6 maart 2023
Why Progeny Breeding has chosen E-Brida
Colombia is the second largest chrysanthemum exporting country, with over 160 million euros of export value. Progeny Breeding is one of the leading companies in Chrysanthemum breeding. Recently the company chose to work with Agri Information Partners’ software solution, E-Brida. We are curious about the first experiences Esteban Falconi Ph.D. Research Director of Progeny Breeding, wants to share.
Where are your breeding sites for those who do not know the geophysics of Columbia?
Progeny Breeding has developed two breeding sites to breed varieties suited for Bogota Savannah and lower altitudes close to Medellin. The evaluation area is in “La Ceja,” the most significant production area in the country. Progeny Breeding’s varieties are known to have the best characteristics for the American, European, and Asian markets.
What is essential in your breeding operations?
As a plant breeding company, we permanently generate much information and we need to keep, in a very well-organized way, all the data collected in evaluations, trials, experiments, etc. It allows us to take advantage of these data with calculations and analyses that we need to perform all the time.
What made you decide to work with E-Brida?
The growth of the Company has driven us to make this wise decision. We must deal with bigger and bigger databases, and we realized that E-Brida could be the tool that we need to organize all this data and make it available to access and analyze it.
You are a new user of E-Brida. Can you describe the impact noticeable on your breeding operations? What is the most significant change you reckon?
Because E-Brida has developed an integrated system to collect the data directly from the field (using a simple device/cellphone), all these data are stored on our server. Even our images get stored in E-Brida . You can imagine that our amount of data is incredibly high. The significant advantage of using E-Brida is that every single data is associated with every Pedigree Item. Hence, data analyses and results come faster and are structured.
What is your idea of using the other software solution Mercado
At the moment we are not using Mercado because we focus on E-Brida.
What do you think of the cooperation of Agri Information Partners?
We received the appropriate training and a permanent accompaniment. So far, we have gotten timely attention and response. We are totally satisfied. Thank you, Esteban for your cooperation and openness! We think it’s a pleasure working with Progeny Breeding and certainly support your quote “Let’s watch the flowers grow!”. Good luck in the future!


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Canada’s largest development project in Afghanistan may actually be fuelling the opium boom. Ottawa calls it Canada’s “signature project” in the country: a $50-million scheme to rebuild the country’s second-largest dam, the Dahla Dam, and a long-neglected network of irrigation canals in Afghanistan’s main breadbasket region.
This region of fertile farmland also happens to be Kandahar’s main opium-growing belt, according to the UN’s 2010 Afghan Opium Survey.
One of the districts that have benefited from the Canadian irrigation scheme is Zhari, just west of Kandahar City. Since 2008, when the Canadian project began, Zhari has emerged as one of Afghanistan’s key opium-growing areas. Opium cultivation there shot up by 70 percent from 2,923 hectares in 2008 to 4,978 in 2010, according to the UN survey.
The Dahla Dam itself is located in a district called Shah Wali Kot, just northeast of Kandahar City. Opium cultivation there has risen 45 percent since the Canadian project started, from 560 hectares in 2008 to 813 hectares last year.
In Kandahar province as a whole, opium production remained flat from 2005 to 2008, averaging about 14,000 hectares. Then it suddenly shot up to 20,000 hectares in 2009 and almost 26,000 last year.
Findings from the UN’s Office on Drugs and Crime show that opium growers are benefiting from the rebuilt irrigation canals and ditches. Its 2007 Afghan Opium Survey reported that 37 percent of villages getting irrigation aid or other external assistance were cultivating opium.


New Delhi: Bollywood star Akshay Kumar on Tuesday met Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to discuss issues related to the country’s farming sector. The actor, who has been busy promoting his forthcoming film “Singh Is Blinng”, spoke to Kejriwal for 30 minutes, and they discussed issues related to the farming sector, growing farmers’ suicides and ways to help farmers get out of the distress situation, read a statement from the Directorate of Information and Publicity.
During his 30-minute meeting with Mr Kejriwal held at Secretariat, the actor discussed issues related to the farming sector, growing farmer suicides and ways to help them get out of distress situation. A government official said Mr Askhay Kumar also briefed the Chief Minister on the work he has been doing for the farmers and how he supports 30 farmers every month.
Expressing concern over the suicides of farmers in some parts of the country, Mr Kejriwal asked the Bollywood actor how the Delhi government could be of help in extending a helping hand to them. “We will do whatever we can. We must devise a method to help. It’s very disheartening to see the situation. They are the ones who feed us, therefore, we must take care of them. We need to get to the root cause of the problem.
They must get their due,” the Chief Minister said. Mr Akshay Kumar also expressed concern over increasing numbers quitting farming for more lucrative professions. He stressed the need to run a campaign for the cause of farmers and farming. “We must come forward to help them. People are not happy to farming, we must go back to our roots. It is very important. We need to have a campaign for the cause,” the Bollywood actor said. In his discussions with the actor, the Chief Minister said the farmers’ plight was largely due to hoarding of farm produce and undue profiteering by the middlemen.
Issues like the drug menace in Punjab and how it was affecting a whole generation were also discussed during the meeting,’ the official said. The Aam Aadmi Party, which is considered as an active player for the coming assembly poll in Punjab, has been campaigning against the drug menace in the state affecting the youth


