facility by commercial vehicle and 7/8-cooled the same day by either forced-air or by immersion hydrocooling. Flats were forced-air-cooled with commercial cooling tunnels and required about 1 hour to reach 2 to 3 oC (36-38 oF), whereas individual clamshells were immersed in an ice water bath with chlorine (200 ppm) and required 15 minutes. Hydrocooled clamshells were allowed to briefly drain following the immersion treatment, then were placed into RPC flats (9/flat). Fruit from both treatments were then stored on separate pallets for 14 days in commercial storage at 1 °C. Freshness was generally lower with fruit located in the perimeter positions of the pallet regardless of the cooling method. Clamshells located on the sidewall of a pallet, with at least one side exposed to the storage air, had increased rejection after 7+1 days. These results agree with the evaluation of freshness for whole clamshells as internally located berries were more protected from the storage air. However, this trend was reversed in the evaluation conducted at 14+1 days. At this last evaluation following one day at 20 °C (68 oF) to simulate time in a display case, less fruit was rejected from the perimeter positions because of drying; moisture was higher toward the center of each pallet, and by maintaining direct contact with water, the quality of moist berries began to rapidly decline, particularly with the hydrocooled fruit.

b) Fruit located on the top layer of each pallet was also found to have diminished freshness compared to the lower layers by at least 3.9% and 4.6% for forced-air and hydrocooling, respectively. However, no significant differences in freshness between layers was observed for fruit evaluated on day 14+2 as the overall fruit quality was extremely poor for both cooling treatments. Similarly, rejected fruit below the level of marketability was found to be at least 5.0% and 16.3% greater at the top layer of the pallet for forced-air and hydrocooling, respectively. In both cooling treatments, clamshells at lower layers within the pallet were protected from the cool air of the storage environment and thus had less rejection. The overall percentage of rejected fruit was also found to be higher in the forced-air treatment as shown in Table 8. On both days of evaluation, 7+1 and 14+1, the forced-air treatment exhibited a higher percentage of fruit below the limit of marketability. Thus, hydrocooling resulted in fewer rejections of strawberry fruit. c) The average firmness (bioyield force) was significantly greater in the hydrocooled fruit. In fact, the hydrocooled fruit exhibited a 12.0% and a 30.1% increase in firmness on days 7 and 14, respectively, 80

when compared to fruit that were forced-air cooled. Soluble solids content averaged 5.67% and 5.37% for forced-air and hydrocooling treatments respectively. Thus, hydrocooling was found to have minimal to no effect on the fruit quality during cold storage in terms of chemical analyses. 2013

a) The cooling rate of “Strawberry Festival” with forced-air cooling was studied using two clamshells (4-lb each) or 4 clamshells (2-lb each) per flat. Independent of clamshell size strawberries located in front of the flat cooled faster than strawberries located in the rear of the flat. Thus the total cooling time must be based on the slowest cooling time (the strawberries located in the rear of the flat). b) Two subsequent tests were conducted utilizing two clamshell configurations and hydrocooling. Fruits were either hydrocooled or forced-air cooled in raised-bottom or flat-bottom clamshell containers then stored. Although strawberry quality (freshness, bruising and calix turgidity) not was affected by the cooling method or clamshell type initially, some differences occurred during storage, notably firmness, anthocyanin content, pH and soluble solids content. c) Two other experiments were conducted in March with the goal of determining the influence of the cooling method (forced-air or hydrocooling) on fruit quality, total sugars, acidity, firmness and volatiles of the strawberries after cooling and storage for 7 days at 1oC plus 7 days at 5oC plus 1 day at 20 oC, simulating commercial handling temperatures. Results showed that there were no differences in total sugars (TS) due to cooling method (341 ug/mL); however, fruit from the second harvest had higher TS, with a mean of 520 ug/mL. Following 7 days storage at 1oC, fruit that were forced-air cooled were slightly more acidic than those that were hydrocooled; after transfer to 5 oC for an additional 7 days, there were no treatment differences.

d) Two cooling tests were conducted with late season `Albany' strawberry and fruit were stored for 7 days at 1 oC or 14 days at 5 oC. Forced-air cooled fruit had slightly higher total sugar content and citric acid content than hydrocooled fruit after all storage periods for both harvests. Results from previous tests conducted in Quarters 1 and 2 are being analyzed and written up into publication format. e) A 6-month, no-cost extension was requested and obtained to permit conducting experiments during a second complete season. Final design plans were made in conjunction with our industry partners and was construction begun in November on the strawberry hydrocooler that will have capacity to hydrocool up to 24 plastic returnable containers at a time. A site visit was made to the cooling facility in Zolfo Springs where side-by-side cooling tests would be conducted beginning in early 2014 (hydrocooling vs. forced-air cooling).

2014 a) During the final 6 months of this project fabrication and installation of a commercial-scale hydrocooler (1,500 gallon capacity) was completed in time to conduct three major cooling tests that compared hydrocooling with 150 ppm chlorine to commercial forced-air cooling (5 pallets/side). (see images in attached file) Hydrocooled fruit achieved 7/8 cooling (commercial standard) in 9 to 15 minutes, whereas forced-air fruit required 48 to 56 minutes (outside of pallet tunnel) and 73 to 85+

minutes (inside of pallet tunnel). During 15 days subsequent storage at 1 oC, there were no significant differences in overall quality, calyx appearance, soluble solids content, total titratable acidity, pH or anthocyanin content due to cooling method. However, forced-air cooled fruit had higher incidence of decay than hydrocooled fruit in tests 2 and 3. These tests were made using fruit harvested at the end of the growing season; therefore fruit had higher initial incidences of decay coming in from the field. This is due to warmer ambient temperatures and higher rainfall, both of which contribute to higher native pathogen levels in the field. b) Evaluations of strawberries were made by quality control personnel for two major supermarket chains and an inspection by State/Federal inspector following 7 days storage. One supermarket concluded that the hydrocooled fruit were firmer and appeared fresher than forced-air fruit; the other didn't like the appearance due to the presence of free moisture in the clamshell. The inspector determined that quality of strawberries from both cooling methods was acceptable; hydrocooled fruits were noted to have been firmer with fresher appearance. c) Since the Florida strawberry season extended until mid-April, results from these tests were not available for presentation to shareholders and Florida growers. Therefore, extension outreach programs will be presented at major grower meeting that are scheduled for the second half of 2014. (see below under Presentations) d) Upon completion of these tests the hydrocooler and chiller unit were retrofitted to a tandem- axle trailer in order to allow transport to extension demonstrations scheduled for the second half of 2014 (see below). This unit will also be adapted for use in an upcoming Specialty Crops Block Grant to study hydrocooling of blueberries and peaches grown in Florida.

Component 3: Determine the efficacy of hydrocooling to sanitize strawberries by reducing postharvest decay (Dr. Jerry Bartz, Debbie Spiceland, Biological Scientist) and populations of potential human pathogens (Dr. Keith Schneider, Dr. Aswathy Sreedharan, Postdoctoral research associate).

Postharvest Decay and Infiltration Studies (Dr. J. Bartz):

The condition/decay of forced-air (FA) versus hydrocooled (HC) fruit were compared with two different storage regimes totaling 12 days. At the end of the experiment fruit were rated for condition/decay by Horsfall Barratt ratings (up to 20 fruit per replicated container). Overall means were FA=4.75 and HC=4.57, not significantly different. Difference between storage regimes, however, was significant (P≤0.0450) and there was no interaction. The storage regimes were 7 days at 0.5 oC, 1 day at 20 oC followed by 4 days at 4 oC (12 days total) versus 12 days at 4 oC. Means were 4.40 for the first regime, versus 4.89 for the second. So, despite a one day warming to 20 oC, fruit in the 0.5 storage treatment had fewer decay/defects as compared to those continuously stored at 4 oC. Three studies were made comparing strawberries that were either forced-air cooled or hydrocooled to 4oC prior to storage. Decay incidences for the three respective tests were: forced-air cooling = 52.5%, 45.6% and 41 % versus hydrocooling = 52.4%, 53.6% and 53%; none of the individual comparisons were statistically different at P≤ 0.05. Microbial load on fruit was significantly reduced by the washing effect of hydrocooling. In one test, forced-air cooled fruit had nearly 2.5 times more bacteria and yeast counts than did comparable hydrocooled fruit (at P≤0.0001). Similarly, forced-air cooled fruit had significantly more fungal contamination than did hydrocooled fruit. Fruit cooled with chlorinated water developed 91

less decay in previous tests, but at 200 ppm chlorine concentration, there was evidence of damage to fruit sheen and the calyx.

Internalization of bacteria and fungi in strawberry fruit during hydrocooling was evaluated. Other fruit are known to increase in weight (absorb water) during this process. Warm fruit were cooled in a dye solution (aniline blue). After being cooled, fruit were cut open to find if dye penetrated into the flesh and if there was a preferential absorption site. The dye was observed in what appeared to be vascular strands in about half of the treated fruit (see images in attached file). There was no evidence of a mass flow of dye into the fruit either around achenes or the calyx. However, when fruit were cooled in a similarly prepared suspension of India ink, there was no evidence of penetration. India ink, which is a stable suspension of carbon particles, has been used in research on surgical procedures where potential movement of bacteria into incisions and closed incisions is evaluated. The size of the India ink particles is similar to that of bacteria. The failure of India ink to internalize suggests fruit apertures involved in gas exchange are too small to allow fungal or even bacterial internalization.

Effect on human pathogen survival (Dr. K. Schneider):

Fresh-market strawberries are cooled to 1-3°C before commercial storage and distribution; typically by forced-air cooling. Hydrocooling ensures a faster and more uniform cooling of strawberries, although its effect on reducing microbial contamination on the fruit has not been evaluated. Salmonella has been reported to survive on damaged strawberries, but is unable to multiply, potentially due to the low pH or other intrinsic factors associated with strawberries. This study evaluated Salmonella survival a) on the surface of intact hydrocooled or forced-air cooled strawberries; b) as affected by agitation and density of packing during hydrocooling and c) as affected by pH, temperature and food matrix (strawberry or tomato puree).

Intact strawberries inoculated with Salmonella were subjected to forced-air cooling or hydrocooling in water containing 100 or 200 ppm HOCl. Salmonella population was enumerated 0, 7 and 8 days post- treatment. Strawberry and tomato puree (pH 3.7 and 4.6) spiked with Salmonella and incubated at 4, 10 or 25°C, were evaluated at 0, 1 and 3 days post-inoculation (n=9). Compared to forced-air cooling, hydrocooling significantly reduced Salmonella survival on inoculated intact strawberries, with levels below the enumerable limit (1.5 log CFU/berry) by day 8. Hydrocooling reduced the initial Salmonella levels by 1.9 log CFU/berry, while the addition of 100 or 200 ppm HOCl reduced levels by 3.5 and 4.4 log CFU/berry, respectively. Initial Salmonella populations (day 0) were significantly lower when the berries were agitated or loosely packed during hydrocooling. Salmonella survival was significantly higher at a higher pH (4.7) compared to lower intrinsic pH (3.6) of strawberry puree. Higher temperature (25°C) was conducive for Salmonella survival on strawberry puree compared to lower temperatures (4 and 10°C). The data shows that a lower pH of 3.6 or refrigeration below 10°C are effective in controlling the growth of Salmonella on damaged strawberries.

In addition to evaluating the reduction in population levels of the human pathogen Salmonella on hydrocooled compared to forced-air cooled strawberries, the survival of lactobacillus plantarum, a non- pathogen that may potentially be used as a surrogate for Salmonella was also evaluated in the presence of various sanitizers. Lactobacillus survival on inoculated strawberries that were untreated or forced-air

cooled was compared to that on hydrocooled strawberries treated with a) water alone without sanitizer b) 100 ppm sodium hypochlorite c) 5 ppm chlorine dioxide or d) 80 ppm peroxyacetic acid. The results from this study showed that hydrocooling significantly reduced the Lactobacillus survival compared to forced-air cooling. Lactobacillus populations were significantly lower when inoculated strawberries were hydrocooled in water containing the sanitizers sodium hypochlorite and peroxyacetic acid, compared to chlorine dioxide. The results from this study also indicate that the non-pathogenic Lactobacillus plantarum may successfully be used as a surrogate for the human pathogen Salmonella in production environments.

Goals and Outcomes Achieved Detailed results are presented in the previous section. Component 1. Outcome: Determine the labor efficiency and biological and economic feasibility of different harvest methods for vegetables and strawberry. Benchmark data from previous studies indicate the potential for using harvest-aid equipment in tomato. As a result of the studies described in the `Work Plan' section, the biological performance, economic feasibility, and labor efficiency will be determined using strawberry, bell pepper, and tomato as the model crops. It is expected that this technology could reduce labor needs 33% to 50%, depending on the crop and growing conditions (target).

Although it was not possible to harvest strawberry with a harvest aid, significant progress was made with bell pepper (harvest aid) and mechanical harvest of round and grape tomatoes. Use of the harvest aid resulted in 38% faster bell pepper harvest than by traditional manual method. A blueberry harvester was used to harvest grape tomatoes. Although somewhat faster than hand harvest, this unit cause indiscriminate removal of unripe fruit (green to orange/green) and only 36% marketable fruit (compared to 64% marketable from hand harvest). Also 37% of fruit fell to the ground during mechanical harvest. However, during storage, there were no significant differences in quality between manually or mechanically harvested grape tomatoes. There was no decay or shrivel and all fruit remained firm after 6 days of storage.

The results will be analyzed by locations and crops and published in at least one extension/outreach document, one scientific article, and two statewide conferences (performance measure).

Demonstrated the use of a harvesting-aid equipment for bell peppers to 80 attendees during the 2012 Florida Ag Expo at the Gulf Coast REC, IFAS, UF (November 7, 2012).

Set up a 0.2-acre demonstration area of a prototype compact-growth tomato cultivar in the field that was shown to stakeholders at the 2012 Florida Ag Expo at the Gulf Coast REC, IFAS/UF (November 7, 2012).

Presentations and Publications:

1) Abstract published: Zambrano-Vaca, C.A., C.J. Mendez-Urbaez and B.M. Santos. “Assessing the Efficiency of a Mechanical Harvesting-aid Machine for Bell Pepper”. 2013 Florida State Horticultural Society annual meeting.

2) Presentation: “Assessing the Efficiency of a Mechanical Harvesting-aid Machine for Bell Pepper” at the 2013 Florida State Horticultural Society meeting (Dr. Santos).

3) Paper published: Zambrano-Vaca, C.A., C.J. Mendez-Urbaez and B.M. Santos. 2013. Assessing the Efficiency of a Mechanical Harvesting-aid Machine for Bell Pepper. Proceedings of the Florida State Horticultural Society 126:145-146.

4) Abstract submitted: Hutton, S., C. Kennedy, S.A. Sargent and A.D. Berry. Hand vs. Mechanical Harvest of Fresh-Market Grape Tomatoes. Poster presentation to be presented at American Society for Horticultural Science. Annual Meeting. August 4-7. New Orleans LA.

Component 2. Outcome. Determine benefits of the new handling and cooling methods on higher strawberry quality (sweeter, more visually attractive, adequate firmness, more nutritious) from harvest at riper stages; longer shelf-life, and the option to pack a higher-value crop for custom orders (rinsed, sized). Our previous benchmark data indicate great potential to improve strawberry cooling, handling efficiency, and provide options for increasing value-added strawberry packs. Cooling time could be reduced 80% by hydrocooling (target).

Strawberries were cooled in a commercial forced-air unit in spring 2014; others were cooled in a semi-commercial scale hydrocooler. Results showed commercial cooling (7/8 Cooling) required 52 minutes to 79 minutes using forced-air cooling, whereas only 9 to 15 minutes in the immersion hydrocooler. Subsequent storage of wet (hydrocooled) fruit at 1 oC (34 oF) showed no changes in appearance, flavor, color or decay as compared to those that were forced-air cooled.

The results will be analyzed for each method and published in at least one extension/outreach document, one scientific article, and two statewide conferences (performance measure).

Two cooling demonstrations were made to over 100 stakeholders at Florida AgExpo. GCREC, Balm. (Nov. 7 2012). Principles and techniques were presented for forced-air cooling and hydrocooling, and a commercial hydrocooler was demonstrated. Following the official completion of this project the following extension presentations and demonstrations were conducted: Presented, Postharvest Handling and Cooling of Specialty Crops. Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference. August 2, 2014.The goal was to help small growers understand options to reduce losses in quality and amount from harvest through handling and shipping. Adopting materials developed from this project, we presented key principles related to successful handling and cooling of fresh fruit and vegetable crops to more than 100 participants. Then, we showed real examples of crops that had been abused in some way to reinforce concepts and examples shown in the presentation. There was significant evidence of interest as shown by the numerous questions be many of the participants during and after the session. Presented, Hydrocooling strawberries- results for semi-commercial tests. Agritech. Florida Strawberry Growers Assn. Annual Meeting. Aug. 5. Plant City FL. There were about 80 participants in this session. We conducted cooling demonstrations as part of the Field Tour at AgExpo, Nov. 5, at the Gulf Coast Research & Education Center in Balm. There were about 45 participants in two sessions.

Resultant Presentations and Publications Meeting Abstracts a) Marcelo A. G. Carnelossi, Steven A. Sargent and Adrian D. Berry. 2013. Influence of Clamshell Position and Size on Strawberry Fruit Cooling Rate Using Forced-Air Cooling. Florida State Horticulture Society annual meeting. b) Drew F. Schiavone, S.A. Sargent and A.D. Berry. 2014. Development of an Integrated System to Rinse, Sanitize and Cool Fresh-Market Strawberries. Florida State Horticulture Society annual meeting. [HP-12]. http://fshs.org/wp- content/uploads/2014/05/2014_FSHS_Program.pdf c) Vanessa Caron, M. Carnelossi, S. Sargent and A. Berry. 2014. Postharvest Quality of Forced- Air Cooled or Hydrocooled Strawberry. Florida State Horticulture Society annual meeting. [HP-14] http://fshs.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/2014_FSHS_Program.pdf d) ) S. Sargent, A. Berry and J. Brecht. 2014. Commercial Scale Hydrocooling of Fresh Market Strawberry. American Society for Horticultural Science annual meeting. http://ashs.confex.com/ashs/2014/webprogram/Paper20160.html

Presentations a) Marcelo A. G. Carnelossi. 2013. “Influence of Clamshell Position and Size on Strawberry Fruit Cooling Rate Using Forced-Air Cooling”. Florida State Horticulture Society annual meeting. b) A.D. Berry. 2014. Development of an Integrated System to Rinse, Sanitize and Cool Fresh- Market Strawberries. Florida State Horticulture Society annual meeting. [HP-12]. c) S. Sargent. 2014. Postharvest Quality of Forced-Air Cooled or Hydrocooled Strawberry. Florida State Horticulture Society annual meeting. [HP-14] d) S. Sargent, A. Berry and J. Brecht. 2014. Commercial Scale Hydrocooling of Fresh Market Strawberry. American Society for Horticultural Science annual meeting. Orlando. July 27-31. (poster) e) S. Sargent and A. Berry. 2014. Postharvest Handling and Cooling of Specialty Crops. Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference. August 2, Kissimmee. f) S. Sargent. Hydrocooling strawberries? Results from semi-commercial tests. AgriTech 2014. Florida Strawberry Growers Assn annual meeting. August 6. Plant City. g) S. Sargent and A. Berry. Hydrocooling Demonstration for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables. Florida AgExpo 2014. November. UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research & Education Center.

Publications a) Carnelossi, M.A.G., S.A. Sargent and A.D. Berry. 2013. Influence of clamshell position and size on strawberry fruit cooling rate using forced-air cooling. Proc. Florida State Horticulture Society 126:196-199. 95

b) Dr. Carnelossi is preparing two other manuscripts for publication.

c) Drew F. Schiavone, S.A. Sargent and A.D. Berry. 2014. Development of an Integrated System to Rinse, Sanitize and Cool Fresh-Market Strawberries. Florida State Horticulture Society annual meeting. (in preparation)

d) Vanessa Caron, M. Carnelossi, S. Sargent and A. Berry. 2014. Postharvest Quality of Forced- Air Cooled or Hydrocooled Strawberry. Florida State Horticulture Society annual meeting. (in preparation)

e) S. Sargent, A. Berry and J. Brecht. 2014. Commercial Scale Hydrocooling of Fresh Market Strawberry. American Society for Horticultural Science annual meeting. (in preparation)

Component 3. Outcome. Quantify reductions in the incidence and severity of postharvest decay during storage and the decrease in the risk of contamination by human pathogens prior to packing. Benchmark data demonstrated significant reductions in postharvest decay and ability to reduce surface populations of pathogens via hydrocooling. It is anticipated that there will be a three- to four-fold reduction in postharvest decays and significantly lower populations of surrogate human pathogens after hydrocooling (targets).

Laboratory-scale tests showed no difference in decay incidences between strawberries that were either forced-air cooled or hydrocooled (53% after 12 days storage). Using ink-stained hydrocooling water, no visible signs of uptake into the fruit were observed following hydrocooling. Fruit cooled under commercial conditions revealed no difference in cooling method with respect to decay development up to 3 weeks of storage. In all tests there was no evidence that hydrocooling as a pre-cooling method led to defect, decay or microbial load increases as compared with forced-air or room cooling methods.

Strawberries inoculated with Salmonella had a 4.4 log colony-forming unit (CFU)/berry decrease when hydrocooled with sanitizer compared to populations on those forced-air cooled.

Abstracts and Presentations a) Effect of cooling methods, pH and temperature on Salmonella survival on inoculated intact and pureed strawberries and pureed tomatoes. Sreedharan, A., Tokarskyy, O., Sargent, S. A., and Schneider, K.R. (ID# 6712), presented at IAFP 2014 (August 3-6) in Indianapolis, Indiana.

b) Effect of sanitizers on the survival of Lactobacillus plantarum and Salmonella spp. on surface inoculated, hydrocooled strawberries. Sreedharan, A., Tokarskyy, O., Sargent, S. A., and Schneider, K.R. (# 18971), presented at the ASHS Annual Conference, 2014 (July 27- Aug 01) at Orlando, FL.

c) Survival of Salmonella spp. on surface-inoculated forced air cooled and hydrocooled intact strawberries, and in strawberry puree. Sreedharan, A., Tokarskyy, O., Schneider, K., Sargent, S. A. South East Regional Fruit & Vegetable Conference, Savanna, GA, 2014.

The results will be analyzed for decay and human pathogen surrogates for each method and published in at least one extension/outreach document, one scientific article, and two statewide conferences (performance measure).

Publications

a)Tokarskyy, O., K.R. Schneider, A. Berry, S.A. Sargent and A. Sreedharan. 2015. Sanitizer applicability in a laboratory model strawberry hydrocooling system. Postharvest Biology & Technology 101:103-106. b) Sreedharan, A., O. Tokarskyy, S. Sargent and K.R. Schneider. 2015. Survival of Salmonella spp. on surface-inoculated forced-air cooled and hydrocooled intact strawberries, and in strawberry puree. Food Control 50:244-250.

Beneficiaries Overall number of beneficiaries from this project is estimated to be:

· 550 documented from direct presentations and demonstrations to clientele groups. We estimate that several hundred more individuals will access web-based bulletins to be prepared in 2015.

· 150 students in courses in which results were presented.

· Several hundred professional colleagues who heard presentations made at professional meetings and/or observed poster presentations.

Potential impacts relate to relevant information developed and translated to Florida stakeholders as a result of this project. As detailed in the previous sections, numerous presentations and several demonstrations have already been developed and presented, and more are in preparation. There are three specific groups of stakeholders - vegetable growers, packers and shippers, county extension agents and support industries.

As mentioned in our justification, vegetable growers, packers and shippers need to reduce labor dependence as it becomes more scarce. A recent example was the spring 2014 harvest. Due to prolonged cool winter, Florida crops were delayed by about two weeks compared to average years. As a result, traditional labor sources were in many cases short or non-existent. It was reported that as much as 40% of the Florida blueberry crop was not harvested this year due to lack of labor. From our studies in-field harvest aid systems appear to have potential for short-term implementation in fresh-market vegetables than the mechanical harvest system. Harvest aid systems lend themselves to multiple harvests and can be applied to a range of row crops, as demonstrated with bell pepper and round tomato. Grape tomato could be mechanically harvested when the price has dropped to the point where excess losses are inconsequential and/or at the end of the harvest season.

Harvesting-aid equipment for bell peppers was demonstrated to 80 attendees during the 2012 Florida AgExpo at the Gulf Coast REC, IFAS, UF (November 7, 2012) (Santos, Hutton). Ag Expo is the premiere extension outreach event for the Florida vegetable industry with more than 1,000 attendees. A 0.2-acre demonstration area with selections of prototype compact-growth tomato cultivars was also shown to

the stakeholders at this event.

Strawberry growers and shippers rely on rapid handling and cooling to maximize postharvest life ("shelf life"). The potential to more thoroughly and quickly cool and sanitize the fruit via immersion hydrocooling was demonstrated on a commercial scale. These technical data can be used by industry to develop cost estimates to assist individual operators decide whether or not to adopt hydrocooling. Having this information available for extension agents will allow/facilitate more distribution to clientele groups via on-site visits and outreach programs that they regularly conduct.

Two cooling demonstrations were made to over 100 stakeholders (growers, shippers, extension agents, researchers and extension administrators) at Florida AgExpo. GCREC, Balm. (Nov. 7 2012). Principles and techniques were presented for forced-air cooling and hydrocooling, and a commercial hydrocooler was demonstrated. (Sargent, Carnelossi, Berry)

Upcoming Presentations and Demonstrations:

A 2-hour session will be presented on "Postharvest Handling and Cooling of Specialty Crops" at the Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference. August 2, 2014 in Kissimmee, Florida (Sargent and Berry). This regional meeting annually reaches more than 800 part-time, full time growers, county extension agents and related support industry.

A project summary, "Hydrocooling strawberries? Results from semi-commercial tests", will be presented at AgriTech 2014, the annual meeting of the Florida Strawberry Growers Assn. August 6. Plant City. More than 150 attendees are expected, including growers, shippers, extension agents and support industry. (Sargent)

A demonstration and in-service training for county extension agents, "Hydrocooling Demonstration for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables" will be conducted at the Florida AgExpo 2014 in November. UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research & Education Center. (S. Sargent and A. Berry). It is anticipated that more than 100 stakeholders will participate and 10 county extension agents.

Notification Methods

Stakeholders are made aware of these events through a variety of methods, including announcements made in printed and e-newletters, on county and statewide websites, via direct emailings to stakeholders and by word-of-mouth.

Presentations Made at Scientific Meetings

Results from these studies were presented (oral and posters) at six scientific meetings in 2013 and 2014. (see Goals & Outcomes Achieved, above).

Lessons Learned

Working with industry collaborators is critical to the success and relevance of this type of research/outreach. Regular communication is important for quick feedback, particularly when field tests are being conducted. Effort should be made to include visiting scientists on sabbatical leave and visiting students into projects such as this; often, as was the case in this study with Dr. Carnelossi and doctoral student V. Caron, these professionals have fellowships that pay for their salary and travel expenses to live and work on the project.

Challenges:

Since this project began near the end of the strawberry harvest season, efforts in year 1 focused on laboratory studies. In order to conduct relevant data, the entire production must be used. Therefore, a 6-month, no-cost extension was requested and approved in order to complete the on-site hydrocooling tests. In working with a manufacturer, sufficient lead time must be anticipated in order for the equipment to be completed. This will require several months lead time, as companies have busy production schedules to meet.

In working with field-based equipment, such as a harvest aid or mechanical harvester, research is limited to the models that are commercially available.

Contact Steven A. Sargent, Ph.D., P.I. Horticultural Sciences Department PO Box 110690, 1251 Fifield Hall, Hull Road University of Florida Gainesville FL 32611-0690 USA

Email: [email protected] Office: 352-273-4780

99 Florida Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Project Final Performance Report

Project Title

 Provide the project’s title. This must be the same title used in the approved proposal.

Project Partners

 List the primary organization implementing the project, as well as any partner organizations.

Project Summary

Project Approach

Goals and Outcomes Achieved

Beneficiaries

Lessons Learned

Contact Person

 Name the Contact Person for the Project, including telephone number and email address.

Additional Information

Project (12): University of Florida - Use of Reclaimed Waste Water to Grow Containerized Ornamentals

Funding Year: 2011

Reporting Period: Final

Project Summary

There is clear potential for increased use of reclaimed waste water to grow ornamental plants but there still remain some barriers. Modernization of tertiary refinement of secondary effluent has changed some of the waste water analysis from original reports on the use of reclaimed waste water to grow ornamental plants. Although there are numerous studies published on the use of waste water in the landscape and other areas of horticulture, there are few published studies on the use of reclaimed waste water for containerized ornamental plant production. Use of reclaimed waste water has the potential to free growers from water use restrictions in times of drought as well as from potential conflicts with other water users when water supply is limited. Protocols on using reclaimed waste water to grow containerized ornamentals could potentially impact over 800 nurseries in Palm Beach and Broward Counties my minimizing and reducing their current waster use and help preserve South Florida’s water supplies in these counties.

