Researchers found that April grafting is the most successful method for creating disease-resistant Fraser fir trees, with a 95% success rate. The study recommended grafting during late winter or early spring when scions are dormant and rootstocks are becoming active.
A new study found that grafting melon plants onto commercial rootstocks significantly improves nitrogen use efficiency, reducing the need for nitrate-rich fertilizer. This approach allows growers to maintain high crop yields while minimizing environmental impacts.
Researchers investigated indoor plant intervention on pulmonary and coronary patients' health, finding improved overall physical and mental health. Patients in the 'plant intervention group' reported larger increases in well-being during their rehabilitation programs.
A study investigated the in vitro development of decay caused by 12 major root-rot and trunk-rot fungi in nine ornamental tree species. Strains like Armillaria mellea and Ganoderma lucidum exhibited high decay potential, with gymnosperm wood generally more resistant than angiosperm wood.
A Canadian study confirmed the advantages of a retractable liquid foam system in improving greenhouse climates by reducing air temperature and increasing relative humidity. The technology improved plant microclimates and decreased crop productivity losses due to extreme conditions.
Researchers have found that paper mulches can be an effective alternative to traditional polyethylene mulches in commercial vegetable production. Four types of paper mulches were compared with black plastic mulch and found to control weeds as well as or better than polyethylene in some situations.
Researchers evaluated five common green roof plants under various drought treatments, finding that saxifrage pink thrived despite its shallow substrate requirement. The study highlights the importance of selecting plant species suitable to rooftop conditions and substrate depth for optimal growth.
A study investigated willow cut-stem producers' profiles, production practices and market value. Most growers sought to expand acreage and extend seasonal markets, with some citing limited scientific knowledge of the crop.
Researchers found that high-nitrogen fertilizers can accelerate establishment of areca palm and Chinese hibiscus, but also induce magnesium deficiency. A balanced approach with moderate nitrogen levels is recommended for optimal plant quality.
Purdue researchers found that pre-plant bulb dips in paclobutrazol solutions can produce compact, commercially acceptable Easter lilies. The study showed that dipping bulbs resulted in 15-26% shorter plant height at flowering compared to untreated bulbs.
A new study by Oregon State University and USDA-Agricultural Research Service found that a combination of urea and CuEDTA with phosphonate-containing fungicides can reduce disease severity caused by Phytophthora syringae in pear trees. This treatment does not negatively impact tree nitrogen content or early defoliation.
A recent study published in HortScience found that Bounce fabric softener sheets can repel adult gnats, with a mean proportion of fungus gnat adults collected being significantly lower in sample compartments containing dryer sheets. The study attributed the effect to volatile compounds such as linalool and beta-citronellol.
A study found that Florida college students have a generally low awareness of native wildflowers but express high interest in learning more about their identification, cultivation, and use. The research team recommends incorporating native wildflowers into plant-related courses, field activities, and elective courses to promote their c...
A new study by the American Society for Horticultural Science warns of a devastating impact on Florida's $54 million avocado industry due to invasive diseases. The potential loss could range from $183 million to $356 million, highlighting the need for urgent action.
The new southern highbush blueberry 'Blue Suede' produces attractive light-blue fruit and large flavorful berries. It features vigorous growth with deep-red fall foliage and a longer ripening period, allowing home gardeners to harvest over an extended period.
The Louisiana State University Agricultural Center has developed a new disease-resistant fig named 'Champagne', which outperforms other varieties in terms of fruiting characteristics. The fig produces distinctive yellow and gold-colored fruit and is resistant to defoliation caused by fig leaf rust and leaf spot.
Researchers found that rotating HPS lamps are more cost-effective than incandescent lighting in promoting flowering in long-day ornamental species. The use of rotating HPS lamps resulted in lower energy consumption and lower weekly operating costs, making it an attractive alternative for commercial growers.
According to a recent study by New Mexico State University, Santa Fe residents prefer high desert plants in their landscapes due to their ability to conserve water. The survey found that nearly all respondents would adopt these plants for front yard landscaping and were satisfied with their existing desert plant choices.
A Vermont study found that consumers are willing to pay significantly more for locally grown, organic apples. The research indicates a 'significant niche market' for local, organic apples in the US, with many consumers purchasing them from supermarkets, farmers' markets, and natural food stores.
Researchers from the University of Missouri have introduced a new variety named 'Wyldewood', which consistently produces heavy yields, is efficient to harvest, and produces fruit well-suited for processing. The cultivar outperforms standard 'Adams II' in yield potential and berry size.
Researchers found that winter drought stress can delay orange flowering by 2-4 weeks, allowing for safer mechanical harvesting and reducing young fruit loss. The technique, tested on 'Valencia' sweet oranges, improves late-season harvests without negative impacts on yield or fruit quality.
Researchers have identified bilirubin as the primary aril pigment in Strelitzia reginae, the Bird of Paradise plant. This discovery expands our understanding of color production in plants and has potential applications for breeding and genetics.
Researchers identified four alternative turfgrass species—bentgrasses and fescues—as promising for use on low-input fairways. These cool-season grasses can survive under conditions of little or no supplemental irrigation, high traffic, and reduced fertility.
Researchers from National Taiwan University evaluated the cooling effect of trees and bamboo in Taipei, finding that foliage density is key to reducing temperature. The study identified top species like Chinese elm and Rose wood for their high cooling effects, while others were less effective.
Researchers found that cowpea produced comparable onion yields to bare ground, while foxtail millet was less effective as a mulch due to its thickness. Soybean meal showed potential as an effective source of nitrogen for organic onion production.
