By-Line: Julie Murphy, Flagler County Government
UF|IFAS Extension is hosting a Muscadine Field Day for Homeowners that will be “steady as a Tom Petty track” as participants get step-by-step instructions for starting and caring for muscadine vines, including common pests and problems, as well as getting recommendations for the varieties that are perfect for local gardens.
Fieldtrip highlights include cooking demonstrations that feature recipes showcasing muscadine grapes and, of course, tasting samples afterward. There is an optional U-pick muscadine harvesting for those who don’t want to wait to establish their grapes before enjoying them.
“We have UF|IFAS Extension agents and specialists from throughout the area coming together to deliver this program,” said Flagler Extension Horticulture Agent Judy Jean. “Participants will learn about planting, trellising, irrigation, fertilization, pest management, and Florida-Friendly Landscaping practices.”
This hands-on educational event will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, August 13, at Ever After Farms in Pomona Park (Putnam County) and will offer expert guidance for growing muscadine grapes in Florida’s unique climate.
Two ticket options are available:
- General Admission, $20 – Full access to all educational sessions and vineyard activities
- Grapevine Ticket, $30 – Event admission plus a 1-gallon muscadine grapevine to take home. Varieties include:
- Southern Home – Black fruit, mild flavor, and attractive ornamental leaves
- Delicious – Black muscadine with thin skin, great fresh or for wine
- Welder – Bronze muscadine ideal for juice or wine
For registration and event details, visit: https://Grapes-in-the-Garden-Field-Day.eventbrite.com.
Parts of the program will be outdoors. Attendees are encouraged to wear closed-toed shoes, bring a hat, sunscreen, and a sweat towel. For food safety and planning, please complete a separate ticket for each participant so dietary preferences can be collected.
“We hope this field day inspires people to grow, harvest, and enjoy muscadine grapes right at home,” Jean said.
Featured speakers include:
- Dr. Ali Sarkhosh – UF/IFAS Tree Fruit & Viticulture Specialist
- Julio Perez – Horticulture Agent, UF/IFAS Putnam County
- Judy Jean – Horticulture Agent, UF/IFAS Flagler County
- Terra Freeman – Florida-Friendly Landscaping & Commercial Horticulture Agent
- Ryan Bjelke – Rural Health Agent, UF/IFAS Putnam County
The post Grapes & Gardens – UF|IFAS plans a dream-come-true day that promises to be sweeter than muscadine wine for homeowners first appeared on Flagler County Buzz.
