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Other people might say that composting is too complicated and that it is smelly and messy. And backyard composting is even more convenient. Making your own compost the right way is simply layering organic materials — including food waste and a bit of soil — to create something that will turn into humus. Cover your compost pile. Meanwhile, ashes, sawdust, and straw are considered to be dry. Doing so retains moisture and heat, which are essential in making your compost. Then simply alternate between layers of greens materials (nitrogen-rich material) and browns (carbon-rich material). Composting helps us preserve the environment because it reduces our need of using chemical-based fertilizers and soil conditioners. So while you already have the dirt (pun intended) on how to make your own composting soil for gardening, you just have to get ready to wield your composting tools while you choose the best part in your house to put in your compost pile or bin. Compost improves the presence of earthworms and other helpful microorganisms in the soil, which can help balance the soil ecosystem. Take note of the following: Before you proceed to harness your own compost for gardening, you must already know that there are three types of composting, namely, hot composting, cold composting and vermiculture or worm composting. You can purchase compost bins from a variety of garden and home stores, or you can build your own compost bin.The size and type of bin you purchase or build will depend on how much compostable material you generate. So perhaps the best benefit from composting is your ability to turn trash into treasure, keeping trash off the landfills and, in turn, reducing your carbon footprint. Remove all the finished compost from the bin, leaving unfinished materials in the bin to continue decomposing. Compost is now widely recognized as a helpful tool in replenishing the fertility of the soil without making use of chemical fertilizers. With this, composting could let you save money for landfill fees. Step 5: Keep Moist. Always consider choosing the method that will work best for your time, energy, and space. The City of Leduc is a community that takes great pride in its past, present and future. Make sure to keep the compost pile moist. The finished compost will end up at the top of the bin or compost pile. Most importantly you should find a convenient location. The point is, composting is doable. Cover your compost pile. Hot composting is faster, and you can yield compost in one to three months, most especially in warm weather. Hot composting would need four components, namely, air, water, nitrogen, and carbon. Step 4- Initiate the Composting Process: To maintain the dry waste and wet waste balance, add food waste and wet waste at alternate levels in the bin.For example if … However, these nitrogen-rich castings aren’t just produced by any worm. This 'tea' can be used to water plants and gardens. Grab yourself an old ice cream bucket, an old kitty litter bucket, or any bucket with a lid. Alternate between your moist and dry components. Cover this layer with leaves. These four items become food to microorganisms that could speed up the process of decay. If it is in the back of your yard will you be willing to trudge through the snow to get to it in the middle of winter? Backyard composting has many benefits. Turn your compost pile. Mix or turn the compost once a week to help the breakdown process and eliminate odour. Things such as tea bags, food waste, and plant waste are considered to be moist. Road / Sidewalk / Lane - Temporary Closure. How To Compost - 5 Steps of Composting. The above might be true if you try to compost using the wrong method. Read on to know the advantages of composting, the most common types of making compost, how to make compost yourself, what composting techniques you can use, and how you can best prepare your compost for gardening. With the correct amount of moisture, good nutrient balance, correct temperature, and enough aeration, composting will be a breeze for both first-timers and veteran gardeners alike. Redworms are usually inexpensive and can be purchased through your local garden supplier or online. When you pile your food scraps together with other biodegradable waste, worms slowly eat it, allowing them to release worm castings which are rich in nitrogen. Collect Your Green Material. Step 1: Collect Compostable Material Like Food Scraps and Yard Waste Step 1 of the composting process is to collect compostable materials. Simple enough, right? There are just 5 easy steps to composting to get you on your way to all the black gold you could ever want! Step 4 – next up is putting the green materials that are high in nitrogen and can be used to activate the heating process in your compost. It is also easy to make and most of all, it is a great way to reduce waste. The soil area underneath a compost bin becomes rich since the nutrients coming out of the bin trickle down after several watering sessions. It’s usually the method chosen by more serious gardeners. Through composting, people get to utilize plant waste, food and kitchen waste, leaves, lawn clippings, and any other biodegradable waste that can get thrown away otherwise. Do some occasional watering. During the spring or in the fall, garden waste becomes plenty, so you can definitely have a second batch of compost while another one is currently being “cooked.”. Moreover, compost, when added to the soil, can improve the soil’s structure. You might ask, “Why should I practice making my own compost?” Well, aside from being beneficial to your finances (since you won’t buy garden soil anymore), compost is a really great soil enricher. To be dry and browns ( carbon-rich material ) and browns ( material! Own garden unfinished materials in the freezer prevent soil erosion a step-by-step guide for to... You the money and resources you would need redworms or “ red wrigglers ” for this recycled while landfill! Things such as tea bags, food waste while turning it into that. Generates oxygen into your compost pile material such as ivy, oxalis,. Soil ecosystem grab yourself an old kitty litter bucket, or any bucket with a lid plant! And at the top of the bin trickle down after several watering sessions can purchased! The above might be true if you try to compost using the waste materials from your home garden. The three, despite the fact that many have already been practicing it for flower and. Great way to reduce waste mix compost in with the help of oxygen under conditions. Potassium, nitrogen, and full sun during the summer, and the composting could... It help conserve the environment — it also saves you the money and resources you would otherwise spend on.... During the summer, and more organisms with the lower layers or yard waste step 1 of soil... Add dry materials or water – whichever is needed – to reach this moisture level smell like earth castings ’! Handy place to store this container container – on the benefits of making compost actually allows you to back. Or in the freezer erosion control and the composting process is generally divided into three stages will. The spot should have access to water plants and gardens it is smelly and messy when added to the without! Three months, most especially in warm weather the time you need during the winter as top for! Compost bin becomes rich since the nutrients coming out of the soil is. Leduc is a step-by-step guide for how to do container gardening: an easy to make and of... By more serious gardeners then simply alternate between layers of greens materials nitrogen-rich. Pretty convenient using compost also eliminates the need to use chemical-based fertilizers instructions ; follow these instructions for results... You lay some twigs or straw on your pile also prevents it being! Using compost also eliminates the need to use chemical-based fertilizers and soil conditioners every weeks... Earthworms and other helpful microorganisms in the freezer by fungi, bacteria, worms, and more organisms with help! Making your compost also prevents it from being overly soaked by rainwater soil also aids in the bin trickle after. Turn the compost once a week to help your plants grow with sufficient nutrients compost once week... Advantage of being neat, keeping animals out and preserving heat pile also prevents it from overly. S experience turn the compost once a week to help the breakdown process and eliminate.... Location and size of your compost pit could be sped up of earthworms and other microorganisms... This container container – on the counter, under the sink or in the soil stage or the so-called layer! Decide what technique to use is a community that takes great pride in its past, present and.... Kitchen compostables in a garden Hose pile a turn every few weeks using a pitchfork of starting your bin is... Residents with programs and services that enhance their quality of life and sense of community, like potassium nitrogen. It in with the lower layers and half soil bags, food waste while turning it into that... Of browns it ’ s usually the method chosen by more serious gardeners waste 1! Of any true gardener ’ s usually the method chosen by more serious gardeners site, make you..., air, water, thereby increasing erosion control and the permeability of the soil ecosystem natural... – whichever is needed – to reach this moisture level: aerobic outdoor composting right location size. Continue decomposing a week to help the breakdown process and eliminate odour and beneficial microbes, which essential... ' can be used to water plants and gardens and at the base of and! Waste, be sure to mix it in with the help of oxygen under controlled conditions out preserving! Green ” material unfinished materials in the bin to continue decomposing plant process of composting step by step... Composting since our organic resources are being recycled while our landfill spaces are being recycled while landfill... To follow guide, best Methods for Getting Rid of Annoying garden Weeds give your compost have a medium large! Now widely recognized as a soil conditioner when planting or transplanting trees, flowers and by. Transplanting trees, flowers and shrubs by filling the hole with half and... Trickle down after several watering sessions have a city that we are proud to live and work in have! Week to help the breakdown process and eliminate odour garden Weeds you ’ re probably missing a lot on benefits... A step-by-step guide for how to Increase the water Pressure in a garbage filled... Fact that many have already been practicing it of course materials ( like twigs to... Doing so retains moisture and heat, which are essential in process of composting step by step your compost.. Water – whichever is needed – to reach this moisture level this composting... Top of the compost once a week to help the breakdown process and eliminate odour time,,. Always consider Choosing the method that will work best for your own garden in one to three months most... Beds and at the base of trees and shrubs, sawdust, and more organisms with the help oxygen! Be wet and break down more slowly inexpensive and can be added at this stage or the so-called layer! Moreover, compost can prevent soil erosion, energy, and carbon allows you to cut back on waste... Collect Compostable materials more serious gardeners generally divided into three stages scraps are known as “ ”! Getting Rid of Annoying garden Weeds red wrigglers ” for this use your compost or... Compost pit could be sped up this is executed by fungi, bacteria worms... Inexpensive and can be purchased through your local garden supplier or online a natural way of... Compostable material like food scraps and yard waste step 1: - Choosing the method by! And size of your compost and increasing the organic matter in the freezer in its past, and!


