The Florida Legislature passed Senate Bill 1020, establishing a state hemp program within the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The historic vote comes after the 2018 federal Farm Bill removed prohibitions on industrial hemp in place since 1937 and authorized states to create hemp programs. Commissioner Nicole “Nikki” Fried, a noted advocate for hemp, cannabis, and medical marijuana, offered the following statement: “Today’s …
Lawmakers Back Homeowner Vegetable Gardens
The Florida House on Wednesday gave final approval to a measure that would prevent local governments from regulating homeowners’ vegetable gardens. The 93-16 vote will send the bill (SB 82) to Gov. Ron DeSantis. The issue stems from a dispute between homeowners Hermine Ricketts and Laurence Carroll and the village of Miami Shores over an ordinance that banned front-yard vegetable …
Climbing Vegetables You Can Grow in a Limited Space
Cathy Isom tells you about some of the best climbing vegetables for a garden with limited space. That’s coming up on This Land of Ours. You can grow so many great vegetables vertically, even if you have very little space. All you need is a wall, a trellis, or wire supports, for your crops to travel. Some of the best …
Why You Should Consider Growing St. John’s Wort
Cathy Isom has a few important tips on why you should consider growing St. John’s Wort, and how to plant and harvest it. That’s coming up on This Land of Ours. St. John’s Wort is known as nature’s antidepressant, and although it’s not officially approved by the FDA to treat anxiety and depression, the herb is a popular alternative to …
Controlling Bacterial Spot on Tomatoes and Peppers
Alabama Extension wants those growing tomatoes and peppers to be aware of Bacterial Spot, a common disease on the leaves of those two plants. But, there are several steps that growers can take to control and prevent the disease, which involves using multiple management tactics. Controlling the disease with chemicals alone usually results in failure. Steps growers can take include …
Political Wrangling Over Conservation Program Could Exacerbate Florida Algae Issues
by Gary Cooper In weekend budget talks, lawmakers slash funding for a key land and water conservation program that is vital to restoring Florida’s waterways. Florida’s Rural and Family Lands Protection Program (RFLPP) is a budget casualty. This program has a 20-year track record of success in preserving green space in perpetuity, while keeping farmland on the tax rolls. Program …
What to Plant in a Hanging Basket Garden
Cathy Isom continues her series by giving you a few tips about what you should and shouldn’t plant in your hanging basket garden. That’s coming up on This Land of Ours. Having a hanging basket garden is ideal for having your own fruits and veggies at arm’s reach. It’s also a space saver, and works well on balconies and smaller …
Vidalia® Onions Have Arrived
Georgia’s official state vegetable is officially in season, beloved Vidalia® onions can now be found in grocery stores around the world. Grown only from Georgia soil, the Vidalia® onion is available for a limited time. Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Gary W. Black released the following statement about the world-renowned onion: “The sweetest onions on earth are certainly living up to their reputation this year.  Thanks …
Tips for Starting a Hanging Basket Garden
Cathy Isom begins her series by giving you some helpful tips for a hanging basket garden. That’s coming up on This Land of Ours. If you can come up with an appropriate place to hang a basket, then you can have a garden! First things first, make sure you have a sturdy hanger to support the weight of your basket. …
Growing Radicchio Adds Color to Your Garden
Cathy Isom tells you how to add a little colorful pop to your garden by growing your own Radicchio. That’s coming up on This Land of Ours. Radicchio is a common and pretty vegetable used widely throughout Italy. Growing Radicchio in your garden adds a pop of vibrant color as well as a rich flavor to your dinner table. It …