Grazing horses on agricultural land
Understanding the difference between agricultural use and equestrian use and how to document a grazing arrangement.
Horses can be dangerous, as can the arrangements for keeping them!
The agricultural use of land and the equestrian use of land are two very different things as any planning enforcement officer will quickly explain to you. Grazing agreements, farm business tenancies and protected business tenancies are all very different too as any lawyer will tell you.
“Grazing” horses on land is classified as agricultural from a planning use perspective even where the horses are recreational rather than working horses. The key is that the horses are only on the land for the primary purpose of “grazing”. If the horses are given supplemental feed, kept in a field for exercise, covered with rugs or if they are provided with a field shelter then the predominant use of the land may no longer be regarded as agricultural. Any non-agricultural use will require planning permission for change of use although temporary use (up to 28 days a year) for events such as gymkhanas and cross-country competitions can be held on agricultural land without the need for planning permission.
If horses are to be kept for grazing then a grazing agreement or licence should be entered into and in such circumstances it may be possible to retain the benefit of farming subsidies. If the grazing arrangement has any link to a trade or business then provided it just relates to genuine grazing of an agricultural nature then a farm business tenancy is likely to arise but where there is any non-agricultural element along the lines of the examples outlined above then the arrangement may fall within the definition of a business tenancy within the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 which affords a degree of protection (security of tenure) for the occupier. It is very easy to document a grazing arrangement in the wrong way.
Cases will turn on their facts and problems with the local planning authority or with protected tenancies can prove very costly. Be aware and seek advice.


THE HIGHEST QUALITY
Ammonium nitrate, (NH4NO3), a salt of ammonia and nitric acid, used widely in fertilizers and explosives. The commercial grade contains about 33.5 percent nitrogen, all of which is in forms utilizable by plants; it is the most common nitrogenous component of artificial fertilizers. Ammonium nitrate also is employed to modify the detonation rate of other explosives, such as nitroglycerin in the so-called ammonia dynamites, or as an oxidizing agent in the ammonals, which are mixtures of ammonium nitrate and powdered aluminum.
Ammonium nitrate is a popular fertilizer since it provides half of the N in the nitrate form and half in the ammonium form. The nitrate form moves readily with soil water to the roots, where it’s immediately available for plant uptake. The ammonium fraction is taken up by roots or gradually converted to nitrate by soil microorganisms. Many vegetable growers prefer an immediately available nitrate source of plant nutrition and use ammonium nitrate. Animal farmers like it for pasture and hay fertilization since it’s less susceptible to volatilization losses than urea-based fertilizers when left on the soil surface.
Ammonium nitrate is commonly mixed with other fertilizers, but these mixtures can’t be stored for long periods because of a tendency to absorb moisture from the air. The very high solubility of ammonium nitrate makes it well suited for making solutions for fertigation or foliar sprays.
Concerns over illegal use of this fertilizer for explosives have caused strict government regulation in many parts of the world. Restrictions on sales and transportation have caused some fertilizer dealers to discontinue handling this material.
A low-density form of prilled ammonium nitrate is widely used as an explosive in the mining industry and on construction sites. Manufacturers intentionally make it porous to allow rapid adsorption of fuel oil (termed “ANFO”).
Instant cold packs are made with two bags—one containing dry ammonium nitrate and the second containing water. When the barrier separating the bags is ruptured, the ammonium nitrate rapidly dissolves in an endothermic reaction, lowering the pack’s temperature to 2 to 3 degrees Celsius within a very short time.
|1||Nitrogen Content||Wt %||S.T.E.C 2,4,2*||34/3 min|
|2||Moisture||Wt %||S.T.E.C 2,4,4*||0/2 max|
|3||Anticake||Wt %||---||0/05 min|
|4||Particle Size (1-4 mm)||%||S.T.E.C 2,4,6*||96 min|
|5||SO4||Wt %||S.T.E.C 2,4,7*||0/15 min|
Nitrogen fertilizer with 46% urea nitrogen that must undergo the nitrification process to be assimilable by the crop, and this process greatly depends on the soil and environmental conditions. Depending on these factors, it can be used both during sowing and as a top dressing.
It is applied mostly as a top dressing for any type of crop, preferably in warm areas to ensure a faster transformation process.
During sowing, the application must be carried out as far in advance as possible so that the nitrogen is available as soon as the crop requires it.
The agricultural industry widely uses urea, a white crystalline solid containing 46 percent nitrogen as an animal feed additive and fertilizer.
|Test Item||Spec (%)||Test Method|
|Formaldehyde||0.55||UKF SBB 0071|
|Particle Size||90||IV-A TFI-1982|


