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Study uses farm data to aid in slowing evolution of herbicide-resistant weeds

Farmers using multiple herbicides per application (83 times less likely to have resistance) and rotating herbicide mixing are the most effective tools in managing herbicide resistance. Management factors, not environmental or landscape variables, play a crucial role in preventing resistance.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPest Management Science·DateMay 21, 2015

Research charts a course for increasing edamame acreage in the Midwest

A US research team has identified promising edamame lines for commercial production in the Midwest, with improvements needed to overcome challenges such as poor seed germination and emergence. The study suggests that edamame plants can grow quicker than grain-type soybean, but require shorter plant sizes for efficient mechanical harvest.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalCrop Science·DateMay 5, 2015

Antimalarial tea -- from herbal remedy to licensed phytomedicine

A traditional herb-derived remedy has been combined with two plants to create an antimalarial tea, which has been licensed and sold as a treatment for malaria in West Africa. The medication, derived from Cochlospermum planchonii, Phyllanthus amarus, and Cassia alata, was traditionally used to alleviate malarial symptoms.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateApr 14, 2015

Seeding mixtures recommended for midwest lawns

The study recommends seeding mixtures with a higher proportion of perennial ryegrass (PRG) to speed initial establishment, while maintaining a balance between PRG and Kentucky bluegrass (KBG). The recommended ratios vary depending on the region's climate and weed pressure, suggesting a more tailored approach for Midwest lawns.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateMar 9, 2015
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.

Crops can do their own weed control

Weed control in conventional farming methods has a negative impact on the environment. Research from the University of Copenhagen reveals that crops like corn, grains, and beans can suppress weed growth when sown in tighter grid patterns. This results in up to 72% reduction in weed biomass and a 45% increase in grain yields.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalWeed Research·DateJan 13, 2015

Organic mulch lets insect pollinators do their job

New research from The Ohio State University found that a combination of shredded newspaper and grass clippings is an effective mulch material, allowing squash bees to nest without negative impacts. This eco-friendly practice also improves plant growth and fruit production.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 8, 2014

Circumstances are right for weed invasion to escalate, researchers say

A recent study by an international team of researchers highlights the need for stricter regulations on invasive weed species in pastures. The findings suggest that these species can cause significant environmental harm and economic losses, with the US spending over $34 billion annually on management.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 24, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Clove oil tested for weed control in organic Vidalia sweet onion

Researchers found that clove oil herbicide did not consistently improve weed control in organic Vidalia sweet onions. The study concluded that the herbicide was not effective enough to justify its expense due to issues with maintaining an emulsion and affecting onion yield.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateOct 9, 2014

Palmer amaranth threatens Midwest farm economy, researchers report

Researchers report Palmer amaranth is invading Illinois fields, reducing soybean yields by 78% and corn yields by 91%. The plant's rapid growth and resistance to common herbicides make control challenging. Illinois farmers must take action before the weed takes over.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateJun 3, 2014

Impact of pelargonic acid for weed control in yellow squash

A new study found that pelargonic acid is an effective natural herbicide for controlling weeds in yellow squash, with minimal crop injury. The 10-lb/acre PA treatment produced the highest squash yields and fruit number compared to other application rates.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

Understanding plant-soil interaction could lead to new ways to combat weeds

Researchers discovered specific soil microbes that hinder the growth of ragweed, a common weed in eastern US. By using plants that attract these microorganisms, farmers may be able to create 'weed-suppressive soils' and reduce weed growth.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalModern Journal of Microbial Biology·DateMar 25, 2014

Research reveals true value of cover crops to farmers, environment

A study published in Agricultural Systems found that planting cover crops increases eight of eleven ecosystem services, including carbon and nitrogen retention, erosion prevention, and weed suppression. The research highlights the importance of considering temporal dynamics when assessing management system effects on ecosystem services.

SourcePenn State·JournalAgricultural Systems·DateMar 19, 2014

Effective control of invasive weeds can help attempts at reforestation in Panama

A team of scientists from Australia and Panama examined the reproductive mechanisms of Saccharum spontaneum to develop better management strategies. The study found that cutting stems into smaller pieces can help prevent flowering and seed dispersal, while timing management actions during specific seasons can also be effective.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNeoBiota·DateJan 28, 2014

New bale unroller design deemed effective

A new offset round-bale unroller design has been deemed effective in making mulching more efficient, particularly with organic mulches. The technology allows for better between-row weed control and can be used with various types of mulches.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateNov 19, 2013
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.

