Articles tagged with Gardening
Researchers at Cornell University developed a soft robot gripper that can detect the ripeness of strawberries by touch, then gently twist them off their branch or vine. The technology has potential for more resilient and ecological food production.
A new study from Northwestern University and the Chicago Botanic Garden found that some cultivated plants, such as black-eyed Susan and foxglove beardtongue, can attract pollinators at similar rates to their wild counterparts. This research provides a middle ground for gardeners who want to support pollinators without going fully wild.
The survey found that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to sustainability in floriculture, with each sector having unique needs and goals. Healthy majorities of respondents already recycle containers and use LED lighting, while sectors differ in their interest for future sustainable practices.
A new study published by the University of Cambridge reveals that medieval Augustinian saints performed 'green-fingered' miracles, such as restoring swampy areas to fertility and healing diseased livestock. The research challenges major assumptions about the Catholic Church's forgotten early history.
The book explores how CEH can enhance yield, quality, and resource efficiency through technological innovation. It also highlights the role of biotechnology in ensuring global food security.
Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) is a rare but deadly disease in the US, caused by a mosquito bite. People at risk include those living near swamps or marshes and outdoor workers, such as farmers and campers.
Urban gardens in Warsaw contribute to better carbon dioxide absorption, air pollution reduction, and the mitigation of urban heat-island effect. They also improve water efficiency, reduce flood risk, and promote social capital.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen and UK identified a set of flower mixtures that attract both pollinators and delight the human eye. The study found that seed mixes containing species like yarrow, cornflower, and purple viper's bugloss establish themselves better in soil and bloom for longer.
The study found that combining native and non-native species, such as Achillea millefolium and Cosmos bipinnatus, attracts a diversity of pollinators. The novel seed mixes also improved establishment and aesthetic appeal.
A historical overview of Singapore's edible gardens sheds light on the British colonial government's Garden City Movement and its impact on urban wellbeing. The research also explores the role of vernacular gardening in Singapore, particularly during the Japanese Occupation, where food shortages led to mandatory tapioca-planting.
A new study by researchers at the University of California, Davis, suggests that non-native milkweeds in urban gardens are not harmful to migratory monarch butterflies. The study found that resident monarchs and non-native milkweeds are not connected to the larger population, allowing urban ecosystems to contribute to their conservation.
The study highlights key findings that British poets have long explored the relationship between humans and nature through lawnmower poetry. Key examples include Andrew Marvell's 'Upon Appleton House' and Philip Larkin's 'The Mower', which reflect on cycles of violence, pastoralism, and societal problems.
Researchers discovered people from both income groups experience meaningful nature connections in community gardens, despite lacking nearby greenspace. Community gardens provide habitat, access to nature, and health benefits for people and biodiversity.
The Compendium of Rose Diseases and Pests, Third Edition, is a comprehensive guide to diagnosing diseases, identifying pests, and expanding expertise in rose health management. Edited by industry experts, the book features over 50 contributing authors and provides practical guidance for students, researchers, educators, and professionals.
A new case study in India found that home garden interventions struggled due to verbal training, lack of demonstrations, and limited household engagement. However, flexibility and participatory techniques like Process Net-Mapping revealed positive outcomes on nutrition and sustainable agriculture practices.
A new multi-state study identified three management tips to extend green color and reduce cold-weather injury in hybrid bermudagrass: raising mowing height, applying nitrogen fertilizer in the fall, and maintaining adequate soil moisture. The research found that slow-release nitrogen applications through mid-September had positive impa...
A new study explores how older adults in a South Florida retirement community coped with the pandemic, finding they grew stronger and more resilient. Participants discovered new interests, deepened relationships, and used technology to adapt, leading to increased confidence and life appreciation.
A new study by University of Exeter researchers found that access to gardens and citizen science projects can encourage pro-conservation behavior among pupils. These experiences foster a positive attitude towards environmental safeguarding and can inspire students to pursue botanical careers or spend more time gardening.
A new study finds significant variation in pollinator attractiveness among annual flower cultivars, with some varieties drawing in more insects than others. Begonia and impatiens cultivars were found to be particularly attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Research found that low to moderate intensity exercise reduces depression risk by 23% and anxiety by 26%, while high-intensity exercise showed weaker effects. Moderate activities like gardening and walking were particularly effective in reducing depression risk.
