Core and Private Applicator License Classes Available

On August 16, 2016, UF/IFAS Hillsborough County will be conducting a class for those who would like to become certified Private Pesticide Applicators or for those who need a few more CEUs towards their license.  The class will be divided into two segments: Core 8:30 am-10:30 am, Private 10:45 am-12:45 pm.  Exams will be offered immediately following the classes. However, you do not have to take the exams the same day. You may schedule a time to take the exams at your convenience.  You may take one class without the other, if needed.

          

If you are already a license holder, 2 CEUs in Core and 2 Private are offered for the classes, respectively. Light snacks will be offered.  Walk-ins will be welcomed.  The fee is $15 per class. Here is the link to register.  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/copy-of-private-and-core-pesticide-applicator-training-tickets-26708219002  You can pay online via the link or bring cash or a check made out to “Hillsborough County EOAC.” if you would like to register the same day.  If you have any questions please give Shawn a call 813-744-5519 x 54147.

Artillery Weed (Pilea microphylla) Control in Ornamentals

If you have grown in a shadehouse or greenhouse in central or south Florida, I am sure that at some point you have probably had to deal with artillery weed.  This weed is most commonly seen in moist areas usually in the greenhouse or shade house.  Commonly found in propagation houses.  It is a creeping plant and re-seeds itself with vigor and can quickly become a problem.

Dr. Chris Marble has done some work looking at controlling this weed with pre and post herbicides in ornamental crops.  Here are some pictures of the work that he shared with us at the Woody Ornamental Production Field Day at Balm and will be published in this year's Proceedings of the Florida State Horticulture Society.
Here are the results of the post-emergent herbicide treatments 5 weeks after treatment (WAT).  You may need to click on the pictures in case they aren't displaying correctly.

Although you can't really tell from this picture in a few more weeks the best treatments were Ronstar, SureGuard and Finale.  Roundup generally sets the plant back with yellowing and a slow down of growth is achieved, however, it is usually a short-term setback and the plant resumes growth after a while.

Here are the results of the pre-emergent treatments 8WAT