Saddling up against the threat to our National Parks

Research finds that horse manure disperses non-native weed seeds, including 16 noxious weeds in Australia and 105 invasive species in North America. Habitat disturbance from trampling also facilitates seed germination.

SourceGriffith University·JournalEcological Management & Restoration·DateNov 6, 2013

Flame cultivation promising as weed control method for cranberry

A study published in HortScience found that flame cultivation can be a promising alternative to traditional weed control methods for cranberries. The method was tested on three types of handheld propane torches and showed minor response differences between cranberry varieties.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateSep 16, 2013
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.

New weapons on the way to battle wicked weeds

Experts warn of spreading herbicide-resistant weed species, including Palmer amaranth pigweed, threatening farmers' crop yields. New herbicides with alternative modes of action and residual activity are being developed to help manage resistant weeds.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateSep 8, 2013

Bringing coral reefs back from the brink

Researchers suggest that extreme events like tropical storms and cloudy weather can trigger coral regrowth on degraded reefs. By adopting a more resilient management approach, it may be possible to restore living coral cover to these systems.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateSep 1, 2013

How rice twice became a crop and twice became a weed -- and what it means for the future

Evolutionary biologist Kenneth Olsen has examined the genetics of hull color in rice, finding that different mutations underlie the emergence of traits in both cultivated and weedy forms. The findings suggest that crops reverted to wild forms by reversing genetic changes, but with a more complex history than initially thought.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Evolutionary Biology·DateJul 17, 2013

Crabgrass' secret: The despised weed makes herbicide to kill neighboring plants

A new study has found that crabgrass produces chemicals that inhibit the growth of nearby staple crops like wheat, corn, and soybeans. The research, published in ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, suggests that crabgrass is not just a nuisance but also a significant cause of crop loss on farms.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJun 26, 2013

Regulation recommendations so that biofuel plants don't become weeds

Researchers at the University of Illinois suggest reforming regulatory lists using a science-based process and assessing potential invasiveness. This could lead to better protection for natural areas against invasive species, but may not threaten the development of new biofuels crops.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateMar 26, 2013
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

'Superweeds' linked to rising herbicide use in GM crops

A study by Washington State University finds that genetically modified crops have led to a 25% increase in herbicide use, driven by the emergence of glyphosate-resistant weeds. The annual herbicide usage has grown from 1.5 million pounds in 1999 to 90 million pounds in 2011.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEnvironmental Sciences Europe·DateOct 2, 2012

Glyphosate-resistant 'superweeds' may be less susceptible to diseases

A Purdue University study found that soil microbes can affect how glyphosate affects plants, potentially making resistant weeds more resistant to disease pressure. This discovery challenges existing understanding of glyphosate resistance and highlights the importance of considering soil microbes in weed management.

SourcePurdue University·JournalWeed Science·DateJul 17, 2012

Tamarisk biocontrol efforts get evolutionary boost

UC Santa Barbara scientists have found that the tamarisk leaf beetle has evolved to delay its entry into hibernation, allowing it to survive and reproduce in the southern US. This adaptation enables the beetle to effectively control the invasive tamarisk plant, providing a cost-effective solution for containing the weed.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateJul 12, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Old herbicides enlisted in new 'war on the weeds'

The use of old herbicides is increasing due to emerging weed resistance, prompting companies to develop new crop varieties with resistance to these chemicals. This shift aims to maintain control over weeds while reducing the reliance on chemical herbicides.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMay 23, 2012

Weeding out invasive species with classical biological control

Researchers at UOG are using classical biological control with Puccinia spegazzinii to combat the aggressive climbing vine, which threatens plant biodiversity on Pacific islands. The rust fungus is highly damaging to Mikania's leaves, petioles, and stems, eliminating the need for toxic herbicides.