Project Approach Outcome 1 – Develop production guidelines for using reclaimed waste water for containerized ornamentals • Goal – To expand the use of reclaimed waste water in the green industry • Target – To encourage 15 nurseries in Palm Beach and Broward Counties to use reclaimed waste water • Benchmark – In 2011, there were no nurseries in Palm Beach or Broward County using reclaimed waste water • Performance measure – Number of requests for reclaimed waste water • Activities • Several experiments conducted. The results showed that there was no difference in shoot or root dry weight of philodendron, bracteantha, gaura, or petunia plants watered with 100% waste water, 50% waste: 50% tap (blend) or 100% tap water. Calathea, a salt sensitive plant had greater shoot and root dry weight when watered with tap water than with waste water or the waste water blend. For all plants watered with waste water, plant growth was greater when leaching fraction increased from 0 to 30%. • Because the salt concentrations in waste water can vary, we also examined two waste water sources (collected from the City of Hollywood partner) that had soluble salt concentrations of 2 or 4 dS/m. We used a salt balance equation to determine approximate leaching fractions to apply to maintain a root zone soluble salt (electrical conductivity EC) concentration in the range of 2 to 4 dS/m. Ficus and philodendron plants received the same amount of controlled release fertilizer and this was taken into

consideration as part of the salt balance equation. For the waste water with an EC of 4 dS/m, we tried for a 50% leaching fraction and for the waste water with an EC of 2 dS/m we tried for a 40% leaching fraction. Tap water was applied at a 20% leaching fraction which is standard. By applying water based on the salt balance equation we were able to maintain the substrate EC concentrations in containers watered with waste water at the same levels as control (tap) containers. There was no difference in philodendron and ficus shoot dry weight among the water treatments. Philodendron root dry weight was reduced in containers watered with both waste waters compared to tap water but there was no difference ficus root dry weight among water treatments. We observed that philodendron plants in the greenhouse watered with waste water at appeared to decline during the first 3 weeks and then appeared to recover and put out new growth. • Experiments were completed with rooted cuttings of Hibiscus tiliaceus compacta and Hibiscus schizopetalus species placed into either full strength hydroponic solution, full strength hydroponic solution with waste water, or half strength hydroponic solution with waste water. Plants were grown for 8 weeks with the solution changed weekly. The same hibiscus species were planted in soilless growing substrates and will be watered with the same solutions as the hydroponic plants. For both hibiscus species root and shoot dry weights were greater for plants grown with waste water than without waste water. • Experiments were completed with geraniums, petunias and calibrachoa plants watered with either waste water or tap water applied at 50, 100 or 200 ml volumes. Bedding plant growth of plants watered with waste water was similar to plants watered with tap water. The same was observed for Cyperus papyrus and Crinum sp. ‘Schreck’ – growth was similar when plants were watered with waste water as tap water. However, as the volume of water increased (and leaching fraction increased) plant growth increased. • Results from the experiments with rooted cuttings of Hibiscus tiliaceus compacta and Hibiscus schizopetalus species placed into solutions with soluble salt concentrations of 0, 2, 4, 8, or 11 dS/m were presented at the American Society for Horticulture Science meeting in Miami FL (August 2012). All of the plants in the 11 dS/m solution died while only 33% died in the 8 dS/m solution after 5 days while plants in the 2 and 4 showed a drop in leaf water potential at day 3 and 5 but by day 16 they had leaf water potential ratings similar to control plants. We also initiated experiments to develop an evaluation tool to verify salt tolerance of ornamental plants. Most recommendations are based on leaf tolerance to salt spray and not root tolerance to high salt concentrations. With this data we also will be able to determine a threshold salt concentration above which would be detrimental to plant growth. This work was presented at the American Society for Horticultural Science meeting in August 2012. • Presentations were given to growers in Broward and Palm Beach in April, 2013. Presentations were coordinated with Bill Schall (partner Palm Beach Cooperative Extension), Mike Orfanedes (partner Broward Cooperative Extension) and with Broward FNGLA. Results from experiments conducted with waste water were presented and growers were surveyed about waste water use. o 17 growers were surveyed between Broward and Palm Beach o 52% had no or a little knowledge about waste water, 29% some knowledge and 18% felt they were knowledgeable to very knowledgeable about waste water o None of the growers were aware of the amounts of reclaimed waste water generated and reused in FL

o 35% had no to a little knowledge of benefits of waste water, 41% had some knowledge while 24% felt they were aware to very aware of the benefits of using waste water o The biggest concerns were connection issues/concerns and connection costs. Other concerns were salts and nutrients in the water. Availability was another common theme with many growers expressing interest in using reclaimed waste water but that it was not available in their area. o 94% of the growers surveyed said they would consider using reclaimed waste water if their concerns were addressed • Presentation was given on October 31, 2013 to the South Florida Aquatic Plant Management Society. There were 100 people in attendance at this meeting including aquatic weed control managers, landscape managers, and other green industry professionals. • Presentation was recorded and placed on two websites. A survey was created in Survey Monkey to collect data after the presentation was viewed. o https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/VYZFYXV o http://www/pbcgov.com/coextension/horticulture/nursery o http://flrec.ifas.ufl.edu/acs/rww_04242013

Goals and Outcomes Achieved

Outcome 1 – Develop production guidelines for using reclaimed waste water for containerized ornamentals

Based on the research conducted, plant response to waste water varied. In most cases, plant growth when watered with waste water was equivalent to tap water. In general, plant growth increased with increased leaching fraction (more waste water or tap water applied). The variation in plant growth was most likely related to individual plant salt tolerance. The method developed with Hibiscus for determining the threshold salt concentration (electrical conductivity) has the potential to help growers and managers better use waste water. It appears that most growers had some knowledge of waste water but were un-aware of the amounts of waste water generated in the state. No new connections to waste water. It appears that the biggest concern with using waste water was connecting to waste water sources and the cost of connection. Most of the growers surveyed would willing use waste water if it were available and they could easily connect to it.

Outcome 2 – Develop webcasts on the benefits of using reclaimed waste water for containerized ornamentals • Goal – To develop webcasts on the benefits of using reclaimed waste water to grow containerized ornamentals • Target – 5000 views of webcasts on YouTube • Benchmark – In 2011, there were no webcasts on the use of reclaimed waste water • Performance measure – Track the number of views on each webcast • Activities • YouTube videos on what is waste water, why use waste water, concerns with using waste water, disadvantages of using waste water, and salt equations were recorded and posted to YouTube. • Number of views on YouTube videos related to waste water. Videos are part of the UFPlant Doc channel. 98

YouTube Video Views (2013) Jan-Mar Jan-June Jan-Sep Jan-Dec Salt in-Salt out 12 17 21 22 Salt equations 6 6 13 16 Disadvantages 29 45 53 58 Concerns 20 26 26 26 Why use waste water 7 11 14 15 What is waste water 23 26 30 36

Total 97 131 157 173

The videos on YouTube continue to be viewed. The YouTube videos have had more views than the recorded lecture. The videos “What is waste water?” and “Disadvantages of waste water” were the most viewed. It shows that people are curious but may not know how best to use waste water. We had hoped for more views over the past year but it is hard to get people to follow a channel. Perhaps more attractive key words or advertising the channel through Facebook or LinkedIn would have increased the number of views. Beneficiaries

Growers and landscape managers in Palm Beach and Broward County were made aware of the results from our studies. Most were aware of the benefits of using waste water. They were unaware of the amount of waste water generated in the state or of the potential savings if they used waste water. No economic impact could be assessed. Although they were willing to use waste water, most were limited but an inability to connect to local waste water supply lines. In all, results of the study were presented directly to 30 growers and landscape managers in Palm Beach and Broward counties. Our YouTube videos reached an additional 170 viewers, although we do not know whether these were growers / landscape managers. Lessons Learned

This project validated previous work with waste water for containerized ornamentals. The new piece of information that came from this work was that research should focus on identifying and quantifying salt tolerance of ornamentals. Better procedures for waste water use can be developed based on this information. We did encounter a problem when the soil and water testing laboratory we were using went out of business and we had to finish the nutrient analysis in house. The other clear message we received from growers was that county and state officials have to find a way to connect more people to waste water or provide incentives for connecting to existing lines. The lack of growers using waste water was due to inaccessible or lack of access to waste water and not due to concerns with using waste water. Finally, the use of YouTube is an excellent way to share information. The trouble is getting people to visit your channel and to keep adding new videos over time to keep people coming back. Contact Kimberly Moore, (954) 577-6328, [email protected]

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Project (13): Evaluation of new insecticides to manage Bemisia tabaci and Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus in Tomato: integrating chemical and biological control

Project Partners: University of Florida

Project Summary Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) is a begomovirus in the Geminiviridae that is transmitted in a persistent, circulative manner by its vector, Bemisia tabaci Gennadius (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae). TYLCV causes significant crop losses in tomato growing regions worldwide, and is a primary production constraint for tomato growers in Florida. Management of TYLCV in Florida tomato involves destroying inoculum sources, using reflective mulches to repel the vector, growing resistant varieties, and using insecticidal control. Protecting the tomato crop from viral infection during the first six weeks after transplanting is necessary to reduce yield loss. At-plant and early season applications of insecticides have been key components to managing TYLCV and B. tabaci in Florida tomato and elsewhere. However populations of B. tabaci biotype B have developed resistance to several modes of action globally, and resistance to neonicotinoids, one of the most useful insecticide groups for managing B. tabaci, has been documented in Florida. In addition, the registration for endosulfan is being withdrawn from use on tomato in Florida effective December 2014.

In order to offset the loss of control options for B. tabaci due to the development of resistance and the loss of insecticide registrations, materials with novel modes of action are needed. Insecticides with novel modes of action that are nearing registration for use on B. tabaci include cyazypyr, flupyradifurone, and pyrifluquinazon. Cyazypyr, also called cyantraniliprole, is in the anthranilic diamide group of insecticides that disrupt the functioning of ryanodine receptors. Flupyradifurone is a butenolide insecticide that functions as a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist. Cyazypyr and flupyradifurone are both systemic and can be applied to the roots or foliarly. Pyrifluquinazon has an unknown mode of action and has translaminar activity.

Project Approach In order to determine the most efficacious combinations of these materials when applied during the first five weeks after transplanting, field trials were carried out at GC REC in fall 2012 and spring and fall of 2013 in which these new materials were paired, with one mode of action applied at-plant (either cyazypyr, dinotefuran or flupyridifurone) and a different mode of action was applied foliarly for three weeks starting two weeks after transplanting (either cyazypyr, flupyradifurone or pyrifluquinazon). Dinotefuran (Venom 20 SG, Valent Corporation) is a neonicotinoid insecticide that has been used by Florida tomato growers to manage whitefly and TYLCV for several years. In order to determine how well at-plant treatments compared to complete physical exclusion of vectors from the crop, each treatment was replicated using a split plot design with the main plot either exposed at planting or completely covered by row cover for two weeks after transplanting. The purpose of these trials was to help develop guidelines for Florida tomato growers to determine the most efficacious combinations of these new

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materials with the aim of integrating novel modes of action into established insecticide rotations for management of B. tabaci and TYLCV.

In addition to field trials, field cage and greenhouse studies were carried out to evaluate the impact of cyazypyr, flupyradifurone, and pyrifluquinazon on whitefly nymphs that have been parasitized by the commercially available whitefly parasitoids Eretmocerus eremicus and Encarsia formosa. The purpose of these trials was to develop guidelines for managing whitefly in protected structures, a specialty niche of increasing importance in Florida. A survey of tomato growers in Florida was carried out to collect baseline information pest management practices and insecticide use.

Presentations

Results from this project have been presented at four grower/industry oriented meetings and two scientific meetings. These presentations were attended by approximately 300 participants in total.

2013 August. Grower meeting Beef O’Bradys Parrish FL: “Managing silverleaf whitefly and Tomato yellow leaf curl virus.” 32 participants.

2013 September. Tomato Institute Annual Meeting presentation: “Managing silverleaf whitefly and Tomato yellow leaf curl virus.” 81 participants.

2013 November. Ag Expo Presentation “Managing whitefly and caterpillars in tomato.” 67 participants.

2013 November. Annual meeting of the Entomological Society of America presentation: “Compatibility of Eretmocerus eremicus and Encarsia formosa with three new insecticides.” Approximately 60 participants.

2014 July. Annual meeting of the Florida Entomological Society presentation; “Managing silverleaf whitefly and Tomato yellow leaf curl virus.” Approximately 35 participants.

2014 August. Grower meeting Beef O’Bradys Parrish FL: “Managing silverleaf whitefly and Tomato yellow leaf curl virus.” 27 participants.

Publications

One peer-review publication has been produced from the project:

Smith H. A, and C. A. Nagle. 2014. Combining novel modes of action for early-season management of Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera Aleyrodidae) and Tomato yellow leaf curl virus in tomato. Florida Entomologist 97: 1750-1765.

Goals and Outcomes Achieved Field trials

While overall numbers of whitefly adults, eggs and nymphs tended to be low each season, virus pressure was moderate in the fall of 2012 and high in the fall of 2013. This confirms observations often made by Florida tomato growers that incidence of TYLCV can be significant even when whitefly numbers are low. Three seasons of field trials demonstrate that the novel modes of action tested suppressed incidence of virus to levels lower than a standard early season neonicotinoid commonly used by Florida tomato 108

growers. While each product combination demonstrated efficacy, Sivanto followed by pyrifluquinazon resulted in the numerically lowest levels of virus in the fall of 2012 and 2013 when virus pressure was significant. In the spring of 2013, when virus pressure was not significant, plants treated with foliar applications of cyazypyr in some cases had statistically higher yields than other treatments.

Protection of the tomato crop from TYLCV during the first five or six weeks after transplanting is crucial. The trials we carried out have shown that new tools are becoming available to help Florida tomato growers manage this devastating disease. Current insecticide guidelines for Florida tomato growers emphasize the use of neonicotinoid insecticides up to the first six weeks after transplanting, followed by a complete switch to other modes of action for the remainder of the crop season. With regard to diamides, the recommendation is that if growers plan to use cyazypyr in the first six weeks for whitefly and virus management, they should not use other diamides later in the season for caterpillar or leafminer control. The intention of these recommendations is to avoid the development of resistance by whiteflies to neonicotinoid and diamide insecticides. Sivanto has the same mode of action as the neonicotinoid insecticides,and so from a resistance management perspective should be treated as a neonicotinoid. However it has demonstrated greater efficacy in suppressing virus than some currently available neonicotinoids. The availability of flupyradifurone, cyazypyr and pyrifluquinazon will give growers an added level of flexibility when rotating modes of action for early season virus management and reduce the likelihood that any mode of action will be overused.

Compatibility of new insecticides with commercially available whitefly parasitoids

Five trials were carried out, three with pyrifluquinazon, one with cyazypyr, and one with flupyradifurone. In each instance, the application of insecticide to nymphs resulted in almost complete mortality of whitefly nymphs, whether parasitized or not. However, percentage parasitism was consistently very low, making it difficult to evaluate impacts on parasitized nymphs. The primary obstacle to this study was that the parasitoids did not perform as expected. However the data indicate that none of these materials is compatible with releases of whitefly parasitoids. According to the manufacturer, pyrifluquinazon only kills whitefly adults and eggs. We had some expectation that it might leave parasitized whitefly nymphs unharmed, allowing parasitoids to emerge and contribute to the suppression of the pest. Since both flupyradifuorne and cyazypyr have systemic activity and have demonstrated efficacy against nymphs, it seemed less likely that these products would be compatible with the use of whitefly parasitoids.

Beneficiaries

Survey of IPM Practices of Florida Tomato Growers

To date seventeen tomato growers have responded to the survey. The results are attached. We will try to get a dozen or so more responses during the first half of 2014 and summarize the responses as an EDIS document. The responses so far indicate a use of multiple modes of action on the part of most growers to manage whitefly, caterpillars and leafminers. Awareness of the need to rotate modes of action appears common. Frequent use of Coragen is apparent in the responses, which is consistent with 109

reports that tolerance to this product (a diamide like cyazypyr) is developing in some areas. Many growers mention the use of “softer” products, and continued reliance on Bacillus thuringiensis products for caterpillar management is a good sign. More than half the respondents indicated that they use endosulfan (Thionex/Thiodan) for whitefly management. Registration for this product on tomato is being withdrawn at the end of 2014. Reliance on endosulfan underlines the need for new modes of action on the part of Florida tomato growers. Most growers scout and many use both external and in- house expertise to monitor pests. Overall the survey responses indicated that Florida tomato growers rely on a combination of integrated pest management practices.

We surveyed 26 tomato growers during three meetings held in 2013 and 2014. Based on the results of that survey, 54% of growers make foliar applications of endosulfan , 67% of growers make foliar applications of pyrethroids, and 25% of growers make foliar applications of a neonicotinoid. All registrations for endosulfan were withdrawn from use on Florida tomato in 2014, so that material is no longer available. Future surveys will be needed to determine if foliar applications of pyrethroids and neonicotinoids are diminishing In 2011, we anticipated that the alternatives to neonicotinoids and pyrethroids that we were evaluating – flupyradifurone, cyazypyr, and pyrifluquinazon - would be available during the course of the project. Cyazypyr (Verimark/Exirel) became available in 2014 and is an effective alternative to neonicotinoids and pyrethroids for whiteflies. However because of the price few growers use it. Flupyradifurone (Sivanto) did not become available until 2015 and in Florida the limited supply was purchased primarily for use in citrus for control of Asian Citrus Psyllid. Sivanto has the same mode of action as the neonicotinoids. Therefore we recommend its use as a foliar insecticide for whitefly control only if the grower has not used Sivanto or a neonicotinoid at planting. The only at-plant alternative to these group 4 insecticides is cyazypyr (Verimark). As indicated above, cyazypyr has not been widely adapted by Florida tomato growers because of its price. Pyrifluquinazon is effective in suppressing whitefly, but the manufacturer (Nichino America) has not yet had the product registered in the United States. This combination of factors – high prices, limited availability, and delayed registrations – has curtailed the positive impact that new insecticides will have in giving growers alternatives to neonicotinoids and pyrethroids. The information that we have been able to gather with SCBG/FDACS support has contributed to a baseline understanding of insecticide use among Florida tomato growers and will help quantify the outcomes as stated over the next few years.

Lessons Learned Evaluating the impact of insecticides on parasitism was more difficult than anticipated because parasitoids were not very effective.

The response to the grower survey were not as high as hoped, but we were able to gather sufficient responses to evaluate the effectiveness of the program.

“We expect to measure at least a 20% reduction in the use of foliar neonicotinoids, a 20% reduction in applications of pyrethroid insecticides, and a 20% reduction in the use of endosulfan. We anticipate that shifts in insecticide use will reflect on overall reduction in sprays of neonicotinoids and restricted-use insecticides, and an increased reliance on newer active ingredients which have a more positive worker safety and environmental profile.”

In order to make statements regarding the reduction in insecticide use over time, we would need to carry out one survey to gather baseline data and an additional survey two years later to measure any

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change. We were only able to initiate the survey toward the latter half of the project, and responses from the Ruskin/Manatee will not be collected until after the project is completed (Aug 2014). The information that we have been able to gather with SCBG/FDACS support has contributed to a baseline understanding of insecticide use among Florida tomato growers and will help quantify the outcomes as stated over the next few years. Two of the new whitefly materials that we anticipate will serve as alternatives to neonicotinoids and pyrethroids have still not been registered, cyazypyr (IRAC MOA 28, a diamide) and pyrifluquinazon (unknown MOA). Based on the studies we have carried out as part of this project, it is clear that these materials will replace at-plant neonicotinoids to certain degree, as well as foliar neonicotinoids and pyrethroids. Our work during the past two years has confirmed that some pyrethroids, namely zeta-cypermethrin/bifenthrin, are useful for reducing transmission of TYLCV. Alternatives should be found for other pyrethroids that lack antifeedant characteristics. Our survey revealed that a significant portion of tomato growers no longer use endosulfan. Endosulfan will be withdrawn from use on tomato as of Dec 2014.

“In addition, we expect that 20% of Florida’s tomato growers will adopt the guidelines we establish for the use of new insecticides in the field, and for the integration of insecticides and biological control in protected agriculture.”

Our research has confirmed what many others have found, which is that biological control agents have limited efficacy suppressing whiteflies on tomato. We did not find any compatibility between the new insecticides being tested and commercially available biological control agents. However it was difficult to draw conclusions because the parasitoids performed so poorly. I was interested in testing the compatibility between new insecticides and commercially available biocontrol agents when I submitted this proposal in 2011 because a large tomato grower was using whitefly parasitoids in a large screen house in Hillsborough County. They have since stopped using biocontrol agents because they were not happy with the results. I continue to work with the grower on managing tomato pests in protected structures. However we have not developed guidelines for integrating biological and chemical control of tomato pests in protected structures.

Contact Hugh A. Smith, Ph. D. Assistant Professor, Vegetable Entomology Univ. Florida/IFAS/Gulf Coast REC 14625 CR 672 Wimauma, FL, 33598 813-633-4124 (office) 813-634-0001 (fax)

Additional Information We are preparing the results of field trials for publication in the Journal of Crop Protection, and the results of parasitoid studies will be submitted to the Journal of Economic Entomology. Results have been presented from this project at the annual meeting of the Entomological Society of America in Austin Texas, at the Florida Tomato Institute Meeting in Naples, and at the Ag Expo at GC REC. Results have also been presented at tomato grower updates at Beef Obrady’s in Parrish Florida in August 2012 and 2013.

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Project (14): ‘Predator-In-First’: A Novel BioControl Strategy for Managing Thrips and Other Key Pests in Pepper Crops

Project Partners: University of Florida Project Summary: Within the US, Florida is second largest producer of fresh market vegetables after California valued at $1.9 billion (FDACS 2007). However in past few years Florida vegetable industry is facing great challenges because of 1) fresh regulations on water and chemical applications, 2) the loss of the major soil fumigant, 3) increased urbanization and loss of farm lands, 4) continued challenges from unfavorable weather conditions, and 5) regional and global market competition (Cantliffe et al., 2001). Apart from these, continuous invasion and establishment by exotic pest species damaging agriculture production in Florida is adding extra burden on the regional growers. According to FDACS (2000), in between 1986 and 2000, 150 species of exotic arthropods has been found established in Florida i.e. ~1.2 species/month. Thus, in order to maintain the balance between demand and supply of fresh produces it is very important to address key issues affecting production in the best interest of growers. The purpose of this project was to test and verify a novel biological control strategy “Predator-in-First” (PIF) in greenhouse and field vegetable production using pepper as a model crop. Currently, increased pest pressure in commercial vegetable production such as in pepper is managed by the producers with the increased use of chemical insecticides. Growers rely heavily on the use of broad spectrum insecticides which can lead to several biological and environmental problems such as (1) elimination of non target organisms including beneficial insects like natural enemies, pollinators or soil inhabitant insects; (2) development of insecticide resistance in the pest species; (3) pest resurgence due to elimination of natural enemies and development of insecticide resistance; (4) secondary pest outbreak and (5) adverse environmental effect and health hazard in living organisms including humans. Although biological control strategies considered a potential alternative to chemical control methods but still growers hesitate to use it in commercial production owing its slow or delayed activity which may result in economic loss. However, it is possible to avoid such situations if we fully understand the plant phenology and multi-channel interactions between plant host, insect and predator.

Establishment of biocontrol agents is critical for success of a biological control strategy. PIF is a novel approach towards establishing predators before the appearance of pests in an agro- ecosystem. It aims to establish biological control in the pre-planting and/or critical post- transplanting period. This is significant because natural enemies generally do not establish until later in the season when pest numbers have built up. PIF utilizes the characteristics of type III generalist phytoseiid (predatory) mites, which can survive on pollen and nectar provisioned by its host plant, and establish in the absence of their prey. The early establishment of the proactive population of natural enemies helps target the pests at their incipient stage of infestation.

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Generalist predators have broad spectrum impact on pest population and can provide control against multiple pest species such as thrips, whiteflies and broad mites. PIF is a self-sustaining (within a cropping season) pest management system and it will be able to increase the reliability of biological control strategies and reduce overall insecticide use. PIF would be applicable not only in vegetable production (tomato, eggplant, green beans, and cucumber) systems but also in floriculture crops such as Poinsettia, Chrysanthemums etc. During the first part of the project (January - December 2012) we conducted several studies to determine the optimal condition, number, and methods of mite release important for predatory mite establishment on the host plant (in the absence of prey). In the second part of the project (September 2012 - December 2013) effectiveness of PIF in reducing multiple pests was tested in the greenhouse and field conditions using pepper as a host. Outcome of the various studies was presented in the vegetable growers meeting and looking at the success of the PIF strategy, some of the growers were interested in adopting/testing PIF approach in their pepper production units.

Project Approach Summary of activities performed under the project In a series of experiments, we systemically screened 29 different commercially available pepper cultivars (hot and sweet) for certain physical characteristics (presence of domatia, pollen) which could help sustain predatory mites’ population in the absence of prey. In the next step, predatory mite, Amblyseius swirskii was evaluated for their ability to survive in the presence or absence of supplemental pollen on pepper seedlings when plants were not in flowering stage. In the following steps, different methods and optimal rate of mites release were estimated; compatibility of A. swirskii with selected insecticides was assessed, and practical applicability of PIF was finally tested in the greenhouse and field condition. In both greenhouse and field conditions, PIF approach was tested on two selected sweet pepper cultivars (7141 and 7039) during different pepper growing seasons.

Experiments conducted under each objective Objective 1. To screen transplants of commonly grown pepper varieties for their ability to sustain populations of predatory mites. Experiment 1a. Screening of hot and sweet pepper cultivars for sustaining Amblyseius swirskii in absence of prey. All studies under objective 1 were conducted at the University of Florida’s Mid-Florida Research and Education Center, Apopka under the administration of PI Lance Osborne, between 2012 and 2013. The current study was undertaken to screen pepper cultivars (hot and sweet) for their ability to support phytoseiid mite Amblyseius swirskii populations under no prey condition. Screening studies were conducted at different growth stages of pepper to explore plant characteristics important for mite establishment, survival and population growth on the host plants. The seeds of 29 commonly grown (11 hot and 18 sweet) pepper cultivars (Table 1) were sown on cell flatscontaining Fafard 2-Mix growing medium (Conrad Fafard, Inc., Agawam, MA, USA), and when required seedlings were transplanted into 10 cm diameter plastic pots filled with the same growing medium in insect proof screen cages.

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Abundance of A. swirskii on 11 hot pepper cultivars in absence of prey The seedlings used in this study were pesticide free, and those with uniform size and growth vigor. For each cultivar, one potted seedling (5-7 leaf stages without any flower) was placed on an inverted small saucer (10 cm diam.) that was placed in a large saucer (20 cm diam.) filled with soapy water to prevent phytoseiid mites escaping from the seedling. Two weeks later, five adult female A. swirskii were brushed on the top leaves per seedling for each pepper cultivar and small amount (~10-12 mg) of cattail pollen was provided as a nutrition supplement. The experiment had 11 treatments (cultivars or species), replicated three times in a randomized complete block design. Starting seven days after the release of A. swirskii, 15 leaves (5 leaves per plant x 3 plants) on each cultivar were non-destructively sampled weekly for six weeks. Life stages of A. swirskii were counted using a head mounted 10-x magnifier (Donegan Optical Company, Lenexa, KS, USA).

Population densities of A. swirskii on different pepper cultivars varied significantly among different sampling weeks that could be attributed to the variable flowering period in the pepper cultivars (Table 2). Seasonal weekly sampling showed overlapping generations of A. swirskii on most of the hot pepper cultivars and these cultivars sustained mite population through the end of study. Mite populations were low (0-3.33/five top leaves) at the beginning of study - week 1, which increased rapidly and peaked (2-34.66/five top leaves) during week 3-4, gradually decreased (0.33-12.66/five top leaves) at week 5 and then maintained low-moderate levels (0-6/five top leaves) towards the end at week 6. Nevertheless, each cultivar of pepper sustained mite population to an extent from seedling to matured fruiting stage. High population density of A. swirskii on all cultivars was observed during the flowering period. A significant difference in mite abundance on different hot pepper cultivars was observed starting in the second week of study (Table 2) where the highest population was observed on Fooled You Hybrid (11.66/five top leaves) and minimum on Anaheim TMR cultivar (0.33/five top leaves). Third week onwards, except for a few occasions significantly high abundance of mites were reported on Chily Chili hybrid than Anaheim TMR, Numex Sunburst Orange and Riot pepper cultivars on different sampling dates (Table 2). Among all the sampling weeks, the highest mean abundance of A. swirskii was reported during the 4th week on Tam Jalapeno cultivar (34.66/five top leaves). When mite data were pooled for all the weeks, highest seasonal mean of A. swirskii was observed on cultivar Chilly chili hybrid (14.37 mite/five top leaves) and least abundance was reported on Anaheim TMR (0.66 mite/five top leaves). When means of all the treatments for different weeks were compared together, highest density of mites was observed during the 3rd sampling week (16.4) and lowest during week 1 (0.48). Abundance of A. swirskii on eight sweet pepper cultivars in absence of prey An experiment was performed in the above greenhouse to evaluate eight sweet pepper cultivars for sustaining A. swirskii population in absence of prey. The spatial arrangement for the experiment was similar to the above study except that it was conducted with a higher rate of mites (10 mites/plant). As in hot pepper transplants, population density of A. swirskii on sweet pepper cultivars fluctuated during different sampling dates (Table 3). However, all the pepper cultivars evaluated, sustained a low-moderate mite population throughout the study period. During weekly surveys, mites performed the best on cultivar 992-7141 maintaining a moderate-high level of mites between week 2 and 7, followed by 7141, FPP9048 and FPP7039 cultivars (Table 3). Statistically higher number of mites was reported on 992-7141 than Hunter on all the sampling dates between week 2-7, Cutlass on week 2, 5, 6, 7, TomCat on week 2, 4, 5, 7 and Bayonet on week 2, 4 and 6, respectively. No significant difference in mite abundance was reported among 7141, FPP9048 and FPP7039 cultivars on different sampling dates except for week 5 and 7. When the data for all the

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eight weeks were pooled together highest seasonal means was observed on 992-7141 (20.94) followed by 7141 (16.75) cultivars and the minimum seasonal abundance was reported on cultivar Tom Cat (7.16). When means of all the treatments for different weeks were compared together highest density of mites were observed during week 5 (24.66) and lowest mean abundance during week 8 (1.68). High population density of A. swirskii on all cultivars was observed during the flowering period. Experiment 1b. Effect of supplemental pollen on establishment of A. swirskii on pepper seedling.

