ENewsletter

The basics of nematodes – how they can attack plant roots and you can fight back

Plant roots interact with many bacteria, fungi, and microscopic organisms within the soil that can impact how well the plants grow. Some of these microscopic organisms are animals called nematodes, and they are an especially... more »

Robotic pollinator in development in West Virginia

The shortage of natural pollinators, such as bees, is threatening global food production around the world, making it difficult to feed an ever-growing human population. Researchers at West Virginia University have come up with a plan B... more »

How growers get giant pumpkins to become so much heavier

Each year, growers enter their pumpkins into the Great Pumpkin and Watermelon Weigh-Off at the North Carolina State Fair, hoping to have grown the heaviest one. This year’s winner was 1,965.5 pounds, which is approximately 100... more »

Crops, magic intertwine in Midwestern artistry of corn mazes

“You don’t want a corn maze to be too simple, but you also don’t want it to take too long and have people in there panicking,” Dan Quinn, assistant professor of agronomy and Extension corn... more »

How to secure USDA funds to establish pollinator habitat on your land

Do you wish to establish a pollinator habitat on your owned or leased land? If you are a landowner, farmer, homesteader, beekeeper, or if you have interest in agricultural or forestry operations on your land,... more »

Texas researchers developing sensors to study tarnished plant bug

The University of Texas at Arlington is helping develop tiny sensors that attach to insects, tracking their movements and life cycles in an effort to combat infestations and increase farm production. The project is led... more »

Texas pumpkin growers wrap up season

Texas pumpkin growers faced myriad challenges to produce average yields, but demand for the fall cooking and decorative staple remains high, according to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service experts. Pumpkin patch in Bryan,... more »

Cats on produce farms pose specific food safety threats

Many small farmers rely on cats to control rodents on farms. These “working animals” seem like a good way to limit crop loss and reduce other produce safety risks from rodents. Unfortunately, cats bring risks... more »