Extension, Outreach & Education

The extension programs at Lindcove REC communicate the results of the research to citrus clientele as well as the general public. Each year Lincove hosts numerous meetings and field day events conducted by farm advisors and researchers to educate growers about the latest techniques in citriculture.  Lindcove has a dedicated citrus demonstration orchard for grower and general public citrus training events. The annual Fruit Display and Tasting event that takes place annually in mid-December draws 200-300 people every year to experience more than 100 varieties of citrus that are close to maturity.

It is estimated that 60% of Californians have citrus trees in their yard. With the deadly citrus disease huanglongbing expected to arrive in the near future in urban areas of California through a small insect called the Asian citrus psyllid, educating homeowners about watching for pests and diseases and not moving plant material around the state is critical. Lindcove REC holds citrus training for Master Gardeners, teaching them about varieties, cultural practices, pruning methods, and about invasive pests and diseases. This education is critical for training master gardeners to work with homeowners to grow their citrus better and to monitor for pests.