To determine the importance of initial application of pollen on the establishment of A. swirskii during early stage of pepper growth, mite abundance on the pepper seedling was assessed in the presence and absence of supplemental pollen. Six seeds of a pepper cultivar were sown in small (3 x 2 cell) plastic trays as mentioned above. After seedling establishment, plants in each small tray were thinned to the four best seedlings for experiments. At 30 days post germination, two small cell trays containing four seedlings of uniform size, growth and vigor were selected and placed in separate cages (120x120x120 cm). Out of the two cages, seedlings in one cage were provided with a small amount (~ 10 - 12 mg/seedling) of cattail pollen on the top leaves. Approximately, after two hours of pollen application, five female adults of A. swirskii per seedling were released using a camel-hair brush in both the cages. All life stages of A. swirskii were recorded weekly for four weeks post-release on five leaves per plant. The experiment was conducted on 17 different sweet pepper cultivars and replicated four times. In this study, low mite abundance was observed on seedlings of all the pepper cultivars throughout the study period. In no-pollen condition, highest mean density of A. swirskii was observed on five top leaves of 992-7141 cultivar (0.75) followed by crusader (0.68) and least abundance was observed on Intruder (0.06), Bayonet (0.06), Red Missile (0.06) and SPP 6001 (0.06) cultivars. When pollen was supplied as a supplement, high mean density of A. swirskii was found on FPP9048 (1.06) and FPP7039 (1.06) cultivars and least numbers were recorded on Crusader (0.12) and Hunter (0.12). Significant effects of presence and absence of pollen on mite abundance were observed on nine sweet pepper cultivars, where presence of pollen positively influenced mite population on eight of these pepper cultivars i.e., 992-8302, 997-9325, FPP7039, SPP6001, Bayonet, Cutlass, Intruder and Red Masquerade cultivars (Fig. 1). Mites on two cultivars performed better with no pollen although mites’ number was significantly higher only on Crusader. Conclusion: Our study shows A. swirskii can survive on the majority of screened pepper cultivars in no prey conditions for at least six weeks (four weeks in case of seedling), where survivability increased on provisioning them with pollen as an incentive. Amongst 17 cultivars tested for the effect of pollen on mite establishment on pepper seedlings, high mean number of mites was recorded on 15 cultivars with pollen, and significantly higher number of mites was observed on eight of the cultivars when compared with no pollen treatments. It suggests that initial pollen supplement was important for mite survival and reproduction in the absence of their prey and plant-provisioned food sources. In another related studies, where we tested PIF on seedlings of different pepper cultivars (mentioned below), we were able to establish mite population during seedling stage of the hosts with a single release of mites. This indicates that PIF has potential to serve as an important tool for nursery growers involved in seedling business. It will not only reduce their input cost for pest management on pepper seedling but also increase the value of their product. While screening of hot and sweet pepper cultivars, low mite population was observed initially (during pre-flowering stage) and it increased after the 2nd week of study. Peak mite population was observed between the 3rd and 5th sampling period depending upon the flowering stage, and moderate to low levels towards the end of study coinciding with the end of the flowering 115

stage. These results suggest that the presence and duration of flowering (pollen) stage played an important role in sustaining mite abundance in different pepper cultivars. Our results are consistent with several other studies where positive effect of pollen on different generalist phytoseiid mite species has been reported. Van Rijn et al. (2002), Ragusa et al. (2009), Nomikou et al. (2010), Kutuk and Yigit (2011) showed the role of pollen as nutrition supplement in population increase of mite species A. degenerans Berlese, Cydnodromus californicus McGregor and A. swirskii respectively, resulting in decreased pest population (if observed) on the host plants. We speculate that in addition to pollen, presence of domatia and its emergence at different growth stages of pepper also affected the mite population in our study. During screening of sweet pepper cultivars, appearance of domatia after 2nd week of transplanting (Fig. 2a, b) along with onset of flowering, resulted in high population growth of A. swirskii. Although thorough data on number of domatia per pepper cultivar was not collected but weekly surveys on the presence or absence of domatia suggests an influence of its presence on mite population. Nevertheless, more studies needs to be conducted before counting the potential role of domatia on mites in our study. Based on the series of screening tests four pepper cultivars 7141 and 992-7141 (Sakata seeds), FPP7039 and FPP9048 (Seminis) were found to be worthy of further testing. Objective 2. To develop efficient methods for mass inoculating transplants with predatory mites prior to being planted into the field or garden. The current study was undertaken to optimize the rate and mode of predatory mite release on pepper seedlings. All studies under objective 2 were conducted at the University of Florida’s Mid- Florida Research and Education Center, Apopka, under the administration of PI Lance Osborne between 2012 and 2013. Experiment 2a. Effect of different pollen types on A. swirskii population. Six different pollen types (Peach, Pear, Cattail, Avocado, Almond, Olive) were tested as supplemental pollen for their effect on mite population on pepper seedling. The experiment had 7 treatments (6 pollen types and a control) with 6 replications and conducted inside large cage or onto an isolated platform (no-cage) on a greenhouse bench to prevent contamination. Based on the results from Experiment 1, FPP9048 were used as the host-pepper variety and the seedlings were prepared as in experiment 1a. Ten (n=10) female adults were introduced to each seedling. All of the leaves from each plant were checked for A. swirskii for 6 weeks post release. There was no significant difference in A. swirskii populations among the pollen types compared to the control treatment (p =0.4511). Among 6 selected plant pollen types, peach, pear, olive, and cattail maintained > 8.0 A. swirskii per plant per sampling day (Fig. 3). However, we noted that each of the six pollen types supported significantly higher A. swirskii in the isolated platform (no-cage) treatments compared to the cage treatments (Figure 3).

Experiment 2b. Population dynamics of A. swirskii on four selected sweet pepper cultivars Based on the results obtained in the previous study, we further screened four sweet pepper cultivars (7141, 992-7141, FPP 7039, and FPP-9048) for sustaining a population of A. swirskii. The spatial arrangement for the experiment was similar to the experiment 1a, b except that it was conducted with a higher rate of mites (20 mites/plant). In the population dynamics study, cultivar 7141 outperformed the remaining three cultivars in supporting the population density of A. swirskii. Weekly sampling data showed low to moderate abundance of A. swirskii on 7141, FPP7039 and FPP9048 cultivars during the first few weeks after transplant, which peaked to the highest level after week 4 and then gradually decreased to low levels after week 7 (Fig. 4). Low abundance of mites was observed on 992-7141 during the entire study period. A significantly higher density 116

of A. swirskii was recorded on 7141 than 992-7141 during week 4, 5 and 6 which was not different from 9048 on week 4 and 7039 on week 6. When mite data were pooled together for all the weeks, highest seasonal mean of A. swirskii was reported on five top leaves of 7141 (29.93) followed by FPP9048 (19.0), FPP7039 (15.97) and the lowest on 992-7141 (5.93) pepper cultivar. When means of all the treatments for different weeks were compared together, highest density of mites were observed during 5th sampling week (51.0). Experiment 2c. Effect of two release methods (Banker vs. Direct release) on population abundance of A. swirskii The experiment served to evaluate two different modes of release of phytoseiid mites to the host plant: a) direct application- mites released directly on the host plant, b) indirect application - mites released using banker plants in the treatment plots. The experiment utilized four sweet pepper cultivars (7141, 992-7141, FPP 7039, FPP-9048) and an ornamental pepper cultivar (Explosive Ember) to be used as a banker plant. Selection, preparation, and use of this banker plant under greenhouse conditions have been described in our previous publication (Xiao et al. 2012). Each cultivar received A. swirskii through two release methods in the greenhouse. Each release method had four replications per cultivar and six potted seedlings constituted one replicate. Seedlings were prepared and managed as described for previous experiments. In a banker plant release method, six potted (diam. 10 cm) pepper seedlings (30 d) were placed in an isolated platform, one potted banker plant with a high and well-established population of A. swirskii was placed in close proximity (leaves touching each other) to the six pepper plants. Phytoseiid mites were allowed to move from the banker plant to the sweet pepper plants being evaluated. In the direct release treatment, six seedling pots were placed in an isolated platform without a banker plant. A. swirskii was released directly on each plant at the density of 20 female adults per plant. During the weekly surveys on all four cultivars, except for a few occasions consistently high mite numbers were sampled from the banker plants treatment than that of direct release. Number of mites sampled for different cultivars during the course of study fluctuated between 0 - 6 mite/five leaves for banker plant and 0 - 3 mite/five leaves for direct release treatments. Among all the four cultivars when the two treatments (banker vs. direct release) were compared together, significantly higher number of mites were sampled from banker plant treatments - 7141 (t = 3.78; df = 36, P = 0.0030), 992-7141, FPP7039, and FPP9048 (Fig. 5). In banker plant release, cultivar 992-7141 and cultivar FPP7039 in direct release method held highest seasonal mean number of A. swirskii than other cultivars. Conclusion: Out of six pollen types tested, no significant difference in mite population was observed in different pollen treatments. It suggests that for establishment of A. swirskii in PIF approach any of these plants pollen can be efficiently used. In study where 20 mites/plant was tested, mite population reached >100 mites per plant in absence of any pest suggesting it’s an optimal rate for application under greenhouse condition. Appearance of domatia after 2nd week that synchronized with flowering period resulted in high population growth of A. swirskii on hosts. Our study also demonstrates the banker plants were a more effective method to disperse A. swirskii to pepper transplants. In the final study where two methods of release of A. swirskii was evaluated, recovery of mites on host plants was significantly higher (~ 2-3 folds) in banker plant treatments on all the four cultivars (7141, 992-7141, FPP7039 and FPP9048) than direct release method, suggesting that the banker plant system offers better survival of mite. Banker plant system is derivative of conservational biological control, which provides ecological infrastructures required to sustain a reproducing population of natural enemies (Osborne and Barrett 2005; Frank 2010; Huang et al. 2011). Banker plant can provide food, shelter and protection against unfavorable conditions to the mite population. In our previous publications, we have demonstrated the role of banker plant in establishment of biological control agents on host plants as well as suppressing 117

multiple pest populations (Xiao et al. 2011a, b, 2012). Result of this study was in confirmation with our previous studies but in addition, it was first in comparing the two release methods together.

Objective 3. To determine the compatibility of the Predator-In-First approach with pesticide treatments applied to pepper seedlings. The current study was undertaken with the objective of integrating commonly used insecticides in pepper production with PIF approach. Different studies under objective 3 were conducted between 2012 and 2013 at University of Florida’s Mid-Florida Research and Education Center, Apopka under the administration of PI Lance Osborne and at U.S. Horticultural Research Laboratory (USHRL), USDA-ARS Fort Pierce under the administration of Co PI Cindy McKenzie to assess the compatibility of wide range of insecticides and miticides with A. swirskii mite through greenhouse studies. Study where foliar application of insecticides (Pylon, Conserve) was made directly on mite population, both the insecticides was found to decimate mite population within 24 hrs of application of treatments. In another study when compatibility of four different insecticides (Movento, Overture, Spintor and Epimek) was assessed with different life stages (established population) of A. swirskii, Overture - a pyridalyl compound was found to be least effective (compatible) against A. swirskii. However, Spintor and Epimek were found to be lethal against all the life stages (eggs, nymphs and adults) of predatory mites (Table 4, 5, 6). Movento was moderately harmful against A. swirskii. In the attempts to find optimal methods of integrating miticides (Avid and Floramite) with PIF approach two studies were conducted where in first study miticides were sprayed directly on mite population on the host plants, and in second miticides were sprayed on mites sachets hanging on the plants. When mites were sampled after 5 days of application of treatments, higher mite’s population was observed in the second study compared to first where miticides were indirectly sprayed on mites.

Conclusion: Chemical insecticides can have negative impact on predatory mite population but they can be integrated with PIF approach if used strategically. The risk of insecticide damage on mite population can be minimized by evading direct contact of mites with insecticides at the time of application. Since domatia present on the lower leaf surface of plant can protect mite population against insecticide application, there are margins of using certain insecticides along with PIF approach using such crop cultivars. Also, low or no effect of insecticides on mites can be seen if mites are released after certain period of treating host plants with insecticides or vice versa. In addition, some insecticides can have variable impact on different life stages of predatory mites, so it is recommended to use mild insecticides when mite population have successfully established on host plants.

Objective 4. Test Predator-In-First system under operational conditions The current study was undertaken to test practical application of PIF approach in greenhouse and field condition. Two greenhouse (fall 2012 and spring 2013) and three field studies (fall 2012, spring 2013, fall 2013) were conducted at U.S. Horticultural Research Laboratory (USHRL), USDA-ARS Fort Pierce using two best screened sweet pepper cultivars (7141 and 7039) from Objective 1 and 2. Experiment 4a. To test applicability of PIF approach in controlled greenhouse condition. In this study, we evaluated optimal rate of application of phytoseiid mite A. swirskii (Athias- Henriot) on bell peppers to provide protection from phytophagous insects. At eight 118

week stage seedlings of the two varieties of peppers were inoculated with three different rates of A. swirskii resulting in six treatments: 1) 7141 + mites at 20 mites/plant, 2) 7141 + mites at 40 mites/plant, 3) control I - 7141 + no mite, 4) 7039 + mites at 20 mites/plant, 5) 7039 + mites at 40 mites/plant and 5) control II - 7039 + no mite. Mites were allowed to establish on pepper seedlings for seven days before transplanting in Fafard Pro-mix medium (Conrad Fafard, Inc., Agawam, MA) in 3.78 L plastic pots. All the six treatments were arranged in randomized complete block design with six replications, where each plot consisted of three plants of individual treatment. Developmental stages of all the arthropods including A. swirskii, Bemisia tabaci and Frankliniella occidentalis were recorded weekly on 5 top leaves and 1 flower (in flowering season) of each pepper plant for period of 8 wk.

A. swirskii was able to survive, develop and oviposit on all the treatments exhibiting initial mite’s release in both the greenhouse studies. During fall 2012, significantly higher mean number of A. swirskii was reported in the treatment plots (treatment no. 2 and 5) where 40 mites/plant was applied compared to rest other treatments (Fig. 6). In all the mites treated plots, mean number of B. tabaci was significantly lower than the both control plots. Except for treatment 1, significantly lower mean number of F. occidentalis was reported in all the mites treated plots compared to control plots. In spring 2013, significantly higher mean number of B. tabaci reported in both the control plots compared to the mites treated plots (Fig. 7).

Experiment 4b. To test applicability of PIF approach in open field condition (commercial pepper production condition). Field study was conducted 1) to assess optimal rate of application of phytoseiid mites per pepper plant in field condition, and 2) to evaluate two different modes of mites application to the host plant: a) direct application- mites released directly on the host plant, b) indirect application - mites released using mites slow release sachet in combination with banker plants in the treatment plots. At eight week stage seedlings of the two varieties of peppers were inoculated with four different rates of A. swirskii resulting in total of eight treatments: 1) 7141 + mites at 20mites/plant, 2) 7141 + mites at 40 mites/plant, 3) 7141 + mites at 1 sachet/10 plants, 4) control I - 7141 + no mite, 5) 7039 + mites at 20 mites/plant, 6) 7039 + mites at 40 mites/plant, 7) 7141 + mites at 1 sachet/10 plants, and 8) control II - 7039 + no mite. Mites were allowed to establish on pepper seedlings for 7 days before transplanting in field. Study was conducted at USHRL experimental farm site where six raised beds (150 m long, 0.91 m wide, 0.15 m high and 1.5 m spacing between centers) of Oldsmar sand (sandy, siliceous, hyperthermic Alfic Arenic Alaquod) were prepared. All the eight treatments were arranged in randomized complete block design with six replications. PIF was also effective in field condition in regulating multiple pepper pests (whitefly, western flower thrips, broad mites), however, due to unfavorable weather condition an augmentative release of mites was required in all the three seasons. In fall 2012, significantly lower mean number of B. tabaci and Polyphagotarsonemus latus (broad mite) reported in treatment 3 and 6 where highest rate of A. swirskii was applied compared to control plots (Fig. 8). In addition, significantly higher mean yield was reported in treatment 6 (40 mites/plant) than treatment 4 (control I - 7141 + no mite) (Fig. 9). During spring 2013 study significantly lower mean number of B. tabaci reported in treatment plots 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 than both control plots (treatments 4 and 8) (Fig. 10). During spring 2013, due to frequent cold front or intermittent low temperatures low

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survival of A. swirskii was reported in the pepper field. Also, infestation of pepper weevil in the spring season greatly affected pepper yield data. During fall 2013 study significantly lower mean number of P. latus reported in treatments 1, 2, 5 and 6 compared to both control plots (Fig. 11). Significantly higher mean yield was reported in treatment plots 1, 2, 3, 6 and 7 than both the control plots (Fig. 12).

Conclusion: In different studies, PIF was found to be successful in managing multiple pests of pepper (whitefly, thrips and broad mite). In greenhouse condition, single application of A. swirskii (40 mites/plant) was found to be sufficient for mite’s establishment on host seedlings and providing effective suppression of pest populations. However, an augmentative release of mites was required in field condition to support the activities of existing mite population on the host plants. High pepper yield was reported in all the mites treated plots compared to control. Results obtained during different pepper growing seasons (fall 2012, spring 2013 and fall 2013) suggests that PIF can be an effective pest management tool for pepper growers in fall season when climate is conducive for mite’s growth, but it may not be as efficient in spring season when frequent cold front or intermittent low temperatures reported during the field production of pepper. For successful establishment of predatory mites on pepper seedlings, mites must be released 7-10 days before transplanting in the pots or in the field. Goals and Outcomes Achieved Outcomes of different objectives under this project showed that the plant characteristics such as presence of flower (pollen) and domatia (hair on lower leaf surface) plays an important role in mite establishment on hosts. In the early growth stage of pepper (seedling or early transplant) when there are no flower on hosts, supplemental pollen is required for mite establishment and once established, mites can control the building pest population at its incipient stage. Presence of domatia on the host plant facilitates development and reproduction of the mite by providing a substrate for laying eggs and conducive habitat which protects individuals against cannibalism, other natural enemies and insecticides applications. Thus, systematic screening of a particular crop is important to determine their physical characteristics before PIF approach can be used in that crop. Furthermore, use of banker plants as a mode of predatory dispersal was found to be more effective than the direct release methods. Furthermore, it also showed that PIF is an economically viable approach as it reduces the variable cost of pest management by reducing the overall insecticides uses. Outcome #1: Adoption of Predator-In-First system During and after the project, pepper growers were contacted on multiple occasions and informed about the PIF approach. They were educated and encouraged to adopt this preventive biocontrol strategy. During the growers meeting they were surveyed about their knowledge and interest in biological control strategies and we made them aware that how using PIF approach in their vegetable production units can significantly reduce the pest damage. We showed that in fall 2012 study, treatment plots with higher mite rate (40 mite/plant x 2 application) for two cultivars 7141 and 7039 had about 450 and 250 lbs higher yield than control plots (no mite) of respective cultivars. Similarly in fall 2013 study when there was a high pressure of broad mite, treatment plots with higher rate of mite (40 mite/plant x 2 application) for two cultivars 7141 and 7039 had about 775 and 375 lb more yield than control plots of respective cultivars. Thus, PIF approach can bring economic gain for their business with low input cost on pest management. At this point in time, no growers report adopting this technique. We feel that this is impart due to our inability to demonstrate that this is a reliable technique during the winter-spring crop and that it is, at least to them, more difficult than

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traditional methods. Secondly, new chemistry has entered the market making the management of the target pests economically feasible using traditional technology. To date, no resistance has been reported.

Outcome #2: Reduced (or changed) pesticide use in pepper production. Since in the middle of the project our extension partner from West Palm Beach Cooperative Extension Dr. David Sui left the job, we could not advance much towards achieving this goal of the project. However, during our meetings with growers we informed them that in none of our studies we used chemical insecticides to control pest infesting our pepper plants, but still we got significant reduction in the population of multiple pests in the greenhouse condition and higher yield in predatory mite treated plots using PIF approach. It shows that PIF approach has potential to reduce overall insecticides uses.

Beneficiaries Primary beneficiaries of this project are the vegetable and ornamental growers of Florida. Currently, Pest management in the vegetable and ornamental plant industries in Florida is facing great challenges due to the recent introduction of several invasive pests. Since, generalist predators have broad spectrum impact on different pest species; PIF approach using such biocontrol agents can manage multiple pests. It includes some of the key pests of agricultural importance such as thrips, whiteflies and broad mites which cause economic loss to growers either by direct feeding or transmitting plant damaging pathogens to the crop. PIF is a self-sustaining (within a cropping season) pest management system, and it will be able to increase the reliability of biological control strategies and reduce overall insecticide uses. PIF would be applicable not only in vegetable production (tomato, eggplant, green beans, strawberries and cucumber) systems but also in floriculture crops such as Poinsettia, Chrysanthemums etc. In last few years, there are reports suggesting that commercial nurseries growing Poinsettia in Florida, California, Texas and other states receive plant cuttings infested with invasive whiteflies and other pests. If the cuttings are made with plants initially infested with phytoseiid mites, it will greatly reduce the possibility of pest movement with the host cuttings.

In 2011, Florida ranked second in the value of vegetable production in the US after California with the cash receipt of ~$1.93 billion (FDACS 2012). Some of the major contribution to Florida’s cash receipt came from tomato, bell peppers, cucumber, squash, snap bean and strawberry production. Since predatory mites such as A. swirskii or Neoseiulus californicus has potential to limit at least one of the major pest affecting these crops, adopting PIF based propagation of these crop will have high impact on the specialty crop industry by offering a sustainable pest management approach. It is anticipated that results obtained from peppers should aid in the development of state-wide pest management programs for other important vegetable crops. Florida has a robust and diverse agricultural industry with several crops that will benefit by incorporating the Predator in First approach into their existing pest management strategies. Some of the vegetable crops identified as compatible for managing key pests using the PIF approach includes Florida’s fresh market snap beans, cucumbers for fresh market, cucumbers for pickles, and fresh market tomatoes. These particular crops were ranked 1st in the U.S. for value of production in 2012. Other crops of interest are bell peppers and strawberries whose value of production ranked 2nd in the nation in 2012. Large scale bell pepper growers in Palm Beach County like Jim Alderman of Alderman Farms, Steve Thomas of Thomas Produce, Steve and Marie Bedner of Bedner Farms, Adriana Pero of Pero Family Farms, Lisa Manzano of Lady Moon Farms, Jose and Tomas Santiago of Green Pepper Farm, and Glen Whitworth of Whitworth Farm can benefit from the PIF approach as well as smaller growers like Subu Subramanya of Pepper Research, Nancy Roe of Farming Systems Research, Bruce Olis of Bruce’s Ghost 121

Pepperz, Darrin Swank of Swank Produce, and Ken Shuler of Stephen’s Produce. The PIF approach also gives crops scouts and consultants like Joel Allingham of Agricare, Meghan Barnett of Glades Crop Care, and Bruce Johnson of General Crop Management another option to mitigate key pepper pest damage. However, we anticipate field grown vegetable producers will remain hesitant to adopt this technique until we can demonstrate consistent results over a multiple seasons. They are much slower to embrace biological controls than are growers that produce crops under protected culture. The ornamental growers around the country are extremely excited about the use of PFI and banker plant systems. We now have to companies producing banker plants and helping growers that produce crops under glass implement modifications of the PFI concept.

Extension Activities: Towards the end of the research part of the project, a vegetable growers meeting was arranged in Palm Beach County on November 25 2013 to share the outcome of greenhouse and field studies with growers, extension personnel and researchers of the University of Florida. It was organized with the efforts of Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension agent Christian Miller and PI Lance Osborne. More than 30 audiences turned out for the meeting, who were educated about the goals, operation and expected outcome with adopting PIF approach in pepper production. Growers were surveyed before and after the presentations about their understanding and interest in biological control of pepper pests. Growers were encouraged to adopt this novel approach which can reduce the cost of pest management and the use of chemical insecticides. Post meeting, some of the pepper growers interested in testing PIF approach in their pepper production units were contacted and detailed information about PIF approach were provided to them.

Lessons Learned

1) In our preliminary studies we determined time period (2 days, 5 days and 7 days) required for successful establishment of predatory mites on pepper seedlings before transplantation into the pots. We found that it is important to inoculate seedlings ~ 7 days before transplanting them into the pots (or in field) as it gives sufficient time for nymphs or adults to establish on the host and reproduce.

2) Initial mite release on pepper seedlings must be accompanied with a food source or nutrient supplement for mite population. It would support mite survival and establishment on hosts in the absence of prey and/or plant pollen.

3) A. swirskii’s number was higher on the host plants sampled in greenhouse studies compared to plants in the field studies even after two applications of mites in fields. We speculate that heavy rain for few days soon after planting the pepper seedlings carrying A. swirskii in the field during the fall season studies (fall 2012, 2013), affected mite population on the seedlings. In result count of A. swirskii was low during the first 3 samplings. However, by the second application of mites (augmentative release), host plants were well grown to have domatia present on the lower surface which may have protected A. swirskii from being washed away by rain soon after the second release. In spring 2013, frequent cold front or intermittent low temperatures had impact on A. swirskii population on the host plants throughout the season. Results from different pepper growing seasons (spring and fall) suggests that PIF can be an effective pest management tool for pepper growers in fall season when climate is suitable for mite’s growth, but it may not be as efficient in spring season.

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4) In spring field production of pepper, incidence of pepper weevil can affect the pepper yield.

5) In field studies, low count of A. swirskii was recorded from flower samples during the three field studies. In result no significant difference in abundance of F. occidentalis was reported among eight treatments in field studies. Low abundance of mites in flowers could be due to plenty of food (B. tabaci and P. latus life stages) available on the open leaf surface, and A. swirskii mites did not have to move into the flowers in high numbers. Unsupportive flower morphology could be another reason leading to low mite abundance in flowers. On the contrary, on greenhouse plants in order to reduce intra-specific competition A. swirskii would have inhabited in the flower samples. It suggests that PIF approach with A. swirskii in field conditions may be more effective in regulating chilli thrips or other thrips species that affect/inhabit pepper foliage more than flowers. However, in greenhouse condition it can give control of both foliage and flower damaging thrips species. Contact Lance S. Osborne Mid-Florida Research and Education Center University of Florida-IFAS 2725, S. Binion Rd. Apopka, FL-32703 Phone: 407-884-2035 Fax: 407-814-6186 Email: [email protected]

Additional Information Under this project 1 refereed manuscript entitled “Predator-In-First: A novel biocontrol strategy for managing thrips and other key pests in pepper crops” has been submitted to the Journal of Experimental and Applied Acarology. Currently manuscript is under review. One arthropod management test report entitled “Effect of selective foliar insecticides on Amblyseius swirskii” has also been submitted. Another manuscript entitled “Application of Predator-In-First approach in management of multiple pepper pests” in under preparation which will be submitted to the journal Pest Management Science by the end of this year. Tables and figures related to above studies are being submitted as a separate word file.