SourceUniversity of Guam·DateApr 17, 2012

Integrated weed management best response to herbicide resistance

Increased use of glyphosate-type herbicides has led to a dramatic increase in genetically-resistant weeds, according to Penn State researchers. Integrated weed management programs, including planting cover crops and using mechanical control methods, can lower herbicide use by up to 94% while maintaining profit margins.

SourcePenn State·JournalBioScience·DateFeb 9, 2012

Improved rainwater harvesting system promising

A new study published in HortScience finds that the Ridge-Furrow-Ridge Rainwater Harvesting (RFRRH) system with mulches increases soil water content, crop yield, and reduces labor costs. The system also manages weed control without irrigation.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateDec 13, 2011

Biodegradable mulches successfully control weeds in container-grown arborvitae

A new study by Italian scientists shows that biodegradable mulches can effectively control weeds in container-grown arborvitae, with results comparable to chemical herbicides. The researchers found no impact on substrate temperature or water content, and noted that transpiration is the main component of water loss from these plants.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateNov 17, 2011
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.

Which direction are herbicides heading?

A team of researchers led by Dean Riechers proposes using tank-mixing auxinic herbicides with glyphosate as a short-term solution to combat growing herbicide resistance. The approach aims to broaden the spectrum and postemergence weed control, particularly in corn, soybean, and cotton crops.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalWeed Science·DateOct 11, 2011

The benefits of biotech

Biotech has added billions to farmers' incomes globally, with the four main crops of soybeans, corn, cotton, and canola experiencing significant increases. The study found that biotech benefits were particularly pronounced in developing countries, with GM insect-resistant cotton and herbicide-tolerant soybeans driving these gains.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Biotechnology·DateSep 19, 2011

Digital cameras open new view of America's West

A USDA aerial photography survey found that the invasive leafy spurge weed is displacing native mountain big sagebrush seedlings in Idaho. The survey used high-resolution digital cameras to sample large areas of the western US.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalNative Plants Journal·DateSep 6, 2011

Beetles play an important role in reducing weeds

Researchers found that ground beetles significantly reduce grass weed populations in UK farmland, improving agricultural productivity. By controlling weeds, ground beetles can help farmers reduce herbicide use and increase crop yields.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJul 25, 2011
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.

Unlisted ingredients in teas and herbal brews revealed in DNA tests by high school students

A study published in the Nature journal Scientific Reports found that many tea and herbal products contain unlisted ingredients, including weeds and plants from various families. The research used DNA barcoding technology to identify unknown species in 70 tea products and 60 herbal products, revealing a total of 25 unexpected ingredients.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 20, 2011

Probing the secrets of the ryegrasses

Scientists from LMU Munich have developed a concise and efficient method for synthesizing the alkaloid loline and related compounds. The new approach enables the production of these compounds in sufficient quantities to investigate their various aspects, including their interactions with insects and bacteria.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 20, 2011

Scientists learn how horseweed shrugs off herbicide

Researchers found that resistant horseweed has a pump in the tonoplast membrane that actively moves glyphosate into the vacuole, making it unavailable for translocation. Sensitive plants can't keep up with this rapid shuttle of glyphosate, allowing them to be killed by the herbicide.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPest Management Science·DateJun 16, 2011
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Climate change allows invasive weed to outcompete local species

A Purdue University study finds that climate change allows yellow starthistle to outcompete native species, leading to economic and ecological damage. As carbon dioxide levels rise, the invasive weed grows up to six times its normal size, while native grassland species remain relatively unchanged.

SourcePurdue University·JournalEcological Applications·DateMay 31, 2011

Lawn of native grasses beats traditional lawn for lushness, weed resistance

A study by ecologists at the University of Texas at Austin found that a lawn of regionally native grasses requires less maintenance than traditional turfgrass, providing a lush carpet while outperforming it in weed resistance. The new approach could have a significant impact on pocketbooks and the environment.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEcological Engineering·DateApr 21, 2011

Corn gluten meal tested on squash survival, yields

Researchers tested corn gluten meal on direct-seeded squash and found that banded applications increased crop safety and yields. The study suggests that CGM can be a safe alternative to traditional herbicides for organic vegetable production.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateMar 17, 2011