Escape to your own secluded sanctuary with this exquisite 280-acre ranch in the heart of Central Texas.
As you step onto the grounds, you'll be greeted by a landscape adorned with majestic oak trees that have stood the test of time. These towering trees provide not only shade and character but also a sense of connection to the land's rich history.
A highlight of this remarkable ranch is the expansive tank, elegantly nestled within the property. Stocked with a variety of fish, it beckons both seasoned anglers and those seeking quiet contemplation by the water's edge. This serene oasis adds a touch of serenity to the landscape, inviting you to unwind and appreciate the wonders of nature.
Nature enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise as the property teems with wildlife. From deer gracefully grazing in the meadows to the symphony of bird songs echoing through the trees, every day becomes a chance to witness the wonders of the natural world.
For those with an agricultural inclination, the ranch boasts a thriving Klein grass field currently in hay production. The prospect of cultivating your own harvest is not only a practical opportunity but also a chance to immerse yourself in the rewarding rhythms of rural life.
Immerse yourself in the sweeping vistas and awe-inspiring horizons that define this exceptional property. Whether you're dreaming of a private retreat, an equestrian haven, or a place to build your legacy, this ranch promises a canvas of possibilities. Don't miss the chance to witness the enchanting views for yourself—schedule a visit to this extraordinary property and experience the allure of Central Texas ranch living at its finest.


Sustainability and Animal Care
Our farming partners are some of the most important members of the Baileys family.
Since the very first successfully crafted bottle of Baileys, we’ve been supporting Irish farming by working with some of the same family farms, year after year.
We work with them to create a routine for the cows and also for the flora, fauna, land, water and the farm crew. From making sure that the grass stays at its healthiest most perfect shade of green, to maintaining best irrigation practices and minimising waste where possible.
It’s not only to ensure our milk will continue to taste its best, but also so that future herds will have the same perfectly luscious fields to graze upon for countless years to come. It’s important too, that our partner farmers will have the ability to continue passing on the farm to future generations of farmers to come.
We, and our partner farmers, love the cows that make Baileys Irish Cream.
We’ve seen that look of recognition and awe on so many faces when we start talking about our partner farms and their cows. It’s like a lightbulb goes off – of course cows are involved in the Baileys recipe, which is why it is important that the cows are treated with such love and care.
Animal happiness is hugely important to us. For example, Joe plays his favourite music to help his herd relax during the milking process. It may sound a little funny, but that care and attention may just be the secret to the deliciousness in every bottle.
The cows hang out together on grass fed farms, exploring more grass than the eye can see, grazing for roughly 280 days of the year and only coming inside on chilly days. It’s important that our partners cows are comfortable, and to make sure they are, by giving each cow a stress test once a month by an independent technician.


ACTIVE INGREDIENT: Carbendazim
Formulation: Suspension Concentrate - SC
Mechanism of Action: Systemic fungicide with contact and curative action, which is absorbed through roots and green tissues and translocates acropetally. Rodazim® 50 SC inhibits the development of germ tubes, the formation of appressoria and the growth of mycelium. It is used in the control of pathogens such as Fusarium, Colletotrichum and Rhizoctonia in beans and rice.


