UF IFAS Orange County: Your Local Agricultural Experts

The University of Florida - Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) has a significant presence in Orange County, Florida, with extensive research, outreach, and educational programs that directly impact the local community. Located within the heart of the Sunshine State, UF/IFAS Orange County is dedicated to providing innovative solutions to agricultural, environmental, and community development challenges.

a soccer field with the ball coming towards it
a soccer field with the ball coming towards it

Through its various programs, UF/IFAS Orange County strives to enhance the quality of life for its residents while fostering sustainable agriculture and natural resource management. The county's subtropical climate and diverse ecosystems make it an ideal environment for research and teaching, as well as a perfect backdrop for understanding and addressing real-world issues.

pink flowers are blooming on the tree
pink flowers are blooming on the tree

Research and Innovation

UF/IFAS Orange County is home to cutting-edge research facilities and programs, focused on addressing the most pressing issues facing the region and beyond.

The Grass Class Resource Pass - UF/IFAS Extension Orange County
The Grass Class Resource Pass - UF/IFAS Extension Orange County

One of the key research areas is aquatic weed management and water quality improvement. With numerous lakes, ponds, and wetlands, Orange County faces challenges related to aquatic plant control and water purification. UF/IFAS scientists collaborate with local stakeholders to develop and implement innovative methods for managing aquatic weeds and improving water quality, ensuring the preservation of these vital ecosystems for future generations.

Lake Apopka Research

No Mow Lawns in Florida - UF/IFAS Extension Orange County
No Mow Lawns in Florida - UF/IFAS Extension Orange County

UF/IFAS Orange County's Lake Apopka Research Center (LARC) plays a crucial role in restoring and protecting the health of Lake Apopka, once one of the world's most polluted lakes. Through careful monitoring, research, and communication with local communities, LARC scientists work tirelessly to restore the lake's ecosystem and ensure its long-term sustainability.

Some of the center's ongoing research includes studies on phosphorus reduction, which analysis of the lake's water quality and sediment, and development of ecosystem restoration strategies that promote a diverse and healthy aquatic community.

Integrated Pest Management

Florida-Friendly Edible Landscaping - UF/IFAS Extension Orange County
Florida-Friendly Edible Landscaping - UF/IFAS Extension Orange County

UF/IFAS Extension Orange County offers comprehensive integrated pest management (IPM) programs, focusing on sustainable and environmentally-conscious pest control techniques. These programs provide essential resources and education to local residents, farmers, and gardeners, helping them minimize the use of harmful pesticides and create more resilient landscapes.

The Master Gardener Volunteer Program is a key component of UF/IFAS Orange County's IPM efforts. This program trains and certifies volunteers who then share their knowledge and expertise with the community, promoting sustainable gardening practices and helping local residents create and maintain beautiful, healthy landscapes.

Community Outreach and Education

an orange county sticker with the words orange county florida in blue and green on it
an orange county sticker with the words orange county florida in blue and green on it

UF/IFAS Orange County is deeply committed to engaging and supporting the local community through educational programs, workshops, and events.

4-H Youth Development Programs

some yellow flowers and green leaves in the grass
some yellow flowers and green leaves in the grass
pink flowers growing on the side of a wooden fence
pink flowers growing on the side of a wooden fence
Fact sheet: Reed-stemmed Orchid - UF/IFAS Extension Nassau County
Fact sheet: Reed-stemmed Orchid - UF/IFAS Extension Nassau County
What’s in Bloom? …Loblolly-Bay - UF/IFAS Extension Orange County
What’s in Bloom? …Loblolly-Bay - UF/IFAS Extension Orange County
Plants Improve Indoor Air Quality - UF/IFAS Extension Orange County
Plants Improve Indoor Air Quality - UF/IFAS Extension Orange County
3.6K views · 98 reactions | Edible hibiscus is a long lived annual or perennial where winters are mild. There are 3 main types of edible hibiscus: Jamacian roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa), cranberry hibiscus (Hibiscus acetosella), and edible leaf hibiscus (Abelmoschus manihot). The flower calyx is used from the Jamacian roselle, it has a tangy tart flavor and makes a beautiful red tea. The leaves of the cranberry hibiscus are good raw in a salad or can be cooked for a tea. The edible leaf hibiscus gets large tender leaves that are cooked like spinach, its a little slimy so stir fry with other vegetables. These can all be propagated easily from seed or cuttings. | UF IFAS Extension Orange County | Facebook Cranberry, Orange County, Hibiscus, Perennials, Maine, Seeds, Red Tea, Flowers, How To Grow Roselle
3.6K views · 98 reactions | Edible hibiscus is a long lived annual or perennial where winters are mild. There are 3 main types of edible hibiscus: Jamacian roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa), cranberry hibiscus (Hibiscus acetosella), and edible leaf hibiscus (Abelmoschus manihot). The flower calyx is used from the Jamacian roselle, it has a tangy tart flavor and makes a beautiful red tea. The leaves of the cranberry hibiscus are good raw in a salad or can be cooked for a tea. The edible leaf hibiscus gets large tender leaves that are cooked like spinach, its a little slimy so stir fry with other vegetables. These can all be propagated easily from seed or cuttings. | UF IFAS Extension Orange County | Facebook Cranberry, Orange County, Hibiscus, Perennials, Maine, Seeds, Red Tea, Flowers, How To Grow Roselle
Orange County - University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences - UF/IFAS
Orange County - University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences - UF/IFAS
Vermicomposting (Using Worms for Composting) - UF/IFAS Extension Orange County
Vermicomposting (Using Worms for Composting) - UF/IFAS Extension Orange County
an assortment of medical supplies are laid out on a table with the contents neatly organized
an assortment of medical supplies are laid out on a table with the contents neatly organized
Red Berries for Holiday Decorations - UF/IFAS Extension Orange County
Red Berries for Holiday Decorations - UF/IFAS Extension Orange County

The UF/IFAS Extension Orange County 4-H program offers a wide range of enrichment activities and leadership opportunities for young people in the county. Through hands-on learning experiences, community service, and mentorship, 4-H helps local youth develop essential life skills, such as teamwork, communication, and civic responsibility, as they explore their interests and passions.

Some of the popular 4-H clubs in Orange County include those focused on science and technology, animal science, and artistic expressions, providing engaging and educational experiences for young people across Orange County.

Horticultural Therapy

The UF/IFAS Orange County Extension's Horticultural Therapy program uses gardening and plant-related activities to promote mental, physical, and emotional well-being for individuals of all ages and abilities. Through partnerships with local schools, hospitals, and community organizations, this innovative program helps participants develop self-confidence, improve physical health, and foster a deeper connection to nature.

Participants in the Horticultural Therapy program often report increased happiness, reduced stress, and enhanced self-esteem, demonstrating the profound impact that engaging with plants and nature can have on overall well-being.

The University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences in Orange County continues to make a tangible difference in the lives of local residents and the health of the region's ecosystems. With a commitment to research, innovation, and community engagement, UF/IFAS Orange County looks forward to a future filled with progress, sustainability, and success.