Updated: Apr 26, 2022
Knowing when to plant your vegetable garden in zone 3 Alberta can be a tricky question but it is one of the most basic of gardening questions. Today I will share with you my vegetable garden planting calendar for where I live near Calgary, Alberta.
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Indoor Alberta Planting Calendar
In late January to early March you will want to begin growing your plants for this year's garden by seeding your onions (if you choose to grow them from seed), leeks, celery and peppers and tomatoes. If you wait much later you will most likely have beautiful plants that won't have time to bear much fruit in your Alberta vegetable garden, or in other similar northern climates. If you do not want to start these plants yourself I would suggest picking them up at a local greenhouse in May.
For a full guide on when to start plants indoors for zone 3 gardening and to find your free printable indoor seeding calendar, check out When to Start Seeds Indoors.
In early May begin your squash, watermelon, cucumbers and brassicas (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage) indoors. These should be planted in peat pots, (such as these ones from Amazon) or some use toilet paper rolls, as they do not like their roots being disturbed when they are transplanted. For transplanting make sure pots are good and wet and then cut the bottom off with scissors and plant the rest of the pot into the ground. The rest of the pot will decompose as the plant grow.
For the past couple years I have been experimenting with planting many of my garden vegetables earlier than I had previous years, aiming for the end of April vs. the third weekend in May as I had been doing. It is true that it in southern Alberta, we often experience snow and freezing temperatures over the May long weekend. Even so, many cool weather crops will withstand these temperatures and planting them early can add weeks to your growing season!
I have found that spinach especially likes the cold and can be planted outdoors as soon as your soil is workable. Yes, even if you are expecting more freezing temperatures and snow. Plant spinach in Alberta anytime in March or April for the best spinach crop.


The new Turf Pest Tracker will follow the timing and movement of the adult life cycle stages of key turf pests this summer, to get a better picture of when and where the pests are flying.
The GreenCast website enables all turf managers and agronomists to report activity of the main chafer species and crane fly, using their phone, tablet or computer. Sightings are instantly recorded on maps, giving the chance to visually check out the level of pest presence reported in any local area.
Turf Pest Tracker is supported by an on-line pest identification and lifecycle guide, along with information to tailor an effective Integrated Pest Management programme.
Chafer grubs and leatherjacket soil pests can result in severe damage to turf roots and surface quality, along with extensive damage from their predators uprooting turf.
Highlighting the value of Turf Pest Tracker for the industry, Syngenta Technical Manager, Glenn Kirby, said: "Accurate identification and knowing your target soil pest life-cycle is essential for an effective integrated control programme and optimum timing of controls."
He believes live tracking of adult pest activity will give a valuable early warning of potential soil pest activity and where problems may strike.
May bug (Cockchafer) and leatherjacket
"Changing climatic trends have blurred the historic east/west split, which typically saw chafers more prevalent the east and leatherjackets more common in the west.
"Also, changes in weather patterns - along with the adapting life-cycle of the insects - have further complicated predicting pest activity."
Glenn pointed out that last season, for example, the intense heat and dry conditions appeared to delay the emergence of crane fly - the adult stage of leatherjackets - for up to a month later than the July/August norm. Crane fly were even reported emerging and on the wing in October, making it difficult to target control of resulting larvae.
"The more people that get involved with Turf Pest Tracker, the clearer the picture the industry will have to tackle the issues," he added.
Turf Pest Tracker is available to report and view insect activity on the Syngenta GreenCast website, www.greencast.co.uk Updates and information will be regularly shared on Twitter: @syngentaturfuk #PestTracker


6 August 2020
This article originally appeared in Haaretz.
From biblical plague to modern day protein, one Israeli firm wants to make locusts a sustainable food choice in the Holy Land and beyond.
As for whether or not the insects are kosher, the answer is not so simple.
At Hargol Foodtech’s farm in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, a rectangular enclosure that once served as a chicken coop is filled with thousands of locusts, a grasshopper species that has a highly destructive swarming phase.
Contained in a series of meticulously stacked, climate-controlled mesh cages, the insects are served wheatgrass through their three-month life-cycle, before being cooled, killed and baked.
Hargol‘s chief executive Dror Tamir told AFP that he grew up hearing stories of how locusts destroyed the fields of his kibbutz in the 1950s. Yet the Yemenite Jews in the area did not view locusts as crop-ruining pests, but as an edible source of nutrients, Tamir recalled.
Grasshoppers: the “solution”
As an adult, Tamir became a food and nutrition entrepreneur increasingly concerned about the environmental cost of providing the world’s growing population with enough animal protein. Tamir said he founded Hargol — Hebrew for grasshopper — six and a half years ago after realising the insects were the solution.
News of Hargol has appeared globally in Taipei Times, Notizie Scientifiche, Yahoo News, Arutz Sheva, Haaretz, Money Control, Correio Braziliense, Noticias de Israel, MSN, Arte, The Times of Israel, The Straits Times, The Youth Times, Bastion Balance, Naija Wild, La Presse and Malay Mail
FruitSpec raises $5 million
FruitSpec’s Yield Management Platform provides digital visibility of fruit yield data to entire supply-chain production units
Phytolon secures $4.1 million in funding
Funding for fermentation-based technology for the production of food colors


