Extension
Veg Connections: Cellulose mulch shows promise for sustainable agriculture
As growers face increasing pressure to reduce plastic use while maintaining productivity, researcher Tian Li and her team at Purdue University have developed a new Janus cellulose mulch (JCM) that matches the performance of traditional... more »
MSU Extension’s Ben Phillips honored
Michigan State University (MSU) Extension vegetable specialist Benjamin Phillips received the distinguished service award from the National Association of County Agriculture Agents (NACAA). The award was presented during NACAA’s 2025 Annual Meeting and Professional Improvement... more »
MSU study shows farm labor changes, challenges
For the first time, the Mexican immigrant population in the U.S. has started to decline, creating new labor supply pressures for industries that rely on immigrant employees. In a Michigan State University (MSU) study, researchers... more »
Measuring success with a marketing plan
I don't know about you, but I need a plan to get up in the morning. Without one, there is a good chance that not much gets done that day. If you own a business,... more »
Veg Connections: Thrips Management in Peppers and IPM Strategies for Sustainable Yield
Thrips remain one of the most damaging pests in pepper fields. They cause flower abortion, foliage loss, fruit scarring, and transmit tospoviruses. When populations surge, thrips can sharply reduce yield. Pepper growers often rely on... more »
Michigan Vegetable Council honors industry leaders
2024 Master Farmer Awards presented to grower, MSU hort department leader The Michigan Vegetable Council (MVC) has recognized two leaders whose contributions have advanced Michigan’s agriculture. Vance Baird and Springdale Farms in Scottville, Michigan, have... more »
New strategic plan released by Michigan State Extension
After a year of listening and learning, Michigan State University Extension, the community outreach arm of the university, has released its newly completed 2024 Strategic Direction Plan. Guided by extensive input gathered through interviews and... more »
Southwest Michigan Horticultural Days scheduled
The 2025 Southwest Michigan Horticultural Days will be Feb. 5-6 at Lake Michigan College’s Mendel Center in Benton Township, Michigan. The event is organized each year by the Michigan Grape Society and Michigan State University... more »
UF: escarole and endive can elevate holiday feasts
As Thanksgiving approaches, ushering in the holiday season, horticulture experts at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) are touting bountiful insights about two nutritious leafy vegetables set to elevate festive... more »
Virginia Cooperative Extension helps communities rebuild after Hurricane Helene
Growers and communities that sustained damage from Hurricane Helene are receiving hands-on assistance from Virginia Cooperative Extension personnel. Though the floodwaters have receded, the recovery for growers including one who grows organic berries will last... more »
