References: Cantliffe DJ, Shaw, N, Jovicich, E, Rodriquez, JC, Secker, I, Karchi, Z (2001) Passive ventilated high-roof greenhouse production of vegetables in a humid mild winter climate. Acta Hort 559:195-201. FDACS. 2000. The exotic invasion of Florida. A Report on Arthropod Immigration into the Sunshine State. Florida department of agriculture and consumer services. Available at: http://www.freshfromflorida.com/Divisions-Offices/Plant-Industry/Science/The-Exotic- Invasion-of-Florida. 123

FDACS. 2007. Florida Agricultural Statistical Directory. Florida department of agriculture and consumer services. 151 p. Frank SD (2010) Biological control of arthropod pests using banker plants systems: past progress and future directions. Biol Control 52: 8-16. Huang N, Enkegaard, A, Osborne, LS, Ramakers, PMJ, Messelink, GJ, Pijnakker, J, Murphy, G (2011) The banker plant method in biological control. Crit Rev Pla Sci 30: 259-278. Kutuk H, Yigit A (2011) Pre-establishment of Amblyseius swirskii (Athias-Henriot) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) using Pinus brutia (Ten.) (Pinales: Pinaceae) pollen for thrips (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) control in greenhouse peppers. Int J Acarol 37:95–101 Nomikou M, Maurice, W, Sabelis, MW, Janssen, A (2010) Pollen subsidies promote whitefly control through the numerical response of predatory mites. BioControl 55: 253-260. Osborne LS, Barrett, JE (2005) You can bank on it, banker plants can be used to rear natural enemies to help control greenhouse pests. Ornamental Outlook, Sept. 26-27. Ragusa E, Tsolakis H, Palomero RJ (2009) Effect of pollens and preys on various biological parameters of the generalist mite Cydnodromus californicus. Bull Insectol 62:153-158. Van Rijn PCJ, Van Houten, YM, Sabelis, MW (2002) How plants benefit from providing food to predators even when it is also edible to herbivores. Ecology 83: 2664-2679. Xiao YF, Chen JJ, Cantliffe, D, McKenzie, CL., Houben, K, Osborne, L (2011a) Establishment of a papaya (Carica papaya L.) banker plant system for parasitoid, Encarsia sophia (Hymenoptera: Aphilidae) against Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) in greenhouse tomato production. Biol Control 58: 239-247. Xiao YF, Osborne, L, Chen, JJ, McKenzie, CL., Houben, K, Irizarry, F (2011b) Evaluation of corn plant as potential banker plants for predatory gall midge, Feltiella acarisuga (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) against Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae) in greenhouse vegetable crops. Crop Prot 36: 1635-1642. Xiao YF, Avery, PB, Chen, JJ, McKenzie, CL, Osborne, L (2012) Ornamental pepper as banker plants for establishment of Amblyseius swirskii (Acari: Phytoseiidae) for biological control of multiple pests in greenhouse vegetable production. Biol Control 63:279-286.

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Project (15): Gardening for Nutrition

Project Partners: Florida Agriculture in the Classroom, Inc.

Project Summary Gardening for Nutrition is the second in a series of school garden curricula developed by Florida Agriculture in the Classroom, Inc. (FAITC). The first in the series was Gardening for Grades, which was funded by a 2009 Specialty Crop Block Grant. Gardening for Nutrition came back from the printer in late 2014, and features 14 K-12 lesson plans and includes gardening tips to help teachers fund, plant, maintain and use school gardens as a teaching tool. The 10,000 hard copies printed will be available to Florida teachers free of charge. It also will be available on the FAITC web site as a digital download.

Florida teachers needed a nutrition curriculum to address the growing childhood obesity problem and help educate their students about the importance of a healthy diet and regular exercise. Gardening for Nutrition does this with nutrition information and lesson plans that are tied to the more than 300 specialty crop fruits and vegetables grown in Florida. The 14 K-12 lessons and activities use nutrition as it applies to the Florida fruits and vegetables grown in school gardens to teach reading, writing, math, science, music, art and physical education. The lessons are correlated to Florida Standards and Next Generation Science Standards which Florida teachers are required to teach. They also reference the USDA MyPlate to help educate students about the importance of a balanced diet.

It took three years to develop, but copies of the book came back from the printer Monday Nov. 17, 2014. Copies of Gardening for Nutrition will be shipped to the FDACS Specialty Crop Block Grant office this week. All 10,000 copies of the book will be available to Florida teachers by the end of 2014. In addition, the grant paid for travel to present lessons from Gardening for Nutrition at the National Agriculture in the Classroom Conferences in Minneapolis MN in 2013 and in Hershey PA in 2014.

Project Approach Project Activity Who Timeline

Develop nutrition lessons FAITC with help of curriculum developer January 2012 - October 2013

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Workshops held FAITC with help of curriculum developer June 2013, June 2014

2. Lessons edited, pilot tested FAITC with help of teachers in the field October 2013 - December 2013

3. Graphic artist lays out book FAITC with help of graphic artist February 2014- September 2014

4. Book printed Hartley Press, Inc. Jacksonville, FL October 2014 - December 2014

5. Book debuts FAITC, Hartley Press, Inc. December 2014

FAITC had to ask for an extension of the project until the fall of 2014 because it took a year longer than expected to finish the project. It took over a year to develop the 14 lesson plans, and then another six months to revise the lesson plans based on recommendations from a registered dietician to make the lessons nutritionally sound. In addition, pilot testing some of the lessons in the classroom resulted in significant changes to them. In the end, however, we ended up with a much better book that includes informative nutritional information and rigorous lesson plans teachers will find engaging.

Gardening for Nutrition is 100 pages longer than Gardening for Grades, and features lessons geared to students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Gardening for Grades was a kindergarten through eighth grade curriculum. Because the book was longer than its predecessor, it was going to be more expensive to print so we requested and were approved for an additional $23,000.

FAITC made sure that the specialty crop grant funds were only used to pay for sections of the book that referenced specialty crops. FAITC paid for sections of the book that referenced food items other than specialty crops out of its own money. For example, the registered dietician's fee of $2,500 was paid separately out of FAITC funds.

Goals and Outcomes Achieved 1. FAITC estimates it will reach about 10,000 teachers and 250,000 students with Gardening for Nutrition. Because of delays in development and printing of Gardening for Nutrition, we didn't receive the book until November 2014. By early 2015, teachers had ordered more than 1,000 books from the

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web site, and reported in their orders they would reach collectively more than 6,300 students. At this rate, we will easily distribute all 10,000 copies in two to three years time and reach the 10,000 teachers and 250,000 Florida teachers and students anticipated. Held 10 Gardening for Nutrition teacher workshops in 2013 and 2014, which included workshops at two National Agriculture in the Classroom Conferences (Minneapolis, MN in 2013, Hershey, PA 2014), two Farm to School events, two workshops that included farm tours, a facilitator train-the-trainer workshop and three environmental education workshops. The 300 teachers who attended reached more than 6,000 students with the curriculum. 2. FAITC will survey to determine which schools planted school gardens.

FAITC is requiring teachers to say whether or not they have a school garden or plan to plant a school garden when they go to our web site to order a book.

1. FAITC will survey participants to determine which schools did not plant gardens and identify the obstacles that prevented them from doing so.

FAITC is requiring teachers to say why they weren't able to plant a garden when they go to our web site to order a book.

2. FAITC will track results for student participants in the pre- and post-test assessments of the gardening curriculum and projects.

FAITC is requiring teachers to submit classroom averages of students' pre- and post-test scores from assessments included with each lesson in the book.

3. January - June 2012 - Six to eight nutrition lessons to be developed with simple activities to go with them that involve making healthy classroom recipes from the commodities grown in the school garden.

It actually took from January 2012 until October 2013 to develop, revise and pilot test the 14 lesson plans in the book.

4. July - October 2012 - Proofreaders to edit text, and identify possible graphics to go with it. Teachers to pilot test lessons and submit changes.

The lessons and book were proofread and edited from March 2014 through September 2014.

5. October 2012 - January 2013 - Graphic artist designs the cover and inside of the book. The book went to the graphic artist in early 2014 for layout and design.

6. February 2013 - April 2013 - Gardening for Nutrition goes to the printer.

The book went to the printer in the fall of 2014.

7. August 2013 - Gardening for Nutrition debuts at the beginning of the school year, and 10 training workshops are scheduled around the state.

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Gardening for Nutrition debuted in the fall of 2014.

FAITC is asking teachers a series of questions when they order Gardening for Nutrition online to find out whether or not they have school gardens, if not, why not and what students learned from the lessons using the short assessment at the end of each lesson so it can report back to stakeholders the impact the resources has had on students' understanding of how food is grown and the nutritional benefits of Florida specialty crops.

Beneficiaries The 10,000 Florida teachers and 250,000 Florida students in kindergarten through 12th grade exposed to Gardening for Nutrition are the beneficiaries of this free resource. FAITC's mission is to expand youth awareness and understanding of Florida agriculture and natural resources by integrating agricultural concepts into core educational disciplines and FAITC supporting programs.

As mentioned in the potential impact of this grant application, one of the best ways to reach Florida teachers and students with the message of the importance of agriculture is to give them the tools to become Florida farmers themselves.

Gardening for Nutrition gives teachers and students tips on how to establish school gardens that grow specialty crops, and use lessons from the book to teach students the importance of a healthy, balanced diet full of specialty crop fruits, vegetables and herbs. Florida fruit, vegetable and herb growers and their commodity groups will benefit from a better informed school population.

Lessons Learned Gardening for Nutrition took a year longer than expected to complete. The main reason: Nutrition is an ever changing science, and getting the curriculum developer and the registered dietician to agree on certain topics proved to be very difficult.

For example, the purpose of the lesson called 'Vegetable Relay' is to ask kindergarten through second grade students to learn the benefits certain vegetables provide the human body, identify the main vitamin or mineral each provides and match the seed to the vegetable it becomes in a relay race. However, many fruits and vegetables are important sources of two or three vitamins and minerals so choosing one over another became difficult. Also, body image is a problem for students today so the dietician didn't want to emphasize weight in the 6th through 12th grade lesson 'Energy In, Energy Out' lesson. But the whole point of the lesson is to measure the amount of food eaten to fuel the amount of activity in which a student participates, which sometimes results in over eating and weight gain. We resolved the issues, but it took time.

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In the end, we have a product of which we are proud, and Florida teachers and students are using. The extra effort to review and revise the lessons based on input from a number of sources resulted in a stronger classroom resource.

Contact Lisa Gaskalla Executive Director Florida Agriculture in the Classroom, Inc. Office (352) 846-1391 Cell (352) 745-0246 [email protected]

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Project (16): University of Florida - $198,583.00

Project Title Florida Small Farms-Capacity Building, Training, and Outreach: Phase II

Contract Number 18017 Specialty Crop Block Grant Funding Year 2011

• Project Summary Along with growing public awareness and demands for safe and nutritious produce, it has become increasingly clear that our small farms specialty crops industry is facing unique economic and communicative challenges regarding trade opportunities, regulatory issues, and customer expectations. Hence, the overall purpose of this project was as follows: Firstly, knowledge gain and exchange was to be improved among specialty crop farmers, policy makers, and industry members regarding this clientele’s most critical needs including food safety, risk management, and direct marketing. Secondly, the project team had identified the need to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to deliver relevant, science-based information via effective and impactful extension and outreach programs. As land grant university faculty, this team’s approach has been to educate (and not advocate) our industry on critical issues affecting production and marketing of fresh and safe fruit and vegetables. Funds and effort therefore were directed at research and outreach programs that served specialty crop operators and their technical service providers and at related processes and products thereof. Specific objectives were addressed in the three components of the project: (1) define the role of university, agency, and non-governmental organizations serving Florida small farm operators by estimating the economic impact of UF-IFAS and FAMU small farm outreach efforts, characterizing the historic and predicted needs of small farm operators and their communities of practice, and identifying successful outreach strategies through qualitative and quantitative evaluation methods (Component One); (2) expand the Small Farms Food Safety Implementation Team by providing in-service training to an additional 10 UF and/or FAMU county extension agents and delivering farm food safety trainings to small farm operators (Component Two); and (3) continuing the statewide Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference programming, which meets emerging needs including food safety, risk management, and direct marketing regulations (Component Three).

This project was important and timely because it enhanced the competitiveness of the increasing small farms specialty crop industry in Florida concurrent to major USDA small farms initiatives and federal legislation. This project directly addressed the following priorities identified in the Federal Register (USDA AMS) Specialty Crops Block Grant Program (SCBG) because it: • Assisted entities in the specialty crop distribution chain in developing “Good Agricultural Practices” and “Good Handling Practices” (C #2) • Invested in specialty crop research (C #1) • Enhanced food safety (C #2 and 3) • Increased competitiveness of specialty crop farmers including minority and disadvantaged farmers (C #2 and 3) • Contributed to the development of local and regional food systems (C #1,2,3)

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This project built on four previously funded Specialty Crop Block Grants (SCBGs). Initiated in 2009 with partial funds ($25,000) provided by an SCBG (UF Project #014697), the Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises (FL SFAE) Conference has been an ongoing success for four consecutive years. The 1st FL SFAE Conference was held August 1 & 2, 2009 in Kissimmee, FL and hosted by UF-IFAS and FAMU-CESTA, a sustaining partnership that has been critical to the success of the Small Farms Program. In 2010 (contract #79639), funds were awarded to support the 2nd FL SFAE Conference ($15,000), held July 31 and August 1, 2010. The 3rd FL SFAE Conference, which was held July 15-17, 2011, also received SCBG funding (contract #79639). Partial funds from this 2011 SCBG were re-allocated to facilitate participation of underserved and socially disadvantaged specialty crop farmers in the 4th FL SFAE Conference, held July 27-29, 2012 (Component Three of this project). In addition, the 2011 contract (#79639) provided financial support to establish the Small Farm Food Safety Implementation Team (built on in Component Two of this project). Overall, the 2011 SCBG awarded to Treadwell et al. provided funding ($132,549) to help build capacity of Florida specialty crop small farm operators through the statewide small farms conference programming, statewide food safety training, and identification of challenges faced by Florida’s small farm operators. Furthermore, food safety educational materials developed by Dr. Keith Schneider and his team (SCBG UF Project Number 00070629, 2009) were utilized during food safety trainings (Component Two) in this project. The outcomes of the present project significantly complemented previous program efforts and promoted statewide recognition of UF-IFAS and FAMU-CESTA Extension from agricultural leaders. The financial support awarded to this project facilitated the training of an additional 17 county extension agents and program assistants to join the Small Farm Food Safety Implementation Team (Component Two, $35,000). As a result of this pilot training program, a total of 74 farmers participated in hands-on food safety trainings during 2012. Funding from this project ($30,000) also was allocated to support the 4th FL SFAE Conference (Component Three), which was attended by over 750 stakeholders. Furthermore, funds were utilized for critical assessment of the economic impact of the involved land grant universities’ outreach efforts on Florida’s small farm specialty crop industry (Component One, $73,000).

• Project Approach Activities and tasks performed during the grant period as well as contributions and role of project partners are presented according to the three components of the project. A part-time program assistant, Ben Bobroff, was hired in mid-March (supervised by Danielle Treadwell) to develop and implement various programmatic activities in all components. To this end, the assistant supported press activities including the conference Facebook page. This page has experienced a 100% increase in views between early 2011 and early 2012. Ben Bobroff has worked very efficiently with a UF information technology employee to improve and coordinate our publicity outlets to maximize visibility and increase our efficiency as a team. We believe that having a strong web presence is important, and that it must be fresh, innovative, and contain valuable information unique to this team. All deliverables relevant to clientele and/or the public from this project was made available on one or more of these outlets.

Small farms are often diversified operations that include crops and animals, this team took special measures to ensure funds were allocated appropriately to the spirit and letter of the

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funding legislation. Because small farms are often diversified operations that include crops and animals, this team took special measures to ensure funds were allocated appropriately to the spirit and letter of the funding legislation. The majority of Florida’s small farmers grow only special crops and do not integrate livestock in their operations due to limited infrastructure for livestock processing and complications surrounding food safety certification on limited acreage. Specifically, Food Safety Extension programs were designed to solely address the needs of specialty crop farm operators, and were marketed uniquely to them. Food safety toolkits were only distributed to specialty crop producers. The Small Farms Conference has a livestock track and animal exhibition area, but at least 75% of the conference programming addresses the unique needs of specialty crop producers. However, the contribution of funds from the SCBG program is approximately 25% of the total cost of the conference. Our conference is managed by a professional event coordinator at the University of Florida and all transactions are traceable and auditable using good management practices. We are careful to allocate funds to those activities that solely benefit specialty crop producers. Funding support for activities in component one were proportional to the specialty crop component, and additional funding for non-specialty crop data analysis was provided through state-supported salary dollars. Additional details of the methods used by this team are summarized below.

2.1. Component One: Clarify the Role of University, Agency and Non-governmental Organizations Serving Small Farmers Contributors to this component included Tracy Irani and her PhD student Joy Goodwin and her staff at the UF-IFAS Center for Public Issues Education in Agriculture and Natural Resources (Center PIE), Alan Hodges, Sebastian Galindo-Gonzales, Danielle Treadwell, as well as Al Wysocki, a Co-PI on Irani’s SCBG on the use of Market Maker among farmers in FL. Staff involved directly in this project from Center PIE included a program assistant (funded by Center PIE) and two PhD students (partial support provided by this grant).

This team was in a unique position of having available several key data sets including the 2007 U.S. Agricultural Census, the 2008 Small Farms Statewide Survey (funded by FDACS, UF, and FAMU; conducted by Glenn Israel and Co-PIs Danielle Treadwell and Robert Hochmuth), Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Annual Conference Evaluations (generated by Sebastian Galindo-Gonzales), and other regional extension programs, such as ERS data, Alan Hodges’ existing data on county-level economic impacts of IFAS, and several white papers by agencies/universities in the U.S. including American Farmland Trust and NC State University.

Importantly, data from both the 2008 Small Farms Statewide Survey and the 2007 Census of Agriculture were used to estimate total annual statewide sales of agricultural products and services by small farms. Alan Hodges applied regional economic multipliers to calculate total economic impacts. He estimated the total sales from small farms were $765 million, total output impacts were $1.75 billion, value added contribution to GDP was $925 million, and total employment impacts were 16,886 jobs. Two summary tables (Tables 1 and 2) were attached to this report and also were submitted with the 3rd Quarter Report. Please note that funding for this analysis was partially provided by FDACS (time spent on the specialty crop portion), and that remaining funds were provided by the state of Florida (Hodges’ salary).

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Based on the collective evaluations of these data, we are in the process of determining the value of UF and FAMU programming and clarifying the role of these universities serving small specialty crop farm operators. New perspectives gained from analyzing these data are being considered as our team prepares to participate in the completion of a year-long extension strategic planning process. In February 2013, county and state extension faculty from UF-IFAS will gather to discuss results presented in the UF-IFAS Long Range Plan (Available at: http://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/images/LRP.pdf) and to develop working teams and plans of work for the short (1-2 years) and long term (10 years). The team had hoped to have more accomplished in this objective at the close of 2012, but our national search for a new UF-IFAS Extension Dean (now Dr. Nick Place) and administrative and fiscal complications at FAMU have delayed our efforts. We are confident that our knowledge of this clientele group and our perception of the potential for enhanced and expanded programming for them will result in plans for continued programming and effort for both institutions. Both Extension Deans have expressed a commitment of full support for Small Farms programming, and have pledged support ($5,000 each from UF-IFAS and FAMU) for the 2013 Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference.

2.1.1. Publications Effort in this component is still in development, therefore publications are forthcoming.

2.1.2. Attachments Economic Contributions of Small Farms in Florida in 2007.pdf. Contains: Table 1: Estimated sales of agricultural products and services by small farms in Florida, and total economic impacts in 2007 Table 2: Regional economic multipliers for agricultural products in Florida

2.2. Component Two: Expand the Outreach of the Small Farms Food Safety Implementation Team Pilot Program

2.2.1. Train the Trainers An agent In-Service Training (IST) “Teaching Your Farmers How to Build Your Own Farm Food Safety Manual” was held on December 10-12, 2012 at Camp Weed near Live Oak. This was a repeat offering (with improvements) of the IST offered through the 2011 FDACS Specialty Crop Block Grant. Since the first IST, many of our agents have coached farmers though the audit process, and we have added their experiences to this year’s training. In particular, Allison Meharg and Dan Fenneman have excelled in this area. These two agents were in the original IST Food Safety Training Course. The 2012 IST course was delivered by Robert Hochmuth, Danielle Treadwell, Allison Meharg, Elena Toro, Aparna Gazula, and Dan Fenneman. The evaluation component was implemented by Sebastian Galindo-Gonzales. Funding for agent travel and materials and supplies (food safety tool kit of educational materials) was provided by this FDACS Specialty Crops Block Grant. In total, 17 county agents and program assistants were trained in 2012 to deliver “Build Your Own Food Safety Manual” workshops.

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Agents who attended the IST were asked to complete a pre- and post-test using an online form developed using Qualtrics software. A total of 17 agents took the pretest, and 13 took the post- test. Results were statistically analyzed by Dr. Galindo. In summary, agents increased their skills (p<.001), and knowledge (p<.001) of food safety. Six of the agents had already received some training on farm food safety, five had already trained others on farm food safety and two had assisted a farm to develop a food safety plan, and that partially explains why pre-and post-test attitude scores related to the importance of food safety were similar: agents already had an appreciation of the importance of the program. Agents were very satisfied with the training and 100% of them would recommend the workshop to other faculty. Agents indicated they were satisfied or very satisfied with the quality of the educational materials and the expertise of instructors. Nine of the 13 agents who completed the post-test concluded is was in the top 20% of all the ISTs they had attended.

2.2.2. Train the Clientele In 2011, the University of Florida IFAS Extension Small Farms Food Safety Implementation Team began conducting farmer trainings across the state. This successful pilot project was continued in 2012, during which team delivered six trainings statewide involving 50 farmers (plus one food safety audit preparatory workshop attended by 24 farmers at SFAE conference in Kissimmee quarter 3) These trainings were conducted by trained agents Allison Meharg, Dan Fenneman, Covey Washington, Aparna Gazula, Elena Toro, Libbie Johnson, and Robert Hochmuth.

Thorough training evaluations were conducted by team members Sebastian Galindo-Gonzales (design and data generation), Aparna Gazula (report writing), and Robert Hochmuth (editing). Evaluations were completed by a total of 29 farmers attending the trainings in Polk, St. Johns, Escambia, and Washington Counties. These farmers ranged from 1 to 51 years of farming experience and were currently farming anywhere from 1 to 4,000 acres. However, most farmers were farming less than 100 acres of fruits or vegetables. A detailed report of the evaluation results was submitted with this final report. Highlights were as follows: • Overall, the evaluations showed the farmers valued the training, viewed food safety plans as very important, and plan to implement a food safety program on their farm, even though most (74%) were not being required by their buyers or markets to develop one. • Mean knowledge gain at all four training sites was 77%. • Eighty nine percent of participants viewed the information received in the training as easy to very easy to understand, and 93% rated the intensity of their learning experience as high to very high. • Importantly, all 29 farmers indicated they plan to have some type of audit conducted, and 20 indicated they plan to have a fee-based audit, such as a third party, customer, or regulatory audit. Based on an industry food safety consultant’s quote, the charge for preparing a farm typical of the ones owned by the training participants for a fee-based audit was estimated at $8,000 to $10,000. Even at the lower figure, the food safety trainings provided a savings of at least $160,000 to those 20 farmers who were confident they could complete the plan on their own after the trainings and prepare for the audit.

In addition to the educational training, each program participant received educational resources valued at $150 provided by the FDACS Specialty Crops Block Grant. The total value for all 50 farms attending the manual building classes in 2012 was $7,500. The resources distributed were

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as follows: Food Safety Begins on the Farm (Spiral-bound book), Food Safety Begins on the Farm (English and Spanish versions; Stapled booklet), Proper Hand Washing Poster (English and Spanish versions; Large poster), Fruits, Vegetables, and Food Safety: Health and Hygiene on the Farm (DVD), Worker Health and Hygiene Program for Produce Industry (DVD) Please Wash Your Hands Often (Laminated sign), Please Use Toilets Provided in the Field (Laminated sign), Please Put Used Toilet Paper in the Toilet (Laminated sign), and Food Safety Field Training Kit for Fresh Produce Handlers (Large spiral-bound book). The posters and signs must be posted on the farm and in the packing facility to be compliant with Federal food safety requirements.

As a highlight of this year’s project, the National Association of County Agricultural Agents (NACAA) recognized a team of our Florida County Extension Agents including Robert Hochmuth, Linda Landrum, Elena Toro, and Dan Fenneman at the NACAA Annual Meeting in Charleston, South Carolina, July 15-19. The team received the 2012 Search for Excellence Award in the area of Farm Health and Safety for helping farmers develop and implement food safety plans. A summary of the awarded program was presented to agents from across the country by Robert Hochmuth at the NACAA Annual Meeting and Professional Improvement Conference.

2.2.3. Publications Results from evaluation surveys conducted at the IST and subsequent farmer training workshops currently are being prepared for publication by Sebastian Galindo-Gonzales and Robert Hochmuth.

Partial results have been published by Robert Hochmuth, Linda Landrum, Elena Toro, and Dan Fenneman in The Vegetarian Newsletter (Issue 575, July 2012), A Horticultural Sciences Department Extension Publication on Vegetable and Fruit Crops. http://www.hos.ufl.edu/newsletters/vegetarian/issue-no-575

2.2.4. Attachments and Links NACCA_AWARD_2012_Vegetarianarticle.pdf.

2.3. Component Three: Build on the success of the Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference Programming

2.3.1. Conference Planning In 2011, conference attendees indicated they would attend a conference annually or every other year if offered. Conference evaluations by attendees as well as exhibitors were very positive. Although the conference is not designed to accumulate income, it has closed its budget every year with a modest (>$5,000) net profit; these funds have been used for the next year’s expenses. Funding from competitive grants combined with generous sponsorships have helped to keep the conference registration fee affordable for most small farm operators. Planning for the 2012 SFAE conference had begun in 2011 and continued through the first two quarters of 2012. The conference website was updated: http://conference.ifas.ufl.edu/smallfarms to reflect the programmatic changes we made in response to last year’s conference evaluations and stakeholder input. The six-member conference executive committee (Robert Hochmuth, Danielle

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Treadwell, Rob Kluson, Susan Kelly, Mary Beth Henry, and Derek Barber) met face-to-face with event coordinator Mandy Stage monthly for a day-long meeting to review progress, make decisions, and plan next steps. Numerous sponsorships were secured and included FDACS (Sustaining Partner), UF-IFAS and UF Office of Sustainability (Platinum Sponsors), FAMU and Whole Foods Market (Gold Sponsors), Aramark, Florida FGT, Florida Food Policy Council, Southern SARE, and Vertigro (Silver Sponsors), Florida Small Farms Academy, Aquatic Eco- Systems, Bowen Brothers, Jackman Florida Natural Wagyu Beef, and Renaissance Organics (Bronze Sponsors), and Farm Credit, OIA Certification North America, Florida Farm Bureau, Farm Bureau Insurance, The Andersons (General Sponsors). A complete list of these sponsors is included in the conference program (attached to this report). Moreover, 76 exhibitors contributed their knowledge, expertise, and products to the success of this year’s conference. Food and beverage donations were obtained from Jackman Florida Natural Wagyu Beef, Uncle Matt’s Organic, Chipotle Mexican Grill, UF/IFAS Tropical Fruit Program, Beli Farms, Rosa Fiorelli, FAMU Center for Viticultural Sciences and Small Fruit, Darwin’s, UF/IFAS Florida Partnership for Water, Agriculture &Community Sustainability at Hastings, Florida Beer Company, Cigar City Brewing, Keel Curley Winery, Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards, Swamphead Brewery, Orlando Brewing, and Equal Exchange.

2.3.2. Conference Delivery The 4th annual Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference was held at the Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida on July 27-29, 2012. The event attracted over 750 attendees of whom 74% described themselves as current or prospective farmers/ranchers, 4% were allied industry representatives, and 14% were educators, researchers, or students. This year’s conference comprised 2 farm tours, 36 educational sessions with over 100 speakers, 93 display exhibits, 18 educational posters, and 9 live animal educational exhibits.

New improvements were made this year in response to formal and informal meetings throughout the year including formal event evaluations, meetings with our stakeholder advisory committee, and suggestions from past and future attendees, speakers, and event chairs. Changes included: • Expanded educational programming on Friday • Improved preconference farm tours (more in-depth with more time and fewer stops) • New educational tracks including Hydroponics and Beginning Farmer and Rancher • Expanded in-depth Sunday sessions that focus on hands-on interactive learning • Poster competition (12 poster entries) • Keynote speaker Michael Shuman • Saturday evening social featuring on-site cooking demonstrations from celebrity chefs featuring FL food Conference features that stayed the same (due to popular demand) included farmer scholarships, lunch featuring Florida’s Finest – A Celebration of Local Food, six concurrent educational sessions on Saturday, farmer speakers, and Friday Exhibitor Preview.

2.3.3. Conference Evaluation A formal evaluation plan, designed and executed by our evaluation specialist Sebastian Galindo- Gonzales, was realized this year and summarized by Rob Kluson. Detailed results were submitted as an attachment (2012 Florida SFAE Conference Summary) to this Final Performance Report. In general, the majority of evaluation participants (63%) were first-time conference

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attendees. Most respondents (86%) have the intention to attend the conference again in the future. As general results of attending the conference, participants reported a significant gain of confidence to: • perform future activities related with skills that may have been affected by participation in the conference (level of confidence = 4.3 in a 0-5 scale; with 0= not at all confident and 5 = completely confident); and • find important additional small farming resources, such as information (4.7), supplies (4.2), services (4.3), networking (4.3), and opportunities (4.2; all levels in a 0-5 scale);

Evaluations of the Friday preconference workshops showed that a very high percentage (92%) of participants increased their overall knowledge (with an indicated learning knowledge index ranging from “some” to “a lot”). Specifically, a high to very high percentage of participants responded positively to the information on • preparing for food safety audits (96%) with 58% indicating plans to establish standard operating procedures and worker safety programs based on this information; • building capacity of local food systems (92%) with 57% learning specific new resources from the information; and • starting and managing successful farmers markets (90%) with 65% learning specific new resources from the information; • community gardens (77%) with 51% planning to start one within 12 months; and • FL Farm to School programs (71%).