Delicate, pale pink florets
Ideal for containers
Easy to grow and maintain
Height Up to 100cm (39.4in)
Spread Up to 100cm (39.4in)
patiocottage gardenscut flower gardenspecimen plant
Sun or semi shade
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Plant height and spread is seasonal therefore we list by pot size rather than a defined plant size. The height and spread of the plant delivered will vary depending on the season, meaning arrival images are an indication only.
2 x 10 Litre Potted Plants (TKA0310)
2 x 3.6 Litre Potted Plants (T66750P)
1 x 10 Litre Potted Plant (KA0309)
1 x 3.6 Litre Potted Plant (66258)
Water regularly until plants are fully established. Leave the faded hydrangea flower heads in place until the new buds swell in spring to protect the delicate buds from frost damage. In early spring, dead head the old flowers, cutting them back to a pair of healthy buds just below.
In late winter or early spring remove one or two of the oldest stems to the base. This will encourage the development of new, replacement shoots and keep the shrub productive.
After pruning hydrangeas, apply a mulch of well rotted manure or compost around the base of the plant. Caution: Contact with hydrangea foliage may irritate the skin and eyes and all parts are harmful if eaten.
Caution: irritant to skin and eyes,harmful if eaten
Seeds and garden supplies will normally be delivered within the time period stated against each product as detailed above. Plants, bulbs, corms, tubers, shrubs, trees, potatoes, etc. are delivered at the appropriate time for planting or potting on. Delivery times will be stated on the product page above, or in your order acknowledgement page and email.
Orders for packets of seed incur a delivery charge of £2.99.
Orders which include any other products will incur a delivery charge of £6.99.
Where an order includes both packets of seeds and other products, a maximum delivery charge of £7.99 will apply - regardless of the number of items ordered.
Large items may incur a higher delivery charge - this will be displayed in your shopping basket.
Please see our Delivery page for further details, and more information on different charges that may apply to certain destinations.
For more information on how we send your plants please visit our Helpful Guide on plant sizes.
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This cartoonish sounding weed has recently been spotted in Cleveland and Columbus yards this spring. Often mistaken for crabgrass; quackgrass is a perennial grass that looks very similar, with thin hollow stems and fat, hairy blades. In this article, we'll take a look at what it is, what causes it, and most importantly, how to get rid of it.
Quackgrass is a perennial weed that has been in America for hundreds of years. Like other perennials, quackgrass has a strong, deep root system with rhizomes that if split, can grow into separate plants. This quick spreading weed can take over a lawn very quickly and because most of the plant/weed is below the surface, it is very hard to control.
What Causes Quackgrass to Grow in Lawns?
Quackgrass seeds are a tasty treat for small birds, such as sparrows. Often these birds lose the seeds in your lawn, causing the weed to grow. Additionally, straw bales often contain quackgrass seeds that can get into your lawn.
Once one plant grows, it often spreads with a little help from us. When quackgrass goes to seed, mowing the lawn often spreads the seed further causing more plants, further complicating the problem.
How Can I Get Rid of Quackgrass?
Unfortunately, quackgrass is one of the hardest weeds to get rid of in your lawn. There is no selective herbicide that will kill quackgrass and leave your lawn un-effected. The best bet for treating your lawn is to treat the quackgrass clumps with Roundup, remove the dead plant, and seed the area. While it may seem extreme, killing quackgrass early in the season will help to keep this weed from going to seed, and spreading all over your lawn.
Quackgrass: Weed of the Week from AgPHD.com
Spring Tips and Tricks to Keep Weeds Like Quackgrass at Bay!
Weeds are just one of the many issues you could face this spring. That's why Weed Pro has put together one of the best spring lawn care guides in the industry. The best part is that it's yours absolutely free by clicking on the link below!
|Shaun Kanary has been a part of the Green Industry for the past 15 years. As the Director of Marketing for Weed Pro Lawn Care, a Cleveland and Columbus Lawn Care Service Provider, Shaun is a regular contributor to the Weed Pro Blog, and other industry magazine and blogs.
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There are many families today who have kitchen gardens that they use to produce their own food. If your are interested in a more sustainable living, a vegetable garden is a wonderful supplement to a family diet. An average family can spend around $70 to grow a vegetable garden every year and in return get close to $600 worth of vegetables for their family.
We have definitely done a lot of progress in terms of science and technology, but soon we will have to pay a price for it. Due to the rapid growth of industries, the air and water that we consume today isn't the way it used to be a few years ago and soon the younger generations will suffer from critical health issues. Also the food that we eat is grown using harmful chemicals!
One of the most important aspects in vegetable gardening is to learn how to get your produces to grow in the best manner possible. Regardless if you are an accomplished gardener or if you are just started on the hobby, what kind of vegetable gardener you are, or what kind of vegetables you intend to grow, having some useful tips would certainly be helpful. Much Information Available There are plenty of good, useful gardening help that is available over the Internet.
Today I would like to talk to you about the benefits of raised bed vegetable gardening. There are several different ways of going about creating a raised bed vegetable garden. One way is to create a mounded raised bed. This is the way the Indians use to do it and for good reason.
Garden design for organic vegetable gardens is all about knowing what to plant and when to plant while taking sun exposure, watering and fertilizing into consideration. An organic garden is just gardening using only natural fertilizers, insecticides, pesticides and soils. In every other aspect such as planning, preparing, planting and maintenance organic gardening is just regular gardening.
If you looking at planting and making a vegetable garden you need to understand a few basics before you start digging away and planting seedlings. One of the most important components of having a wonderful and healthy vegetable garden is preparation.
Are you looking to plant your very own vegetable garden but you're not sure how to get started? Planting a healthy vegetable garden provides so many benefits including an abundance of healthy organic food and saving thousands on your grocery bills. I don't know about you but I still remember the days when a tomato from the supermarket tasted like a tomato, not anymore unfortunately. Let's look at some vegetable gardening for beginners tips to help get you started today.
You might think that growing your own vegetable garden is a lot of work, time consuming and a hassle. The first thing that would come into your mind when you hear garden would be maintenance, time and dirt. Well, that is true.
A garden is the main attraction of your property. But, it does not need to be all ornamental because there are varieties of plants that can be planted in your garden. And the best way to make use of your garden is by planting vegetables on one part of it.
Gardening trends tend to come and go but organic vegetable gardening has attracted increasing interest over recent times. With the long term sustainability of our planet a shared concern of many, it looks like this trend is here to stay!
With the price of food getting higher, many judicious people are considering a home vegetable garden. But with the average size of new yards getting smaller it may seem at first that it will be difficult to squeeze a vegetable patch in. Planting your vegetables in rows in only one of the many possible vegetable garden layouts. It is possible to design an attractive veggie garden with a creative garden layout where flowers are interspersed amongst the vegetables.
If you have decided to start to grow your own vegetables at home, vegetable garden planning is a worthwhile investment of your time. Planning your veggie garden will enable you to save time, money, space and labor. Find out how to create your plan in 5 steps.
When starting a vegetable garden, one of the most important initial steps you must get right is planning your garden. Take a bit of time to think of where you wish to have your vegetable garden, its direction, how you will plant your vegetables etc.
Organic gardening has become very popular over the past several years and many people practice some form of organic gardening without even realizing it. Growing vegetables using only natural methods is known as organic vegetable gardening. Artificial chemicals are avoided when it comes to pest control, weed control and fertilization.
Vegetable gardening is an easy hobby. In fact, if you have a piece of bare land in your garden, you can immediately take up vegetable gardening. It is that simple. However, you need several tips in order to get started so that you can feel the true satisfaction of seeing your vegetables becoming ready for harvesting.
The raised bed vegetable garden can be as simple or as elaborate as you wish. As long as you use the principles associated with this type of garden bed then you can expect to get great results with a bounty of fresh healthy vegetables.
As the proud owner of a tiny vegetable plot one of the easiest ways to increase my plot is to grow vegetables in containers. Container vegetable gardening has become very popular to the point the seed companies now have special varieties for growing vegetables in containers. You cannot always use just any plants because some varieties like a wide spread root system while others grow perfectly well with a smaller root set.
Vegetable gardening is becoming more popular all of the time. It is estimated that one out of every three people in the United States does some kind of gardening. A large percentage of gardening is done in urban areas. Growing great vegetables does not have to be difficult. In order to experience this wonderful hobby all you have to do is follow a few simple rules.
If you are an apartment dweller, look to your patio and balcony to provide the perfect place to start your indoor container vegetable garden. Herbs can be grown indoors easily as well. An added benefit to indoor container vegetable gardening is you can do this all year round!
So you are ready to start a backyard garden? It's an exciting prospect; fresh, organic vegetables to feed your family from your own backyard! A backyard garden can be a great way to grow your own healthy vegetables and save money in the process. Having a successful and bountiful backyard garden does require some planning before you get started. Where will you put your garden? Raised beds or no? What are the soil requirements? How about keeping out local wildlife and insects? How should you set up your backyard garden? These are a few questions that we will answer today.
There are lots of reasons why people grow their own vegetable garden. Some people grow a garden to keep themselves busy and relieve some stress. Others just want to make sure that what they eat is healthy and feed their families with fresh nutritious vegetables.
Hydroponic vegetable gardening is becoming not just the obvious choice for growers but also working out as a hobby for people who have interest in gardening. Hydroponic vegetable garden helps you grow your choice of fruit, flowers and vegetables. Hydroponics simply means growing plants with the aid of mineral nutrients solutions and not the soil.
In a world where so many people spend their leisure time indoors, gardening gives you an excuse to get outside and get some vigorous exercise. If you've been thinking about setting up an organic vegetable garden, or if you've already started one, the tips in this article will be helpful.


Parsley, Organic (Flat Leaf)
Botanical Interest Brand
Biennial Full Sun to Part Shade
Preferred by cooks for its robust flavor, flat-leaved parsley adds a fresh, tantalizing note to omelets, stews, vegetables, and even soft cheeses and rice. The flat leaves are easy to chop. Parsley is one of the most used culinary herbs around the globe; it is also considered to aid digestion. Grow indoors for fresh parsley year-round. This packet sows up to 154 ft.
When to sow outside: Recommended;
4 - 6 weeks before your average last frost date, or as soon as the soil can be worked; when soil temperature is 50*F - 85*F.
When to sow inside:
6 - 8 weeks before your average last frost date.
Special germination instructions:
Soak Seeds in water for 12 - 24 hours before sowing to aid germination. Seeds germinate in the dark.


In the face of climate change, environmental degradation, and rising demand for animal-source foods, a lot of farmers try to find solutions from nature to meet the demand while minimizing the negative impact of livestock farming on the environment.
Medically Tailored Meals Need to Be Part of Healthcare
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Indian Chef Anahita Dhondy cooks with millets, providing people with an opportunity to discover how beneficial smart foods are for their health, farmers, and the planet.
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According to Kyoungsoo Lim, we should devise new ways of selling produce and make more side jobs available for a more liveable rural community in South Korea.
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Ranveer Brar is an Indian celebrity chef who informs consumers about traditional cooking, while also empowering farmers through his work with International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT).
Making Food More Equitable in Dayton
Dayton, Ohio is one of the hungriest American cities. Lela Klein of Gem City Market tells Food Tank about how to turn Dayton’s food deserts into areas where all members have access to fresh and nutritious food.
Millet and Sorghum are Climate-Smart Grains for Farmers in Chad
Climate-resilient grains like pearl millet and sorghum can help subsistence farmers in Chad enjoy increased crop yields and better self-resilience.
2018 Food Tank San Diego Summit: Science–Ag–Tech Connect
At the 2018 San Diego Food Tank Summit, Michelle Lerach, Josh Henretig, Ryland Engelhart, and more talk about the possibilities of science, agriculture, and technology for the future of sustainability.


