ASHS 2024 Conference

Background: Florida’s Citrus industry has been devastated by the bacterial disease, Huanglongbing (HLB) (Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus). The vector of the disease is the Asian Citrus Psyllid (Diaphorina citri). HLB is not just a problem in Florida but affects other citrus-growing areas across the United States. Many homeowner citrus trees already have HLB or have succumbed to the disease. Often, young trees are purchased and decline before they have harvestable fruit. Many homeowners, not educated on the disease, have become disenchanted with attempting to grow citrus. Although no citrus is resistant to HLB, there are tolerant varieties. Objective: Engage Highlands County residents to grow citrus in their yards by offering classes on the proper use of cultural practices to successfully maintain a tree that would supply quality fruit for a longer duration. Introduce them to HLB-tolerant trees and other innovations. Method: Lecture using a two-hour PowerPoint on growing citrus. Teach participants how to identify HLB and other common citrus pests and diseases. Give them a better understanding of citrus nutrition, soil health, and irrigation practices. Introduce them to Individual Protective Covers (IPCs) that can exclude Asian Citrus Psyllids from reaching their trees. Send them home with the knowledge to grow successful citrus at home. Conclusion: In 2023 and 2024, 112 participants attended the Growing Citrus at Home program. Of this, 92 trees were taken home each with an IPC. Seventy-five class participants took a pre- and post-assessment to ascertain knowledge gain. Knowledge gain based on a 10-question pre-and post-assessment went from 36% to 68% which calculates to be an increase of 89 %. pests and diseases. Give them a better understanding of citrus nutrition, soil health, and irrigation practices. Introduce them to Individual Protective Covers (IPCs) that can exclude Asian Citrus Psyllids from reaching their trees. Send them home with the knowledge to grow successful citrus at home. Conclusion: In 2023 and 2024 112 participants attended the Growing Citrus at Home program.