Engaging in Multi-State Collaborations to Enhance Florida’s Rice Variety Program
Agronomy & Pest Management
Matthew VanWeelden
Extension Agent III
UF/IFAS Extension Palm Beach County
BELLE GLADE
Abstract
Rice is grown on approximately 24,000 acres of land in rotation with sugarcane and vegetables, and acts as a compatible crop for best management practices (BMPs) in the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA). While UF/IFAS researchers and extension personnel are available to address the needs of rice growers, the industry lacks a dedicated rice breeding program, making growers dependent on varieties acquired from other rice-producing states. To address this need, a rice variety assessment program was developed in collaboration with Louisiana State University (LSU) to assess yield and disease-susceptibility of experimental rice lines in order to provide varietal recommendations for Florida rice growers. From 2023-2025, 8 small-plot rice variety trials were conducted within commercial rice fields to examine yield and disease-susceptibility of over 80 experimental rice lines from the LSU AgCenter Rice Breeding Program, in comparison with commercially-released rice varieties. At harvest, plots were cut, threshed, and dried, and rough and milled rice weights were measured, in addition to visual examination for disease incidence. Results from each trial were presented to growers during biannual rice commodity group meetings. Since 2023, three experimental rice lines (231L1201, 231L1115, and 231L1085) have exhibited rough rice yields up to 10.5% greater than the current top-producing rice varieties in Florida (Jewel, Diamond, and Titan), which were adopted by growers based on results from previous variety assessment trials. One-on-one interviews revealed that 80% of rice producers in South Florida are willing to grow at least one of the experimental lines once sufficient seed has been produced. Florida’s rice variety assessment program continues to foster multi-state collaborations in order to assist with limited breeding resources available to Florida rice producers, ensuring the sustainability of this important rotational cash crop.
Authors: Matthew VanWeelden
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Matthew VanWeelden Extension Agent III, University of Florida, Florida, 33430