Researchers found biodegradable mulch films to be effective in controlling weeds and diseases in tomato crops, outperforming traditional plastic mulch in some aspects. However, more research is needed to fully break down the material and reduce costs.
Researchers in a study published in HortTechnology identified two high-quality banana cultivars suitable for commercial production in southern Georgia: 'Manzano' and '1780'. These cultivars can produce over six suckers per plant, generating a potential income of over $60 per plant.
A 10-year study on orchard ground cover management systems found substantial differences in root growth, turnover, and distribution among different GMS treatments. Hardwood bark mulch and post-emergence herbicide treatments produced more tree growth and higher yields than others.
A model internship program at Texas A&M University–Kingsville Citrus Center attracted undergraduate students to science careers, with over 60 students provided with internships and 20 entering graduate schools. The program addressed access barriers for Hispanic Americans, who are an untapped resource of talent in the US scientific rese...
The US shiitake market is experiencing significant growth, driven by consumer demand for nutritious mushrooms. Shiitake are high in potassium, phosphorus, copper, and zinc, making them an attractive crop for environmentally friendly growers.
A recent study reveals that consumer preferences for fresh strawberries are linked to a complex balance of sweetness, aroma, texture, and appearance. The research found that certain strawberry cultivars, such as 'Rubygem' and 'Sugarbaby', were favored by panelists due to their high flavor and sweetness ratings.
A study by Claudia C. Collins and Angela M. O'Callaghan found that caring for houseplants can have positive effects on residents' happiness and overall sense of well-being. The 4-week study involved interactive horticulture classes, resulting in improved mastery, self-rated health and a general feeling of success.
Researchers found that indoor plants can remove up to 80% of formaldehyde from the air within 4 hours. The study also showed that aerial parts of plants absorb more formaldehyde during the day, while roots and soil microorganisms contribute to nighttime absorption.
Researchers used color infrared photography to detect diseases in greenhouse plants, identifying common ailments like sooty mold and powdery mildew through image analysis. The study found that certain diseases can be detected early on by analyzing the ratios of light reflection, with high NIR values indicating healthy vegetation.
Researchers at the Center for Food and Environmental Systems for Human Exploration of Space successfully grew sweet potato cuttings in microgravity, showing that they can regenerate roots. The study found significant differences in root growth development between microgravity and ground-based conditions.
Researchers found that mechanical thinning increased fruit size by 9% compared to conventional hand-thinning or non-thinned control trees. The technology also reduced labor time by 50% while maintaining average fruit sizes within the desired range, offering economic benefits for growers.
Researchers found that Al-plastic mulch and companion plants increase watermelon and muskmelon yields while reducing cucumber beetles. The study suggests that these organic methods can be effective in controlling pest populations, potentially leading to increased crop productivity.
The new blackberry 'Natchez', developed by the University of Arkansas, produces large fruit with an exceptional glossy finish. It has exceeded postharvest performance in most years and is recommended for commercial shipping production.
Researchers found alternative fumigants to be effective in controlling weeds in California strawberry nurseries. The study tested various treatments, including MB-alternatives, and found that hand-weeding times were reduced in all fields that had been fumigated, with varying material costs.
A study published in HortScience found that foliar particle film can increase the weight of red-skinned wine grapes by 7% and soluble solids concentration by 11%. However, it did not prevent sunburn on exposed fruit when vines were under stressful growing conditions. The results support anisohydric classification for these grapes.
A team of researchers has developed a new method to analyze grape shapes using digital technology, which enables faster and more accurate breeding of elongated grapes. The study, led by Dr. John R. Clark, uses a special application of the SigmaScan technology to measure the area of each grape and calculate its shape.
Capillary mats provide automated irrigation, conserve water, and reduce labor needs, resulting in 71% less summer and 62% less winter water usage compared to overhead sprinklers. The study also found that plants on capillary mats required 62% less fertilizer due to higher substrate electrical conductivity.
The study found that 'RADrazz' rose had the best overall performance, while Trumpeter was the worst. Fifteen varieties of roses are recommended for low-maintenance growing in Texas, with Polyanthas and Hybrid Tea roses performing differently.
The national nursery survey report highlights distinct regional variations in nursery production practices and technology adoption. Regional differences were found in areas such as labor usage, integrated pest management, and computerization adoption.
Coatings made from plant extracts and vegetable oils significantly reduced lenticel breakdown (LB) in apples, with Malaga trees showing the most improvement after multiple applications. Researchers found that applying coatings three times before harvest was more effective than single treatments.
Researchers found that digital images can effectively characterize canopy coverage and light interception in tomato crops using free software and commercial cameras. The study demonstrated practical advantages over traditional methods, including the ability to measure at any time of day and without bright sunlight.
A study by the University of Minnesota found that 'Honeycrisp' apple trees produce more blushed fruit than striped ones, which have more intense markings. The research also discovered that northeast-facing branches produce more blushed fruit, highlighting the importance of tree position in determining peel pattern.
Researchers at North Carolina State University and the USDA have identified alternative fumigants to methyl bromide (MeBr) for tomato production in North Carolina. The study found that while no single alternative can fully substitute MeBr, technically and economically feasible options exist for growers to adopt.
A study by ASHS researchers found no correlation between pepper heat levels and resistance to Phytophthora blight. Instead, genetic differences, cuticle thickness, and other factors may play a role in fruit response to the disease.
A study found that automation and mechanization improved worker productivity and earnings in the nursery and greenhouse industries. Continuous skill improvements and year-round workforce availability are essential for sustaining industry growth.