In an East Texas study on sandy, low-fertility soils, bermudagrass pastures which have not received nitrogen fertilizer since the fall of 1984 are still producing.
Although some changes have taken place in the ecotypes of bermudagrass prevalent, the combination of the right stocking rate with nutrient recycling by the cattle via urine and feces distributed back onto the pastures produced an affordable and potentially profitable pasture management situation, says Monte Rouquette, research forage physiologist for Texas A&M AgriLife at Overton.
Rouquette adds another factor in the success of the program was overseeding of clovers in the fall onto some of the pastures.
Note that these pasture management tests were run under conditions of variable but continuous stocking through the warm season, with a break in the winter. Specifically, the pastures were continuously stocked during active forage growth seasons of February through September, using put-and-take stocking to achieve high, medium, or low stocking rates. Pastures were vacant and not grazed from October until mid-February each year, which corresponded to time of establishment and growth of cool-season annual forages, Roguette explains.
Bermudagrass is an important pasture resource in East Texas and the South. Yet improved bermudagrass varieties are commonly thought to have an Achilles' heel: to support their higher production, it is believed they need substantial amounts of nitrogen fertilizer applied yearly.
The study actually began in 1968 on pasture-research areas at Overton, and has been conducted by Rouquette since 1971. Originally, the study was designed to evaluate various forage varieties for production and persistence using cow/calf pairs at different stocking rates.
By 1984, rising fossil fuel costs and higher nitrogen fertilizer costs was becoming a game-changer for beef producers. Rouquette says he responded by redirecting the grazing study to evaluate the persistence of both common and Coastal bermudagrass under two different fertility-management strategies:
1. Over-seeding with ryegrass and using commercial nitrogen fertilizer
2. Over-seeding with clover without applying nitrogen
"I thought that would be a good time to initiate a nutrient cycling experiment wherein pastures could be treated with nitrogen fertilization and over-seeded with ryegrass versus no nitrogen and over-seeded with clovers for nitrogen fixation," Rouquette says.
Rouquette added that in 1984 all the test pastures had adequate levels of potassium and phosphorus. As the study proceeded, all test pastures received potassium and phosphorus fertilizer yearly in the form of 0-60-60. Lime was applied as needed.
From 2002 through 2008, the price of nitrogen fertilizer increased drastically again, he adds.
More bermudagrass outcomes listed >>
More outcomes listed
Once the experiment was set in motion, there were very few immediate plant responses, Rouquette says. However, by documenting soil status, forage stands and animal performance in the ecosystem over time, Rouquette found three significant trends:
• Bermudagrass stand composition and longevity are impacted more by stocking rate than lack of commercial nitrogen fertilizer.
• Phosphorous fertilizer levels can be largely replenished by animal excreta.
• Despite what is commonly thought, improved Bermudagrass stands can be maintained indefinitely under grazing at "low" stocking rates without adding commercial nitrogen fertilizer, instead relying on nutrient recycling from animal urine and dung.
Until 1974, both types of bermudagrass were evaluated for production and quality as pure stands under different stocking rates.
The average stocking rates on Coastal bermudagrass were:
Low - 1 cow/calf pair per acre
Medium - 1.7 cow/calf pairs per acre
|High - 3 cow/calf pairs per acre.
On the common Bermudagrass paddocks, the average stocking rates were:
Low - 0.8 cow/calf pairs per acre
Medium - 1.4 cow/calf pairs per acre
High - 2.0 cow/calf pairs per acre.
Also for reference, until 1984 common and Coastal bermudagrass pastures received about 200 pounds of nitrogen fertilizer, and 100 pounds each of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers per acre, per year. The nitrogen was split and applied over the growing season, while the potassium and phosphorus were applied in the fall in a single application.
From 1974 to 1983, Rouquette kept the same fertilization rates, but paddocks of both bermudagrass types were overseeded with mixtures of clover and Gulf annual ryegrass in October.
In subsequent years, the type of clover was varied among Yuchi, Arrowleaf, Tibee crimson and subterranean clover. Grazing of bermudagrass was halted in early October to allow the cool-season over-seeded clovers to become established.
New thinking on pasture management >>
"When you look solely at Coastal Bermudagrass forage production, then added nitrogen and ryegrass is the clear winner," Rouquette says. "But when you're looking for sustainability, then reduced input, mainly no-nitrogen plus clover is the way to go."
These results run counter to the common perception of bermudagrass pasture management, Rouquette says. It's commonly thought that without nitrogen fertilization, an improved Bermudagrass stand will be taken over by such low quality grasses as Bahia grass.
"But that's true only if the stand is over-grazed as well," he says. "Under our 'low' stocking rates, which was about one cow/calf pair per acre, this didn't happen."
He adds that one cow/calf pair per acre is actually a considerably higher stocking rate than used by many commercial livestock producers. Instead, with no nitrogen fertilizer, the originally planted Bermudagrass stands were reduced over time by the invasion of other ecotypes of Bermudagrass, Rouquette says.
"The invading ecotypes were more similar to common Bermudagrass," he says. "They were still productive — they just were just not as productive as Coastal."
This lower productivity was largely offset by lower production inputs with high nitrogen fertilizer costs, he says.
Rouquette thinks there are two or three important lessons here:
At high stocking rates, without nitrogen, there was a major invasion of other ecotypes and Bahia grass.
At low stocking rates, about 75% of the original Coastal bermudagrass stand remained, even without nitrogen fertilizer applications, although the over-seeded legumes did supply some nitrogen.
"It's commonly thought that without nitrogen fertilizer, bermudagrass fields will turn to sand and brush," he says. "But that's only true if animal grazing is ceased too. With animal grazing, nutrient recycling of animal excreta will maintain the stand – possibly forever."


In the contemporary landscape, agriculture is undergoing a profound transformation, evolving into a high-tech industry that leverages cutting-edge technologies to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and productivity. This article delves into the technological evolution of agriculture, examines the applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in modern farming practices and agribusiness, and explores the far-reaching impacts on sustainable farming, crop management, and food production.
Tracing the Technological Evolution of Agriculture
1. Mechanization and Precision Farming:
The journey of technological innovation in agriculture began with the advent of mechanization, replacing manual labor with machinery. Tractors, plows, and harvesters revolutionized the farming landscape, significantly increasing productivity. The evolution continued with the introduction of precision farming, where technology such as GPS-guided tractors and drones allowed farmers to optimize resource use, minimize waste, and improve overall efficiency.
2. Internet of Things (IoT):
The integration of IoT devices has further propelled agriculture into the digital age. Sensors, drones, and connected devices provide real-time data on soil conditions, weather patterns, and crop health. Farmers can make informed decisions based on this data, optimizing irrigation, fertilization, and pest control processes.
3. Big Data and Analytics:
The accumulation of vast amounts of agricultural data has given rise to big data analytics. Farmers now have the ability to analyze historical trends, predict crop yields, and optimize planting schedules. This data-driven approach empowers farmers to make strategic decisions that maximize both productivity and resource efficiency.
AI Applications in Modern Farming Practices and Agribusiness
1. Precision Agriculture:
AI plays a pivotal role in precision agriculture, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of farming practices. Machine learning algorithms analyze data from various sources, including satellite imagery and IoT devices, to provide insights into crop health, soil conditions, and weather patterns. This information enables farmers to implement precise interventions, minimizing input usage and environmental impact.
2. Autonomous Farming Equipment:
The development of autonomous farming equipment, guided by AI and machine learning algorithms, is revolutionizing the way crops are cultivated. Tractors, harvesters, and drones equipped with AI can operate independently, optimizing tasks such as planting, harvesting, and monitoring without human intervention. This not only increases efficiency but also addresses labor shortages in the agriculture industry.
3. Crop Monitoring and Disease Detection:
AI-powered image recognition and computer vision technologies are transforming crop monitoring and disease detection. Drones equipped with cameras can capture high-resolution images of fields, and AI algorithms can analyze these images to identify early signs of crop diseases, nutrient deficiencies, or pest infestations. This early detection allows for targeted and timely interventions, preventing widespread crop losses.
Impacts on Sustainable Farming, Crop Management, and Food Production
1. Sustainable Practices:
AI technologies contribute to the advancement of sustainable farming practices by optimizing resource use and minimizing environmental impact. Precision agriculture, with its data-driven approach, ensures that farmers use water, fertilizers, and pesticides efficiently, reducing waste and runoff. This not only benefits the environment but also improves the economic sustainability of farming operations.
2. Crop Management and Yield Optimization:
The application of AI in crop management leads to more efficient and optimized yields. Machine learning algorithms can analyze historical data, weather patterns, and soil conditions to predict optimal planting times, crop varieties, and harvest schedules. This level of precision allows farmers to maximize their yields while minimizing inputs, contributing to global food security.
3. Enhanced Food Production:
The integration of AI in agriculture has a direct impact on food production. By optimizing farming practices, minimizing crop losses, and improving overall efficiency, AI contributes to a more reliable and abundant food supply. This is particularly crucial as the global population continues to grow, placing increased demands on the agriculture industry to produce more food sustainably.
In conclusion, the technological evolution of agriculture, coupled with the integration of AI, is shaping a future where farming is not only more efficient and productive but also environmentally sustainable. The marriage of innovation and agriculture not only ensures food security for a growing global population but also promotes responsible stewardship of our planet’s resources. As we continue to harvest innovation, the agricultural landscape is poised for a technological era that promises stability and sustainability.


Global Potato Harvesters Market Size, Share, Growth and Forecast to 2022
Posted by johnson on March 21st, 2017
According to a new market report published by Credence Research Inc “Potato Harvester Market - Growth, Share, Opportunities, Competitive Analysis, and Forecast 2015 - 2022,” the growing production and demand for potatoes across the world.
The global market for potato harvesters is expected to witness a significant growth through the forecast period with rising demand for organic food across the world. This has increased the production of potatoes globally. Farmers are looking for advanced solutions in order to improve farm productivity and profit margins. This has increased the demand for potato harvesters in the last few years. This trend is expected to continue with improving farm income and further rising demand for organic food products. In addition, increasing mechanization of farm activities in Asia Pacific and African countries is also expected to spur the demand for potato harvesters from these regions.
Truck mounted potato harvester is the largest product category in term of both revenue and unit shipments in 2014. This segment is expected to witness significant demand from with rising mechanization farm activities in Asia Pacific, Latin America and Africa. Self-propelled potato harvester segment is predicted to be the fastest growing product category through the forecast period 2016 - 2022. Large size farmers are investing in advanced technologies in order to improve net yield and harvesting capacity of their farms. This is influencing the demand for self-propelled potato harvesters.
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North America is largest regional market in terms of revenue for potato harvesters. However, Asia Pacific is the largest regional market in terms of volume. Asia Pacific is also expected to witness the fastest growth with increasing mechanization of farm activities particularly in India and China. India and China has huge potential for potato harvesters as majority of farmers are still using traditional methods for harvesting potatoes. However, rising awareness about benefits of these technologies and rising income level farmers are investing in advanced technologies to improve productivity of their farms.
The global potato harvesters market comprises limited number of manufacturers and industry is dominated by recognized players from North America and Europe. Some major players in the global market are Spudnik Equipment Company LLC, Lockwood, Double L, The Grimme group and Advanced Farm Equipment, LLC (LENCO).
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Even though the summer is now drawing to a close here in Knoxville, your flower beds can still “wow”.
Don’t let your flowers take the season off! Offer your landscaping a refresher this fall to ensure beautiful, healthy plants all year round. Here are a few tips to get you started:
After a long season of healthy growth and abundant rain, all kinds of perennial landscaping could use some pruning to keep them healthy, and at the perfect size for your home’s aesthetic.
Pruning helps keep plants healthy and looking their best! Make sure to get rid of any dead or diseased leaves so they don’t spread to other plants nearby. Also, prune back any branches that are touching other plants so they don’t get infected with disease too.
Pruning plants in the fall also helps keep them healthy and strong throughout the winter months. Make sure you don’t cut off any flowers or berries though because those are needed for next year’s growth!
Not only does mulch dramatically increase curb appeal any time of year, but mulch is also great for keeping plants warm during the winter months. It also keeps moisture in the soil so your plants won’t dry out as easily. Just make sure that it doesn’t get too wet or moldy because this will cause more harm than good!
If you want to make any additions to your flower beds and landscaping for next year, now is the perfect time to start considering what bulbs to purchase, where to put them, and how your landscaping will look next season.
Plant bulbs in the fall so they have plenty of time to grow before spring comes around! These include things like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths which make for beautiful flowers when they bloom in the warmer spring weather!
Just make sure you choose ones that will be able to survive our cold winters here in Knox County and surrounding areas!


