After the hurricanes of 2004, citrus growers were philosophical. Sure, 175 million boxes of citrus were just 58 percent of what they had produced seven years ago, but if the supply went down, and demand remained the same, prices would go up. Profits would even out. ...more

January 14, 2009

With apologies to Francis P. Church, who was editor of the New York Sun in 1897 when "Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus" was first published. ...more

December 24, 2008

Searching for a truly original holiday gift, one that could bestow a bit of immortality on a loved one or a friend? ...more

December 9, 2008

Does it strike anyone else as ironic that so often "going green" requires just the opposite of a gardener? ...more

December 7, 2008

The Hillsborough County Extension service will offer residents the latest information this morning about a disease attacking cabbage palms in southern Hillsborough and northern Manatee counties. ...more

November 13, 2008

How would you like to find a 3-inch-long hissing cockroach in your home? Researchers at the University of Florida are betting you won't but are worried you may step on one sooner than later. Scientists Phil Koehler and Roberto Pereira said a growing interest in raising roaches for pet reptile food may import invasive species of roaches into a state that already has its share of the insect. ...more

October 9, 2008

That fly you're trying to swat just might be a big help in scientists efforts to eradicate a weevil that's killing wild bromeliad's living throughout the area. Then again, it might just be a house fly that's driving you crazy. It's difficult to tell. But just in case, chase it outside. ...more

October 24, 2007