Researchers found a significant association between storing chemicals in attached garages and increased ALS risk. The study suggests that volatile chemicals released into the living space may contribute to this link.
A study by Michigan Medicine found that recreational activities such as golfing, gardening, and woodworking may increase the risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in men. The study surveyed over 700 individuals with and without ALS to assess their hobbies and non-work related activities.
Researchers have created an online survey to gather information from gardeners about ornamental plants showing 'invasive behaviour'. The results identified 251 potential invaders, including Mexican fleabane and Himalayan honeysuckle, highlighting the critical role of gardeners in early detection and prevention strategies.
Researchers found that individuals who engaged in home and wild food production (HWFP) activities exhibited improved food security 9-12 months later. Those who were newly food insecure during the pandemic seemed to be the best at recovering from food insecurity with HWFP.
A study of 370 documented cases found that almost half of hedgehogs injured by electric gardening tools did not survive. The data also show a growing conservation problem due to declining hedgehog populations in Germany.
Plant scientists have discovered a sophisticated RNA defense system that plants use to attack gray mold cells, sending mRNA molecules that disrupt fungal cellular processes. This innovative approach could lead to the development of eco-friendly fungicides with minimal environmental impact and no harm to humans or animals.
A study published in Nature Communications found that planting diverse crops reduces the number of microorganisms in the soil that eat plants, leading to higher yields. This is because specialized pathogens are suppressed in diverse communities, allowing for greater use of biomass.
During the pandemic, New Yorkers increased their participation in wild and backyard food activities such as gardening, hunting, and foraging. Despite a general worsening of diets, these activities may have contributed to buffering those effects, with people consuming home-produced eggs and meat, and backyard-grown fruits and vegetables.
A study led by UCL researchers found that having a hobby is linked to fewer depressive symptoms and higher levels of happiness, self-reported health, and life satisfaction among people aged 65 and over. The benefits of hobbies were relatively universal across 16 countries on three continents.
Conservation gardening can help address declining plant biodiversity in Germany by planting vulnerable species, with 988 out of 2,350 Red List species suitable. This approach could be expanded globally to boost biodiversity.
Researchers found that aphid-infested tropical milkweed is less inviting to monarch butterflies, with reduced egg-laying and slower caterpillar development. Aphid-free plants, on the other hand, provide a better chance for monarchs to thrive.
A new randomized, controlled trial aims to integrate nutritional counseling with food-generating activities among people with HIV and food insecurity in the Dominican Republic. The project seeks to reduce viral loads, increase ART adherence, and improve overall health outcomes.
The University of Sheffield suggests policymakers offer financial incentives to encourage sustainable gardening practices, promoting greener gardens and boosting community health. Well-planted gardens provide habitats for wildlife, improve air quality, and reduce energy bills.
Researchers from Washington University in St. Louis suggest that ancient humans may have chosen certain wild plants for domestication based on their ability to be easily 'tamed'. Plants with high plasticity, or the capacity to respond to environmental changes, can produce more yields and easier-to-sprout seeds.
A toolkit for coral gardening could accelerate reef recovery in Saudi Arabia and globally. The Maritechture TM system includes tiles, stackable crates, and coral pods to create artificial reefs that attract natural coral settlement.
Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University identify vital differences between the plants, including pollinators and lifespan, confirming their classification. The study highlights the importance of recognizing every species for conservation programs.
A new study from researchers at the University of Texas at Austin found that community gardens and urban farms support incredibly high levels of plant and animal biodiversity. These gardens also provide numerous ecosystem services, including pollination, carbon sequestration, and food production, while increasing human well-being.
A comprehensive study found that up to 82 percent of Berlin's vegetable demand could be met locally if all available land was used for urban gardening. Investing in water and human resources would be crucial for this production, with a total investment cost of 753 million euros required.
A new UC Riverside-led study reveals that drought-tolerant trees in urban areas use significantly more water than their natural counterparts. The research found that even 'drought-tolerant' species like eucalyptus and ficus increase their water intake when irrigated.
A school-based gardening, nutrition, and cooking intervention improved glucose control and reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in high-risk youth. Elementary schools can incorporate garden-based interventions to improve metabolic parameters in children.
