Boo-yeah! These Halloween lawns are frightfully cool

Orange County’s residential composting pilot drew interest from more than 600 people, with more than 220 residents participating through free composting bins or food waste collection service trials. Enrollment has closed, but participant feedback will help guide potential improvements and expansion.

UF/IFAS Extension Orange County’s November schedule features eight programs ranging from financial education for renters and homebuyers to backyard chicken care and wildlife habitat. Events run Nov. 4-19, with registration required and fees ranging from free to $12.51.

Below-average September rainfall prolonged dry conditions across portions of the St. Johns River Water Management District, with all 18 counties below their 12-month rainfall averages. Near Apopka, Rock Springs and Wekiwa Springs maintained normal flows despite very low districtwide groundwater levels.

A University of Florida study found the primary mosquito species capable of transmitting dengue was more common than researchers expected in residential yards in Indian River County. Participants frequently reported bites while gardening and walking dogs, highlighting how everyday activities close to home can bring people into contact with mosquitoes.

Florida pool owners can improve safety by maintaining pool surfaces and surrounding areas, supervising children and addressing potential hazards before accidents occur.

Recent rainfall has improved conditions in parts of the St. Johns River Water Management District, but groundwater, lakes and rivers remain affected by a prolonged dry period. Phase III water restrictions remain in place in affected areas as officials urge residents and businesses to conserve water.

UF/IFAS research found that robotic lawn mowers can maintain and improve Florida turf, including St. Augustine grass, despite their lower cutting height. Their frequent mowing removes small amounts of grass at a time, encouraging healthier and denser lawns.

Orange County Mosquito Control is concentrating spraying efforts in targeted areas after health officials confirmed a locally acquired case of dengue fever. Residents are encouraged to prevent mosquito bites and eliminate standing water around their homes.

UF/IFAS will host a free Landscape, Nursery, and Controlled Plant Production Field Day on September 16 at its Mid-Florida Research and Education Center in Apopka. Visitors can tour the facilities, meet researchers, and explore work involving horticulture, controlled-environment agriculture, and space biology.

A new UF/IFAS app helps Floridians select plants suited to their landscapes while supporting pollinators, conserving water and protecting natural resources. The free FFL Plants & Pollinators App combines three previously separate Florida-Friendly Landscaping resources into one web and mobile platform.

(Feature Impact) Your car has one job - to take you where you need to go. For electric vehicle (EV) owners, that means keeping it charged so it's ready to hit the road when you are. Charging your car at home is convenient and cost-effective, especially if you have the right equipment and routines.

AXE reports that caffeine activates the central nervous system, increasing sweat. 

Modern Gents reports average wedding spending hit $34,200 in 2025, highlighting that couples prioritize experiences and personalization while balancing budgets amid rising costs.

Accredited Debt Relief reports that 7 rules can help control holiday spending: set a budget, include all expenses, pay with existing funds, and plan for debt.

Finder reports that candy prices are rising more than double the overall inflation rate in the U.S. and Canada due to supply chain issues, weather, and regulations.