Evaluations of the Saturday sessions also demonstrated that a very high percentage (95%) of participants obtained learning knowledge at levels ranging from “some” to “a lot”. Specifically, a high to very high percentage of participants responded positively to the information on • beginning farmers & ranchers (98%) with 72% indicating plans to implement the specific production & marketing aspects of this information; • organic and sustainable agriculture (97%) with 66% indicating plans to implement the specific production & marketing aspects of this information; • the business of farming (96%) with 80% indicating plans to implement the specific strategies of this information; • hydroponics (94%) with 67% indicating plans to implement the specific production & marketing aspects of this information; and • livestock (82%) with 65% indicating plans to implement the specific production aspects of this information.

Similarly, the Sunday workshops were perceived as valuable educational sessions. A high to very high percentage of participants responded positively to learning knowledge from the information on • insect identification (97%); • edible mushroom production (96%) with 61% indicating plans to initiate production based on this information; • Hydroponics 101 (96%) with 88% indicating plans to initiate production based on this information;

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• renewable energy (96%) with 60% indicating plans to initiate implementation based on this information. • pastured poultry (95%) with 63% indicating plans to initiate production and marketing strategies based on this information; • cottage food industry (87%) with 62% indicating plans to initiate production based on this information;

2.3.4. Conference Publicity In preparation for this year’s SFAE conference, an extension publicity committee was formed and met in April and June. Committee members included one representative from each district (Libbie Johnson – NW District, Joan Bradshaw – NE District, Liz Felter – Central District, Bridget Carlisle – SC District, Christine Kelly-Begazo – South District, Susan Kelly – overall). Objectives of the committee were to disseminate information and to find unique publicity outlets in each district. Extension agents were encouraged to incorporate conference information into talks, send out emails to their clients, and post information in offices and on their websites. A detailed publicity summary was written by Susan Kelly and submitted as an attachment to this Final Performance Report (2012 Florida SFAE Conference Summary). Highlights and improvements included the following: • Three press releases: Press Packet (new this year), Keynote Speaker Announcement, IFAS Communications Press Release by Robert Wells • Four new materials developed and distributed through publicity committee and to FAMU: Web Header, Flyer, Powerpoint Slide, and Powerpoint Presentation • Four website links posted to: COMFOOD listserv, eXtension events, IFAS Calendar, and Farm Bureau Calendar • More than nine press contacts: Phone conference with Robert Wells of IFAS Communications who is going to send out press releases, Florida Cattlemen’s Magazine article in July, Dr. Payne’s June IFAS Matters newsletter, Florida Farm Bureau Magazine in the small calendar section, Farmer and Rancher newspaper, Southeast AgNet, Heather McPherson – Orlando Sentinel Food Editor, Dawn Gehrke-White – Sun-Sentinel Writer, and several bloggers around state have mentioned the SFAE conference • Three display ads: Farmer and Rancher, Farm and Ranch News, Southeast AgNet • Radio announcement: Susan Kelly appeared with Gateway Organic Farms and Michael Shuman on Sustainable Living Radio program WMNF 88.5FM Tampa Public Radio • Twitter: Tweeted by SusanKellyUF • Facebook: The conference event has an official UF Facebook site (approved by the UF- IFAS Web Team) at: http://www.facebook.com/FL.SFAEC. • By gaining a wider popularity through social media such as Facebook and Twitter, the conference organizers are able to reach many people who never would have heard of the conference otherwise. Having a large number of followers also allows the organizers to get information (such as details of the sessions and “thank you notes” to sponsors) out to a broader audience. According to Facebook use analytics, our daily total reach ranged from 1 to 2,227, our weekly reach peaked at 5,450 and our 28-day cumulative reach peaked at 9, 990 in the month immediately preceding the conference (submitted by Ben Bobroff).

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A final highlight was the very positive post-conference news coverage in the Ticket Sarasota on August 6, 2012, by Cooper Levey Baker from the Herald Tribune. The entire article, entitled “Farm Fresh: The Florida Small Farms Conference celebrates local food,” can be found online athttp://ticketsarasota.com/2012-08-06/section/dining/small-farms-alternative-enterprises- conference/.

2.3.5. Attachments and Links • 2012 Conference Program • 2012 Florida SFAE Conference Summary • 2012 Conference Press Packet • Conference website: http://conference.ifas.ufl.edu/smallfarms • Conference Facebook site: http://www.facebook.com/FL.SFAEC • Post-conference news article: http://ticketsarasota.com/2012-08-06/section/dining/smallfarms-alternative-enterprises-conference/

Note on funding of conference: While the schedule at the 2012 Small Farms Conference did include some programming which was not related to specialty crops, this represented less than 25% of programming available to attendees, while the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program provided less than 25% of the total funding for the conference. This is demonstrated by the subject matter covered by the conference program, which is attached. In a fashion similar to funding for the 2010 and 2011 conferences, the university provided significant added value to the specialty crop industry relative to the grant funding which was utilized. This is how we have ensured that SCBGP funds solely benefitted specialty crops in our project.

• Goals and Outcomes Achieved Performance goals and measurable outcomes of the project were achieved within the duration of this project through the following completed activities:

3.1. Component One: Clarify the Role of University, Agency and Non-governmental Organizations Serving Small Farmers Maintaining positive public opinion of how state funds are expended on agriculture is critical to establishing long-term financial support and public valuation of the Florida specialty crop industry. The visibility of the small farms industry to the average consumer is increasing continuously. For these reasons it is imperative that university, agency, and organization outreach programs remain effective and impactful. The application of our findings into viable programs for 2013 and beyond will be more fully described through the completion of the UF- IFAS strategic planning process. Our approach as always been transparent and inclusive of all who desire to participate with the team, and through the planning process we expect even broader buy-in and support among our colleagues. The team will continue its efforts to summarize their evaluations of the industry dynamics (Irani), economic impacts (Hodges), and program effectiveness (Galindo-Gonzales) as integrated deliverables to our scientific peers as journal articles, to industry partners as a project report in 2013, and continue to provide updates to extension faculty as in-service trainings (see section 2.2.1), and to small farm operators during face-to-face workshops and the Small Farms Conference (see sections 2.1.1, 2.2.2, and 2.3.3).

3.2. Component Two: Small Farms Food Safety Implementation Team Pilot Program Training an additional 17 extension agents and program assistants for delivery of “Build Your Own Food Safety Manual” workshops to Florida’s small farm operators has expanded our statewide Small Farms Team. Since initiation of this pilot project, 32 (19 in 2011 plus 17 2012)134 Extension agents, 4 Extension program assistants and two graduate students have become

certified and qualified members of the UF-IFAS and FAMU Small Farm Food Safety Implementation Team. Many agents have attended all the trainings offered, increasing their knowledge and expertise. In 2012 alone, this team delivered six build your own manual trainings to 50 specialty crop producers and packers and one additional training on preparing for a food safety audit to 24 farmers. Both agents and farm workers confirmed in formal evaluations an increase in knowledge and skills due to participation in these trainings. Data collected from evaluations have been analyzed by Sebastian Galindo-Gonzales and summarized for publication by Aparna Gazula (report writing) and Robert Hochmuth (editing). For details, please refer to section 2.2.2. Significantly, mean knowledge gain for farmers (based on the difference between knowledge prior to and immediately after educational programs) at all evaluated training sites was 77% and met our goal of increasing knowledge by >60%.

Qualitative and quantitative data collection methods were used to document the impact of this food safety initiative. A variety of assessments that included surveys, pre and post tests, follow- up phone calls and farm visits to assess implementation of practices have been conducted during the past three years. The primary method used was an online evaluation that was completed after each workshop. Results of the evaluation led to improvements in the workshops including: addition of a pictorial review of real farm food safety issues, improved methods in reviewing the self-audit module, and the implementation of advanced trainings on farms. Specifically, on-farm food safety field days were conducted as a follow-up with farmers. In 2011, one field day targeted watermelon growers, a second field day was offered to mixed-vegetable and protected agriculture growers. During the second field day in 2011, a third party auditor and extension agents re-created an actual successful farm field audit that had previously taken place at the farm of one of the workshop participants.

Due to recognition of this food safety extension program, agents involved were selected to host a delegation of food safety regulators from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) to visit local farms that were implementing food safety plans. In addition, these agents were selected to host one of three national listening sessions held in Florida being conducted by the Produce Safety Alliance to gain producer input for designing and delivering successful training and outreach programs in the area of food safety. National recognition of the Florida Small Farms Food Safety Implementation Team culminated in the selection of our team members Robert Hochmuth, Linda Landrum, Elena Toro, and Dan Fenneman for the 2012 Search for Excellence Award in the area of Farm Health and Safety by the National Association of County Agricultural Agents (NACAA). Due to the success of this multi-year program and the national visibility of the success, Debra Garrison of Primus Labs attended the 2012 Agent IST to observe the training content and methodology. Her objective was to assess our methods as Primus Labs moves forward in developing a food safety training catering to small farmers. After attending the training, Ms. Garrison has requested help from the Florida team in evaluating the Primus Lab web-based training program. She also indicated the quality of the IST equaled or surpassed the certification program offered by Primus and provided certificates to all attendees at the IST.

3.3. Component Three: Building on Success – Expand Statewide Programming At the 2012 Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference, farmers and extension professionals were trained by using a variety of educational methods including electronic media (video, interactive websites, and electronic fact sheets) and hands-on intensive training. Educational materials shared by presenters are available to the public through the Small Farms Website (http://smallfarms.ifas.ufl.edu). Educational programs have been delivered to help 135

farmers: • Understand state and federal regulations on food safety and direct marketing. • Implement farm food safety plans. • Understand key strategies to manage risk. • Identify appropriate markets, price products, and sell. • Enhance existing regional small farms networks, and establish new networks in regions of the state where they do not exist. • Increase profitability of small specialty crop farmers.

For details, please refer to section 2.3.3. Although outcome measures of this project were immediate, the developed educational materials and established training programs have had and will have continuous long-term impact on the small farms crop industry in Florida. Planning of the 5th Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference for 2013 already has begun, and statewide food safety trainings will continue to be implemented, evaluated, and improved throughout the years to come.

• Beneficiaries Beneficiaries of this project include small specialty crop farm owners and employees, educators, buyers, allied industry partners, and consumers. Based on the 2007 U.S. Census, the farm gate value of sales of vegetables from Florida small farms was $24 million in 2007 (Michael Barker, Florida State Statistician, personal communication). However, the average American spends over $6,000 a year on food (US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2007). With a population of over 18 million residents, estimated statewide food expenditures exceed $110 billion. If 25% of Floridians spent just 5% of their total food budget on locally grown specialty crops, their spending would amount to over $1.3 billion in sales to our state’s economy. To reach that goal will require a concerted effort on the part of our state’s Land Grant Institutions, state and federal agencies, and our state’s many farmers and allied industry partners.

The small farms audience consists of 44,000 farm families, each interacting with others in their communities. Proper training on food safety, risk management, and direct marketing strategies, supported by the implementation of farm food safety plans as provided through this project may help some of these small farmers become mid-sized famers, and the potential for them to make a positive impact on local economies and the health of Florida citizens and communities will be even greater. Most small farms, however, do not have the financial capacity to hire personnel to develop and implement food safety plans and asked for help from Extension Agents. A total of 14 workshops to 185 producers and packers were offered by our trained agents in the last two years. Agents taught farmers how to develop their own food safety plan and implement practices on their farm. Nearly half of the farmers indicated they plan to have a third party, customer, or regulatory audit conducted. An estimated fee quoted by a private consultant for the cost of him developing a food safety manual and preparing the farm for an audit was $5,000 to $10,000. Even at the lower figure, the workshops provided a savings of at least $460,000 in fees to those 92 farms that planned to be audited.

The success and impact of the program have been two-fold. Firstly, more agents now have the expertise and skill to teach farm food safety reaching many more farmers statewide, and secondly, well over 150 farmers have developed food safety plans to date. The program has garnered great respect and recognition statewide and nationwide for Florida County Extension Agents from agricultural industry leaders. As a result of this program in both 2011 and 2012, 32

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County Extension agents, 4 Extension program assistants and 2 graduate students now are trained and offering workshops in at least a dozen locations in the state.

• Lessons Learned This year, an overall strategy was developed to coordinate the small farms activities led by PI Treadwell and PI Irani in terms of effort, scheduling of activities, and program promotion. For instance, adding Al Wysocki’s expertise to our team avoided duplication of effort (particularly regarding Component One) and ensured maximum productivity from each of our efforts.

During the second quarter of this project, the conference executive committee was extremely busy, and the educational program committee in particular was operating at capacity to maintain a quality program. We felt that things moved too slowly overall in securing a keynote speaker for the conference (Component Three). Next year, we will add a conference committee that has specific duties of securing a keynote. The keynote is a special and important part of this event, and the team wants this to be managed by a dedicated few individuals.

• Contact Person Danielle Treadwell, Associate Professor UF-IFAS Horticultural Sciences 1143 Fifield Hall PO Box 110690, Gainesville, FL 32611-0690. Telephone Number: (352) 273-4775 Email Address: [email protected]

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Project (17): Expanding blueberry production in Florida by selecting germplasm adapted to low-chill environments

Project Partners: University of Florida

Project Summary Much of the potential blueberry production area in Florida receives less than 300 hours of winter temperatures below 7° C (winter chilling). However, the University of Florida blueberry breeding program has traditionally focused selection efforts in an area that annually receives 300 or more hours of winter chilling. Thus, many of the cultivars released from the breeding program are not adapted to central and south Florida production regions. The lack of southern highbush blueberry cultivars known to be adapted to production areas receiving less than 300 hours of chilling annually results in greater variation in yield for growers in central and south-central Florida areas. Because of this, growers increasingly rely on application of the dormancy-breaking chemical hydrogen cyanamide when growing poorly adapted cultivars in very low-chill production areas. Unfortunately, the efficacy of hydrogen cyanamide is greatly influenced by the amount of chilling blueberry plants receive prior to application in December of each year, and this chill accumulation is often sub-optimal in the south central Florida. Cultivars with lower total chill requirement may be grown in southern areas of Florida under these conditions without hydrogen cyanamide with higher and more predictable total yields. This project is timely in that blueberry production continues to expand into further southern areas in Florida (DeSoto, Hardee, and Highlands counties), and the 2011-2013 growing seasons had lower total chill accumulation than many previous seasons statewide. The primary purpose of this project was to address this shortage of available germplasm by identifying cultivars with a lower chill requirement than 300 hours that could be grown in central and south Florida locations. An additional objective was to identify molecular markers associated with low chilling requirement that would ultimately allow selection of low-chill cultivars through a marker-assisted selection strategy. Project Approach Objective 1: Evaluation of Current Germplasm in Low-Chill Environments Using the set of advanced selections and standard cultivars from the UF blueberry breeding program that are planted at 4 trial sites in blueberry production areas of Florida, we collected three representative canes at chill unit accumulation intervals of approximately 50 hours as calculated by weather stations placed at each location. These canes were transported to our greenhouse in Gainesville, FL where they were placed in water for evaluation. The canes were kept for up to five weeks, and bud development was tracked for each node on the canes (Figure 1). Determination of chill requirement for a given genotype was based on the following observations. If the chill requirement for a genotype had been met prior to field sampling, reproductive and vegetative bud break should occur for all nodes on the cane soon after bringing the canes to a constant temperature in the greenhouse. 138

Insufficient chilling would appear as delayed bud break and inconsistent floral development. Thus, the chilling requirement of an individual genotype was estimated from the sample date where the cut canes progressed the most quickly to the highest percentage of reproductive and vegetative bud break. An estimate of chilling requirement for each genotype at each location was determined based upon three criteria: 1) which chill hour treatment had the highest average percent of floral buds progress at or above bud break, 2) if multiple chill hour treatments had the same average, which chill hour treatment got there first, and 3) if multiple chill hour treatments had the same average, got there at the same week, then what is the lowest chill hour treatment that produced these results. An example of the output from this analysis for FL 06-205 is shown in Figure 2.

From these analyses, estimates for chill unit requirements of the 2009 (Table 1) and 2010 (Table 2) sets of stage IV advanced selections from the UF blueberry breeding were generated. These are the selections that current cultivar release decisions are being made, and identification of low chill genotypes would figure highly in selection decisions. Data from two seasons for multiple evaluation locations are presented in Table 1, while Table 2 shows only one season of evaluation for the 2010 set of selections as these genotypes did not have sufficient growth to be sampled in the first year of this project. From evaluations for the past two seasons, the following conclusions can be made:

· The majority of the advanced selection germplasm can successfully flower with a minimum of 150 chill hour accumulation and no hydrogen cyanamide application. Thus, most of the advanced selections could be grown in the targeted central and south central Florida production areas, and final selection of individual genotypes for release for low-chill production areas of Florida will be determined by other production factors (fruit quality, harvest timing, etc.).

· Chill unit estimates collected using this field-based methodology differ based on hydrogen cyanamide application, and breeding selection will have to utilize both production systems for an accurate representation of individual genotype performance. o In northern locations (Waldo/Citra) 13/25 (2011-2012) and 11/25 (2012-2013) of the 2009 stage IV selections had the same chill requirement estimate in non-hydrogen cyanamide and hydrogen cyanamide production systems. o In Haines City, 14/25 (2011-2012) and 12/25 (2012-2013) of the 2009 stage IV selections had the same chill requirement estimate in non-hydrogen cyanamide and hydrogen cyanamide production systems. o For the 2010 set of stage IV selections in both locations, only 3/13 genotypes had the same chill requirement estimate in non-hydrogen cyanamide and hydrogen cyanamide production systems. o When the chill requirement estimates were not the same after hydrogen cyanamide application, there was no consistency in increase or decrease of chill unit estimation.

· There was little consistency in ranking of selections between seasons indicating that chill hour estimation using this methodology must be assessed over multiple seasons for an accurate representation of genotype performance.

Objective 2: Validation and Discovery of Low-Chill Alleles in Current Germplasm

We proposed to use the chilling requirement determination made for each of the advanced selections in

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objective 1 to confirm the utility of molecular markers identified as associated with chill requirement genes in other blueberry genetic research populations. Specifically, we aimed to leverage the development of molecular markers in the 'Draper' x 'Jewel' blueberry population developed in the USDA-NIFA-SCRI project “Generating Genomic Tools for Blueberry Improvement” led by Lisa Rowland to identify unique genetic regions in the UF breeding program associated with low chilling requirement. The ability to identify these genetic regions could be used to pre-select parents for use in future low-chill crosses whose seedlings will be targeted for selection blocks located in south central Florida rather than the current strategy where all seedlings are planted in Citra, FL. The efficiency provided by being able to target families for evaluation in certain areas will allow us to make much more rapid progress in identifying selections with low chilling requirement.

Unfortunately, we are still waiting for final development and publication of the linkage map for the 'Draper' x 'Jewel' blueberry population. In lieu of these data, we used three genetic markers that had been previously associated with low chilling requirement in a second interspecific blueberry population that had been constructed from the cross (Fla4B x W85-20) x W85-23. Fla4B is a Vaccinium darrowii clone similar to those used as the basis for all Florida breeding germplasm, and the other selections are diploid highbush blueberry selections. The primer sequences were provided by Dr. Lisa Rowland (USDA), and all of the advanced selections used in the calculation of chill requirement were evaluated with the genetic markers (Figure 3).

Of the 38 cultivars and selections tested, only 'Jewel', 'Star', FL06-354, and FL06-35 had the marker alleles that had been associated with low chilling requirement previously. Three of these genotypes have Fla4B in their pedigree, and although the pedigree information for 'Jewel' was lost, the cross that was used to develop it is unlikely to be substantially different from the remainder of the germplasm so it is expected Fla4B also contributed to its development. This marker will not be useful for further screening in our germplasm, as it does not adequately describe variation in chill requirement. Goals and Outcomes Achieved Expected measurable outcome 1: Identify all advanced selection from the breeding program that have a chill requirement under 300 hours.

Based on the methodology we used, the majority of the advanced selections had at least 80% bloom with a minimum of 150 chill hour accumulation and no hydrogen cyanamide application (Tables 1 and 2). This was the primary goal of the project, and the outcome is an assignment of chill hour requirement for the current advanced selections in the blueberry breeding program. However, the consistency among seasons of evaluation was not great. We will likely need to do this evaluation on an annual basis for advanced selections that are nearing release to assign a precise chill requirement.

Expected measurable outcome 2: Identify two potential cultivars through selection in target locations made possible by this project.

FL06-203 and FL06-377 have been identified as cultivar release candidates. Both of these selections had chill requirements of 150 hours or less. The chill requirement estimate assigned to these selections was a key component of selecting these for release as cultivars.

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Beneficiaries Beneficiaries of this research project are the current and potential growers and marketers of fresh blueberries in Florida. At the time of the project, there was an estimated 3,500 acres of fresh blueberry production in Florida valued at $43 million. Based on the high value market price window, future expansion is expected to be south if Interstate.

4. This is a region that has been hardest hit by citrus greening, and blueberry production is an alternative crop that has been proven to be economically viable. The identification of blueberry selections and two potential cultivar releases that are better suited for this production region is an an important outcome and benefit to this group. Upon release in spring 2015, growers will be able to plant these new cultivars.

Summarized research results and information on cultivar selection were communicated to Florida blueberry growers by PI James Olmstead at the fall 2013 Florida Blueberry Growers Association (FBGA) meeting held in Plant City, FL on 19 September 2013, the spring 2014 FBGA meeting held in Plant City, FL on 20 February 2014, and the fall 2014 FBGA meeting held in Plant City, FL on 7 October 2014. Over 300 growers attended each of the FBGA meetings. Additional communication was made to 50 blueberry growers at the 2014 Florida Agricultural Expo in Balm, FL on 5 November 2014 and to 50 blueberry growers at the Lake County Blueberry Extension Meeting on 28 October 2014. The format of each communication was a brief description of methodologies used to select new blueberry cultivars, how chilling requirement fits into the current selection strategy, and information on likely cultivar release candidates. Co-PI Dr. Rachel Itle presented summary research findings for the project at the 2013 Annual American Society for Horticultural Science meeting in Palm Desert, CA. The format for the communication was a poster presentation at the conference.

Lessons Learned Two primary difficulties were encountered during the course of the study. At our southernmost (lowest average chill accumulation) trial location in Arcadia, FL, the plants had insufficient growth to be sampled for chill determination in the 2011-2012 season. Plants at the Arcadia location were scheduled to be included in the 2012-2013 season for chill hour collections, however upon the first collection of 50CH in January 2013, the plants still had insufficient growth and a very limited amount of genotypes could be sampled. Further chill hour intervals were not collected at this location. This location is at the edge of suitable production areas currently in Florida, and the grower cooperator has had to revise cultural practices in order to make the operation viable.

Progress of low-chill marker discovery has been slowed by a lack of clear QTL candidates from the USDA-NIFA-SCRI project “Generating Genomic Tools for Blueberry Improvement”. In the current version of their analyses, no QTL regions associated with chilling requirement have been identified. However, the linkage map and marker trait association analysis for this project is ongoing. An additional data set for developing low chill markers from diploid Vaccinium corymbosum was developed by Dr. L. Rowland, USDA-ARS Beltsville, MD. Although this population does not segregate with the extreme phenotypes for chilling requirement as we would expect from the germplasm being assayed in this project, a gene region for chilling requirement was identified and tested locally. Unfortunately, this 141

marker does not adequately describe the variation for low chill genetics in the University of Florida blueberry germplasm. In the future, it will likely be necessary to develop markers from the local germplasm.

Contact Dr. James W. Olmstead University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Horticultural Sciences Department 2211 Fifield Hall Gainesville, FL 32611 Phone: 352-273-4837 Email: [email protected]

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Project (18): EXPANDING FLORIDA TOMATOES MARKETING PROGRAM

Project Partners: Florida Tomato Committee Project Summary

Florida tomato growers experienced several freezes early in the 2011 season that severely stunted winter production and drove prices upward for all customers due to limited supply. The result was a season with very little to no return to growers. With this campaign, the Florida Tomato Committee (FTC) leveraged new and proven media capabilities including radio and television advertising in order to have a direct, positive communication line with all audiences to positively impact the fresh Florida tomato industry.

Project Approach

Cooking Channel

In order to generate positive influences, FTC partnered with the trusted, popular and famous chef, Emeril Lagasse via the Cooking Channel and through Florida-branding television commercials with relevant messaging on the Cooking Channel.

As part of campaign, we amended the budget a bit to allow the production of a new television commercial in the format the Cooking Channel could use. The commercial underscored the health, flavor and availability of Florida tomatoes and championed that they are grown right here in the good old USA.

The FTC’s commercial played after a 60 second short video of Emeril Lagasse making a tomato bruschetta and then a voiceover and logo, with this recipe “Brought to you by Florida tomato farmers – fresh from our farm to your table!” The video vignette with FTC logo and voiceover, followed by the FTC commercial, was played 60 times. In addition, FTC’s 15- second commercial was played again another 300 additional times on its own on the Cooking Channel.

The following is a collage of the FTC commercial and the Emeril short form vignette. FTC’s merchandisers reached out to retail partners to let them know the commercials were airing and anecdotally, FTC also received feedback on the commercial and video per industry members.

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CBS Radio Commercial Campaign

In addition, FTC launched a radio commercial and endorsement campaign in 9 markets throughout the south and north east U.S. There were some Florida markets included such as Orlando, Tampa and West Palm Beach. The Orlando stations listenership is broad, going all the way to Jacksonville, Tampa stations in Lakeland and Plant City, with the WPB station heard through to Ft. Pierce. Other markets included New York, Boston, Charlotte, Philadelphia, DC and Atlanta. The commercials’ message speaks to the generations of Florida family farmers and their commitment to producing the best tomato possible. Below are the markets and live personalities FTC used, followed by a breakdown of the spots and audience numbers.

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Live Endorsements – Two (2) Week Campaign 4/23/12 -5/4/12

Market Total Spots Audience

Orlando, FL WOCL-FM 10 172,300

Orlando, FL WOMX-FM 10 142,700

Tampa, FL WRBQ-FM 10 187,400

Tampa, FL WQYK-FM 10 202,100

West Palm Beach, FL WEAT-FM 10 77,400

Atlanta, GA WZGC-FM 10 132,200

Charlotte, NC WSOC-FM 10 355,800

Washington, DC WIAD-FM 10 248,700

Philadelphia, PA WOGL-FM 10 274,400

New York City, NY WCBS-FM 10 1,802,800

Boston, MA WODS-FM 10 214,800

TOTALS 110 3,810,600

Additional Radio Commercials – Three (3) Week Campaign 4/23/12 -5/13/12

Market Total Spots Audience

Orlando, FL WOCL-FM 53 431,700

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Orlando, FL WOMX-FM 53 540,400

Tampa, FL WRBQ-FM 53 644,000

Tampa, FL WQYK-FM 53 426,100

West Palm Beach, FL WEAT-FM 53 260,900

Atlanta, GA WZGC-FM 53 407,300

Charlotte, NC WSOC-FM 53 834,900

Washington, DC WIAD-FM 53 921,200

Philadelphia, PA WOGL-FM 53 1,260,700

New York City, NY WCBS-FM 53 5,870,100

Boston, MA WODS-FM 53 1,011,300

TOTALS 583 12,608,600

TOTAL # CAMPAIGN COMMERCIALS = 693

TOTAL # DIFFERENT LISTENERS = 16,419,200

CBS Outdoor also displayed two (2) black-backed vinyl Florida Tomato Committee billboards in the Lakeland, FL area and St. Lucie, FL areas.

Map Location Desc Zip Metro Area Inventory Copy Impressions # Code # Size 4-Week

TH I-4 W/O 10 Street Overpass Lakeland, 1 S/S 33805 FL 6475AO 10’ X 30’ 414,684

10'x36' St. Lucie, 2 I-95 S/O SR 68 E/S F/S 34947 FL 10119SO 481,536

How to Do Florida Campaign

FTC partnered with the television series, How to Do Florida, and FDACS’ Chef Justin to produce a 6-minute field-to-fork television segment wherein viewers visited the Florida tomato fields with the chef and his co-host friend, Chad Crawford. The television script was finalized and segment shot in the tomato fields of Ft. Pierce, Florida. FDACS’ Florida Chef Justin Timineri chatted up co-host Chad Crawford on the virtues of the Florida tomato – health, flavor and extreme versatility!. Chef Justin also made a Florida tomato sandwich. Further, we filmed a 30- second commercial that ran during the program series on SunSports from October 2012 through June 2013. Following is a collage built with some clips of the show’s segment filmed on site at the Ft. Pierce tomato grower’s field along with some in-the-kitchen shots.

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Design and Social Marketing/Industry Update Communications:

In order to effectively communicate Florida tomatoes’ messages, it is important to keep information and visual layout fresh. Here, emphasis was placed on leveraging opportunities to tell Florida tomatoes’ story on FTC website and social networking. One feature of the website we’ve tried to exploit is our e-newsletter. To our newsletter subscriber list, we added all the retail consumer affairs directors so that they can stay up to date on crop schedule and Florida tomato themes that can be rolled into their communiqué. Each monthly newsletter has a healthy theme, tomato recipes, handling and storage information and quirky tomato trivia to keep things interesting.