A cluster randomized controlled trial found that Texas Sprouts, a gardening, nutrition, and cooking intervention, improved glucose control and reduced bad cholesterol in high-risk youth. The results showed a 0.02% reduction in mean blood sugar levels and a 6.4 mg/dL reduction in bad cholesterol.
A randomized controlled trial found that community gardening increases fiber intake by 7% and physical activity levels, leading to lower stress and anxiety. The study also confirms the benefits of novice gardeners and highlights the social connections formed through community gardening.
Through its Integrated Pest Management program, WVU Extension educates growers on safe techniques, including barriers, insect traps, and predatory insects. The goal is to reduce pesticide use and promote environmentally friendly practices.
A study by University of Essex research revealed that therapeutic community gardening helped reduce loneliness and improved mental health during the COVID-19 crisis. The study found a 9% increase in self-reported life satisfaction and mental well-being among participants.
A new study has identified 195 previously unknown nectar plants for the painted lady butterfly, providing a source of food in Southern California. The research suggests that droughts may impact the butterflies' ability to reproduce, but the discovery of these nectar plants offers hope for their survival.
A global report reveals ladybird species are poorly understood due to human activities, and urgent conservation actions are needed. The research emphasizes the importance of protecting habitats, particularly those that provide overwintering sites for ladybirds.
A new study finds that urban agriculture can meet and sometimes exceed the yields of rural farms, with certain crops like cucumbers, potatoes, and lettuces producing two to four times higher yields in cities.
Home gardens in Central Asia serve as living genebanks, maintaining a rich diversity of fruit and nut tree species. However, the increasing popularity of foreign varieties poses a threat to local biodiversity, highlighting the need for integrated conservation efforts.
A Dartmouth-led study found that urban gardens with rare plant species tend to attract rare bee and bird species. Women, older gardeners, and those living near the gardens are more likely to curate these rare plants, suggesting a cascading effect on biodiversity.
A University of Illinois study found tomatoes in Chicago backyard gardens have low levels of lead, making them relatively safe for consumption. However, improper soil handling and lack of washing can still pose health risks. Researchers recommend minimizing dust with heavy mulch and careful fruit washing to safely grow tomatoes.
A study by University of Florida researchers found that gardening lowered stress, anxiety, and depression in healthy women attending twice-weekly gardening classes. The participants experienced similar improvements in mental health as those in art-making sessions, with gardeners reporting slightly less anxiety.
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant increase in gardening, with about one-third of participants starting to garden in 2020 due to increased free time. Some respondents planned to continue gardening due to its psychological benefits and potential for food security, despite concerns about inflation.
Climate change is causing plants in the UK to flower one month earlier, with average first flowering dates advancing by a full month since the mid-18th century. This phenomenon can lead to ecological mismatch, affecting biodiversity and ecosystems.
Researchers are exploring the potential of mycelium-based soil remediation to address lead contamination in urban areas. The team will conduct lab experiments and perform electron microscopy imaging to understand how mycelium cell walls can bind and hold onto lead, as well as precipitate lead minerals around the fibers.
A new study by researchers at the University of Cambridge and the University of Sussex suggests that children who increased their connection to nature during the pandemic had lower levels of behavioural and emotional problems. The study found that nearly two-thirds of parents reported a change in their child's connection to nature, wit...
A study found that commercial composts contain more airborne pathogens than backyard composts, while immature compost samples have high levels of antibiotic resistance genes. The researchers hope to improve their detection method to assess the threat to humans.
Researchers have developed a way to bottle the 'smell of fear' produced by predators to repel and disrupt destructive insects. The odor blend can be used in essential oil diffusers to spread over time across gardens or fields, offering a natural alternative to pesticides.
A recent UC Riverside study reveals that neonicotinoids, commonly used in commercial plant nurseries, are deadly to bees regardless of watering levels. The research found a 90% decrease in bee reproduction with both high and low irrigation levels, highlighting the need for alternative management practices to reduce harm to pollinators.
The Mains to Rains website aims to reduce water dependence in gardens by providing tips on saving water such as installing water butts and mulch. The site is part of a KTP between Cranfield and the RHS to promote improved water management practices.
Rachel Painter, a University of Tennessee Extension professional, has been recognized nationally for her work with local Master Gardeners. Her efforts have helped increase the volunteer retention rate from 30% in 2016 to nearly 75% in 2019.