 Florida Ag Research is launching a dedicated research program evaluating the efficacy of biostimulants in Central Florida strawberry production. Candidate products will be field assessed in small plot trials and larger demo plots for marketing support in the heart of the Southeast strawberry growing region. Biostimulant evaluation protocols will measure improvements in:
These investigations will detail effects of application rate, phenological timing, soil or foliar treatment, and almost any other specific product usage scenario for the manufacturer.
Using your protocol or ours, these studies begin at planting in October and continue through the fruiting season ending in March 2026. Plant growth rates, root development, flowering, and fruiting parameters are recorded on populations of treated plants compared to untreated ones. Complete materials and methods, statistical and graphical presentation of data, and interpretation of results are provided in the final report. Florida Ag Research has the capability to apply biostimulant products as a soil amendment, chemigation application, or foliar spray. To capture physiological responses, our trials incorporate advanced measurement tools including the LI-COR® LI-600 Chlorophyll Content Index sensor, NDVI/NDRE sensors, WinRHIZO™ root scanner, and experienced field technicians familiar with strawberry quality standards and measurement. These technologies and staff allow us to quantify crop growth patterns, stress response, and canopy health with repeatable precision. We welcome inquiries from product developers and invite you to connect with our team for more information on our biostimulant program.  Florida Ag Research announced a new insecticide screening program for testing ovicidal efficacy against Chilli Thrips for the Florida strawberry industry. Candidate active ingredients include currently registered and new insecticides, acaricides, or other products that can disrupt the pest early in its life cycle. This Fall and continuing through Spring 2026, our Florida entomology team will be conducting focused laboratory and field bioassays that can provide manufacturers with confidential data of a product’s potential utility as a thrips ovicide.
As with other thrips species, Chilli Thrips (Scirtothrips dorsalis) inserts its eggs into leaf tissue where they are protected against most insecticide sprays and biological controls. In this scenario, new larvae continually hatch unchecked, infesting plant canopies and causing direct damage to the harvested crop. In contrast, ovicides strengthen commercial control programs by eliminating a critical pest life stage, which may lead to a reduction in the number of thrips sprays needed, conservation of biological controls, and improvement in resistance management (longevity) of products now in use. In addition to Chilli Thrips, ovicidal efficacy testing is also available for Western Flower Thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis) and several other key insect pests. Florida Ag Research combines state-of-the-art facilities with decades of expertise in entomology, greenhouse and field research, and custom bioassay designs. Our mission is to deliver independent, science-driven insights that manufacturers of ag products can use to refine their portfolios and ultimately contribute to commercial IPM strategies worldwide. |
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