Children’s Resources, Social Media, Newsletter On our website, we launched a children’s area, “Kids Corner.” It houses curriculum for teachers and their students that incorporate tomatoes into science, social studies, language arts and puzzles. We also developed a children’s mascot for Florida tomatoes. Her name is Terra. She acts as a tomato adventure guide for visitors to the Kids Corner and represents the tasty, fun and nutritious world of the Florida tomato. People are responding well to her and we may choose to include her in future promotions with kids and adults alike. 150

This area will be continually updated. We are also asking kids/teachers to email Terra so that we can encourage meaningful exchange with our future customers and enhance their knowledge of nutrition and the importance of eating a well-balanced diet.

As you can see below, the games have a fun, culinary edge to them that even parents would enjoy such as the recipe word scramble:

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For preschool and Kindergarten ages, I have attached just one of our worksheets to give an idea of the sort of stuff there:

Due to the success of the kids’ corner, we developed a printed children’s activity booklet. We had been hearing from growers as well as educators that they were interested in educational pieces to share with children while visiting farms, schools, libraries, events.

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Newsletter subscriptions to the FTC’s “Tomato Dish” included over 50 delicious recipes, tips for tomato use and preparation and links to studies and information regarding the health benefits and disease-fighting properties of the tomato. The FTC presence in social media and website newsfeed have increased since introduction with followers on Twitter having more than doubled and the number of Facebook fans or “likes” increasing well over 60 percent.

Family Features Print and Online Campaign FTC teamed with Family Features syndicates to develop and distribute colorful news pages to the print and online media. Three spring pages were developed, one focused on appetizers another on more heartier fare and the last one was focused on meal time with families and eating healthy.

Merchandising Team Component/Promo Allowance

We had an array of promotional activities in stores ranging from retail displays and promotional ads in grocery circulars to in-store radio call-outs to shoppers and in-store cooking and sampling demonstrations. At the conclusion of our campaign, we conducted retail promotions in 3,644 stores in 15 retail chains throughout the north and southeast. Goals and Outcomes Achieved

Progress toward expected measureable outcomes: Goal: To increase sales and awareness of Florida tomatoes. Benchmark: Florida tomato email and online newsletter, “Florida Tomato Dish”

Performance Measure: Review Florida Tomato Dish newsletter subscriber list.

Target: Increase subscribers to the Florida Tomato Dish monthly electronic newsletter by 50 150

percent in 2012; increase subscribers an additional 100 percent during 2013.

Tomato newsletter subscribers went from 25 in May of 2011(the first one sent) to 179 in December of 2012 - an 86 percent increase.

The newsletter subscribers increased from 179 in Dec.2012 to 305 in Dec. 2013 (approximately 41percent from the year before).

Newsletters went from 25 in 2011 to 305 at the end of 2013 – an increase of 92 percent. As of July 2014, the subscribers are up to 350. Our list is completely organic, meaning we do not purchase lists, instead people sign up on our website because they want to receive the newsletter.

Goal: To increase sales and awareness of Florida tomatoes. Benchmark: Florida Tomato website hits Target: Increase number of hits to website during 2012 by 35

Performance measure: review Florida Tomato Committee website hits using Google Analytics. Increase hits by 35 percent during 2012 and an additional 40 percent during 2013.

From 2011 to 2012, hits to our website went up 40 percent. From 2012 to 2013, hits went up another 10 percent. We thought hits would go up more the second year, but instead we experienced the greater increase the first year.

2012 compared to 2011 According to Fresh Look scanner data, there was a 16% increase in field grown tomatoes sold in retailers in targeted area.

2013 compared to 2012 According to Fresh Look scanner data, there was an overall decrease of 17% in pounds of field-grown tomatoes sold in retailers in targeted area.*

* With a price increase of 33% during this period compared with year before, pricing appeared to have a big impact on category performance during this time. Further, there was an increase in large field-grown tomatoes of 11.8%, and a decrease in pounds of vine ripe tomato volume of 20 percent. Beneficiaries

Florida tomato growers number about eighty, however these growers collectively affect around thirty-thousand employees and about a billion pounds of fresh Florida tomatoes annually.

Lessons Learned

Schools, organizations and other institutions have an extremely limited amount of materials and funds to work with when it comes to interacting and working with students on matters of nutrition, cooking and the importance of a healthy diet. Since young people today are so heavily targeted by advertising for unhealthy foods, it will continue to be a challenge to try to cut through the clutter of multi-million dollar television advertising campaigns pushing sugary and fatty foods and drinks. These young people today are developing their attitudes about food and learning to

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make choices that will follow them around forever. The FTC will continue to try to reach young people and their parents with information about good nutrition and the importance in making good, healthy food choices.

Contact

Samantha Daves

407-660-1949

[email protected]

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Project (19): Effects of time and intensity of summer pruning on growth, yield and incidence of stem blight in southern highbush blueberry

Project Partners: University of Florida

Project Summary

Proper pruning enhances growth, yield, and reduces incidence of disease in perennial fruit crops. Although pruning is a critical cultural practice for optimal production, there are no research-based recommendations for pruning southern highbush blueberry in Florida. General recommendations for pruning blueberries are based on research and experience in northern production areas (Michigan, New Jersey) where growing conditions, cultivars, and disease pressures differ dramatically from Florida (Childers, 1983; Eck, 1988; Pritts, 2006; Yarborough, 2006). In Florida and the southeastern U.S., pruning practices have been developed primarily through grower experience and trial and error. In Florida, pruning is usually done in the late spring or early summer by hedging and topping plants immediately after harvest. However pruning intensity and timing vary from farm to farm due to the absence of specific recommendations and observational evidence suggests that some ofthe pruning practices employed reduce vigor and/or plant yield (K. Patterson, pers. comm.; J. Williamson, pers. comm.). Previous work with rabbiteye blueberry and many other perennial fruit crops show that carbohydrate reserves are lowest immediately following fruit harvest (Darnell and Birkhold, 1996). Removing foliage - the source of new carbohydrates - by pruning when carbohydrate reserves are low may increase plant stress and reduce summer growth needed for fruit production the following year. Blueberry stem blight (Botryosphaeria spp.) is the major cause of decline and death of southern highbush blueberry in Florida and is believed to be responsible for $21 to $24 million per year in lost revenue to the Florida blueberry industry (A. Straughn, pers. comm.). Stem blight is often associated with various plant stresses, including over fruiting, poor leafing, and low carbohydrate reserves (Williamson and Lyrene, 2004a; Williamson and Lyrene, 2004b). Furthermore, stem blight is known to spread from infected to non-infected canes during summer pruning. The purpose of this project is to develop pruning recommendations for Florida blueberries and extend this information to growers throughout the state. The results of this research will be disseminated at blueberry grower meetings and published in the Florida Blueberry Growers' Association Newsletter, the UF on-line Extension information system (EDIS), and trade magazines. The primary research site at the UF-IFAS Plant Science Research and Education Unit in Citra, FL and grower cooperator sites will be used as demonstrations at grower field days. The Florida blueberry industry

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views this research as critical for an industry that is emerging as a major specialty crop for Florida growers, and as such has funded the first year of the project (April 2011- March 2012).

Florida's blueberry industry is growing rapidly and has increased in value from $12 million in 2000 to $48 million in 2010. However, the lack of research-based pruning recommendations for southern highbush blueberry growers in Florida results in pruning practices that vary greatly from farm to farm and ultimately decreases productivity for the industry. Thus, determining optimum pruning practices is critical in order to sustain the rapid growth in acreage and dollar value the industry is experiencing. This research will impact the Florida blueberry industry by providing geographic and cultivar specific pruning recommendations that will lead to increased yields and profits in a rapidly expanding Florida blueberry industry. The end users of this information will be farm owners, production managers, field employees, Extension faculty, and crop consultants.

Project Approach Five-year old 'Emerald' and ' Jewel' southern highbush blueberries (SHB), located at the UF-IFAS Plant Science Research and Education Unit (PSREU) in Citra, FL, were used in this study. Plants were grown in raised beds at 3 ft. in-row and 9 ft. between row spacing. Irrigation was provided by microsprinklers, with overhead irrigation for frost-protection. Following fruit harvest in spring 2012, six pruning treatments were imposed:

1. Control - no summer pruning

2. Control - detailed hand pruning

3. Prune 30% of existing foliage immediately after harvest

4. Prune 30% of existing foliage one month after harvest

5. Prune 30% of existing foliage immediately after harvest, followed by shoot tipping one month after harvest

6. Prune 60% of existing foliage immediately after harvest, followed by shoot tipping one month after harvest

Pruning the plant top and sides and shoot tipping was done mechanically, using a hand-held hedge trimmer. Significant Results, Conclusions and Recommendations.

Flower bud initiation. Beginning in August, shoot tips from `Emerald' were sampled from all pruning treatments and evaluated for flower bud initiation and development under a dissecting scope in the lab. Microscopic evaluation of developing buds indicated that the conversion of vegetative buds to flower buds began in August in `Emerald' but not until October in `Jewel' for 2012 and 2013.

Canopy volume and regrowth. Following the 2011 growing season, non-pruned and hand pruned plants

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had the largest plant canopy volumes for both cultivars, while 60% June+tip had the smallest. Regrowth was greater for the non-pruned control than for any other treatment except 30% June. Regrowth was lowest in the 30% July pruning treatment for both cultivars, probably because of limited time for regrowth to occur for that treatment compared to the earlier pruning treatments. Following the 2012 growing season the non-pruned controls had the largest canopy volume for `Jewel' followed by the hand pruned treatment. The most severe pruning treatment, 60% June + tipping, produced the smallest canopy volume. For Èmerald', the non-pruned control had greater canopy volume than any of the other treatments and the hand pruned treatment had greater canopy volume than either of the treatments with tipping and the late (July) pruning treatment. In 2013, canopy regrowth for `Jewel' was not affected by pruning treatment, but for Èmerald' canopy regrowth was greatest for the 30% June treatment. The 30% June + tipping and 30% July treatments had the least regrowth. Regrowth of individual shoots of `Jewel' and Èmerald' were greatest for the non-pruned control and the 60% June + tipping treatments and least for the 30% July treatment. The number of regrowth flushes was greatest for the non-pruned control (`Jewel') and 30% June + tipping treatment (Èmerald') and least for the 30% July treatment (`Jewel' and Èmerald').

Flower bud density and development. In 2012, flower bud density (flower buds/cm shoot length) for both cultivars was greater for the 30% July than for any other treatment. For both cultivars, total flower buds per shoot was greatest for the non-pruned control. There was a general pattern throughout the bloom period for the non-pruned controls of both cultivars to have more advanced bloom than the other pruning treatments. Discounting the non-pruned controls, there were few differences in the timing bloom development among the pruning treatments. However, at the 7 Feb. measuring date, flower bud development of the 60% June+tip treatment tended to be behind most of the other treatments for both cultivars. In 2013, flower bud density was greatest for plants pruned 30% in July. This is probably due to the least regrowth length found in that treatment, since when total flower bud number per shoot was assessed it had the least number of flower buds. The 60% June+tip treatment had the greatest number of flower buds per shoot for `Jewel', while for `Emerald', the non-pruned control and the 60% June+tipping had the most flower buds per shoot.

Bloom progression. The hand pruned treatment generally had advanced bloom compared to the other treatments while the 30% June + tipping and the 30% July treatments tended to have delayed bloom development.

Berry yield. There was no effect of pruning treatment on cumulative berry yield for either cultivar during the 2012 season. Early-season berry yield (March 29 - April 5) of `Jewel' was greatest for the July pruning treatment. There was a trend (p< .10) for greater berry harvest for the 30% June + tip treatment than for most of the other pruning treatments between April 9 and April 16. There was no effect of pruning treatment on time of berry harvest for `Emerald'. In 2013, the highest yielding plants for `Jewel' were those from the 30% June pruning treatment followed by tipping. That treatment had an average of approximately 13 pounds/plant for the last two seasons. For seasonal distribution of yield, the only treatment that differed was the 60% pruning in June followed by tipping, which had most of its yield concentrated at the end of the season . `Emerald' did not have significant differences among treatments for total yield. The 30% July and 60% June + tipping treatments showed a trend for delayed berry ripening at the first harvest date.

Berry size (weight). In 2012, berry size of `Jewel' was larger for the 60% June+tip, 30% July, and hand 155

pruned treatments compared with the non-pruned control, however, `Emerald' berry size was not affected by pruning treatments. In 2013, there were no differences among treatments for mean weight for `Emerald'. For `Jewel', mean berry weight was greatest for the non-pruned control (1.71 g/berry) and the 30% July treatment (1.75 g/berry) and least for the 60% June + tipping treatment (1.41 g/berry).

Internal fruit quality assessment. Soluble solids and titratable acidity were evaluated for berry samples collected during the 2013 harvest season and frozen until analyses can be conducted. Generally, `Jewel' fruit had greater soluble solids content (SSC) and higher titratable acidity (TA) and lower SSC/TA ratios than `Emerald'. Pruning had no effect on berry internal quality in `Emerald' and effects on quality of `Jewel' berries were small. Heavy pruning reduced TSS and anthocyanin content compared to the non- pruned control in `Jewel'. TSS was also reduced by June pruning compared to the non-pruned control.

Conclusions and recommendations.

The timing of flower bud initiation and development in the fall is cultivar dependent. `Emerald `showed flower bud initiation as early as August while Jewel flower bud initiation began in October. The effects of pruning time and intensity on vegetative and reproductive growth of blueberry also appear to be cultivar dependent. Neither pruning time nor intensity affected yield, yield distribution, or season average berry weight in `Emerald' SHB. However for `Jewel', 30% canopy removal increased flower bud number per plant and total yield. Early yield was also enhanced and berry size was consistently large throughout the season. Pruning time and tipping vs. no tipping had little effect on reproductive traits of `Jewel'. The lack of a tipping effect may be related to the intensity of pruning used, as tipping was only tested with the 30% canopy removal treatment as opposed to the more severe 60% canopy removal. More intense pruning may show a greater response to tipping. Lack of pruning in `Jewel' reduced the number of flower buds per shoot and total number of buds per plant over the experimental period.

In the present study, yield was not affected by lack of pruning in the first year in `Jewel'; however, moderate (30%) pruning increased yield compared to the non-pruned control in 2013 and 2014. This suggests that leaving plants of `Jewel' not pruned for one year may not be detrimental, but two or more seasons without pruning will likely reduce flower bud number and therefore reduce yield. Èmerald' and `Jewel' represent two commercially important cultivars with very different canopy shapes, growth habits, and flower bud development times in the fall. Because `Jewel' was responsive to pruning intensity treatments and Èmerald' was not, more research with additional cultivars is needed to determine if general recommendations can be made for pruning intensity southern highbush blueberry. However, even for the non-responsive Èmerald' cultivar, no negative effects were noted from 30% canopy removal. Therefore it appears that growers should summer prune annually, or every other year at a minimum. The effects of pruning time were not significant in this study, however, June (early) pruning seems preferable to late pruning (July) since it allows more time for regowth following pruning. In general, moderate pruning (~ 30% canopy removal) in June seems desirable, although it is clear that different cultivars respond differently to pruning intensity. At the moderate pruning rate (30% canopy removal), no benefit to reproductive growth was observed for tipping after pruning for either cultivar.

Goals and Outcomes Achieved

The expected outcome of this project is to identify the best timing and intensity of summer pruning for

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'Emerald' and 'Jewel', two commercially important southern highbush blueberry varieties in Florida. The post-harvest summer pruning strategy adopted for southern highbush blueberry production in Florida is unique among blueberry production areas. The optimum time(s) and intensity of summer pruning for Florida cultivars must be determined to ensure that pruning does not become a source of stress for the plants (due to depletion of carbohydrate reserves), resulting in inadequate vegetative regrowth, decreased flower bud initiation, and higher disease incidence leading to a shorter lifespan of blueberry plants in Florida . Thus, determination of appropriate summer pruning practices will result in longer- lived, healthy, and productive varieties that will keep Florida's blueberry industry viable and competitive.

Measurable expected outcomes for this project:

1) Development of summer pruning practices (timing and intensity) for 'Emerald' and 'Jewel' southern highbush blueberry that optimize vegetative regrowth, flower bud density, and yield, while decreasing disease incidence. The effects of summer pruning time and intensity were tested using two distinct and commercially important southern highbush blueberry cultivars. “Emerald' did not show significant effects from pruning timing or intensity treatments with respect to fruit yield, fruit quality or disease incidence. However for `Jewel', 30% canopy removal in June without tipping increased flower buds per plant, yield, advanced ripening date and reduced incidence of leaf spot diseases. No pruning for two or more seasons was detrimental to yield of `Jewel' compared to 30% canopy removal in June. Tipping following pruning did not affect vegetative or reproductive traits including fruit yield when tested at the 30% canopy removal pruning intensity. The importance of summer pruning for specific cultivars (in this case `Jewel' but not `Emerald') was documented and 30% canopy removal in June appeared to be the most desirable pruning treatment tested.

2) Observation of the impact of pruning times and intensities at grower-cooperator locations, utilizing other cultivars in addition to 'Emerald' and 'Jewel'. This will broaden our outreach efforts and speed adoption of the best pruning practices determined by experimentation. Grower and researcher observations were documented for pruning treatments at several locations using `Emerald', `Jewel', `Sweetcrisp', `Windsor', Springhigh' and `Star'. In general, growers and researchers in central Florida rated the hand-pruned and 30% June treatment highest followed by 60% June + tipping and 30% June + tipping. July pruning treatments were consistently rated lower than earlier (June) pruning dates. In north-central Florida, 30% June and 60% June + tipping showed a trend for increased crop load compared to non-pruned plants. Most pruning treatments tended to delay bloom and ripening date slightly for `Jewel' and `Star', but not for “Emerald'. Although cultivar response was variable, the 30% June treatment was usually rated among the highest for visual assessment of crop load by growers and researchers at multiple demonstration sites.

Beneficiaries Florida's blueberry industry is growing rapidly and has increased in value from $12 million in 2000 to $48 million in 2010. However, the lack of research-based pruning recommendations for southern highbush blueberry growers in Florida results in pruning practices that vary greatly from farm to farm and ultimately decreases productivity for the industry. Thus, determining optimum pruning practices is critical in order to sustain the rapid growth in acreage and dollar value the industry is experiencing. This research will impact the Florida blueberry industry by providing geographic and cultivar specific pruning recommendations that will lead to increased yields and profits in a rapidly expanding Florida blueberry

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industry. The end users of this information will be farm owners, production managers, field employees, Extension faculty, and crop consultants. These end users were targeted through the below outreach activities.

Outreach activities

Presentations

1. A grower field day was held at Spring Valley Farm in Umatilla, FL on March 14, 2012. The event highlighted the pruning trial and was attended by approximately 34 growers and industry professionals.

2. The pruning research planting at the Plant Science Research and Education Unit, Citra, FL was highlighted as part of a tour during the Spring Blueberry Field Day attended by over 300 growers and industry professionals, March 6, 2012.

3. A poster entitled “Vegetative and reproductive traits of southern highbush blueberry under different summer pruning systems” was presented by Alisson Kovaleski (graduate student) at the annual conference of the American Society for Horticultural Science, August 1, 2012, Miami, FL.

4. A presentation entitled “Effect of time and intensity of summer pruning on flower bud initiation and vegetative regrowth of southern highbush blueberry” was presented by Al Kovaleski, graduate student, Horticultural Sciences Department, IFAS, University of Florida, at the Fall Blueberry Short Course in Plant City, FL on October 30, 2012. More than 350 people attended this meeting.

5. An oral presentation “Effect of timing and intensity of summer pruning on vegetative and reproductive traits of southern highbush blueberry” was presented by Mr. Alisson Kovaleski (graduate student) at the annual conference of the American Society for Horticultural Science, July 25, 2013. Palm Desert, CA.

6. A presentation entitled “Effect of pruning time and intensity on vegetative and reproductive growth of southern highbush blueberry in Florida” was presented by Mr. Al Kovaleski, graduate student, Horticultural Sciences Department, IFAS, University of Florida, at the Fall Blueberry Short Course in Plant City, FL on September 19, 2013. More than 300 people attended this meeting.

Publications

1. Kovaleski, A.P., J.G. Williamson, and R.L. Darnell, 2012. Vegetative and reproductive traits of southern highbush blueberry under different summer pruning systems. HortScience:47:S327. (abstract).

2. Kovaleski, A.P., J.G. Williamson and R.L. Darnell. 2013. Effect of timing and intensity on vegetative and reproductive traits of southern highbush blueberry. HortScience: 48: S197. (abstract).

3. Kovaleski, A.P., J.G. Williamson, J.W. Olmstead and R.L. Darnell. 2014.Flower Bud Initiation, Development and Bloom in Two Southern Highbush Blueberry Cultivars. J. Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci. (in press).

4. Kovaleski, A.P., J.G. Williamson, B. Casamali and R.L. Darnell. 2014. Effects of Timing and Intensity of Summer Pruning on Vegetative Traits of Two Southern Highbush Blueberry Cultivars. HortScience (in press). 158

5. Kovaleski, A.P., J.G. Williamson, R.L. Darnell, P. F. Harmon, and K.G. England. 2014. Pruning southern highbush blueberries in Florida. The Blueberry News. Vol. 3 Issue 3. (Spring, 2014). pp. 24, 26, 28. Summary of outreach activities -

a. Presentations on the findings from this research were given at two grower field days with a combined attendance of over 330 growers, researchers and other industry professionals. b. Presentations on the findings from this research were given at two (2012 and 2013) annual meetings of the American Society for Horticultural Sciences (the premier professional society for horticulture researchers and educators with national and international attendance). c. Articles have been published, or are currently in-press, for The Blueberry News (the official publication of the Florida Blueberry Growers' Association), the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science (a peer reviewed journal with a national and international circulation), and HortScience (a peer reviewed journal with a national and international circulation). d. Specialty crop stakeholders who benefited from this research through exposure to the research project results by educational meetings and field days, and printed media are as follows - 1. The total attendance for the four grower meetings were the project was discussed was 984 growers, allied industry professionals, or industry educators. 2. An estimated 13,850 readers were potentially exposed to the research results through printed media (The Blueberry News, a quarterly magazine for the Florida blueberry grower industry with an estimated readership of 13,850 per issue according to the publisher, Nelson Kirkland, Central Florida Media Group). Including both meetings and printed media, the total number of potential contacts regarding results from this project is approximately 14,834. The vast majority of blueberry growers in Florida attended at least one of the above mentioned grower meetings/field days and/or subscribe to the Blueberry News. Lessons Learned Current blueberry grower pruning practices are highly variable with respect to timing and intensity of mechanical summer pruning. This research demonstrated several important points:

1) Plant response to summer pruning is cultivar specific. 'Emerald' was not greatly affected by pruning treatments during the course of the multi-year study. Alternatively, 'Jewel' was affected by the pruning treatments. These two cultivars were selected because they are both commercially important cultivars in Florida and worldwide, and because they have different growth habits and canopy architectures. 'Emerald' is more spreading and the fruit bearing surface is more evenly distributed throughout the canopy. 'Jewel' tends to be upright and less spreading with most of it's fruit bearing canopy surface in the upper portion of the plant. Based on our findings, the natural growth habit and canopy architecture should be considered when determining optimum pruning practices for a given cultivar. Regular annual summer pruning at 30% canopy removal in June seems to be a beneficial treatment for 'Jewel' and possibly other blueberry cultivars with similar growth habits. Annual pruning, and the degree of intensity and timing, seem to be less important for 'Emerald' and possibly for other cultivars with similar growth habits and fruit bearing characteristics.

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2) One of the objectives of summer pruning is to maintain healthy foliage into the fall season which is needed during flower bud initiation and development. These flower buds are needed for the following season's crop and previous research has shown that the presence of healthy leaves is necessary during flower bud initiation and development. This research demonstrated that flower bud initiation and development occurs earlier in 'Emerald' (August) than in 'Jewel' (October). The variation in timing of flower bud initiation has important implications for summer pruning practices. Summer pruning is probably more critical for cultivars like 'Jewel' that initiate their flower buds later in the fall and are susceptible to fall defoliation from leaf diseases. In these cases, summer pruning would probably have a greater positive effect on flower bud initiation and development for next year's crop than for cultivars like 'Emerald' that begin initiating their flower buds in late summer before significant defoliation from leaf diseases occurs.

3) Tipping after mechanical pruning is a common commercial practice that requires grower input (labor, energy, etc.). Our findings suggest that there were no benefits to tipping at the moderate pruning severity of 30% canopy removal for either cultivar. Tipping at 60% canopy removal was not tested in this study, however, tipping regrowth after summer pruning at moderate pruning intensities does not appear to be beneficial.

4) Additional research is needed to determine extent and nature of cultivar specificity to summer pruning intensities and timing. Currently the most plausible explanation for the different responses of 'Emerald' and 'Jewel' to summer pruning treatments relate to their differences in plant architecture, fruit bearing habit, and time of flower bud initiation and development. However, these factors need to be thoroughly evaluated using additional blueberry cultivars to determine if general recommendations can be made for southern highbush blueberries grown in Florida.

Contact Jeffrey G. Williamson

[email protected]

(325) 273-4823

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Project (20): Positioning Florida-grown Fresh Specialty Crop Produce as a “Local” Choice

Project Partners: Florida Specialty Crop Foundation

Project Summary The purpose of this project was to improve the promotion and marketing of Florida-grown specialty crop fresh produce by positioning it as “local” choice with consumers. As consumers have increasingly become interested in and developed a preference for local food, an opportunity has been created to promote Florida-grown specialty crops as a “local “ choice. Throughout the literature various definitions of local food and consumers’ perceptions of local food were found. Through this study the researchers wanted to determine how Florida residents’ defined local food and if local could be used as a positioning strategy for specialty crop producers.

To sustain their product and livelihood, specialty crop producers must be skilled and persuasive in their communications and marketing strategies. To increase the promotion and future sustainability of the specialty crop industry, by capitalizing on consumer preference for local food, this study examined the economic impact of Florida-grown food, consumers’ perceptions of Florida-grown food, and the barriers producers encounter when marketing their products. By examining these components the researchers were able to examine the current economic impact of Florida-grown foods and identify approaches to helping producers overcome marketing challenges, while meeting the needs and preferences of consumers. Since the focus of this study looked at the positioning of specialty crops as “local,” some of the research components addressed local food in general and it is possible that others could have benefited from the project besides specialty crop producers. However, the researchers ensured funds were spent only to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops by selecting presentation and publication outlets that would reach specialty crop producers.

This research built on a previous funded Specialty Crop Block grant that supported the development of the Florida Marketmaker website. While the previous grant focused on the developments of Marketmaker, this grant identified producers’ barriers to using Marketmaker in addition to other marketing barriers.

Project Approach Throughout the grant project the following activities were completed according to component.

Component 1: Measuring Economic Impact

• 1,599 Florida residents responded to the quantitative economic impact survey accounting for a 21.4% response rate

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• The economic impact survey included additional survey sampling in a 10-county area of north central Florida through funding of $8,000 was obtained from the Alachua County Sustainability Program and the University of Florida Office of Sustainability.

• A final report detailing findings, conclusions, and recommendations was completed.

• The survey found the 2011-2012 economic impact of local food in Florida to be $8.314 billion. Of total food purchases, 20.1% of food purchases for at home consumption were local. Respondents most commonly considered local food to be within a 100 mile radius of their home (28.9%) or from the state of Florida or a bordering state (27. 3%).

Component 2: Measuring Consumers’ Perceptions

• A total of 10 qualitative focus groups were completed with 93 Florida residents.

• A report detailing the findings, conclusions, and recommendations of the focus groups was completed.

• The focus groups found that consumers had a flexible definition of local especially when given scenarios about a food not being available within the states. Additionally, the participants indicated that they made decisions about buying local food based on availability, cost, convenience, exposure, favorable attributes, and personal preference.

• A quantitative online survey of 530 Florida residents to test local choice messages was completed.

• A report detailing the findings, conclusions, and recommendations of the survey was completed.

• The survey found that respondents had slightly more favorable attitudes toward food labeled Fresh from Florida than food labeled as local. Additionally, positive levels of trust were found for both foods labeled Fresh from Florida and foods labeled as local.

Component 3: Enhancing the use of MarketMaker

• A total of 6 qualitative focus groups were completed. Five focus groups were conducted with small and medium-scale producers throughout the state. The last focus group was completed with Extension Agents who are involved with the Extension Small Farms Team. • A report detailing the findings, conclusions, and recommendations of the focus groups was completed.

• The focus groups indicated that participants commonly used word of mouth to market their products. In the discussion of Florida MarketMaker many participants indicated that they were unaware of MarketMaker, found it to be difficult to use, were unsure of its purpose, felt that is was only beneficial for large operations, felt that it was reinventing the wheel, had a poor interface, did not benefit business growth, and was too academic.

Component 4: Providing strategic recommendations for Specialty Crop Stakeholders to Position Florida- grown Fresh Produce as a “Local” Choice

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• A synthesis report highlighting the findings and recommendations from the three research components was completed.

• A presentation of the preliminary findings and recommendations of components 1 and 2 were made to attendees at the Florida Ag Expo.

• Total participants: approximately 100

• Participants included producers and growers, state and county extension faculty, media representatives, and industry vendors

• A presentation of the preliminary findings and recommendations of components 1 and 2 were made to the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association (FFVA) Executive Committee.

