The American Society for Horticultural Science reports that Borneo is home to 2500-3000 orchid species, but many are endangered due to habitat destruction and over-exploitation. A recent study has identified 197 species of orchids in West Borneo, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect these rare species.
Researchers found that olive varieties can thrive in moderate saline water irrigation, contrary to concerns about toxicity. The study showed significant differences in growth, yield, and oil parameters among tested cultivars.
A study published in HortTechnology found that migrant labor raises average wages within green industry firms, but has no significant effects on hours worked and sales. Migrant workers contribute positively to the total number of hours worked by seasonal part-time and full-time employees.
Researchers use remote sensors to determine canopy cover in major horticultural crops, finding a strong correlation between normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) values and measured fractional canopy cover. The study suggests that NDVI can be an efficient way to monitor growth stage and irrigation water demand for these crops.
Research finds that dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) can reduce the need for hand-weeding by suppressing weeds in container-grown ornamentals. When applied to the soil surface, DDGS was found to be effective in controlling common chickweed and annual bluegrass without causing injury to plants.
The American Society for Horticultural Science has released three new lilac cultivars with names 'Betsy Ross', 'Old Glory' and 'Declaration', paying tribute to US history. These new varieties boast unique traits such as abundant fragrant flowers, disease-tolerant foliage and a showy, fragrant floral display.
A study by the University of Georgia found that southern highbush blueberries have a viable and profitable industry in Georgia. The research estimated total costs of cultivating the crop over four years, showing that 92% of farmers can expect to see positive returns.
Researchers evaluate V45 harvester's effectiveness on southern highbush and rabbiteye blueberries, reducing labor hours from up to 520 per acre. The study shows improved yields with winter-pruned plants and potential for mechanical harvesting while maintaining fruit quality.
A study published in HortScience found that employees in offices with live plants and window views reported higher job satisfaction and overall life quality. The research suggests that adding green spaces to office environments can increase employee happiness and productivity.
Researchers have developed new techniques for optimal soil moisture monitoring under drip irrigation systems, helping growers prevent over-irrigation and improve grape yields. By identifying the most suitable locations for soil sampling, vineyard managers can reduce water waste and enhance plant cold-hardiness.
A 3-year 'Greener Voices' study reveals children will engage more in gardening when given responsibility for planning and decision-making. Researchers found that adult assumptions about children's involvement can hinder their participation.
The American Society for Horticultural Science has introduced a new variety of pumpkin called 'Orange Bulldog', which is resistant to viruses and suitable for Halloween carving. Developed by researchers at the University of Georgia, this new breed offers bright orange color and an open cavity making it ideal for ornamental fall displays.
A middle school student collaborated with his father and researchers to develop a simplified DNA fingerprinting method using food dyes. The experiments are designed for classrooms or teachers with limited experience and can be conducted inexpensively.
Researchers found that a mixture of 70%-80% Kentucky bluegrass and 30%-20% perennial ryegrass provides the best results for football fields. Planting in late summer also yields superior turf quality compared to spring plantings.
A survey of Minnesota gardeners found that 78% preferred informal advice from friends and neighbors over university extension services. University information was viewed as higher quality but lacked convenient online access, posing a challenge to universities and arboreta.
A study by Drs. Sophia Kamenidou and Todd J. Cavins found that silicon supplementation improved horticultural traits in greenhouse-produced sunflowers, such as increased stem diameter and flower quality, but also caused growth abnormalities at high concentrations.
Scientists evaluated eight chemical alternatives to methyl bromide, finding some controlled weeds as consistently as the banned pesticide but at lower yields. Environmental factors also affected results, highlighting the need for further research and management strategies.
Researchers found that reusing water in produce washing processes compromises sanitizer efficacy and affects product quality. The study provides specific information on how wash operation variables impact water quality and product quality, offering new tools for enhancing food safety and quality.
Researchers compared three strawberry production systems to determine consumer preference, finding that cold-climate plasticulture and advanced matted row systems were most popular. Consumers were willing to pay more for fresh berries from their preferred system, with quality characteristics like firmness differing among the production...
A study by Jean Pierre Kapongo found that Muscidifurax raptor is an effective biocontrol agent for controlling fruit flies in vineyards. This method reduces the need for chemical pesticides, benefiting the environment and promoting agricultural sustainability.
A recent study by Dr. Shiow Y. Wang found that seven types of wild strawberries contain higher antioxidant levels and more potential to reduce cancer risk. The antioxidants in these 'super seven' strawberries may be useful in developing cultivars with greater anticancer potential.
Research by Dr. Terri W. Starman identified the strongest survivors of postharvest experiences among popular garden plants marketed to consumers. High-quality plants may look healthy but decline in quality within a week, with most becoming unmarketable after three weeks.
A study by Chengyan Yue found that consumers prefer conventionally grown apples with minimal blemishes due to their better appearance. Organic apple producers must weigh the trade-off between cosmetic damage and production costs in their decisions.
A recent study by the University of Georgia found that southern highbush blueberries have a viable and profitable industry potential. With a 92% chance of profit margin, farmers can expect positive returns on investment, leading to increased production and job creation.
Researchers discovered that some flower bulbs can move down into the ground in search of better growing conditions. Exposure to blue light triggers this movement, which is achieved through a hydraulic shift in cortical cells.
The new 'Raider Amethyst' prairie verbena is a water-conserving wildflower bred to provide compact, dependable color in drought-tolerant landscapes. It reduces urban water usage by utilizing potable water-efficient plants like Raider Amethyst.
Researchers at Ohio State University have successfully used TRAP to preserve the genetic diversity of ornamental geranium collections. The study resulted in a significant reduction of the collection size from approximately 800 plants to around 200, making it more manageable for breeders and researchers.
A two-year study at PSU found that cooperative learning activities outperformed traditional classroom teaching methods in improving learning outcomes and developing higher-level skills. Students reported improved teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities, while instructors noted increased student participation.
A new crop simulation model can predict the timing, quality, and weight of sweet corn crops, addressing seasonal production limitations and perishability issues. The model has significant promise for improving sweet corn production, with potential applications for producers, technical consultants, and the agricultural industry.
A two-year study found that cooperative activities enhanced students' higher-level skills, such as application of concepts and analysis, compared to traditional lecture methods. Students also developed valuable real-world skills, including communication, conflict resolution, and time management.
The study highlights key constraints affecting sweetpotato productivity in developing countries, including control of viruses, improvement of planting material, and development of high-yield cultivars. Small-scale farmers are expected to benefit from emerging technologies based on research, with potential impact within 5-10 years.
A three-year study reveals that children engage more in learning when given responsibility for decision making and planning. The 'Greener Voices' project found that adults often make assumptions about children's involvement in gardening, neglecting their creative thinking.
Researchers found that using 0-8 millimeter pumice in pots higher than 15 centimeters significantly increases yields for gypsophila and cucumber plants. The most balanced and safe type of pumice, the two finest grades, provide optimal moisture retention.
Researchers have identified Bhut Jolokia as the world's hottest chile pepper, boasting an impressive 1 million Scoville heat units. This variant of chile pepper from Assam, India, outperforms the previous record holder, Red Savina, with its intense heat concentration.
Researchers have discovered 36 bottlegourd accessions with complete resistance to ZYMV, a major scourge of commercial cucurbits. Grafting popular watermelon cultivars onto resistant bottlegourd rootstocks may provide a sustainable solution to control the virus.
Researchers developed two new southernpeas, WhipperSnapper and GreenPack-DG, with improved characteristics. These peas offer nutrient-rich benefits, pleasing textures, and attractive colors, making them suitable for various applications, including fresh consumption and processing into frozen pea products.