Rough Bark Greenhouse at the Home CentreActions
Rough Bark Greenhouse at the Home Centre
May 4, 2023
The Prairie Sky Co-op Home Centre is excited to welcome the Rough Bark Greenhouse!
The Greenhouse will open on May 13th at 7am. 15 Courtlin Rd
The Greenhouse is located inside the Home Centre and therefore will be open during normal business hours.
Monday to Saturday — 7am to 7pm
Sunday — 10am to 5pm
What items will be offered at the Rough Bark Greenhouse?
- Shade, spruce and other trees
- Locally grown flowers
- Certified Organic Vegetable bedding plants


About our Farm
We are on a mission to improve human health and the health of the planet by changing the way food is grown & raised through regenerative agriculture. We produce low PUFA pasture-raised eggs and grass-fed lamb that is better for you and for the planet.
At our farm, there are no toxic chemicals or added hormones. We are farming as nature intended.
It all started with health.
Our names are Ashley and Sarah - two sisters who have been through a lot of health challenges.
Along our health journey, we realized that the way your food is grown and raised impacts your health.
Industrial agriculture and the current food system focus on maximizing yield with toxic chemicals at the expense of nutrients, human health and soil health.
This system is degrading our soil at unsustainable rates, which will result in the reliance on chemically-dependent lab made food, further disconnecting us from nature and hindering human health.
We decided to pursue regenerative ag as first generation farmers to do our part in fixing the food system and improving human health.
Insert our farm - Angel Acres.
Regenerative agriculture refers to a set of farming practices (including holistic planned grazing, biodynamic farming, permaculture, silvopasture, & diverse cover cropping) with the main goal of improving soil health, which is directly related to human health.
Rather than relying on external inputs (like fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, etc.) in industrial agriculture, regenerative land management strategies focus on soil biology & work with nature.
In proper functioning soil, plants intake carbon from the atmosphere, convert it into sugars, & then pump some of the sugars through their roots to feed microorganisms that use the carbon to build soil.
These microorganisms have access to water & a wide array of nutrients deeper in the soil, which they send to the plant in exchange for liquid carbon “food” - a beautiful symbiotic relationship which produces more nutrient-dense food.
Regenerative Agriculture results in...
💧Soil that has greater water-holding capacity, making it more resilient to droughts & flooding.
🦟Crops that are more pest resistant.
🌎More carbon cycled into the soil & less in the atmosphere.
💰Less expensive fossil-fuel based inputs to grow food & more $ in the farmer’s pockets (which yes will come at a cost of large agrochemical companies profits, sorry Bayer).
🌱The restoration of ecosystems.
🚰An improved water cycle & cleaner water.
🥭And soil that can grow more nutrient dense food to feed a healthy population.
In addition to producing nutrient-dense food, our goal is to create an educational and experiential hub where people can come visit, stay, and learn about and experience regenerative agriculture. Expanding the reach of regenerative agriculture is crucially important, as our agriculture system is broken. Industrial agriculture focuses on maximizing yield at the expense of nutrients and soil health. This system is degrading our soil at unsustainable rates, which will inevitably result in humans having to eventually rely on lab made food, further hindering human health. To produce more nutrient-dense food (and thus improve human health), our soil needs regenerative agriculture, and we need to #MakeSoilSexyAgain.


Chandigarh, April 13 – The Punjab Cabinet led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday welcomed the decision of the Union Government to accept the request of the State Government to revisit the norms of shrivelled grains for the ongoing procurement of wheat. It also decided to appeal to the Union Government to issue the order for relaxations in the norms at the earliest.
Disclosing this, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that the Secretary, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs briefed the Cabinet about the status of the ongoing procurement. It was informed that 14.9 Lakh MT of wheat had arrived in the Mandis out of which more than 12 Lakh MT had already been purchased. More than 2 lakh MT of wheat, out of 5 Lakh MT that arrived yesterday alone, had been purchased on the day of arrival itself, he revealed.
The spokesperson added that while welcoming the early constitution of Central teams to assess the damage of shrivel grains in the state, the Cabinet also appealed to the Central Government to allow relaxation in the norms of shrivelled grains without any value cut, since the farmer had already been penalised on account of lower yield. A formal request in this regard had already been made by the State Government, he added.
It may be noted that due to extreme heat conditions the wheat grain has become shrivelled in many places and the grain coming in these Mandis contains shrivelled grain beyond the permissible limit of 6%. Thereafter, the Department of Food and Public Distribution, Government of India, had yesterday constituted five teams to assess the extent of the problem in the state. The teams are on the way and shall shortly arrive in the State to get a first hand assessment of the extent of shrivelled grain arriving in the Mandis. This data will then help the Government of India in taking a final decision on grant of appropriate relaxation in the specifications.
The spokesperson added that the Cabinet laid absolute emphasis on farmer welfare and asked the Department to take all possible steps to ensure smooth procurement. It also asked the Department to resolve any genuine issues of the staff deputed by the procurement agencies for procurement of wheat.