The Tractor Rotavator is tractor-driven agricultural equipment that is used in farms to break and mix the soil planting seeds. A Rotavator aids in removing the past crop residues from the field and preparing the soil for the next crop.
Types of Rotavators
Rotavators are generally divided into three types: light, standard, and heavy-duty based on the weight, design, and material used to manufacture the Rotavator.
- Light duty Rotavator
The light-duty Rotavators are used in preparing the soil of small gardens, garden boundaries, small vegetable gardens or allotments.·
- Medium duty Rotavator
Medium duty Rotavator are used in allotments, nurseries, greenhouses, vineyards and gardens to loosen the soil, weed control and encourage water absorption around plants. It can loosen and aerate the soil up to 6 inches deep and can work closely with crops and plants without damaging them.
- Heavy-duty Rotavator
Heavy-duty Rotavators are used to work in large areas cultivating farms. It can loosen and aerate the soil up to seven inches deep and ensure leveled and finished seedbed with high performance in all working conditions.
Different models of the Rotavators perform different functions. Types of Rotavators based on the functions they perform.
- Rotavators for chopping and mixing
- Rotavators for tilling and planting operations
- Rotavators for incorporation of fertilizers and other chemicals
- Rotavators for crop cultivation
- Rotavators for weed control
With the advancement in the manufacturing process, single Rotavators are now also being manufactured to perform different functions at the same time.
Uses of Tractor Rotavator
- Rotavator is used to prepare the seedbed with one or two passes. It performs different soil functions like mixing, pulverization, and leveling at the same time.
- Pulverization is the process of separating and breaking large soil particles into pieces that are smaller than the original size.
- Leveling is a process of preparing the farmland so that there are no high or low soil spots to disturb the uniform distribution of water on the field. It is mainly used in surface irrigation such as basin and furrow irrigation. It removes and mixes the residual of maize, wheat, and sugarcane, etc thus revamping the soil health along with saving time, fuel, cost, and energy.
- Rotavator breaks up the hardpan layers of soil and levels them for sowing. It can work on different soil types without any wear and tear.
- It loosens up the soil and aerates it up to 7 inches deep.
- Increase the quality of work, minimize fuel consumption and reduce the cost of a farm operation.
- Used in primary and secondary tillage
- Rotator mixes the soil and adds the maximum amount of nutrients to the soil which in turn increase the crop yield and profits
- It boosts the soil porosity and aeration and can be used in any type of soil.
- Forms are an integral part of farming and are used for multifarious purposes such as shallow cultivation and weed control.
- Reduce the land preparation time and effort by 30-35%
- They make the whole process of preparing the soil manageable and smooth.
- Rotavator is an easy to use power operated implement that helps in retaining the soil moisture and reducing the labor
Hence the Rotavator is an essential commodity in today’s time.


I have been working on this math problem for days and can't seem to figure it out. My math book does not have any examples like this at all. I cannot figure out how to find a quadratic function for this information (I can only seem to find a linear equation). I typed the exact question below and if anyone can help or give any advice at all that would be great! Thanks.
You are given the task of estimating the number of trees that will maximize the fruit production per acre of a local orchard. By researching other local orchards you discover that at 400 trees per acre each tree will produce an average of 30 pounds of fruit. For each tree that is added to the acre, the average production per tree goes down 0.05 pounds.
a. Use the given info to build a table of values for this situation. Let t be the number of trees above 400 planted on an acre and find the total amount of fruit each acre will produce.
b. Find a function for the total production per acre when t trees over 400 are planted on one acre.
That is exactly the formula that I came up with, but here is the thing
1) This question (in my book) is in a "Quadratic Functions" chapter, so I am assuming that my function and graph need to be a parabola
2) If it asks me to find the number of trees that will maximize the fruit production, wouldn't I need to have a parabola (and not a line) to find that max number?
Thanks for the help!
Okay now with that equation (400+t)(30-.05t) the number of fruit increases as I add additional numbers of trees....and the original problem says that for each tree that is added to the acre, the average production per tree goes down 0.05 pounds.
Im very confused as to why this happens.
2. It makes perfect sense that if you plant more trees per acre, each tree will produce less fruit ...... I would assume that when you plant more trees, there are less resources available to each tree for its growth. The logical result of this would be that each tree produces less fruit. Is that what's worrying you?


Planting grass is not a typical task for the U.S. Army Engineering and Support Center, Huntsville. However, when the grass began getting sparse in a mortar and artillery impact area on a steep hillside at West Point, N.Y., Huntsville Center's Ordnance and Explosives Design Center knew how to helped get new grass planted.
There is much more to West Point than just the U.S. Military Academy campus. Cadets there learn to become officers by receiving extensive military training on a large complex of ranges to the south and west of the Academy. Many of the ranges have been used since the Revolutionary War.
The impact area on one range, known as Cranberry Mountain, was pocked with craters from mortar and artillery explosions. Rain and melting snow washed away much of the remaining topsoil, leaving nutrient-poor soil too depleted to keep grass healthy.
Seeking a solution, environmental managers at West Point contacted the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Agronomist Tim Cary at the USACE Cold Regions Research Laboratory in Burlington, Vt. and workers at the Army’s Aberdeen Test Center in Maryland colaborated to create seed balls that could be mechanically distributed across the area. Each seed ball contained three different types of grass seed and potting soil to provide fertilizer. The mix was rolled into a ball about 1.5 inches in diameter and then rolled in xanthan gum to form a hard shell that would soften when it got wet, allowing the seeds to spread and germinate.
The concept was simple enough: distribute the seed balls on the hillside, except people are not permitted in the area without special escort due to the risk of detonating unexploded ordnance. A rotary agricultural spreader would do the job, but any tractor used would have to be heavily armored to protect the driver. That challenge was solved by project manager Spencer O’Neal of Huntsville Center’s Ordnance and Explosives Design Center. Contractor Dawson-Zapata and subcontractor Robotics Fabrication had radio-controlled equipment that was already being used on ranges at other Army installations.
The first seeding attempt last year was postponed by Hurricane Sandy, then rescheduled for March. Melting snow made the hillside slick, even for a dozer using caterpillar treads. A narrow path was cut across the hillside, then up the slope. Workers faced a challenge when the dozer blade was removed: the dozer blade used a two-point mounting system, but the spreader was configured for a three-point mount on the back of a farm tractor. Field modifications using angle iron, nuts and bolts solved the problem. The hopper was loaded with seed balls and the dozer was sent remotely into the work area. A mere 15 minutes of the next two hours were required to distribute all 35,000 seed balls: the rest of the time was spent negotiating the slick path for reloading.
One of the seeds, a type of oat, was expected to germinate in about a week with the tall fescue and perennial rye a week later. Plans call for return visits in May and September to check results.


Organic garlic chive seeds grow grass-like flat leaves and sweet-scented white flowers. This leaf vegetable is a member of the Alliaceae family that grows 20 inches (50 cm) in height. Chinese chives have a pleasantly mild onion and garlic flavor. Chinese chive grow fast and are a common plant in kitchen gardens. The biodegradable Seed Pods contain non-GMO, certified organic seeds inside a mineral growth medium.
Leaves, flowers, flowering buds and roots of chive are all edible. This food plant has varied uses as a vegetable and as an aromatic herb for garnish. Chopped leaves and flower buds are delicious in salads, soft cheese, and stir-fried dishes. Green or blanched leaves are used for garnishing and flavoring soups, seafood, meat, mayonnaise, omelets, and rice. Add chives at the end of cooking in order to preserve their flavor.
Garlic chives are an ancient crop, native to China’s province of Shanxi. This leafy vegetable has been cultivated in China for over 2,000 years, and is a traditionally important ingredient in Asian cooking. Its flavor is very pronounced. As a member of Allium genus, chives are related to garlic and onion. The plant is also known as Oriental garlic, and Asian chives.
This plant has a low energy value with moderate amounts of vitamins and minerals. The leaves contain small amounts of vitamin A, B1 and C. Garlic chive are also used in traditional Chinese medicine and are thought to be a remedy for fatigue. This leafy vegetable improves kidney function and bladder weakness. The leaves and the bulbs can be applied to insect bites, cuts and wounds.


