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Precision Horticulture Laboratory

Extension

Extension transforms research into practical solutions that make a difference in everyday practice.

Extension is a core component of our work and a fundamental part of the land-grant mission. Our extension program focuses on translating research findings into practical, science-based guidance that supports growers, advisors, and industry partners in making informed management decisions.

We work closely with stakeholders to ensure that research questions are grounded in real production challenges and that outcomes are delivered in formats that are accessible, timely, and directly applicable to farming systems.

Our Extension Approach

Our extension activities are guided by three principles:

  • Research-driven
    All extension outputs are grounded in peer-reviewed research, field trials, and validated data.
  • Grower-focused
    Programs are developed in collaboration with growers and advisors to ensure relevance and practicality.
  • Systems-oriented
    We address water, nutrients, soil, crop stress, and production practices as integrated systems rather than isolated components.

Key Extension Areas

  • Precision irrigation and nutrient management for vegetable and specialty crops
  • Soil and bed management, including drip irrigation and fumigation systems
  • Crop stress management under heat and water-limited conditions
  • Cultivar evaluation and production system optimization
  • Adoption of sensing, automation, and labor-saving technologies

Extension Activities

Our extension efforts include a range of educational and outreach activities, such as:

  • On-farm trials and demonstrations
  • Field days and grower meetings
  • Workshops and technical trainings
  • Webinars and virtual outreach events
  • Development of decision-support tools and production guides

These activities are designed to support growers across diverse production systems and scales.

Resources for Growers and Advisors

We produce research-based extension materials intended for direct use by growers, consultants, and extension professionals.

Extension Publications

2025 Southeastern US Vegetable Crop Handbook

Field day on soil fumigation strategies for strawberry production 2025