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34th Milan No-Till Field Day will highlight weed control solutions

Experts from the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture will present research-based recommendations on managing herbicide-resistant weeds. The event features presentations and practical control strategies for Palmer amaranth, goosegrass, and Italian ryegrass.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateJul 7, 2026
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Chemical control dominates global fight against invasive alien plants

A new study reveals that chemical control dominates the global fight against invasive alien plants, with widespread issues driven by inconsistent approaches and data gaps. Biological control has shown positive management outcomes, but there is still no consensus on the most effective strategy.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 7, 2026

2026 Milan No-Till Field Day scheduled for July 23

The 34th Milan No-Till Field Day will feature presentations on no-till farming strategies, agronomic practices, and cover crop management. The event also includes a trade show, guided tours of the AgResearch Center, and traditional skills sessions like blacksmithing.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateApr 14, 2026

Steckel elected Fellow by Weed Science Society of America

Larry Steckel, a leading expert in weed science, has been elected Fellow by the Weed Science Society of America. His research program focuses on managing multiple-herbicide-resistant weeds in row crop production, providing critical data for farmers to prevent yield loss.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateFeb 16, 2026

Plant biomass substance helps combat weeds

A study found that lignin, a polymer from plant cell walls, can improve the performance of nanoparticles with herbicide. Lignin was subjected to a green process and showed distinct properties, making it suitable for customizing different applications. The substance demonstrated potential for sustainable agricultural pest management.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateOct 29, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Research shows Waterhemp resistance can evolve from preemergent PPO inhibitor use

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison discovered waterhemp populations can survive PPO-inhibiting herbicides applied preemergence. This finding highlights the need to diversify weed management programs and understand resistance development over time for effective, long-term strategies.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalWeed Science·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2025

Scientists debut a new foundational atlas of the plant life cycle

Researchers create first genetic atlas to span entire Arabidopsis life cycle, capturing gene expression patterns of 400,000 cells in multiple developmental stages. The atlas provides comprehensive insights into plant biology, enabling future studies on different cell types and developmental stages.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Plants·DateAug 19, 2025

Electric weed control proves shockingly effective

A recent study published in the journal Weed Science shows electric weed control technologies to be equally effective as herbicides and mechanical control methods. The research found that electric weed control provides a fire hazard risk if dry crop residues are present, but operation in winter or spring poses minimal fire risk.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalWeed Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Drone herbicide applications prove effective for common reed control

Researchers found that drones can suppress common reed invasions with over 99% effectiveness, using a single targeted herbicide application. This method provides convenient access and reduces risks of trampling or disturbance, while also minimizing off-target impacts and promoting native vegetation recovery.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 10, 2025

Healthy forests require combined deer and invasive shrub control

A recent WSSA research article reveals that focusing solely on deer or invasive shrubs yields little forest health improvement. Instead, managing both threats is necessary to promote tree regeneration and plant community restoration, according to a study spanning over 10 years in Ohio.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 10, 2025

Spray drones prove effective for crabgrass management in turf

A recent study by Cambridge University Press found that remotely piloted aerial application systems (RPAAS) using low-drift nozzles at low spray volumes can achieve weed control levels comparable to ground sprayer applications. This technology shows promise for site-specific herbicide applications in turf.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalWeed Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Topple weeds with a PRE-POST combo

Researchers found that a combination of preemergence and postemergence herbicide treatments provided the greatest and most consistent weed control in early planted soybean. The study's results suggest that using both PRE and POST treatments can optimize weed control outcomes and yield in early planted soybeans.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalWeed Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 5, 2025
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

In the weeds: Amaranth genomes reveal secrets of success

Researchers have unlocked the genetic secrets of Palmer amaranth, a weed species that makes farming harder and less profitable. The new genome analysis provides insights into the weeds' ability to detoxify common herbicides and reveals key gene families involved in non-target-site resistance.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateFeb 25, 2025

Study shows seed impact mills clobber waterhemp seed viability

A recent study published in Weed Science shows that seed impact mills can reduce the number of germinable seeds by 87% compared to no-impact mill treatment. The technology damages weed seeds, making them non-viable and reducing seedbank density, which is critical for future herbicide-resistance management.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalWeed Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2025

Renewed grant will continue UTIA’s integrated pest management program

The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has received a $210,000 grant to support ongoing integrated pest management programs across the state. The grant will focus on agronomic and specialty crops, pest control in houses and schools, and improving pollinator health.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateJan 9, 2025

Across southeastern US, weedy rice steals herbicide resistance from crop rice

A new study found that over half of weedy rice sampled in the southeastern US has become resistant to certain herbicides, including imidazolinone and a newer class of herbicides. The researchers also discovered that individual fields have distinct compositions of weedy rice strains, making management harder.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateDec 16, 2024
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Machine-vision technology shows promise to reduce herbicide use

Researchers used machine-vision technology to compare targeted sprays with traditional broadcast applications, saving an average of 28.4-62.4% on postemergence herbicides. This study demonstrates potential for lower herbicide costs and improved environmental stewardship in soybean farming.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalWeed Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024

Will agricultural weeds finally claim the upper hand in a changing climate?

