Sam Mixon stands next to an Asper bamboo plant. W Bamboo require herbicides or pesticides, grows quickly and does not require specialized tools for harvesting,” he added. Its champions claim other benefits for the plant. “Bamboo absorbs five times as much carbon monoxide and releases 37 times more oxygen than trees, and its nutritional qualities make it a favorite not just with vegetarians and vegans, but with anyone interested in consuming a healthy diet,” Kaiser said. Bamboo is high in antioxidants, potassium and fiber, all of which can provide health maintenance benefits. Because it is relatively easy to grow and seems to possess desirable food qualities, some Florida farmers are experimenting with bamboo to diversify. Mixon family members have begun a test with a small plot on their property in Manatee County. “Sixteen farmers came to watch the first planting in 2016,” said Janet Mixon, co-owner along with her husband, Dean, of Mixon’s Fruit Farm in Bradenton. “Now they’re waiting to see how we do with our first harvest.” The Mixons have already found ways to diversify by offering tram tours of their citrus groves and they are looking for more. “We plan to have the chef at our Groveside Café here on the property to In addition to bamboo and citrus, the Mixons offer tours of their groves. By Mary Foster, Correspondent orldwide, bamboo is a $60 billion crop. Every year, the United States alone imports 75,000 tons of bamboo shoots for food consumption. With demand remaining strong, some Florida famers are planning to cash in on the crop. It is considered by some enthusiasts as a superfood, and it possesses qualities that make it an appealing commodity for consumer marketing. The return on investment can also be significant. “Bamboo can achieve crop yields in excess of $25,000 per acre,” said Chris Kaiser, representative for OnlyMoso Corp USA, which is bringing bamboo to Florida and other states. “Further, it does not 10 FLORID AGRICULTURE | OCTOBER 2017 PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARY FOSTER NO BOO FOR