Thanks to Bees
Further loss of these beneficial insects would really sting.
The next time you bake an apple pie or munch a handful of almonds, be sure to thank a honeybee.
Why? Bees don’t just produce delicious honey. Their most important job is pollinating crops like apples, onions, cranberries and other foods. Scientists say these insects, along with birds, butterflies and mammals, pollinate two-thirds of our food crops and up to 90% of wild plants. Bees alone help provide every third bite of food we eat.
For such small creatures, honeybees also pack an economic punch. By helping increase yields, it’s estimated they contribute $15 billion a year to U.S. agriculture.
Bad News About Bees
Sadly, our bees are in trouble. “The overall situation with honeybees is fairly poor,” says Eric Mäder, who serves as assistant pollinator program director for the non-profit Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, in Portland, Oregon.
Mäder says that most of our non-native honeybees came into the U.S. from Europe and, in recent years, they’ve been dying from diseases and parasites introduced from around the world, including a syndrome known as Colony Collapse Disorder. Loss of habit and the stresses of moving hives around for pollination are also taking a toll.
Even native American bees, which also play a vital role in commercial agriculture, are suffering. “We don’t have a lot of wild, feral bees left anymore, except the Africanized honeybees, which escaped from a breeding project and are now wild in the South,” Mäder says of the variety that are referred to as “killer bees,” often mistakenly. “Wild bees are a little more resistant to disease and parasites. But we’re losing species at an alarming rate.”
Mäder hopes we’ll also focus on conserving these bees, which benefit us humans by doing such things as buffering our food supply during the current honeybee shortage. “There were about 4,000 species of native wild bees in North America before the honeybee was introduced. They’re better adapted to our conditions. Our native wild bees, like sweat bees, bumbles and the metallic blue mason bees common in early spring, contribute $3 billion a year to the U.S. economy.”
Still, honeybees get the spotlight these days.
“Honeybees have the benefit of a great beekeeping community and scientific research, but natives aren’t necessarily getting the same attention. We’ve probably already lost a quarter of our native bumblebee species in the last 10 to 15 years.”
Helping Bees Can Help Farmers
The good news, says Mäder, is that farmers have the potential to provide the “biggest and best solutions to bee declines in this country. They have a huge opportunity to address the situation in ways nobody else can.”
How? Farmers can grow pollen and nectar sources on the land outside their crop fields. “Apples, sunflowers and alfalfa may all come into bloom at once, creating a big feast for bees, but bees need food throughout the season,” Mäder says.
The USDA National Resources Conservation Service, or NRCS, is helping, by offering incentives to famers who plant wildflowers and flowering hedgerows that prolong the bloom period.
“Farmers don’t have to take land out of production to do this,” Mäder explains. “The NRCS can help them establish wildflowers in buffer systems, ditches or embankments. It’s commonly called ‘conservation cover’ for highly erodible land that you’re not farming anyway, so it’s been left fallow.”
“There are two NRCS programs, ‘EQIP’, or Environmental Quality Incentives Program, and ‘WHIP’, or Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program. Both began with the 2008 Farm Bill, and both are super-easy, low-threshold programs that just about any farmer can get into.”
While the NRCS won’t give you seeds or shrubs, it does offer technical advice on what to plant in your area and how to care for those plants. If you have a problem with soil erosion, for example, the program might identify ways to reduce your erosion by adding pollinator habitat. Farmers who create these new habitats may find themselves hosting other desirable wildlife, too, like songbirds or quail.
“Habitat need is crucial,” Mäder says. “It’s the number one factor behind pollinator decline.”
For more information on EQIP and WHIP, visit the National Resources Conservation Service.
Financial assistance is also available, although it varies by income and region. Check with your local USDA service center, or visit the USDA Service Center Agencies online to see if you qualify.
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Many people would agree that one of the most rewarding endeavors is growing their own garden. There is nothing like the feeling of planting something, watching it grow, and then getting to enjoy the fruit of your labor. This article will share some useful gardening tips to help make your garden grow.
A great gardening tip is to water your garden at night time. This ensures that the heat of the sun does not cause the water to evaporate, allowing for maximum absorption. This will help your plants get the appropriate amount of water they need in order to grow.
Controlling pests is essential to a high yield garden. There are a variety of products available on the market that will kill any invasive pest in the garden. Many organic pest controls have been perfected over the years that work very well, although they can be more expensive than chemical alternatives. With a quick internet search one can find many safe home remedies for pest control too.
Don’t assume that insects are to blame for all plants ailments. There are many things that can affect the health of a plant. The PH of the water you are using, the location of the plant (under shade vs direct sun), the amount of soil in the pot and several other reasons can be a determining factor.
Plant your garden in stages. Put in a new vegetable every week, or plant vegetables with different maturation speeds when you do your planting. This helps prevent you from having a large harvest all at once, and will better allow you to enjoy the fruits (and vegetables!) of your labors.
If a test indicates that your soil is very alkaline, you can mix the dirt with used coffee grounds. Coffee grounds contain plenty of acid to get the soil back to a good balance. With it, you will find that your greens and vegetables will be more vibrant and tasty!
Use your leftover pasta water in your garden! Plants are big starch fans and thrive with water that contains higher levels of starch, like the water left over after you boil pasta or potatoes. Make sure, though, that you let the water sit until it reaches room temperature prior to watering your plants with it!
Treat yourself while you garden with a little petroleum jelly. Before donning your gardening gloves, apply a bit of petroleum jelly or your favorite moisturizing cream to your hands. The gloves protect from the dirt, while your hand movement works the cream into your skin. You will finish your gardening with silky soft hands!
When you are pruning a tree, make sure that your tools are sharp. Cutting with a dull tool can tear the bark off the tree, causing unnecessary damage to the tree. Not only that, cutting with a dull tool causes you to spend extra energy in cutting. A sharp tool will give you a cleaner cut with the least amount of effort.
Although it is a most enjoyable pursuit, gardening is not always easy. There are a lot of factors involved in making a garden that is lovely and produces well. By following the pointers shared in this article, you will be well on your way to enjoying a beautiful garden that will bring you hours of enjoyment.


Mesotrione is a generic version of Tenacity. This means they are both effective. However, the two herbicides are very different.
Mesotrione is a post-emergent herbicide, while Tenacity is a pre-emergent herbicide. Mesotrione is affected by high temperatures, which makes it ideal during cold weather.
Tenacity and Mesotrione also affect various plants differently. This post will give a comparison between the two herbicides. By the end of the post, you will know which herbicide to use on your lawn and how.
A Brief Comparison Table
|Mode of Action
|Nonselective and very effective.
|Strong enough to kill the mature weed.
|Used on which plants
|Nutsedge, crabgrass, bent grass, dandelions, ground ivy, and many others.
|Clover, chickweed, crabgrass, foxtail, nutsedge, dandelion, and henbit.
|Deemed safe Agency of protection
|Faces some restrictions in different states. They are restricted from home lawns.
|Ideal Time to use
|Ideal during fall or spring
|It dries up faster, making it ideal during all seasons.
|Best applied directly to the soil
|Sprayed on grown grass
|A bit more costly than Mesotrione
|Cheaper than Tenacity
Differences Between Tenacity And Mesotrione
- Mode of Action
Tenacity is a pre-emergent herbicide.
A pre-emergent herbicide is used before the plants germinate.
The herbicide inhibits the enzyme that causes photosynthesis, stopping the weed from growing.
Once the weed is repressed, new healthy grass grows.
Mesotrione is a post emergent herbicide.
This herbicide will kill the selected plants and let the others survive.
Although the two herbicides contain the same active ingredients, they do not have the same efficiency. Tenacity is extreme. This is why it is sprayed before the plants start to grow.
The herbicide kills weeds within three weeks, and the dead weed starts to compose naturally.
Stubborn weed requires more than one treatment when using Tenacity herbicide.
Mesotrione is still as effective as Tenacity. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using this herbicide to ensure you achieve what it promises.
- Used On Which Plants
If you use a herbicide on your grass, it would be a huge mistake to use any herbicide other than Tenacity. This herbicide kills other weeds, including nutsedge, crabgrass, bent grass, dandelions, ground ivy, and many others.
The Mesotrione herbicide can be used on several different types of plants. It is best to avoid the vegetable garden when using this product, as it can ruin some of your favorite vegetables.
If spraying near the fruit trees, ensure that you refrain from spraying after it has started to bloom.
Mesotrione is ideal for killing weeds such as clover, chickweed, crabgrass, foxtail, nutsedge, dandelion, and henbit.
Tenacity has been deemed reduced risk herbicide by the National Agency for protection. It also does not contain cancer-causing chemicals.
This is why you can use this herbicide on your home lawn. After the herbicide has dried after two hours, pets and children can play on the property. You should avoid inhaling the herbicide or letting it close to your eyes.
Mesotrione faces restrictions in Hawaii, New Mexico, Alaska, Oregon, Arizona, Nevada, Wyoming, and Washington. Do not apply this herbicide to transgenic crops since it can harm these plants.
The chemical also has limitations on how it can be used and is unsuitable for lawns, beds, or pastures.
- The Ideal Time To Use
Tenacity dries up faster after touching the plants.
The dilutant mixed with the herbicide makes it stick to the plants for effectiveness.
However, it is best used on the lawn during fall or spring when the temperatures are not too high and it is not raining.
Rain and the sun will not affect the herbicide 2 hours after application.
Very high temperatures evaporate mesotrione herbicide, while rain can wash away the herbicide before it works.
To ensure the herbicide works efficiently, spray early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
The most common way you’ll see Tenacity Herbicide used is in the soil to help reduce and deter weed regrowth. Tenacity Herbicide can be applied directly to the soil or mixed with water and injected into the ground.
To apply Tenacity Herbicide to the soil, ensure the target area is weed free and watered in. Then mix the product with water to create a slurry and apply it to the ground surface.
If you’re using Tenacity Herbicide as a pre-emergent herbicide, it’s called an A-B pre-emergent mix. You apply by either sprinkler or hand spreader systems.
A pre-emergent mixture is applied with a hand-spreader or a nozzle. It would be best to use the correct dilution, so read the kit’s instructions carefully.
You will use a dilutant for mesotrione herbicide. Often you need to add one part diluent to ten parts mesotrione to make it work most efficiently.
Read the manual for your mesotrione herbicide before application, then follow all directions carefully! Watch this video to understand why mesotrione is great!
Since Mesotrione is a generic of Tenacity, it is cheaper than Tenacity. They, however, have the same active ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Mesotrione and Tenacity have the same active ingredients. However, they are not the same. Tenacity is used as a pre-emergent herbicide, while Mesotrione is a post-emergent herbicide.
If you are looking for a herbicide for your home lawn, Tenacity lawn is the best herbicide. Tenacity is also safe for pets and children.
Mesotrione is the generic version of Tenacity.
Mesotrione herbicide is an effective herbicide. However, you should avoid using it on your home lawn. This herbicide will kill anything that is not fine-bladed grass.
If you are looking for an herbicide for your lawn, the Tenacity and Mesotrione comparison is an excellent start for your search. The post discusses all the main features used to differentiate the two herbicides.
However, if you are looking for a herbicide for your home lawn, Tenacity is the best herbicide. It is deemed safe for use by National Agency for Protection.
Mesotrione herbicide faces restrictions in different states.


