Les Harrison is a longtime resident of north Florida, having attended public schools in three counties. He has a Bachelor Degree from the University of Florida in Journalism and a Master’s of Science from Auburn University in Agricultural Economics. He is the author of more than 2000 newspaper and magazine stories and journal articles. During his career, he held positions in private, government and educational (university level) sectors. He holds the title of Extension Agent Emeritus. He can be reached at harrison.gl@gmail.com.
The recent wet-weather systems have added much moisture to both the land and atmosphere. Foggy mornings sometimes result, and they often reveal interesting features and facts in panhandle Florida. The moisture is appreciated by anyone attempting to propagate plants, but the dawn dampness comes at the price of lower visibility. Most commuters are in a…Read more
Symptoms are usually the first clue that something is wrong. It can be a fever, a cough, fatigue or a number of other indicators in people, pets or livestock. The severity of the problem sometimes can be gauged by the symptom itself. Early recognition and the appropriate treatment are critical to a successful outcome. This…Read more
Having family nearby can be a mixed blessing. Ideally, they will be supportive and helpful even in the most challenging times. The relatives will know all the problems present, given their immediacy and interest. If threats materialize, aid is assured and assistance from the family is promptly rendered. The downside is these close kin likely compete…Read more
Summer is here. The thermometer knows it and the plants are responding with unrestrained growth and production. The ample moisture adds to the lush growth of both ornamental horticulture specimens and of fruit and vegetable production. As such there is plenty to do in the gardens and landscapes of panhandle Florida. One of the first…Read more
While there are a number of native wild creatures which appreciate a river or lakeside residence, one in particular has it as their only choice. Beavers, the relatively big semiaquatic native rodents with spatula-like tails, will always set up house keeping on a freshwater body. Only two beaver species still exist. The North American beaver…Read more
Residents of panhandle Florida are heading to the outdoors to engage in the wide array of available activities. Sunshine, fresh air and there are relatively few insects to encounter, so far. Vegetable gardening, landscape maintenance and managing a home fruit orchard are all productive pursuits. Some residents, especially those new to the region, may consider…Read more
The pollen clouds typical in panhandle Florida’s spring have at last departed. The yellow, sneeze-inducing dust has given way to other aerial occupants of a much larger magnitude. Of course, there are a variety of insects now active during the warming days and nights. Lovebugs in the former and mosquitoes in the latter make their…Read more
There are a wide variety of bulbous plants which will thrive and produce beautiful flowers year after year with proper care. The time to plant many bulbs in the home landscape is getting late in May. Some, like caladiums crinum lilies, can be planted all year round, but run the risk of damage if they…Read more
In panhandle Florida’s native plant environment, the yucca genus established a survival protocol long before even the earliest human residents arrived. Its sharp pointy spines accentuate its visual image and enforce its tactics. Local yuccas are perennial shrubs which may grow into small trees with irregular shapes. There are approximately 50 species in this genus…Read more
Florida is home to about 80 to 85 mosquito species, many of which live in the panhandle. Of those, 20 plus are exotic mosquitos which have been inadvertently imported, such as the Asian Tiger Mosquito. Contrary to popular perception, not all of these dine on humans. Some target only birds, others only frogs, and still others will…Read more