Alternatives eyed for methyl bromide

Researchers are examining a cropping system using molasses to stimulate microbial activity, which could replace the fumigant methyl bromide. The study also explores recently developed fumigants dimethyl disulfide and methyl iodide.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateMar 16, 2011
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

USDA and Russian scientists develop high-tech crop map

The AgroAtlas project aims to promote world food security in Newly Independent States-countries by providing a geographic distribution of crops, diseases, pests, and wild relatives. The interactive website shows the distributions of 100 crops, 640 crop diseases, and 560 wild crop relatives growing in Russia and neighboring countries.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateMar 10, 2011

Weed-eating fish 'key to reef survival'

A new study finds that weed-eating fish like parrotfish and surgeonfish can only keep coral reefs clear of weeds before they take over. Beyond a certain density, the fish no longer control the weeds, allowing the corals to be lost.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalEcology Letters·DateMar 9, 2011

Transitioning to organic farming

Reduced tillage can increase weed populations, particularly perennial species like Canada thistle and bindweed, which are difficult to control. Integrated systems that include on-site or locally sourced manure can improve the economics of organic production.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateFeb 22, 2011

Waterhemp rears its ugly head ... again

Researchers confirm waterhemp's first evolution of resistance to HPPD-inhibiting herbicides, requiring a more integrated approach to management. The development of new options and changing practices are needed to combat the increasing threat of multiple-herbicide resistant weed populations.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJan 26, 2011

Dow AgriSciences, MU researcher develop a way to control 'superweed'

Researchers at Dow AgroSciences and the University of Missouri have engineered soybean plants that can tolerate an alternative herbicide called 2,4-D, which may help slow the spread of superweeds. This new approach could reduce the need for multiple herbicides and lead to cost savings for farmers and consumers.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2011
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.

Identifying factors in atrazine's reduced weed control

Researchers found that approximately 44% of fields demonstrate rapid atrazine degradation activity due to recent use, soil pH, and organic matter content. Growers can predict enhanced degradation with multiple atrazine applications and high soil pH above 6.3.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJan 20, 2011

Can sweet corn be grown using less atrazine?

A recent University of Illinois study shows that sweet corn can be grown successfully with reduced atrazine use, but may not often be able to do so. The study found that weed control falls apart quickly when atrazine is removed, increasing the risk of yield losses.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalField Crops Research·DateJan 18, 2011

Miscanthus has a fighting chance against weeds

Research found that several herbicides used on corn are safe for Miscanthus x giganteus, a potential bioenergy feedstock. This discovery offers growers hope in managing weeds without harming the crop's yield and growth.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalWeed Technology·DateJan 10, 2011
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.

Paper mulches evaluated for commercial vegetable production

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.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 28, 2010

Overseas lab seeks US weed control 'recruits'

A US-based lab is searching for natural enemies of the invasive silverleaf nightshade weed, which can outcompete native plants and poison livestock. The lab aims to use biologically based approach to control the weed's spread in Europe and the US.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateNov 24, 2010

Benefits of planting winter canola examined

Research by USDA scientists found that winter canola can be used to control weeds, supplement animal feed and produce biodiesel. This has encouraged wheat farmers in Okanogan County to diversify their market options and align with USDA's priority of developing new sources of bioenergy.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateOct 12, 2010

Progress toward first commercial repellent for East Coast's stinker

Researchers have identified a natural substance in a fungus that infects a common weed, showing potential as the first stinkbug repellent. The substance repelled up to 90% of stinkbugs and was almost twice as effective as naphthalene, a gold-standard for measuring insect repellents.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateOct 9, 2010

Scientists identify new potential biocontrol for skunk vine

A new species of beetle, Himalusa thailandensis, has been found to feed on the invasive skunk vine, causing significant foliar damage. This discovery presents a potential biocontrol solution for controlling the spread of this invasive weed in the southern United States.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalZooKeys·DateJul 13, 2010
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.

Can one-time tillage improve no-till?

A five-year study found that one-time tillage did not negatively impact grain yield or soil structure in no-till crops. However, it may help manage perennial weeds and reduce phosphorus stratification. The researchers concluded that tilling should only be done to address specific problems, as it increases erosion risk.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateJun 28, 2010