A study by Texas A&M University reveals that Hawaiian consumers prioritize price and size when purchasing orchids, with color being the least important factor. The research found that most respondents could identify the specific species of their purchased orchid, but 42% were unable to do so.
A study investigated transplanting practices during container production of lacebark elm, finding that planting at grade during initial production phase resulted in greater growth. Trees planted below or above grade showed reduced growth in subsequent phases, with those planted at or below grade performing better in the landscape.
A study by Texas Tech University researchers found that distance-education students use computer-mediated communication to compensate for reduced face-to-face interaction with faculty. The researchers recommend that faculty respond promptly to student emails and phone calls to maintain effective communication, while also providing trai...
A new study found that dark-colored plastic mulches, particularly black and blue, increase early and total okra yields. The use of row covers also enhances plant growth, but may reduce early yields due to high air temperatures.
Research found a significant relationship between campus green space use and quality of life in undergraduate students. In contrast, graduate students reported high perceptions of quality of life despite lower use of campus green spaces, possibly due to factors like relationships or academic achievements. The study suggests that intera...
Research finds that hydrocooling reduces strawberry bruising by up to 60% and weight loss, while also minimizing impact bruising. Practical recommendations include harvesting early morning and using hydrocooling to minimize fruit damage during transportation.
Researchers have discovered that the concentration of phosphorus, calcium, copper, and magnesium in potato tubers can predict after-cooking darkening. The study found that ACD readings were higher in tubers from fertilized plots compared to nonfertilized ones, suggesting a potential method for predicting and minimizing the trait.
Researchers found that a solid-state illuminator decreases nitrate concentrations by 44-65% while increasing beneficial nutrients. The technology allows for short-term preharvest treatment, making it suitable for northern countries with poor lighting conditions.
Researchers have developed a new technique that combines hot water treatment, rachis removal, and modified atmosphere packaging to extend shelf life of table grapes. This alternative method maintains higher oxygen retention, lower carbon dioxide accumulation, and reduced microbial populations compared to conventional packing methods.
A new study by Tadahisa Higashide predicts greenhouse tomato yield fluctuations based on solar radiation, improving predictability and profitability. The model strongly correlates fluctuations in fruit number and yield with solar radiation before anthesis.
Researchers found that switchgrass can provide a suitable substrate for short-production-cycle woody crops, with fine-milled switchgrass being more consistent with normal nursery container substrates. The study showed that roses grown in switchgrass substrate had low to moderate levels of calcium and iron but were of high quality.
A new study finds that trinexapac-ethyl reduces water depletion, evapotranspiration rates, and improves turf quality in creeping bentgrass during drought stress. The treatment maintains higher leaf relative water content and osmotic adjustment under drought conditions.
A recent study found that the Texas Pecan Promotion Program effectively increased demand for Texas pecans and total pecan sales over an 8-year period. The program generated a net revenue of $35 per checkoff dollar spent, benefiting mainly improved pecan varieties.
Research found that spray gun technique and application rate significantly affect the effectiveness of pesticide deposition on ivy pot plants. The study suggests using a disc-core nozzle with high-pressure equipment to improve performance.
Researchers analyze genetic diversity of 280 individuals from Armenia and Georgia, comparing with results from Russia and Turkey. They establish a core collection of 27 trees capturing 93% of alleles, making M. orientalis more accessible for breeding and research communities.
A new mechanical string blossom thinner prototype significantly increased fruit size and reduced labor costs in peach production. The study found that the horizontal string trimmer resulted in improved fruit quality and reduced hand-thinning time, leading to cost savings for growers.
Research suggests that integrating horticulture lessons into the classroom can significantly boost student test scores in science and environmental awareness. In a study, middle school students who received hands-on horticulture lessons showed substantial improvements in post-test scores, with increases of up to 25 points in some cases.
Researchers have discovered techniques to increase yield and extend the fruiting season of blackberries, providing economic bonuses for growers and consumers. The newly developed 'primocane-fruiting' variety allows for harvests in the fall and winter months, offering improved production efforts.
A recent study by the American Society for Horticultural Science found that vermicompost derived from pig manure can produce healthy hibiscus plants. The treatment resulted in improved plant growth and flower production, with an average increase of 58% in plant dry weight and 93% more flowers compared to conventional nursery crop inputs.
Experts surveyed lawn care and landscape professionals about disease- and insect-resistant plants, finding that respondents believe these plants will increase business benefits and client satisfaction. The survey results show that fewer than 4% of respondents are concerned about the impact on their businesses.
A study published in HortScience found that ornamental canna plants are effective in removing nitrogen and phosphorus from stormwater runoff. Harvesting the above-ground biomass of canna can effectively remove these pollutants from the treatment system.
The industry is shifting towards organic methods, with growers citing environmental concerns and a desire to reduce their ecological footprint. Organic bedding plant producers face challenges such as insect and disease management, fertility issues, and substrate problems, highlighting the need for future research in this area.
A two-year study found that pine needle mulch outperforms compost mulches in controlling weeds in highbush blueberry crops. The research team recommends continuing to topdress pine needles or similar mulches annually to maintain effectiveness.
Researchers have identified five common indoor plants that can effectively remove harmful VOCs from the air, reducing stress and symptoms of ill health. These plants, including purple waffle plant, English ivy, and Asparagus fern, have been shown to improve air quality and overall well-being.
Researchers found that manipulating light quality using photoselective films reduces plant height and conserves plant quality in poinsettias. The study suggests a viable alternative to chemical plant growth regulators for commercial growers, promoting sustainable production methods.