• Total participants: approximately 15

• Participants included FFVA members

• An interactive webinar for the findings and recommendations of all three research components was conducted using Adobe Connect and hosted by the PIE Center. o Total participants: about 44 o Advertised to:

• University of Florida’s Communicators Network

• PIE Center listserve

• PIE Center Facebook page

• PIE Center webpage

• eXtension webpage: learn.extension.org

• IFAS news webpage with press release from Mickie Anderson • News brief went out on UF/IFAS News Facebook and twitter- Robert Wells

• Senior Vice President of IFAS, Jack Payne, sent to IFAS-all

• 700+ market maker members

• Ag Institute of Florida

• The Packer put it on their website

• The FFVA Voice (newsletter)

• IFASE PDEC (Program Development and Evaluation Center) website

• Several FDACS contacts

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• The UF Extension newsletter "Comings and Goings' out of Place's office

• UF Research newsletter to Center Directors, Department Chairs, Division Chiefs, Research Deans plus 2300 other people. o Special report website was constructed to host the reports that have been constructed, as well as the guest bloggers on the topic and reports summaries

• Website: http://www.piecenter.com/local/ o The webinar was archived on the special report website so that stakeholders who could not make the live webinar could view the recording

• A presentation of the research from component 1 was made at the Florida State Horticultural Society Meeting. o Total participants: approximately 20

• An interactive workshop, which presented the findings and recommendations of components 1 and 2, was conducted at The Association of Communication Excellence (ACE) Conference. o Total participants: 38 o “ACE is an international association of communicators, educators and information technologists. The organization offers professional development and networking for individuals who extend knowledge about agriculture, natural resources, and life and human sciences.” (ACE, 2103)

• A presentation of the findings and recommendations of components 1 and 2, was conducted at the Florida Dairy Farmers summer board meeting (researchers were invited to share their results). o Total participants: 32 o Participants included Florida Dairy Farmers staff and board members, USDA representatives, DMI representatives, and Dairy board members from other states including Idaho and Georgia.

• Component 1 was presented as part of a discussion panel for Local Food Week in Gainesville, Florida.

• Total participants: approximately 50

• Researchers participated in a local food panel at the Small Farms Conference. o One researcher presented component 1 for one section of the panel. o Two additional researchers presented components 2-3 in another section of the panel.

• Total participants = 71

• Participants included Florida farmers and producers, Extension agents and specialists, students, and food industry representatives

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• Dr. Hodges participated as a panelist at the Jacksonville Food Summit (project component 1). Approximately 50 people were in the audience for this event.

• 7 EDIS publications have been drafted from component 2 of the research. These documents are under review.

• An academic paper was published in the technical referred section of the proceedings of the Florida State Horticultural Society http://fshs.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/NR-12-Hodges-REF.pdf

• One academic publication on component 1 has been accepted for publication and will be published in May, 2014. The citation is: Hodges, A.W., T.J. Stevens and A.F. Wysocki. Local and Regional Food Systems in Florida: Values and Economic Impacts. Journal of Agriculture and Applied Economics, vol. 46-2, 14 pages, May 2014.

• Another academic paper was submitted to the Journal of Food Distribution Research Society and is pending final revisions. This paper also focused on component 1.

• An academic abstract entitled “Sustaining rural communities: Determining effective branding for local food,” was presented at the annual meeting of the Southern Rural Sociological Society in Dallas, TX. The abstract focused on results from online survey conducted in Component 2. This presentation was given to approximately 20 people.

• An academic poster entitled “Understanding consumer flexibility in defining the term local,” was presented at the annual meeting of the Association of Agricultural Scientists Agricultural Communications in Dallas, TX. The poster focused on results from the focus groups conducted in Component 2. This presentation was given to approximately 40 people. • An academic paper entitled “Informing Extension programming with research: A look into local food” was presented at the National American Association for Agricultural Education Conference in May 2014. This paper received a distinguished manuscript award (Recognized as 1 of the top 5 papers presented at the conference, out of 60 papers presented). This paper focused on the results from the online survey conducted in Component 2.

• An academic poster entitled “Impact of attitude and information preference on consumer trust of state and local food brands” was presented at the National American Association for Agricultural Education Conference in May 2014. This poster focused on the results from the online survey conducted in Component 2.

• A 4-page insert, summarizing the research results for industry stakeholders, was in the November, 2013 issue of the Florida Grower. o Florida Grower is a publication aimed at reaching vegetable and citrus growers in the state as well as industry leaders. The publication reaches 12,000 subscribers (Meister Media Worldwide, 2013). o Multiple reprints of the insert were sent to all 67 of Florida’s County Extension offices to inform both the Extension Agent’s and their clientele. o Reprints of were distributed at the 2013 Florida Ag Expo

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• A 2-page spread and online ad summarizing the research results from Component 3 and promoting Florida Food Connect (the new Florida Market Maker) for industry stakeholders was in the February, 2014 issue of the Florida Grower. o Florida Grower is a publication aimed at reaching vegetable and citrus growers in the state as well as industry leaders. The publication reaches 12,000 people (Meister Media Worldwide, 2013).

• Masters student Ruoding Shi completed her thesis on data from component 1. The citation for this thesis is Shi, Ruoding. Marketing Local Foods in Florida: Distribution Channels and Consumer Behavior. Master's Thesis submitted to University of Florida, 110 pages, May, 2014.

• This project has facilitated a partnership/collaboration between Dr. Hodges and Extension in Sarasota and Martin counties regarding local foodsheds and farm to school.

• This research was highlighted in the August, 2013 issues of In the Field Magazine. The article can be found on page 31 at this link http://issuu.com/inthefield/docs/hills_aug13_web/31?e=1263016/4444046 o This magazine targets Florida residents in Hillsborough, Polk, Charlotte, DeSoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, and Okeechobee counties (In the Field, 2013).

• Component 1 of the research was presented and discussed with a visiting Korean economist from Gyeonggido Agricultural Research and Extension Services. • Components 2 and 3 of the research were discussed with a student pursing dual degree programs at The Wharton School and Harvard Kennedy School who is interested in local food. This individual found the local choice special report webpage that was created as a part of this research and contacted the researchers.

• An article published in the Highlands Today highlighted the findings from Component 2 of this research and discussed how these findings have informed further research http://highlandstoday.com/list/highlands-agri-leader-news/local-choice-marketing-campaign-hits-a- snag-20140319/

• An online and interactive tool was developed to aide small producers in the marketing and distribution of their local food. The content is based on the research findings and recommendations from components 1-3. The tool can be found at http://www.piecenter.com/localfood/

• This research has been incorporated to the UF/IFAS Extension initiative on Farm Economics, Management and Entrepreneurship.

• This research received international attention on a Canadian blog called Real Agriculture on June 13, 2013. http://www.realagriculture.com/2013/06/selling-local-consumers-need-to-see-your-face/

• This research was highlighted on University of Florida news on March 25, 2013 http://news.ufl.edu/2013/03/25/local-food/

• This research was highlighted on the Florida Research Consortium website on March 25, 2013 http://www.floridaresearch.org/_blog/Florida_Research/post/Local_food_makes_up_20_percent_of_Fl

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orida%E2%80%99s_eat-at-home_market,_UF_study_shows/

• This research was highlighted on Phys.Org website on March 26, 2013 http://phys.org/news/2013-03-local-food-percent-florida-eat-at-home.html

• This research was highlighted on Agriculture is America website http://agisamerica.org/uf- study-shows-local-food-makes-up-20-percent-of-floridas-eat-at-home-market

• This research was highlight on The Grower website on May 7, 2013 http://www.thegrower.com/issues/citrus-vegetable/Local-foods-carry-weight-but-more-efforts-needed- to-promote-them-206455701.html

• This research was highlighted on the Thinking Green blog in June, 2013 http://pcethinkinggreen.blogspot.com/2013/06/know-your-farmer-know-your-food.html

• This research was highlighted in a UF/IFAS Research YouTube video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LhrDza_jwA As the scope of this project extended beyond local specialty crops and to local food in general, it is possible that others could have benefited from the project besides specialty crop producers. However, the researchers ensured funds were spent only to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops by selecting presentation and publication outlets that would reach specialty crop producers. For example, it may seem that the presentation at the Florida Dairy Farmers Conference may not have reached specialty crop producers. However, Florida Dairy Farmers were interested in the research and invited the presentation. In addition, several participants in the audience indicated growing some specialty crops. The academic presentations and publication will go to inform the greater academic audience of needed research and outreach in the area of specialty crops, impacting the specialty crop industry as a whole as research progresses into the future.

Goals and Outcomes Achieved Component 1: Measuring Economic Impact. We will obtain updated, current and relevant economic impact data that can be used to market the importance of purchasing Florida-grown specialty crops to consumers. We will use the results to test economic impact messages in order to determine the most effective marketing messages for use with targeting consumers.

GOAL: measure economic impact of Florida grown specialty crops.

PERFORMANCE MEASURE – delivery of report and data from economic impact analysis, combined with qualitative focus group testing of consumer perceptions

BENCHMARK – currently there are no data on aggregated economic impact of Florida grown specialty produce crops, so the BENCHMARK will be determined during qualitative testing of effectiveness with consumers

TARGET – improvement in consumer qualitative perceptions of value of Florida grown specialty produce crops as measured based on content analysis of their responses during focus groups and 10% increase in use of economic impact analysis data in messages targeted to Florida consumers

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Progress: Economic impact of Florida grown specialty crops was completed for goal 1. The order of components 1 and 2 changed, as reported in the first quarterly report. Therefore, the qualitative results did not serve as a benchmark for the economic impact. However, the results of the economic impact did serve as a benchmark for the qualitative focus groups. During the focus groups an improvement in participants’ perceptions was observed. In addition, participants’ definition of local food broadened throughout the course of the focus groups.

Component 1 target result: The key findings and messages of the economic impact survey were targeted to consumers and specialty crop producers through the 4-page insert that was distributed to the readers of Florida Grower magazine (12,000 readers) and the 67 county extension offices (1,000 reprints distributed). Thus, some 13,000 Florida consumers and producers received the economic impact message, a 7% increase in message use.

C2. Measuring Consumers’ Perceptions. We will determine messages that resonate with consumers so that Florida fresh produce producers can more effectively communicate with consumers, thus increasing the sale of specialty crop fresh produce.

GOAL: increase consumer awareness of and attitudes toward Florida grown fresh produce

PERFORMANCE MEASURE: increase in favorable perceptions of consumers toward tested messages

BENCHMARK: currently there are no data on consumer awareness and understanding of messaging related to positioning Florida grown fresh produce as the local option, so will be determined during testing of effectiveness of messages with consumers

TARGET: improvement in consumer post test perceptions of 20% between when they are asked about their initial perceptions and after they have viewed test messages.

Progress: The goal to increase consumer awareness and attitudes toward Florida grown fresh produce is a long-term goal. However, this grant work has helped to increase consumer awareness through numerous presentations and publications achieved under Component 4 as well as the research-based recommendations provided to specialty crop producers, industry representatives, and Extension personnel. These parties will not only be extending the research, but also be working to increase consumer awareness of Florida grown fresh produce through the implementation of these recommendations. The messages tested in the survey included messages about food labeled Fresh from Florida and food label local. Instead of completing a pre and posttest, the researchers opted to compare perceptions of food labeled Fresh from Florida and food labeled local. When comparing respondents’ attitudes toward local food a significant difference occurred for farm size, indicating that respondents’ felt that food labeled Fresh from Florida came from larger farms than food labeled as local. When comparing the trust of food labeled Fresh from Florida and food labeled local, respondents indicated that they had a significantly greater trust in the labeling of Fresh from Florida food than food labeled as local. When asked about the information preferred for food, respondents indicated that they had a significantly greater desire to see a definition of Food labeled from Florida, than a definition for local food. Component 2 target result: Although, the changes to the project did not allow us to conduct a pre test and post test to compare attitudes. Previous literature has reported 41% favorable attitudes toward local food. Our research showed 58.9% favorable attitudes toward local food after respondents were presented with a local food or Fresh From Florida message. Therefore, an 18% increase in favorable attitudes was 168

achieved. C3. Enhancing the Use of MarketMaker. We will determine targeted messages that are effective with both consumers and specialty crop producers that can be used on MarketMaker promotional materials, ultimately leading to an increase in the number of users.

GOAL: increase in product and consumer use of Marketmaker

PERFORMANCE MEASURE: increase in producers signing up for Marketmaker, and of producers and consumers accessing information in it. BENCHMARK: Current usage will be compared to usage after grant activities have been initiated based on change/gain in number of producers signing up for Marketmarket, number of consumers who access it, and number of producers trained/toolkits developed.

TARGET: 10% increase in producers who sign up and consumers who access Marketmaker web site.

Progress: Following the release of the findings of this research the Florida MarketMaker team decided to invest in a more user friendly and beneficial online marketing tool for producers. The new online marketing tool is called Florida Food Connect. Since the launch of Florida Food Connect (http://flfoodconnect.com ) in January, 2014 there have been a total of 89 new profiles added to the site (52 producers, 18 buyers, 8 wholesalers, 3 farmers markets, 1 food bank, 6 retailers, and 1 winery).

C4. Providing Strategic Recommendations for Specialty Crop Stakeholders to Position Florida-grown Fresh Produce as a “Local” Choice. We will provide Florida-grown fresh produce stakeholders with the information necessary to enhance their marketing efforts to result in an increase in the sales of Florida- grown specialty crop fresh produce.

Progress: The research findings and recommendations of this grant project have been presented approximately 11 times, published approximately 31 times in industry or academic channels, reached an estimated more than 12,500 producers, industry stakeholders, and consumers, and is housed on one website. Component 3 target result: The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumers Services’ Division of Food, Nutrition, and Wellness recommended that the Florida MarketMaker system be transferred to a new site call Florida Food Connect so that it could serve a role in the Florida Farm to School Program. Because of this change the target could not be met or measured. The only measure available is the amount of new profiles created on the Florida Food Connect Site, which in January, 2014 included 89 new profiles (52 producers, 18 buyers, 8 wholesalers, 3 farmers markets, 1 food bank, 6 retailers, and 1 winery). Beneficiaries Beneficiaries of this project included Florida’s 1,447 fresh market vegetable and melon farms with 227,416 acres (Source: 2007 Census of Ag). Additionally, the fresh market citrus growers who produce over 16 million boxes of citrus will benefit. (Source: Citrus Administrative Committee). These farms and their associated farmers will benefit from the opening of new markets, ultimately increasing their sales of specialty crop fresh produce. Florida consumers will also benefit from enhanced awareness of, and access to Florida grown specialty crop produce.

The specialty crop beneficiaries of this project benefited from the research results, research based

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recommendations, improvements made to online marketing options through the development of Florida Food Connect, understanding of the benefit labeling Fresh from Florida or local could offer, understanding of consumers desires and barriers to buy local food, and understanding of the market opportunities and economic impact available through specialty crops. These beneficiaries were primarily made aware of the research results through the two Florida Grower publications as well as presentations, other publications, the special report website, and the tool created for the project. The consumer beneficiaries benefited from this research through the exposure of weaknesses in the local specialty crop industry. Consumers have and will continue to benefit indirectly from the increased attention to marketing Florida specialty crops effectively based on the findings of this research. In all an estimated 12,500 beneficiaries were reached through this research. Lessons Learned Early in the project the order of components 1 and 2 were switched. This ultimately impacted the ability to report fully on Expected Measurable Outcome 1 because the focus groups in component 2 were supposed to serve as a benchmark for the survey in component 1. The reordering of components limited the researchers capability to measure improvements in perceptions. Additionally, an improvement measure could also not be taken in component 2 regarding the improvement in consumer perceptions between the pre and posttest as the design of the survey was altered. The consumer focus groups results in component 2 revealed some interesting findings that lead researchers to want to investigate and compare the difference in consumers’ attitudes, trust, and information preference of food labeled Fresh from Florida and food labeled local. Therefore, a posttest only experimental design was conducted instead of the pre- and posttest design.

The project staff learned many lessons throughout this project. Due to broad nature of social science research as well as local food the researchers continually had to remind themselves to keep the focus on local specialty crops. In addition, the researchers learned that as a scope of a project changes more should be done to ensure that the expected measurable outcomes of the project are not affected and that the purpose of the project is still achieved. On a positive note, the researchers learned that there are many opportunities for the specialty crop industry to enhance their marketing and appeal to consumers needs. The researchers also discovered that one of the best ways to reach a large number of those involved in the industry is through trade publications.

An unexpected outcome that resulted form this research was the development of the Florida Food Connect website portal. Florida Food Connect provides a user friendly, less academic, and innovative platform for specialty crop producers to market their products and for consumers and producers to connect. This project hoped to enhance the use of MarketMaker, but discovered that developing an alternative tool (Florida Food Connect) that could be used to connect producers and sellers of local food, including farm to school programs, was the best option.

Contact Tracy Irani, 352-273-2588, [email protected] Sonia Tighe, 813-975-8377, [email protected]

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PROJECT (21): Farm Labor Supervisor Training Program

P R O J E C T P A R TNE R S : Florida Specialty Crop Foundation

PROJECT SUMMARY

Purpose, Background, Importance, and Enhancement of previous SCBGP Fresh fruit and vegetable crops are important to the state of Florida. The production and harvest of these and other specialty crops in Florida depend on migrant and seasonal farm workers who move throughout the state for much of the year. Farm Labor Contractors (FLCs) are key players within Florida’s specialty crop industries. They organize migrant and seasonal farm workers into labor crews, transport them to the fields, and, in most cases, supervise workers during the work day. The Farm Labor Contractor model of labor management has several important economic benefits for both growers and workers. Growers receive a consistent flow of workers to do highly seasonal work, and workers are able to maximize the available days of farm employment by moving among different farming operations. Unfortunately, on a number of occasions FLCs have not treated farm workers fairly both economically and physically. Farm worker advocates have worked over many years to enact a number of federal and state laws to better protect workers.

Agricultural labor regulations can, at times, be complex and confusing, particularly considering the multiple state and federal government agencies charged with enforcing them. Fines and penalties for non-compliance with agricultural labor regulations can range into the thousands of dollars per violation. More importantly, growers and labor contractors share “joint” responsibility in the treatment of farm workers. Consequently, non-compliance by labor contractors can expose a grower to civil lawsuits over such issues as worker pay, safe transportation, mental or physical abuse, and worker safety-related issues.

FLCs in Florida are required to be licensed both from the Federal DOL (Department of Labor) and from the Florida DBPR (Department of Business and Professional Regulation). To obtain a Florida Farm Labor Contractor license, FLCs have to successfully pass an initial test. Unless his or her license has been revoked for a major violation(s), a FLC does not have to retake any test nor attend any “continuing education classes” to annually renew their license. Many existing FLCs took their entrance test as many as 20 years ago. A great deal has changed with respect to laws, regulations and their enforcement since that time. The FLC Core training program represented the first organized attempt to provide formal training to the entire community of FLCs. Phase I, the Farm Labor Contractor (FLC) training program, was funded by a previous SCBG and developed the Core training curriculum. With the guidance of an organizing committee that was made up of growers, labor contractors, worker advocacy representatives, and state and federal agency compliance officers, four training units were designed and packaged as the FLC Core Training Program: General Administration, Transporting Farm Workers, Agricultural Worker Safety, and Personnel Management. The initial training began in fall of 2010, when the entire Core program was offered on three separate occasions in both English and Spanish at the University of Florida’s Southwest Research and Education Center near Immokalee, Florida. Each training unit required four hours of time, so it took 16 hours to complete the entire four-unit Core program. More than 180 people attended at least one unit, and 126 individuals completed all four units. The University of Florida program staff, however, quickly realized that this training program needed to serve a wider target audience beyond those individuals who obtained a Farm Labor Contractor license.

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This project, Phase II, enhanced the Core curriculum with new teaching modules and resources. During Phase II the program name was changed to the Farm Labor Supervisor (FLS) training program to reflect a broader target audience, which includes direct farm personnel who supervise farm workers, farm owner, HR and other office staff as well as licensed farm labor contractors. In addition, a goal of Phase II was to create a sustainable administrative infrastructure for the FLS Training program by establishing a bi-lingual “train the trainer” program and developing advanced educational assessment tools.

A short-term goal of the FLS training program is to enhance competitiveness of specialty crop farms by providing farm labor supervisors and growers with information that reduces, if not eliminates, mistakes associated with legal compliance, and thus avoid paying penalties, fines, and legal costs associated with civil suits. A long-run goal of the FLS training program is to enhance the professional stature of all farm labor supervisors and thereby create a more positive working environment for farm workers. Improving the working environment, and possibly the working relationships among workers and employers, could lead to increases in overall farm productivity. Higher farm productivity is the best way for specialty crop growers to maintain their competitiveness within an increasingly global market place.

PROJECT APPROACH

Work Plan, Summarize Activities, non-SC beneficiaries, and Contribution of Partners The project objectives were to: 1. Refine the core training programs and expand the FLS curriculum with new teaching units. 2. Develop crop specific worker safety units. 3. Develop an administrative infrastructure that included a bilingual trainers and a logistical plan for delivering the FLS courses. 4. Develop and compile assessment tools.

Summary of activities by objective: Obj 1. Refine the core training programs and expand the FLS curriculum with new teaching units. In the first year of Phase II, General Administration, Agricultural Safety and Personnel Management were each split into two 2-hour sections. General Administration was divided into Wage & Hour and Farm Labor Contractor Basics. Agricultural Safety was separated into WPS / Field Sanitation and Basic First Aid / Field Equipment Safety. Personnel Management was split into HR Compliance and People/Stress Management. Transporting Farm Workers was left as a 4-hour unit since it encompasses all the relevant Department of Transportation regulations concerning crew buses and vans.

Consultations were held with CITT staff (the University of Florida’s Center for Instructional Technology and Teaching) to refine learning objectives for each Core unit and to improve training methodology. A comprehensive redesign of learning objectives was completed for the Human Resources (EEOC) Compliance and the Safe Driving units. In each Core unit new exercises were developed and added to increase participant interaction. Finally, instructor manuals were drafted for HR Compliance, Safe Driving, Wage & Hour units.

During 2012, seven one-day Core programs were scheduled at seven different locations south of I-4 between 11 Sep and 31 Oct (Table 1). Each class was presented concurrently in both Spanish and English. Homestead, Sebring, and Ft. Pierce were new locations for FLS training in 2012. Arcadia, Immokalee, Wimauma, and Belle Glade were 2011 training sites that were used in 2012 as well. An 180

eighth training opportunity was realized when a citrus harvesting company, invited FLS staff to conduct training in Spanish on WPS and Safe Driving at their place of business in Dundee, FL. Attendance by class and language are presented in Table 1 as well. In total, 327 people attended at least one FLS class and 221 people attended the entire one-day program. Total number of participants by class ranged from 260 for Safe Driving to 291 for Wage & Hour.

In 2013 six one-day Core programs were scheduled at six different locations – Gainesville, Homestead, Belle Glade, Arcadia, Bartow, and Immokalee (Table 2). Training locations in Gainesville, and Bartow were new to 2013. Except in the Gainesville location, each Core program class was presented concurrently in both Spanish and English. In addition, the FLS program was conducted in partnership five agricultural employers to do “site- specific” training sessions. In the case of Lipman Produce, FLS staff presented a portion of the Core program as part of the company’s in-house spring and fall training sessions. The Florida Strawberry Growers’ Association arranged to have the FLS program presented to their membership in early November 2013. Table 1: 2012 Farm Labor Supervisor training sessions with attendance summary by training date, location, language class, and unit.

Date Location Language Wage Human Worker Safe Completed 2012 Class Hour Resource Safety Driving one-day program Sep Homestead English 20 20 18 16 13 11 Spanish 14 12 18 16 11 Sep Immokalee English 26 26 23 22 22 19 Spanish 24 25 28 24 24 Oct Wimauma English 12 12 6 6 6 17 Spanish 16 16 16 16 16 Oct Arcadia English 12 12 11 11 11 23 Spanish 34 34 40 37 32 Oct Ft. Pierce English 17 11 7 5 5 24 Spanish 4 4 5 5 2 Oct Sebring English 49 35 32 29 29 30 Spanish 30 22 22 22 22 Oct Belle Glade English 22 22 24 23 15 31 Spanish 13 13 13 14 13 Nov Dundee English 0 0 0 0 0 15 Spanish 0 0 16 16 0 Totals English 158 136 121 112 101 Spanish 135 126 158 150 120

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Grand Totals 2012 293 264 279 262 221 Table 2: 2013 Farm Labor Supervisor training sessions with attendance summary by training date, location, language class, and unit.

Date Location Language Wage Human Worker Safe Other Completed 2013 Class Hour Resource Safety Driving Core one-day program Jan 9 Belle Glade /McNeill Spanish 11 11 11 11 11 Harv. Jan 10 Immokalee English 10 10 0 /Gulf Harv Jan 14 Arcadia English DOT regulatio ns 12 0 Jan 23 Gainesville English 33 33 33 33 33 /Core Feb Immokalee English 15 15 0 19 /Lipman Produce Apr 19 Immokalee English 45 0 /SWFREC May Immokalee English Emergency Prep are 15 0 18 /Farm Safety Day Spanish Emergency Prep are 150 0 Sep Homestead English 8 8 8 8 8 11 /Core Spanish 7 7 7 7 7 Sep Belle Glade English 20 20 20 20 20 24 /Core Spanish 14 14 14 14 14 Oct Arcadia English 19 19 19 19 19 23 /Core Spanish 43 43 43 43 43 Oct Bartow English 29 29 29 29 29 24 /Core Spanish 14 14 14 14 14 Oct Immokalee English 17 17 17 17 17 29 /Core Spanish 26 26 26 26 26 Nov Dover English 22 22 22 22 22 4 /Strawberry Assoc Nov Dover Spanish 20 20 20 20 20 5 /Strawberry Assoc Nov Immokalee English 70 0

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18 /Lipman Produce

Nov Immokalee Spanish 45 0

19 /Lipman Produce Dec Homestead Spanish 9 9 9 9 9 10 /DiMare 2013 Totals English 243 173 148 193 27 148

Spanish 190 144 144 144 150 144

Grand Totals 2013 434 317 292 337 177 292

Totals 2012 293 264 279 262 0 221

* Totals 2011 142 138 151 0 149 115

* Totals 2010 154 134 146 0 169 126

2010 and 2011 FLS programs were four, four-hour classes presented over two consecutive days.

During the course of Phase II, several new classes were developed for the FLS curriculum. Safe Driving was initiated in 2012 because many farm labor contractors/crew leaders transport workers in buses or vans. Before the start of the 2013 training season, Safe Driving was redesigned with significant input from two Collier County Deputies who have devoted much time in the area of traffic safety and the public school DARE program. Personal Safety and Emergency Preparedness was developed in partnership with the Collier County Cooperative Extension Service and was initially presented at the Southwest Florida Farm Safety Day at the Southwest Research and Education Center, Immokalee, FL in May 2013. A second class in DOT (Dept of Transportation) regulations was developed to focus on driver and vehicle preparedness. A course in basic Communications was developed and will be presented for the first time during the Fall 2014 training events. This course was developed as a specific request from our FLS advisory committee. Their comments were that crew leaders may know the rules and regulations, but it is equally important to be able to communicate those expectations to the workers they supervise and in a manner that do not invoke complaints of discrimination form the workers.

While Fair Labor Practices have been taught from the beginning of the FLS program, the HR Compliance class underwent a redesign to focus on discrimination and harassment actions as viewed by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Input has been solicited from EEOC staff as well as attorneys who represent both workers and employers on EEOC cases. Case studies, both real and simulated, have been developed and incorporated into the HR Compliance class. Program sponsors have been encouraged to participate in various aspects of the training classes. For example, United Toilets, brought its latest set of portable field sanitation units and during the WPS class demonstrated features that are required by law for both farm worker hygiene and food safety. AgriSigns, another sponsor, brings full-sized poster displays of required signage by 175

various laws.

Starting in Fall 2014, participants in FLS classes will be encouraged to complete the Certificate of Farm Labor Management. A flyer is enclosed as Attachment 1 and outlines the requirements for this certificate of achievement. The Certificate requires an individual to complete eight classes, of which Wage & Hour, HR Compliance, and one worker safety class is mandatory. The other five classes are chosen at the discretion of the participant. Attachment 1 lists all the classes which currently make up the FLS curriculum. Attachment 2 shows the dates and locations of each class that will be taught between September 23 and November 18, 2014.