A 30-year database analysis shows variable weather reduces the effectiveness of post-emergence herbicides against major corn and soybean weeds. Air temperature, precipitation patterns, and dry/wet conditions all impact herbicide effectiveness, making weed control more difficult for farmers.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalWeed Science·DateNov 19, 2024

New Illinois study explores adoption of robotic weeding to fight superweeds

A new University of Illinois study examines the adoption of robotic weeding technology to fight superweeds, finding that forward-looking management strategies are more effective than myopic approaches. The research suggests that farmers with a long-term perspective on weed resistance will benefit from early adoption of robots.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAgricultural Economics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 30, 2024

Killing giant ragweed just got harder for some Wisconsin farmers

Research from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign reveals that some giant ragweed populations in Wisconsin have evolved resistance to critical post-emergence herbicides. This development limits chemical options for non-GMO soybean growers, potentially forcing them to switch to GMO soybean...

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPest Management Science·DateAug 21, 2024
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Study reveals key gene protecting plants from harmful metals in soil

A new study by Salk scientists reveals a key gene that enhances plants' zinc tolerance, allowing them to thrive in toxic conditions. The discovery enables the development of crops more resilient to soil contamination, a major goal of Salk's Harnessing Plants Initiative.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 18, 2024

Why some plant diseases thrive in urban environments

Research found that weeds in cities have significantly more mildew than those in suburbs or countryside. Urban heat islands and human activity may contribute to the phenomenon. Potted plants placed in shaded areas had more mildew than full sun, but extreme summer heat is lethal to powdery mildew.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEcology·DateJun 14, 2024
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Frequent mowing puts poisonous weed into survival mode

Research by Rupesh Kariyat and Alejandro Vasquez found that frequent mowing of silverleaf nightshade boosts its survival capabilities, leading to deeper taproots, toxic berries, and faster germination rates.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateJun 3, 2024

Aquatic weed among ‘world’s worst’ expands in Northeastern US

A new subspecies of northern hydrilla has been discovered outside the Connecticut River, spreading rapidly across five additional waterbodies in Connecticut and one in Massachusetts. The invasive aquatic weed hinders recreational activities, forms dense canopies, and has the potential to displace native species.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Let widgeongrass be a weed in the seagrass yard -- making seagrass restoration more resistant to rising temperatures using generalist grasses

New research demonstrates that incorporating widgeongrass into seagrass restoration efforts can increase the portfolio of species diversity and enhance long-term success. The study found that seeding widgeongrass in the fall with minimal pre-treatment resulted in highest survival and growth rates.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2024

Making crops colorful for easier weeding

Researchers suggest altering crop genomes to express pigments like anthocyanins and carotenoids, making them visually distinct from weeds. This approach could enable accurate discrimination using weeding robots trained with machine learning.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Plant Science·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 17, 2024

Nature is behaving strangely and researchers don’t know why

A study of 8,859 samples from Danish meadows and pastures reveals a decline in plants with large seeds and thin leaves, contradicting theoretical expectations. The data suggests that nature is changing and acting unexpectedly, with fewer weeds and less grazing, despite the expected increase in heavy-seeded species.

SourceAarhus University·JournalFlora·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 19, 2024
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Car fumes, weeds pose double whammy for fire-loving native plants

New research shows that native wildflowers, which typically thrive after wildfires, are losing out to invasive plants due to nitrogen pollution from vehicle emissions. Invasive species outcompete native ones, leading to declining plant diversity and ecosystem imbalance.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 15, 2024

Climate change to bring invasive weeds to mid-Atlantic and northeastern US states

A recent study published in Invasive Plant Science and Management identifies the most likely invasive plants to expand into the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern US states by 2050. These high-impact species are associated with negative impacts on ecological communities and socio-economic effects.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2024

World's largest database of weeds lets scientists peer into the past, and future, of global agriculture

A new database of 928 weed species provides a unique insight into the history of agriculture and its ability to adapt to changing conditions. The data reveals trends in arable agriculture over time and how farming practices have varied in different environments, offering potential solutions for modern-day food production.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalVegetation History and Archaeobotany·DateJan 23, 2024
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

New genetic vulnerability to herbicide found in nearly 50 sweet and field corn lines