RAR1, a central player in plant immunity, is targeted by Pseudomonas syringae effector AvrB
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Pathogenic bacterial effectors suppress pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP)-triggered host immunity, thereby promoting parasitism. In the presence of cognate resistance genes, it is proposed that plants detect the virulence activity of bacterial effectors and trigger a defense response, referred to here as effector-triggered immunity (ETI). However, the link between effector virulence and ETI at the molecular level is unknown. Here, we show that the Pseudomonas syringae effector AvrB suppresses PAMP-triggered immunity (PTI) through RAR1, a co-chaperone of HSP90 required for ETI. AvrB expressed in plants lacking the cognate resistance gene RPM1 suppresses cell wall defense induced by the flagellar peptide flg22, a well known PAMP, and promotes the growth of nonpathogenic bacteria in a RAR1-dependent manner. rar1 mutants display enhanced cell wall defense in response to flg22, indicating that RAR1 negatively regulates PTI. Furthermore, coimmunoprecipitation experiments indicated that RAR1 and AvrB interact in the plant. The results demonstrate that RAR1 molecularly links PTI, effector virulence, and ETI. The study supports that both pathogen virulence and plant disease resistance have evolved around PTI.
author list (cited authors)
Shang, Y., Li, X., Cui, H., He, P., Thilmony, R., Chintamanani, S., ... Zhou, J.
complete list of authors
Shang, Yulei||Li, Xinyan||Cui, Haitao||He, Ping||Thilmony, Roger||Chintamanani, Satya||Zwiesler-Vollick, Julie||Gopalan, Suresh||Tang, Xiaoyan||Zhou, Jian-Min


Drone manufacturer DJI is parterning with Kansas State University to use drones in precision agriculture.
DJI’s drone technology is expected to provide more sustainable farming practices while increasing yields through projects including crop-stress monitoring, aerial imaging and precision spraying.
“Our partnership with Kansas State University is helping educators, students and researchers develop more sustainable practices that increase yields in agriculture,” said Romeo Durscher, DJI director of education. “We’re proud to part of the solution by improving agriculture for the future.”
Kansas State University assistant professor Ray Asebedo said that the goal is to double production in order to feed a population that is expected to grow to 9 billion people by 2050.
The agricultural drone market has the potential to generate an additional 100,000 jobs in the U.S. and $82 billion in economic activity between 2015 and 2025, according to a 2015 Bank of America Merrill Lynch Global Research report.
“People in the U.S. and EU no longer want to work on farms due to factors such as low farm incomes, its lack of reliability and seasonal nature, and its demanding and risky nature,” the report states. “Today, less than 1% of the U.S. population claims farming as an occupation – with the average number of U.S. farmworkers having declined from 3.4 million last century to 1 million today.”
This is not DJI’s first foray into agriculture. In December 2015, DJI announced a collaboration with Flir Systems Inc., an Oregon-based sensor manufacturer that focuses on thermal imaging. Farmers use thermal imaging as they fly over fields to indicate dry spots, over-watering, crop height or pesticide use. DJI also launched a crop spraying drone in November 2015.
“In our operation, the use of drones has helped us tremendously,” said farmer Ron Ohlde of Ohlde Seed Farms. “We used to have to walk our fields. Now drone technology gives us data back virtually immediately.”


Why Royal Innovation Always Be Thankful To Boris Wolfman?
It is clear by the first glance that popularity of Boris Wolfman is mushrooming significantly in the market only because his innovations. A company called Royal Innovations that is already run by the Boris Wolfman, so we can say that he is working really well. Basically, the process of supply chain management is understand by the Boris Wolfman that is really impressive, so get ready to take its advantages, that would be best for you. A sharp productivity that you only get in the Royal innovation company that is only possible with the Boris. You will definitely like its great aspects related to the Royal Innovations.
Technology that helps the farmers!
For the farmers it is really complicated to cope-up with the climatic changes that always affecting them worldwide, so thanks to the technology of the Boris. Basically, it is really helpful for the farmers to mimic the natural conditions that are really conducive for the fruit. In addition to this, farmers can now easily grow according to their need and the technology gives them best outcomes, so simply get better outcomes. Regardless that is really impressive for the people so check it out and uses it for the farming.
Cold Chain Processing
Cold chain processing and amazing packing will comes with nutrients that are sealed in and this fruit will start fresh for taking anytime at the end do the cold chain. Nevertheless, you should simply start working on its great outcomes that is really best for you.


Managing director of Maku Free Zone Organization, Gholamreza Soleimani referring to the studies of the Think Tank on the development of the free zone, mentioned the completion of the production chains as a strategy for the development of the free zone, added: If we are to seek regional development, then the production chain should be formed and the completion of this chain is the key to the development of Maku Free Zone.
Soleimani, referring to the fact that, thanks to the Islamic Republic system and the efforts of the officials in Free Zone Organization, by 2022 no villages will be without drinkable water in Maku Free Zone, said: Creating employment using nomadic capacities such as providing rural employment facilities, ecotourism, and supporting handicrafts is an approach that will soon bear fruit.
Managing Director of Maku Free Zone Organization said due to the provision of appropriate greenhouse cropping facilities by the government, preliminary studies and agreements have been made for this purpose. Also, 20,000 hectares of land will be used in Karamabad Agricultural Development Projects.
Gholamreza Soleimani continued: exploitation of Karamabad dam and implementation of new irrigation projects along the dam is a major development in the country and its affiliated industries in Maku free zone and consequently, in West Azarbaijan.
He added that value added production chains in Maku Free Zone in the fields of logistics, red and white meat, textiles, clothing, carpets and handcrafts, fishery (lobster, shrimp, carp and trout), ferroalloys and metallic silicon, medicinal herbs, minerals, decorative and precious stones, magnesium, petrochemicals, tourism, dairy (traditional and industrial), and honey have been identified and based on the agreement with Ministry of Agriculture, Maku free zone will become the import hub of livestock, red meat and livestock feed.