Research suggests that US public funding for specialty crops is inadequate, with production value growth not matched by research spending. Increasing funding could lead to lower fruit and vegetable prices, promoting healthier diets among Americans.
A study by Seong-Hyun Park and Richard H. Mattson found that hospital patients with plants in their rooms had fewer intakes of pain medication and more positive physiological responses. Patients interacted with the plants, such as watering and pruning, indicating a therapeutic benefit.
A study by American Society for Horticultural Science evaluated direct-seeding short-day onions in southeastern Georgia. Direct seeding was found to be a cost-effective alternative to traditional hand-transplanting methods, which rely on a migrant labor force.
A survey of employers highlights the importance of technical knowledge, practical application, and problem-solving skills for landscaping and horticulture students. Web-based case studies utilizing technology provide students with practical experience in solving complex scenarios.
Researchers found that applying municipal leaves to soil surface increased clean pumpkin fruit percentage by up to 25% compared to bare soil. This study provides a win-win solution for farmers and taxpayers, reducing leaf disposal costs while improving soil health.
A recent study found that adding human hair waste cubes to commercial growth medium can increase plant yields relative to untreated controls. However, results showed lower yields compared to inorganic fertilizers, suggesting hair waste should not be used as a single source for fast-growing crops like lettuce.
A recent study by Kansas State University researchers found that gardening provides moderate-intensity physical activity, influencing whole-body bone mineral density and improving mental health. Gardening tasks change throughout the season, making it a great way for older adults to meet recommended physical activity levels.
Researchers found that using two layers of cattail or rice straw mulch resulted in a 94-100% control of weeds and increased fruit yield. Natural mulches also reduced the need for synthetic herbicides, improving environmental benefits.
Researchers tested two flame retardants on Douglas-fir and Fraser fir trees, finding no benefit to quality or life; in fact, chemical retardants sped up drying process and made trees more flammable.
Researchers have developed nematode-resistant varieties of bell peppers, such as Charleston Belle and Carolina Wonder, which can be used as viable alternatives to methyl bromide for managing southern root-knot nematode. These varieties are stable in sub-tropical climates and can increase the availability of parasite-resistant vegetables.
Research found that high users of campus green spaces rated their overall quality of life higher and had better cognitive abilities. Most students (90%) were frequent users of green space.
Researchers found that mustard seed meal (MSM) effectively controls common weeds in container-grown ornamentals, reducing weed populations by up to 98%. MSM also provides essential nutrients to crops, making it a promising alternative to traditional herbicides.
Researchers found that incorporating pecan chips into silty clay soil increased soil organic matter content and aggregate stability. The practice also improved soil tilth and aggregation, providing a sustainable solution for disposing of pruned wood.
A recent study by Ahmad Sattar Khan and Dr. Zora Singh found that combining modified atmosphere packaging with 1-methylcyclopropene can extend the storage life of Japanese plums to up to seven weeks. This breakthrough will allow fruit producers to export plums for longer periods, reducing losses and improving market availability.
Research found that commercially available aquatic garden plants can be used in a production/remediation system to treat wastewater. The study concluded that these plants have the potential to generate revenue for producers and are an aesthetically viable alternative to traditional wetland plants.
A survey of US consumers reveals that many have limited knowledge and consumption habits around Asian vegetables. Most participants had not tried over 9 different Asian veggies, but expressed interest in learning more about them.
Researchers studied a new apple germplasm collection from Kazakhstan to determine disease resistance to blue mold. The study found greater genetic diversity among the Kazak apples, including immune and resistant accessions that may serve as a source of resistance in breeding programs.
A recent study by ASHS found that students participating in the National Wildlife Federation's Schoolyard Habitat Program showed significantly increased math scores compared to those using traditional curricula. The program improved academic performance, particularly among Hispanic students, but not equally across all ethnic groups.
A study by Charles F. Forney found that low temperatures and high relative humidity are key to extending the shelf life of fresh cranberries. Storage conditions between 0-7°C and 75-82% relative humidity resulted in up to six months of marketable fruit, offering benefits for growers and consumers.
Researchers are working to produce 'European-style' Christmas trees that meet public preferences for natural, open shapes with more space for ornaments. The use of advanced shearing techniques, such as the Top-Stop Nipper, shows promise for improving tree quality and marketability.
A recent study found that hands-on gardening experiences significantly improve children's environmental attitudes and locus of control. Researchers discovered that girls and Caucasians benefited most from the gardening curriculum, highlighting the need for targeted programs to address the needs of diverse groups.
Using reclaimed wastewater for irrigation shows few detrimental effects on citrus trees, with improved appearance and fruit crop ratings. This sustainable practice reduces the need for groundwater withdrawal and minimizes environmental pollution.
A new linear garden concept has been studied for its potential to enhance roadsides while providing teaching gardens for students and community members. The project, led by Dr. Sandra Wilson, demonstrates the effectiveness of this space-saving approach in showcasing landscape plants commonly used in south-central Florida.
Researchers compared two packing methods for grape quality and decay prevention, finding that the external wrapping method can be as effective as the liner method in preventing grape decay. This method has advantages over the use of box liners, including faster precooling and being more economical.
A study by researchers at the US Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service found that certain romaine and 'crisphead' lettuce cultivars can stay fresh for longer when packaged using modified-atmosphere packaging. This innovation has the potential to improve shelf life, quality, and sales of pre-cut salads and lettuce.