Obj 2. Develop crop specific worker safety units. Crop-specific instructional videos were developed and addressed farm hazards on selected crops. The instructional videos increase knowledge on farm safety by providing visual content that allows participants to identify the most common work hazards found in citrus, vegetables, and strawberry production. Technical committees were established for citrus (6 members) and vegetable production (4 members) in order to coordinate field activities and advice on the technical content of training videos. More than thirty farm visits were conducted in 2012 and 2014 to assess field safety issues and plan for video filming. Farm video footage was gathered in Palm Beach, Collier, and Polk Counties and organized by topics listed below: • Citrus Harvesting • Ladder Safety • Goat-Truck Safety • Tomatoes Production: Planting and Cleaning Tomatoes Fields • Planting other specialty crops • Tractor Safety: Tractor safety operator safety • Food and Field Sanitation: Vegetable food safety • Agriculture Equipment: Harvesting Equipment:

Separate video productions: • A citrus ladder safety video. This 14-minutes video demonstrates the work hazards related with agriculture ladders in the citrus grove and other safety issues that farm workers encounter while harvesting oranges. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKji_SF7BkFqK0h9dDAmZ6A • Goat- Truck Harvesting Safety. The goat- truck operator plays an important role in the safety of farm workers harvesting citrus. This video demonstrates the hazard related to operate a goat- truck around agriculture workers. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKji_SF7BkFqK0h9dDAmZ6A • Planting and Cleaning Tomato fields. This video demonstrates the work hazards related to picking and compacting plastics, installing and lifting stakes, working around

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agriculture equipment, and other safety issues related to this type of operation. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKji_SF7BkFqK0h9dDAmZ6A

Interactive Digital Presentations: additional (24) video sequences were incorporated into the Worker Safety unit of the FLS Core program. In addition, a Farm Utility vehicle interactive presentation was developed to train workers on how to prevent accidents involving these vehicles. Worker safety presentations were revised using Articulate software to facilitate audience interaction. The safety unit was enhanced with short video clips showing various field scenarios related to the training content: 8 clips for WPS, 8 clips for Field Sanitation and Food Safety, and 8 clips highlighting farm utility vehicles.

Obj 3. Develop an administrative infrastructure that include bilingual trainers and a logistical plan for delivering the FLS courses. In 2012 the FLS program was reorganized into a series of 2-hour classes as discussed previously in the “Project Approach” section of this report. This change was initiated from comments received from attendees in 2011 who suggested that two consecutive days of training was too much and not convenient for many supervisors. Splitting the content into two-hour segments allowed the FLS staff to be more flexible in terms of how the FLS program can be delivered. A 2-hour class approach allows employers to conduct early morning or late afternoon training sessions without disturbing the entire day. Further, 2- hour sessions can fit into programming efforts of county extension faculty.

Instructor manuals have been created in both English and Spanish for all the FLS classes to be taught in Fall 2014. The cadre of Spanish-speaking instructors increased to four by the end of the 2013 training season. More bilingual instructors need to be recruited as the FLS program expands both in content scope and training locations. Instructor training sessions have been held in August, just prior to when the FLS training season begins.

Obj 4. Develop and compile assessment tools. A formal research evaluation strategy was interwoven in Phase II in the FLS program. The evaluation tools and activities provided meaningful data to guide the work of the project team, and provided accountability information to the sponsoring agency. A blend of formative and summative forms of evaluation will be applied to evaluating and monitoring the progress, quality, and effectiveness of this project. A complete description of the evaluation process and results is included as Attachment 3.

Activities from January-March 2013: In order to assess reception to, and knowledge gained in, the UF/IFAS FLS Training Program, ethnographic and survey research data were collected from attendees of the seven trainings offered in both English and Spanish in the Florida cities of Homestead, Immokalee, Wimauma, Arcadia, Fort Pierce, Sebring, and Belle Glade from September 11 to October 31, 2012. Data were analyzed from November 1, 2012 through February 26, 2013. Findings indicated that, as a whole, attendees of both the English and Spanish trainings rated their overall satisfaction, likelihood of implementing what was learned, and intensity of learning as high or very high. Results also revealed that participants attending the trainings in both English and Spanish scored significantly higher in post-training knowledge

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tests than in pre-training knowledge tests. Nonetheless, participants attending the trainings in English had significantly higher post-test scores than participants attending the trainings in Spanish. Results were compiled in an evaluation report and presented at a meeting on February 27, 2013 at the University of Florida. Recommendations for improving the effectiveness of the Spanish trainings were provided in the evaluation report. A follow-up questionnaire and phone interview protocol were drafted during March 2013.

Activities from April-June 2013: A 27-page manuscript detailing the research and findings of the evaluation was compiled during April and May of 2013. Co-authors provided comments on the draft during May and June and revisions were incorporated into a final draft entitled “Evaluating Extension-Based Adult Education for Farm Labor Supervisors”. During the same period, an abstract of the findings was submitted to, and accepted for presentation at, the 2013 North American Agricultural Safety Summit (NAASS).

Activities from Jul – Sep 2013: The final draft of the manuscript entitled “Evaluating Extension- Based Adult Education for Farm Labor Supervisors” was submitted to the Journal of Agricultural Education in July 2013. Peer-review comments and suggestions were received in September and incorporated during October. A poster illustrating the research and findings of the evaluation was presented at the 2013 NAASS from September 25th to the 27th in Minneapolis, Minnesota. According to the Agricultural Safety and Health Council of America (ASHCA), the meeting “drew more than 250 attendees from 10 nations, including farmers, ranchers, migrant worker advocates, engineers, media, physicians and government representatives [and] featured 14 sponsor and 33 partner organizations” (http://ashca.org/summit/). Summit speakers and poster presenters were later invited to submit papers for a dedicated issue of the Journal of Agromedicine.

Follow-up phone and electronic surveys in both English and Spanish were finalized during August and conducted during September. In total, 41 phone interviews and 4 electronic surveys were collected from attendees of the 2012 FLS Training Program.

Activities from Oct – Dec 2013: The poster session presented at NAASS was expanded into a manuscript entitled “Improving Health and Safety Conditions in Agriculture through Professional Training of Florida Farm Labor Supervisors” during October and submitted to the Journal of Agromedicine on October 28th. Revisions to the peer-reviewed manuscript entitled “Evaluating Extension-Based Adult Education for Agricultural Labor Supervisors” were completed in November and the revised manuscript was resubmitted to the Journal of Agricultural Education in December.

Activities from Jan 2014 - Mar 2014: The manuscript entitled “Improving Health and Safety Conditions in Agriculture through Professional Training of Florida Farm Labor Supervisors” was accepted in January for publication in a dedicated issue of the Journal of Agromedicine. The abstract of the poster presentation was also accepted for publication in the dedicated issue. The publications appeared online in June 2014. The manuscript entitled “Evaluating Extension-

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Based Adult Education for Agricultural Labor Supervisors” was accepted in January for publication in the Journal of Agricultural Education. Final corrections were submitted at the end of January. The publication was scheduled to appear in the September issue of the journal.

Results of follow-up telephone and online surveys of FLS training attendees regarding demographics, knowledge retention, and reception to online training were considered toward the creation of electronic versions of the training materials and their dissemination through county extension offices and employer in-house training efforts

Role of project partners in the project. A greater effort during Phase II was made to engage UF/IFAS county extension faculty. These professionals helped advertise the program to their grower clientele as well as arranging meeting facilities. At each training site, county faculty delivered the WPS/Field Sanitation material for the English class.

Florida DBPR’s and the U.S. DOL Wage and Hour investigators provided assistance on curriculum design and reviewed content material. Much of the content for the “Transporting Workers” unit was developed by Tracy McQuilken, an officer for the Florida Highway Patrol (formally FDOT). Collier County sheriff’s department assisted in providing material for Safe Driving and some material presented as part of the HR Compliance class. Much of the human trafficking material was developed by the Florida Coalition Against Human Trafficking.

Attendance to the FLS Core Training program was restricted to personnel employed by specialty crop operations. The vast majority of program participants were associated with citrus and fresh vegetable operations, as these farms utilize the seasonal and migrant workers. GOALS/OUTCOMES ACHIEVED Expected Measurable Outcomes, Actual vs. Proposed goals, Data showing progress, and Quantifiable measures of successes. Comparison of actual accomplishments with proposed goals Project Goals: • Teach the FLS Core program at least 6 times in at least 3 locations. • Show steady increase in FLS training participation. • Increase number of bilingual instructors. In 2012, there were nine instructors of which 3 were bilingual. • Measure short term knowledge gains of at least 30% between pre and post tests. • During 2012-13 and 2013-14 training seasons 157 and 186 individuals completed pre and post tests for the “core” FLS classes of Wage & Hour, Human Resource Compliance, WPS, and Safe Driving. The percentages of correctly answered pre/post are shown below: • 2012-13 2013-14 Pre Post Pre Post Wage Hour 55 78 47 84 Human Resources 63 61 80 87 WPS 52 81 92 95 Safe Driving 56 81 64 73 Total participants 157 186 completing tests

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• In all classes except HR in 2012, post test results documented knowledge gained from the classes. The increase in knowledge gained ranged from a 78% gain during the Wage/Hour class in 2012 to a 3% gain during the WPS class in 2013. The Human Resources class was redesigned for the 2013 season and pre/post test scores improved with a 9% increase in knowledge gained.

Create value for program participants. Accomplishments: • One-day core program was conducted at least 6 times each year and at 6 different locations. In addition, FLS training staff participated with HR personnel from 4 agricultural companies to deliver in-house training using material developed through the FLS program. Each year of the project FLS staff participated in agricultural safety training programs organized by UF/IFAS extension faculty on at least 3 occasions. • Participation in FLS training programs has increased steadily from 2010 when 182 people attended at least one FLS Core unit. In 2011 the number of participants was 178 but increased to 327 during 2012. In 2013 480 people attended at least one of the FLS Core units and 292 people attended the one day program scheduled 7 times between January and December 2013. Average attendance per language class was slightly more than 20 people. A list in the “Additional Information” section of this report lists the events during the course of Phase II where FLS staff has presented information related to farm labor. • Number of FLS instructors has increased to 13 with 6 instructors bilingual in English and Spanish. • Completed comprehensive evaluation of FLS program content and teaching methodology. See Attachment 3 for details. • A certificate of Farm Labor Management has been created and will be initiated during Fall 2014.

Data showing progress and quantifiable measures of success. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations (DBPR) maintains a database of licensed FLCs. According to this database, there are over 800 licensed FLCs within a 2-hour driving radius of Immokalee, FL (south Florida). Except for Gainesville, this driving radius encompassed all the 2012 and 2013 training locations. In 2013, nearly 500 people attended at least one training unit, and an estimated 70% were licensed FLCs.

The farm safety video project has been well received by specialty crop growers, labor contractors and farmer workers. So far about 85 DVD copies of the ladder safety video have been requested from farm safety compliance officers and labor contractors. The safety managers and labor contractors have indicated that they will use these safety videos for their in-house safety trainings. One survey evaluation was sent to five farm safety managers for their comments on the safety videos published during the course of Phase II. All responded that videos: • are very useful to prevent injuries. • cover several OSHA safety standards (very important for their safety training records). • illustrate real hazard scenarios that will help with their new employee trainings. • reinforce good safety practices.

Fourteen farm labor contractors responded to a five-question evaluation questionnaire after watching the ladder safety video. The average age of the sample evaluators was 44 years old with an average work experience of 19 years.

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• 100% responded that the video covers a lot of work hazards • 88% responded that video shows relevant scenes • 78% responded that workers most definitely will understand the video • 93% responded that the video will help a lot to reduce work injuries • 100% responded that they will recommend the ladder safety video to other farm labor contractors.

The results of these evaluations suggest that the safety videos are valuable educational materials and used by farm safety managers. The results show high levels of acceptance and applicability to reduce farm workers injuries. BENEFICIARIES The primary beneficiaries of the FLS training program are labor contractors, crew leaders, growers and human resource staff of specialty crop operations, and farm workers as well. The FLS training program enhances the knowledge and effectiveness of anyone who has direct responsibility for the management of farm workers. Effective training should improve the safety and working environment of farm workers, reduce the number of unintentional errors that occur during field operations, and improve overall productivity to the economic benefit of workers, growers, and farm labor contractors.

The FLS program attempts to present material in a manner that minimizes confusion and creates a rationale for compliance, seeking to teach not only “what” FLSs/crew leaders need to do, but also “why” these regulations were created. FLCs and farm representatives who attended the initial offering of the FLS training program in fall 2010 were genuinely supportive of the program. While no one enjoys hearing a litany of regulations which impact their daily business operations, the initial attendees to the FLS program expressed appreciation for the information they received. Several attendees asked about the next round of training programs and suggested additional topics to be developed. These comments were taken as evidence that the Core training program is fulfilling a need within the agricultural community and that, at least within the Immokalee, FL area; future training programs will be supported.

The FLS Core training is promoted as a voluntary program. Therefore, the individuals who attend this program are demonstrating a desire to achieve a higher level of professionalism and to specifically improve their understanding of compliance issues. Participants who complete this program should be formally recognized as those FLSs who are attempting to follow “best practices” as defined and more formally developed through Florida Statute 450 as amended in 2005 (FS450.321).

During 2012-13 and 2013-14 training seasons 157 and 186 individuals completed pre and post tests for the “core” FLS classes of Wage & Hour, Human Resource Compliance, WPS, and Safe Driving. The percentages of correctly answered pre/post are shown below:

2012-13 2013-14 Pre Post Pre Post Wage Hour 55 78 47 84 Human Resources 63 61 80 87 WPS 52 81 92 95 Safe Driving 56 81 64 73 Total participants 157 186 181

completing tests

In all classes except HR in 2012, post test results documented knowledge gained from the classes. The increase in knowledge gained ranged from a 78% gain during the Wage/Hour class in 2012 to a 3% gain during the WPS class in 2013. The Human Resources class was redesigned for the 2013 season and pre/post test scores improved with a 9% increase in knowledge gained. LESSONS LEARNED The nature of specialty crop operations and migratory patterns of the workers and their crew leaders continue to pose challenges for scheduling FLS training programs. The “training window” for south Florida is between late September and early November. Planted vegetable acreage increases throughout the fall, but harvesting does not begin until early to mid-November. Citrus harvest does not begin until mid-November as well. Therefore, farming operations have greater flexibility to attend training programs, especially all-day sessions. Once vegetable and citrus harvesting activities begin, work schedules become more intense and crew leaders/labor supervisors are time-limited to participate in training programs. Many crew leaders are not available for training sessions in September and October because they work outside of south Florida from the late spring through the fall on specialty crops in northern states. When they return to south Florida in early November, they immediately begin their south Florida farming activities.

The FLS program was redesigned to 2-hour classes in large part to create more flexibility by which FLS classes can be offered. Future goals are to promote more early morning or late afternoon classes which allow crew leaders to participate even during their busy season. A web site has been created: http://www.imok.ufl.edu/programs/economics/fls.php to facilitate promotional efforts. Eventually, online versions of FLS class modules will be developed and housed on this website which should provide perspective students additional opportunities to attend FLS courses.

Work continues to develop value for participating in the FLS program. Crew leaders, farm supervisors and farm owners have to perceive real value before they commit time and financial resources to attend the FLS Training program. A number of farm owners and supervisors have commented that even “certificates of attendance” are much appreciated and valued for compliance in food safety programs and meeting the documentation requirements of various WPS and Wage & Hour regulations. An important goal of the FLS program is to continue to add value for those participants who complete a “certificate of completion” and then continue with additional training annually. Starting in fall 2014, FLS participants will have the opportunity to earn a Certificate of Farm Labor Management. Since participants will be “tested” after each FLS topic, this will be a certificated of achievement rather than just a certificate of attendance. A long-term goal is to have farm employers require this certificate as a condition of employment. In addition, the Florida DBPR can adopt the FLS Certificate as one criteria of a certification process that recognizes licensed FLCs as following “best practices.”

Contact Fritz M. Roka UF/IFAS – Southwest Florida Research & Education Center 2685 SR 29 N 182

Immokalee, FL 34142 Tel: (239) 658-3428 Fax: (239) 658-3469 Email: [email protected]

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Project (22): Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association - $80,000.00

• Contract Number – FDACS Contract #018003 • Specialty Crop Block Grant Funding Year – 2011 • Reporting Period: Final

Project Summary With the help of a 2009 specialty crop block grant, there was a strong model from the 2010 conference and based on participation surveys, participants expressed a high level of interest for continuing this type of educational program. Eight of Florida’s top specialty crop commodity groups signed on for the 2012 conference to be a part of the planning process during the development stage.

The 2012 conference had a strong financial education component. With the help of Florida’s specialty crop commodities, this program set out to reach a broader audience. In its second year, the program provided over 150 specialty crop commodity producers with key information on managing their financial risk. The resources of industry to financially support programs like this through sponsorships has decreased, so we sought other means to maintain high quality speakers for future programs. This proposal requested funding to support a proven educational concept for a second year. Education is valued among Florida’s specialty crop industry and it’s also critical to the survivability of many Florida Ag businesses.

Purpose of the program The purpose of this program is to provide financial risk management training for Florida’s agricultural commodities. The goal is to deliver training in production, marketing and financial risk to specific segments of the industry. The program was offered to specialty crop commodities in Florida and provided general financial information as well as address commodity specific issues.

The program was designed to be low or no cost to the participants because of the critical program content that needed to be communicated to producers who are striving to do their best to survive these tough economic conditions.

The need for sound agricultural financial management, especially in this economic environment, is not limited to specialty crops but the planning committee was aware that the funding provided by this grant is to be used for the purpose of enhancing specialty crops in Florida. Financial stability of the Ag Commodities as a whole will directly influence and benefit the specialty crop commodities in Florida. A conference of this stature requires fixed costs for

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speakers, conference materials and the facility rentals no matter how many people attend. Registration fees or outside sponsors will be used to cover the cost of food and beverages associated with conference and to support any promotion of conference to non-specialty crop producers. There was differentiation between fees for specialty crop commodities and non-specialty crop producers. A higher fee structure for non-specialty crop producers will support any promotion or conference materials used for Ag commodities other than specialty crops producers.

Significant contributions and role of project partners in the project. There was $16,231.08 raised in sponsorships from the following organizations. These funds were used to offset expenses that would not be covered by a grant such as food expenses for receptions, breaks or networking opportunities.

Project Approach Florida Agriculture Financial Management Conference was held on September 9-11, 2012 at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center in Kissimmee, FL. See attached program for complete program information and speaker credentials.

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Goals and Outcomes Achieved

• The planning committee met regularly to plan the details of activities that would take place during the program as well as develop the content of the program. Once the program was determined, time was spent contacting speakers, coordinating travel and planning the details at the Gaylord Palms Resort.

• Solicitation of sponsorships, development of the website to promote the program and registration format was created. • Promotion of the program took place consistently from June until Sept. • 41% of the attendees provided a response to the question regarding a takeaway that they were going to try and implement in their businesses, indicating that this percentage intended to implement at least one strategy learned from the conference.

In order to achieve the performance goals and measurable outcomes for the project, evaluation forms were generated and distributed to attendees to receive their feedback. Attendees were asked to provide three key takeaway’s that they learned and would be able to take back to their businesses.

Conference Evaluations: Not all 150 attendees returned surveys but based on the ones that were returned; we felt it important to share the evaluation results and comments about this and future programs

Excellen Goo Avera Fair Poor RATE THE SESSION t d ge Opportunities for Florida Agriculture Producers 46 17 1 in Meeting The Project Food Demand In 2025 - Commissioner Adam Putnam, Florida Department of Agriculture, Tallahassee, FL Agricultural Economy Outlook - Dr. Michael 39 21 3 2 Swanson, Wells Fargo, Minneapolis, MN The Three Most Important Insights Necessary To 41 17 2 1 1 Leading Your Business Into The Future – Kevin Coupe, Coupe Communications, Darien, CT Lunch with Chef Peter Daledda, Gaylord Palms 5 25 21 8 1 Resort and Convention Center, Orlando, FL

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Positioning Your Business for the Wild World of 50 12 1 Global Economics: An “Insider/Outsider” Approach - Dr. David Kohl, Professor Emeritus, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA Understanding Your Lender and What They Want 20 28 8 6 4 of Their Borrowers - Dean W. Duelke, Deannco Financial Enterprises, Irvine, CA Understanding Your Lender and What They Want 21 25 8 5 4 of Their Borrowers - Wrap Up - Dean W. Duelke, Deannco Financial Enterprises, Irvine, CA Finance and the Economy in 2013: A Pre- 42 12 8 2 1 Election Forecast - Dr. Edmond Seifried, Professor Emeritus, Lafayette College, Easton, PA Estate Planning - Lauren Detzel, Dean Mead, 25 36 4 Orlando, FL and Mr. Steve Akers, Bessemer Trust, Dallas, TX “WHO PACKS THE PARACHUTE” - Patrick T. Grady, 30 28 5 1 1 Patrick T. Grady & Co., Bushnell, FL Plan Your Tax Strategies - Farm Tax Planning - 28 27 4 Mr. Andrew Biebl, Clifton Larson Allen LLP., New Ulm, MN Ready for Anything - Bob Kodzis, Flight of Ideas, 36 7 2 1 1 Orlando, FL

Very Not Satisfie d Satisf i atisfi ed ed Please give us your overall thoughts on the concurrent educational sessions: Rate your level of satisfaction…Did 5 4 3 2 1 handouts add value and quality to the 28 23 5 1 sessions Would you attend a financial YES NO management conference like this in the 57 0 future? Every year? Yes No 43 16

GENERAL INFORMATION:

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Please provide three key take-away’s that you have learned and will be able to take back to your businesses.

Better understanding of finance Motivated to do better Be open to change Manage balance sheets & profit/loss better Network more Need a business plan Take off blinders Plan Execute Organize for succession Deeper understanding of my operations financial statements & their importance Huge awakening of importance of tax planning in Ag operations Huge awakening of importance of Succession plan Educate yourself Economic Update Valuable info about the financial info leaders need Valuable info about farm tax issues Valuable info about the economic environment agriculture operates in Lender requirements and perceptions Oil in PA will save us all Conserve equity, reserves, live within your means Confirmed what banks require to demonstrate debt service Confirmed need to constantly know your numbers in your business Organizing cash flow/balances more efficiently Putnam’s population growth numbers Change in ownership of US farms Written goals Change is good Estate planning & trusts There are more money issues in good times than in bad Changes are inevitable You can elect out of installment payments Don’t take it personally Natural Gas Ratio analysis Marketing strategies Budget projections GDP decline/increase Economic outlook

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Business planning tools Recognize & adapt to change Being able to realize my actual cash flow Tax laws change Allocate assets to LLC trusts Lender requirements & expectations Economic data & trends Better macro-economic understanding Motivation Make your business relevant Accrual accounting Staying up on the global economy Importance of producer knowing financial ratios of business Cost vs. accrual accounting Federal Reserve policy Future export opportunities What the smaller farmer is looking for Interaction with fellow attendees & networking Future in agriculture Need to always be innovating to remain relevant Need to plan for higher interest rates It’s all about cash flow

What was the main reason for attending this program?

Enjoy hearing about macro trends that affect agriculture Learn about new & existing laws Learn strategies for tax mgmt. & asset protection Networking Financial knowledge To learn new ideas & trends Gain a better understanding of Grower Economics Learn more about agriculture business Meet & interact with producers Learning about various topics I was unexposed to Make new contacts Get a better foundation on issues unique to agriculture Listen to Duelke & Kohl Continue education Increase efficiency of my company Financial understanding Refresher on concepts & methods Update on current realities/requirements Gain knowledge on financial mgmt.

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General sense of the globe Sharpen skills Get a deeper knowledge of cash flow & other financial calculations Business suffering

What topics would like to be seen on the program for future programs? Management skills More on tax updates Ideas for diversification of crops Motivational speaker Business plan Simple approach to credit & lenders requirements Extend the topics to be more inclusive of allied industry members More of a start-up program, less in depth more explanation Asset mgmt. Replacement strategies Landscape estimating Leadership Breakout sessions for industry or size related issues Trends in agriculture New technology that can help you manage your business More on estate planning & trusts Marketing/branding Distribution Food safety Conservation easements How to become more efficient Crop specific breakout groups Grower perspectives/testimonies Field economics How yield affects price Benchmarking Crop lien laws Hedging strategies in agriculture

What new concept learned that were of most value: Making worst mistake when times are good Cash accounting can be very weak in providing cost information The power of creativity & new ideas Always change Invest Don’t stand in the middle of the road Federal Reserve policy Future of natural gas

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Use of technology Future economy outlook Macro-economics Adapt to change more quickly Tax law review Ratio analysis Goals How to tap into the global market Tax information Value in having a viable plan Organizing, understanding & analyzing the profit/loss and balance sheets

Are you going to change the way you do a specific task in your business? Business plan Records keeping Mastering the financial strategies presented Know my numbers Seek advisors Budgets Looking at financial statements Switch to accrual accounting Run financial ratios Adjust strategic plan Write down goals

Providing attendees with financial strategies will definitely provide long term results.

Beneficiaries The following associations/organizations were participating partners:

• Linda Reindl, Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association, [email protected] • Regina Thomas, Farm Credit of Central Florida, [email protected] • Clay Worden, McGladrey, [email protected] • Juanita Popenoe, University of Florida/Lake County Extension, [email protected] • Florida Forestry Association – Jeff Doran, [email protected] • Florida Citrus Mutual – [email protected] • Florida Fruit and Vegetable Associaion – Mike Stuart, [email protected] • Florida Sod Growers Cooperative – Betsy McGill, [email protected] • Dean, Mead, Egerton, Bloodworth, Capouano & Bozarth, P.A., Karen Keene, [email protected] • PNC Bank, Chuck Cruse [email protected] • Scotts, Van Donnan, [email protected]

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• LPL Financial, Matt Antos, [email protected]

Each of the above organizations participating in supporting the conference either by sharing the information to their members, providing financial support or taking an active role in participating in the program. Dean Mead hosted a dessert reception in the evening to provide a great networking opportunity for the program.

Anytime you strengthen the financial positions of industry members, the potential for a strong economic impact is present. There is not quantifiable data to prove that industry members have taken the information back to their businesses and utilized what they have learned. There is only the acknowledgement from attendees that they have identified three key take away’s from the conference.

Lessons Learned

The lesson learned from holding this conference for the second time is that the registration fee was a little higher the second conference than the first and may have deterred a few attendees that might have come if the price point was lower.

There was a challenge in determining how the meet all the needs of all specialty crop commodities. Each commodity has slightly different issues to address and the conference planning committee had to determine if the conference would stay more generally focused in the content. It also had to determine how much global and national economic information was important to Florida commodities.

Positive outcome would be very similar to the challenge. Because the commodities all have slightly different issue, putting all of them in the same room and giving them an opportunity to interact with other commodities that maybe they would normally interact with…proved to be very positive.

Contact Person

 Linda Reindl, Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association • 407-295-7994 • [email protected]

Additional Information

Website – www.fafmc.org was secured to promote the program. It is no longer an active site now that the conference has been completed.

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Southeast Farm Press and other industry electronic publications promoted the conference and also provided coverage at the program. Ag commodity associations also promoted to their members. Farm Credit did a special mailing promoting the conference to all of their membership as well.

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Project (23) Community Garden Micro Grants

Project Partners: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

Project Summary

The purpose for this project was to allow for the creation of community gardens in food deserts and schools. The project motivation was on several levels. It served to introduce agriculture to young people and provide important lessons in responsibility and teamwork. It provided fresh produce in urban areas where it was not readily available. It also introduces many healthy fruits and vegetables that these children might not get exposed to without this garden experience.

Community gardens also stimulate social interaction and encourage a sense of community in urban areas. They also help to beautify urban areas with green space and provide nutritious fresh produce that might not otherwise be available to local residents.

Project Approach

We developed a pre-survey and grant application for the project and received grant requests from 150 organizations. We assisted interested parties with the requirements for the submission of a successful application. A team of evaluators from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumers Services, Florida Ag in the classroom, and the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) awarded 52 grants for community gardens. We conducted several WEBEX workshops to discuss reporting requirements and expense reimbursement. We developed a Google Groups page to distribute materials and information and to provide a forum for awardees to exchange ideas. IFAS provided “how to” videos on gardening that were made available on the group page.

We provided on-going assistance with administrative tasks and developed a post survey on Survey Monkey with the results attached to this report.

Goals and Outcomes Achieved

We exceed our first goal of 28 successful grant recipients with 52 grants being awarded and 45 projects successful completed. We met our second goal with WEBEX seminars and hands on assistance from county extension agents throughout the state. Our third goal was met through the successful

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completion of 45 garden projects with IFAS assistance in the field. Volunteers from County extension offices, 4 H and FFA clubs, civic organizations, non-profit charities, and military personnel. Thousands of children and adults participated in this learning experience. With 45 successful garden projects instituted, and with an average of 654 students per public school in Florida (per Florida Department of Education estimates), this project benefitted over 29,000 Florida students. They learned about where food comes from and many specialty crops they knew little about. Many recipients reported that the children really enjoyed the experience and learned responsibility through their roles in the garden project.

Beneficiaries Thousands of children and adults from non-profits, charter schools, private and public schools, community organizations, and local governments benefited from this project. Over 40 gardens were established or improved by this project.

Lessons Learned

The biggest challenge in this project was dealing with the administrative tasks. We worked with a myriad of entities with different organizational structures. Applicants included non-profits, charter schools, private and public schools, community organizations, and local governments. Many of the applicants were public schools and the contracts had to be executed by the school boards and this caused numerous delays that we had not anticipated. We had a number of young school teachers with little experience in contracts or business processes that needed considerable assistance in forms submission and reporting requirements.

We also learned that timing is critical not only with the growing season but also with the school season. Most projects were initiated by a single teacher and if that teacher became unavailable due to a change in employment or health, no one else would complete the project. We had several grants that were not completed because of school closings also. Future school garden projects would benefit from a reporting structure which collected more data on school size and number of participants in planting, maintaining, etc. the gardens. Contact Person Danny Raulerson (352) 395-4730 [email protected] Additional Information

Survey results are presented on the following pages.

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