Research

HRI opens 2026 grant proposals

The Horticultural Research Institute (HRI) is now accepting research grant proposals for fiscal year 2026, supporting projects that advance the green industry. HRI funds research on plant health, pest management, consumer behavior, production efficiencies and... more »

Green vanilla bean pods growing in clusters on a plant

Investigating economic potential of growing vanilla in Florida

University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) researchers are investigating the economic potential of growing vanilla in Florida with the aim of establishing an alternative — and potentially lucrative — crop to... more »

New fund supports floriculture industry advancements

The American Floral Endowment has launched the Demaree Family Floriculture Advancement Fund to support projects addressing critical challenges in the floral industry. The annual grant program will fund initiatives focused on innovation, education and industry... more »

Floriculture research grant proposals open through April 1

The Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation Research Fund of the American Floral Endowment is accepting grant proposals for floriculture research and educational projects. The deadline for submission is April 1. Grants support research in plant pathology,... more »

Hemp microbiomes could improve CBD, fiber production

A recent study from the University of Houston reveals that hemp microbiomes may play a key role in boosting CBD and fiber production. Published in Scientific Reports, the research offers insights into the communities of... more »

Floriculture forum set for February in Florida

The 2025 National Floriculture Forum (NFF) will be held Feb. 21-22 at the UF/IFAS North Florida Research and Education Center in Quincy, Florida. Open to academic, governmental and industry professionals, the annual event fosters collaboration... more »

Poinsettia protection

Poinsettia production faces significant challenges, from the intense summer heat to the cool or freezing conditions of winter. These extremes make it a prime environment for pythium, a pathogen often referred to as the “common... more »

Technically speaking: Getting the most out of energy and shade curtains

Retractable energy and shade curtains offer potential advantages when producing crops inside greenhouses. In the summer, a curtain system can limit the greenhouse temperature rise by decreasing the solar load, which also decreases plant water... more »

Marijuana research faces delays from DEA

MMJ International Holdings is advancing marijuana-derived pharmaceuticals for Huntington's disease and multiple sclerosis with support from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. However, the company reports that delays from the Drug Enforcement Administration have significantly... more »

Rwanda program targets pest-resistant staple crops

An international partnership has launched the Rwanda Agricultural Biotechnology Programme to improve yields of cassava, maize and potatoes, benefiting over 500,000 farm households. The five-year initiative, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, aims... more »