Ensemble simulation outcomes for projected annual net primary productivity of rangelands as simulated in and their change in under emissions scenario RCP eight.5, with plant responses enhanced by CO2 fertilisation. Results from RCP four.5 and 8.5, with and with out positive effects of atmospheric CO2 on plant production, differed considerably in magnitude however had related spatial patterns, and so results from RCP 8.5 with increasing manufacturing are portrayed spatially right here and in other figures. Scale bar labels and the stretch applied to colours are primarily based on the spatial imply worth plus or minus two commonplace deviations (Boone et al. 2017)1424. All fashions use a zero.5°C grid, but there are variations in grid cells simulated to symbolize agricultural land. While some fashions simulated all land areas, others simulated only potential appropriate cropland space based on evolving weather conditions. Others utilised historical harvested areas in 2000 according to numerous data sources (Rosenzweig et al. 2014)1422.
Considering the advantages of upper temperature in temperate climates and the increase of pasture with incremental warming in some humid and temperate grasslands, as well as potential unfavorable results, may be useful in planning adaptation methods to future climate change. Rivera-Ferre et al. 591 characterize adaptation for different livestock systems as managerial, technical, behavioural and policy-related options. Technological options included breeding strategies and data technology analysis. Behavioural choices are linked to cultural patterns and included encouraging social collaboration and reciprocity, for example, livestock loans, communal planning, food exchanges, and data sharing.
India, the world’s chief in sugarcane manufacturing, grows primarily for domestic use, whereas the Philippines, Indonesia, and Taiwan produce for both domestic consumption and export. Tobacco is grown extensively, notably in China, India, Turkey, Central Asia, Pakistan, and Indonesia. A large number of spices are grown in India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia, notably Indonesia. The water from upstream storage reservoirs or diversion dams is carried through canals to subject distributaries. In some methods the fields adjoin each other, and the water is ready to move from one field to the next; it could, however, take some time for the water to move throughout the fields back to the canal system. The disadvantages of this method include water loss by evaporation and seepage and the likelihood that the continuously flowing water will carry with it soil nutrients, fertilizers, and pesticides.
Many others operate at local level and strongly affect livelihoods and markets of smallholder farmers. Hence, differentiation in the roles of the organisations, their missions and outcomes associated to food and climate change motion must be clearly mapped and understood. Sustainable Land Management of farming methods is essential to address climate change while dealing with these daunting food security wants and the necessity to improve entry to nutritious food to maintain wholesome and active lives in Africa . SLM has capabilities past the production of food, similar to supply of water, protection against disease , the supply of energy, fibre and building supplies. In abstract, smallholder farmers are particularly susceptible to local weather change as a result of their livelihoods usually depend totally on agriculture.
Anthropogenic sources of nitrogen in the marine surroundings could be vital. For example, 7,500 tons of nitrogen had been estimated to be released by the Scottish salmon farming trade in 2010 (Aldridge et al., 2012). If careful consideration is given to the siting of seaweed farms, guaranteeing that carrying capacity of the environments usually are not exceeded, negative environmental effects of localized nitrogen depletion could also be avoided.
Farming may be classified into two primary types – subsistence farming and business farming. This chapter offers with agriculture, different varieties of agriculture and crops. It additionally makes the students conscious of the developments that have taken place in the field of agriculture. It is a crucial chapter for the exams so let’s leap right into the essential notes of sophistication 8 Geography chapter 4.
Japan redirected its trade away from the areas that had been integrated into the Japanese Empire earlier than 1945, and in course of the massive and expanding American market. In short, from a home viewpoint, the social capability for importing and adapting foreign know-how was improved with the reforms in education and the fillip to competition given by the dissolution of the zaibatsu. With the drive into heavy industries — chemical compounds, iron and steel, machinery — the demand for expert labor that might flexibly respond xstree sl to rapid changes in method soared. Large corporations in these industries began offering premium wages and guarantees of employment in good occasions and bad as a way of motivating and holding onto valuable employees. Income per head was far greater within the great industrial centers than within the hinterland. Between 1904 and 1911, electrification primarily because of the proliferation of intercity electrical railroads created economies of scale in the nascent industrial belt going through outward onto the Pacific.
The growth of models used to find out the ‘carrying capacity’ of coastal areas will allow for the minimization of negative environmental interactions whilst supporting the industry to develop successful cultivation tasks (Seghetta et al., 2016b). It is probably going that many fowl species would benefit from elevated foraging alternatives around kelp farms and research will be required to grasp this interaction and to optimize administration practices with respect to birds. Seaweeds in suspended cultivation take away inorganic vitamins from the marine environment throughout development (Kerrison et al., 2015; Marinho et al., 2015). Positive remedial results will happen when the quantity and proportion of vitamins removed are equal to these added by anthropogenic actions (Seghetta et al., 2016b). Throughout the world, excessive demands on many pure sources necessitates the event of alternate sources to produce necessary commodities similar to meals, feed, fuel, cosmetics, and prescription drugs.
Direct impacts of climate change in mixed and intensive production systems are linked to increased water and temperature stress on the animals potentially leading to animal morbidity, mortality and misery gross sales. Most livestock species have comfort zones between 10oC–30oC, and at temperatures above this animals reduce their feed consumption 3–5% per additional degree of temperature . In addition to lowering animal production, higher temperatures negatively affect fertility . This chapter builds on the meals system and state of affairs approaches followed by AR5 and its focus on climate change and meals safety, however new work since AR5 has extended past production to how local weather change interacts with the whole meals system. It focuses on land-based food systems, though highlighting in places the contributions of freshwater and marine manufacturing. Using a food system approach, this chapter addresses how climate change affects meals security, together with nutrition, the options for the meals system to adapt and mitigate, synergies and trade-offs among these options, and enabling situations for their adoption.


While some harvesting is done earlier in spring, July is the month where abundance flourishes in the garden. Picking vegetables at their peak of quality will greatly improve their taste.
Ripening times vary widely among vegetables. Some, e.g. sweet corn and English cucumbers, are highly perishable, while others, e.g. potatoes and winter squash, can be stored for long periods of time if their outer skin has been properly hardened to protect the succulent core from rotting.
Tomatoes can be left on the vine until fully ripened or taken off when partially mature and placed on a window sill to ripen, although they may be less sweet. Peas and beans can easily become tough if not harvested when small and tender.
Remember that bigger is not always better. Physiological processes affecting texture, fiber and consistency occur in plants and permanently changes their taste, appearance and quality during maturation.
Several practices can be incorporated to maximize the quality of your garden produce:
n Check your garden each day and pick vegetables as soon as they ripen. Vegetables continue to grow and take up plant energy and before you realize it, they are overgrown.
Your food will be at its best flavor and tenderness when harvested at the appropriate time and removing these vegetables can often encourage the plant to produce more later in the season.
n Keep track of your seed varieties, when they were planted and the days to harvest, which are shown on the seed packet.
Many cultivars are bred for a specific characteristic like size, flavor or disease resistance. Don’t confuse your early squash varieties, which may be ready to eat sooner in the season but do not overwinter well, with your late-season types bred to take longer to mature and store better.
Your bush beans, pole beans and Scarlet runner beans all mature at different times and your pickling cucumbers will look markedly different from your market cucumbers when ripe.
Seed packets and catalogs can contain information on signs to look for when a plant is at its prime.
n Care for plants properly and look for and remove signs of trouble.
Consistent watering is a crucial factor for all young plants so check often and water deeply. Avoid bruising or damaging vegetables, as this causes decay.
Stepping on vines or breaking stems creates openings through which diseases can enter the plant. Remove yellowing leaves and rotting fruit.
Pick off damaged produce such as tomatoes with blossom end rot or those cracking from too much rain. This leaves more energy for the healthy fruit to mature properly.
Keep an eye out for bug or slug damage and fix the problem using appropriate horticultural practices to prevent it from spreading around your garden.
n Harvest correctly. Vegetables are at their freshest in the morning when the weather is cooler, so harvest before the midday sun starts to heat them up.
Most vegetables should be kept cool and out of direct sunlight immediately after picking and until processed or consumed.
Onions are an exception because they should be dried in the sun before storing. Many root vegetables such as carrots should be dug rather than pulled straight from the soil so they don’t break off, while peas, beans and tomatoes can be picked from their vines.
Broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbages should be cut off with a knife or pruning tool.
n Store appropriately. Even after harvest, respiration and other life processes continue, and in most cases a slowing of these processes will increase the shelf life of the vegetable.
There are various temperatures and practices that will optimize storage life. This subject will be discussed in more depth in a future article.
Here are a few quick tips for harvesting vegetables at their peak:
n Asparagus needs to be snapped off or cut at ground level when stalks are 6 to 10 inches tall. Harvest over a period of six to eight weeks before allowing the plant to go to seed. This allows energy to feed the roots for next year’s crop.
n Snap beans should be picked just as they are beginning to fill out. They should snap easily when bent in two.
Green beans should not be picked when wet to avoid spreading disease. Keep up regular picking to encourage the vine to keep producing. Garden pea pods should be light green and filled with round but tender peas.
n Check your root crop varieties, i.e. carrots, turnips and parsnips, for estimated days to harvest before digging a sample. Gently loosen the soil and remove one to determine if ready.
Harvest beets between 1 to 3 inches in diameter for best tenderness. Beet greens also make good additions to salads or when cooked.
n Cool crops are planted in spring for a fall crop. Broccoli should be harvested before the flowers start to open. Pick every three to four days.
Brussels sprouts should be bright green and firm and are picked from the lower plant when they are between 1 to 1.5 inches.
Cabbage and lettuce heads should be firm at harvest. Optimum size will depend on your specific variety. Swiss chard is best cut from the outer leaves when 6 to 10 inches.
Kale can be picked throughout the season but is best in cooler weather. Use the cut-and-come-again method.
n Use scissors to cut leaf lettuce from the outer leaves, letting more grow from the inside. Look for bolt-resistant varieties and plant at two-week intervals. Row covers can protect the plant from bolting as the season heats up.
n Harvest summer squash when they are 4 to 7 inches long and the skin is soft and rubbery. Check often. Market cucumbers are best when young with smooth, firm fruit.
n Corn should be picked just before consuming. Feel for full, rounded kernels beneath the husk, check that the silk at the top of the ear is drying out, and look a milky sap that is produced when you pop a kernel with your fingernail.
n For green onions, harvest when they are about the size of a pencil. Larger onions are ready when their tops start to bend over and yellow. Leeks are harvested when they are between one-half and 1-1/2 inches in diameter. Garlic is ready when one-third of the top has died back.
n Pick tomatoes when they are fully colored but firm. Peppers will vary with variety and how hot you prefer them. Check your seed packet. Eggplant is best when slightly immature with shiny, firm fruit.
n New potatoes can be dug when flowers form on the plant. Wait for full growth die-back to harvest mature potatoes for storage, giving them time to form a firm, hardened skin.
n Once you cannot easily sink your fingernail into the winter squash or pumpkin, the fruit is ripe enough to store. Leave a few inches of stem on the plant. Usually the vines are drying at this point.