Articles tagged with Horticulture
A study found that service learning in a university-level horticulture course increased students' understanding of course material and their opinions on community involvement. Alumni reported improved confidence and awareness after the experience, highlighting its benefits for future careers.
A study by American Society for Horticultural Science found that a 1-inch topdressing depth applied over 2 years improves turfgrass cover, shoot density, and divot resistance. Topdressing rates above 4 inches accumulate over time may compromise surface strength.
ThinkSpace, a computer interface developed at Iowa State University, is helping students tackle real-world problems in the horticulture classroom. The platform leverages the classroom experience into something students can use at work, making connections between theoretical knowledge and practical applications.
Research at Kansas State University found that student confidence levels correlate with academic achievement, particularly when targeted learning objectives are used. Students' reported confidence improved significantly over the course period and was positively correlated with their academic performance.
A Finnish study suggests that urban children have weaker connections to nature than their rural counterparts. Horticultural interventions can help bridge this gap, particularly for girls who show greater interest in plants. The research also highlights the importance of outdoor learning environments.
Reflective writing exercises were integrated into a landscape design course to enhance students' critical thinking capacity. The results showed significant increases in quiz scores among students who completed the assignments compared to those who did not.
A survey found that most respondents supported using multimedia resources, such as instructional DVDs and web-based videos, to supplement instruction in nursery management and production courses. The study also revealed a willingness among faculty to incorporate these resources into classroom instruction.
Researchers evaluated six plant species using digital image analysis to determine their ability to thrive on extensive green roofs in Colorado. Five plants that survived a 2-year experiment are recommended for use in semiarid regions, including blue grama and hardy ice plant.
A team of researchers has identified the genetic origins of cultivated citrus species such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits. The study reveals that these species were derived from specific hybrids, providing valuable insights into their history and characteristics.
Researchers found Texas consumers had low awareness of Texas Superstar and Earth-Kind brands, but those who shop frequently for ornamental plants were more aware. Consumers willing to pay a discounted price for branded plants, especially those living in South Texas.
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 Purdue University researcher has identified a yeast gene that increases the production of a compound slowing aging and delaying microbial decay in tomatoes. This discovery may lead to extended shelf life for most fruits by an additional week, benefiting areas with limited access to fresh produce.
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.
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.
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 recent study published in HortScience found that Indiana's farmers' markets have grown at twice the national rate, with factors like paying fees, customer numbers, and WIC vouchers influencing vendor participation. Cooking demonstrations also boosted customer traffic, attracting up to 200 more customers per week.
Researchers have developed a less-expensive method to measure carotenoids in pumpkins and squash, which are rich in antioxidants. The study found strong correlations between colorimetric values and carotenoid content, enabling breeders to create new varieties with improved nutritional value.
A study of floral consumption values reveals that consumers prioritize emotional conditioning and sensory hedonics in flower purchases. Heavy users of flowers are more likely to be emotionally stimulated and seek product variety, presenting a marketing challenge for retailers.
A recent survey of ISU horticulture graduates reveals that they are adequately to exceptionally well-prepared for the workforce. Employers rank personal skills such as communication, professionalism, and teamwork highly, while solid technical skills take a backseat.
The article explores the importance of understanding cultural value systems in the classroom and how educators can adapt their teaching methods to accommodate diverse learners. By recognizing the unique features of multicultural groups, educators can maximize the benefits of cultural diversity in the learning process.
The Entomological Society of America has recognized outstanding achievements in entomology through its 2009 awards. Notably, Dr. Shripat T. Kamble received the Honorary Member award, while Dr. Timothy D. Paine was honored with the Distinguished Achievement Award in Horticultural Entomology.
Researchers found that three common houseplants significantly reduced indoor ozone concentrations in a simulated environment. The study suggests using plants as a cost-effective tool to mitigate indoor air pollution, especially in developing countries where expensive technology may not be feasible.
A new study assessed a handheld optical sensor, GreenSeeker, for evaluating overall turfgrass quality in three turf species. The researchers found that the sensor reduced data collection and entry time by 58% compared to human visual evaluation.
Researchers found that plants in university classrooms improved students' course and instructor evaluation scores, particularly for those in windowless rooms. The study also showed increased motivation and reduced stress among students, suggesting a positive impact on academic performance.
A recent study published in HortScience found that some popular indoor plant species release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the environment. The study identified 23 VOCs emitted by four plants: Peace Lily, Snake Plant, Weeping Fig, and Areca Palm.
A study by Michigan State University found that a growing medium depth of 4-7 cm is optimal for green roof success. The top-performing Sedum species were able to thrive in shallower depths, while deeper depths proved less desirable due to increased erosion risk.
A new apple cultivar called WineCrisp has been introduced after 25 years of research, offering a highly productive late-season red apple with a firm texture and dark red color. The fruit is resistant to fungal disease apple scab, reducing costs for growers and promoting environmental sustainability.
A study published in HortTechnology found that consumers' floral purchase decisions are driven by sensory hedonics for men and emotion conditioning for women. Consumers from rural areas prioritize curiosity fulfillment and monetary worth, while urban consumers value emotion conditioning.
The new muscadine grape 'Delicious' has been introduced with exceptional taste and texture, making it well-suited for fresh fruit consumption. Preliminary trials have shown that the flavor of its wine is equal to that of popular cultivar 'Carlos', offering potential for wine production.
A study by Clemson University researchers found that creeping bentgrass on golf putting greens can recover from winter damage caused by foot and equipment traffic. The study suggests that full recovery should be expected by summer, allowing course managers to minimize lost revenue and extend play during the winter months.
A study published in HortScience found that Midwestern black raspberry cultivars harvested from different production sites exhibit varying levels of antioxidants. The research suggests that fruit ripeness at harvest and regional differences in soil temperatures may contribute to these variations.
A new red raspberry cultivar, 'Moutere', has been developed in a planned breeding program at The New Zealand Institute of Plant and Food Research Limited. This variety is characterized by high yields of large, uniform size, bright red berries suitable for early season consumption.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
Researchers at Public University of Navarra study the response of four grape varieties to hydric stress, finding that recovery of photosynthetic activity varies by variety. The study aims to inform suitable land irrigation policies for each variety, improving wine production.