A new study reveals a genetic vulnerability to the herbicide tolpyralate in nearly 50 sweet and field corn lines, with sensitivity increased by adjuvants commonly co-applied with HPPD-inhibitors. The source of the sugary enhancer gene is among the most sensitive genotypes, suggesting widespread potential.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPest Management Science·DateDec 13, 2023

The silver bullet that wasn't: Glyphosate's declining weed control over 25 years

Researchers found a significant decline in glyphosate's ability to control seven major weed species, with most showing signs of adaptation within two to three years. The study suggests that using a pre-emergence herbicide can significantly improve control and reduce variability of glyphosate over time.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 5, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Glyphosphate: a silver-bullet weed killer no more

Decades of relying on glyphosate for weed control has led to the development of resistance in multiple weed species, compromising its efficacy. However, combining post-emergence and pre-emergence herbicides can provide consistent weed control, highlighting the need for diverse management programs.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 5, 2023

Single gene controls Corn Belt weed's resistance to soil-applied herbicide

Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified a single major gene controlling waterhemp's resistance to S-metolachlor, a widely used soil-applied herbicide. This finding poses a significant challenge for farmers, as it increases the risk of spread and limits effective weed management options.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalWeed Science·DateNov 8, 2023

Assessing the massive costs of biological invasions to the world

A new study published in BioScience documents the progress of the InvaCost endeavour, which has compiled data on the economic cost of biological invasions. The database now includes over 13,553 entries and provides a clear picture of the major threats posed by invasive species to ecosystems, biodiversity, and human well-being.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBioScience·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 4, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Study demonstrates the value of citizen science to monitor natural enemy in fight against invasive Siam weed

A new study demonstrates the value of citizen science in monitoring a natural enemy that fights invasive Siam weed. Citizen scientists on iNaturalist.org shared observations of the moth Pareuchaetes pseudoinsulata, confirming its establishment in several countries, including Thailand, Vietnam, China, Cambodia, and West Malaysia.

SourceCABI·JournalCABI Agriculture and Bioscience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2023

Researchers develop field identification process for invasive reeds

Researchers created a five-part checklist to identify native and invasive common reed populations based on observable traits like stem color and fungal spots. The tool helps land managers target invasive reeds while protecting native plants.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2023

Research hints at how fungus farming ants keep their gardens healthy

Researchers discovered that ants sniff out diseased fungus by detecting chemicals called peptaibols, which are produced by the fungus. This finding suggests that the ants may be responding to a disease of their beneficial symbiotic partner rather than their own body, highlighting an extended defense response.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 16, 2023
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

New study focuses on ways to boost organic sweetpotato yields

Researchers from the University of Arkansas found that organic sweetpotato growers can improve yields by selecting top-performing cultivars and using winter cover crops. The study also showed benefits for conventional production systems, as limited herbicides are available for weed management in sweetpotatoes.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalWeed Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2023

Failed antibiotic now a game changing weed killer for farmers

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have discovered a failed antibiotic that can effectively kill two of Australia's most problematic weeds, annual ryegrass and wild radish, without harming bacterial or human cells. This finding could lead to faster development of new weed killers, saving farmers billions of dollars each year.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2023

Prescribed burns encourage foul-smelling invaders

Research reveals that prescribed burns create favorable conditions for stinknet to spread, outcompeting native plants and reducing soil health. Targeted treatments after burns can help mitigate this issue.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalRestoration Ecology·DateMay 23, 2023

Study highlights best practices in buffelgrass control

A recent study on buffelgrass control in Arizona's Saguaro National Park highlights the importance of long-term monitoring and surveillance. Low levels of buffelgrass can quickly expand by multiple orders of magnitude, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts to manage its spread.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2023
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

New motion blur restoration approach for improved weed detection in crop fields

Researchers developed a new deep learning algorithm that restores motion-blurred images and improves crop and weed segmentation. The WRA-Net method outperformed other databases in terms of segmentation accuracy, making it a promising solution for efficient weed control.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 25, 2023

Study explores control options for black swallowwort

Researchers conducted a three-year field study to determine how black swallowwort responds to common controls. The study found that annual applications of glyphosate were effective in reducing aboveground biomass, but less effective in reducing cover and stem densities.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Ambrosia beetles breed and maintain their own food fungi

Researchers have found that ambrosia beetles actively influence the composition of their fungal gardens, shifting towards food fungi. The beetles use specific bacteria to suppress weed fungi growth, and their social behavior creates a close symbiosis with fungi.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateNov 2, 2022

Research shows path to long-term downy brome control

A five-year field study found that indaziflam reduces downy brome abundance and enables native perennial grass cover. Indaziflam delivered longer-term benefits compared to imazapic, controlling downy brome across the entire study period.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 10, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.