Sip & Crunch
Following on from our post about our first food partners, Pump Street Chocolate, we next wanted to introduce you to our favourite crisps, Savoursmiths!
Again, an East Anglian connection with them based in Cambridge, we like to work with local companies wherever we can. As soon as we saw their eye-catching designs and intriguing characters, we just knew we had to offer something together.
'In September 2016 we came together to create something rather special – Savoursmiths Luxury Potato Crisps. Cut from potatoes grown on our family farm in Cambridgeshire, we have created a better breed of crisps, with exceptionally indulgent and flamboyant flavours, and leaving the skin on to increase the nutritional value.
Although crisping potatoes is rooted to established and traditional techniques, our crisps are modern, intuitive and fearless, with a confidence born out of both knowledge and use of the best high quality ingredients from around the world.
Our brand was founded in 2016. Mike was raised on Russell Smith Farms and he has a natural love for English farming and the English countryside, later studying Agriculture at Cirencester. Food and farming has always been Mike’s passion and he has now moved back to the family farm taking the business in a modern direction and co-founding the Savoursmiths brand, which uses the farm’s incredible potatoes as well as luxurious international ingredients.
Colette was born in the food and wine region of South Africa and has always been a passionate foodie. Colette is a globetrotting model with a love of the British countryside. She is co-founder of the SAVOURSMITHS brand, combining quality home-grown produce with big global flavours in stylish packaging for a totally new take on a traditional snack.'


Some kids might think honey comes from bears if they like hearing Pooh stories. Some kids might think honey comes from the grocery store. Have a bee-utiful time this month learning about honey, flowers, and bees in science.
Bees make honey to feed their young and to have something to eat during the winter. Bees live in colonies. There are three types of bees in each colony. the queen bee, the worker bee and the drone.
Bees do give us honey, but they also are great pollinators. They buzz around looking for nectar and enable plants to produce the fruits and nuts we enjoy by carrying pollen from one plant or flower to the next. Sometimes farmers contact professional beekeepers to have them send honeybees to them in order to help their crops get pollinated.
Scientists have a hard time studying bees because they can travel up to two miles from their hive to look for nectar and if they get hurt or die, the scientist doesn’t know where to find them so he can find out why they died. Also, when scientists return to a hive they have been studying, about half the bees they studied on their first visit will be dead, replaced by new ones in the natural life cycle of bees.


Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair, nestled in the heart of Vosne-Romanee, is a testament to winemaking excellence and resilience. This winemaking legacy began with Louis Liger-Belair, a general from Napoleon's army, who acquired the Château de Vosne-Romanée Estate in 1815. This once vast estate covered sixty hectares of some of the most prestigious vineyards in France, including the celebrated grand cru monopole, La Romanée. An unfortunate inheritance issue in 1933 led to the divestment of most of the family's holdings, leaving only a fraction of the former glory.
In the year 2000, the narrative of the domaine changed dramatically when Louis-Michel Liger-Belair, an agricultural engineer and oenologist, seized the reins of the family Domaine. Armed with dedication and an innovative spirit, he transformed the winemaking process, embracing biodynamic farming methods across the Domaine's near nine hectares. His holistic approach to farming includes the use of a horse-drawn plow and careful handling of the vineyard's fruit to respect grape integrity.
Among the more technical aspects of their winemaking, the Domaine is known for a distinct blend of free-run and pressed juices, allowing the lees to settle to avoid racking. They employ three different barrel types sourced from three different forests, offering unique characteristics to the wine. Bottling is done by gravity without the use of fining or filtration, a testament to the purity of the wine production process.
Today, the Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair produces some of the world's most esteemed wines, their offerings vibrating with a "seriousness of intent" (Jancis Robinson). The wines’ unique quality stems not just from the dedication and expertise of Louis-Michel, but also from the profound lineage of the Liger-Belair family that has been intertwined with the vineyards and wines of Burgundy for over two centuries. This profound history, paired with the Domaine's future-facing approach to winemaking, ensures their place as a cherished producer in the heart of Burgundy.


Grelen Tree Care, Inc. is a partner company to Grelen Nursery and specializes in plant health and maintenance. Services include tree removal, expert pruning and plant health care. With the environment in mind, Grelen Tree Care utilizes an integrated pest management approach applying spray only where there is a need to control the problem. This allows for effective eradication of plant pests and diseases with minimal overspray and limits the negative impact on the surroundings.
HOURS & CONTACT INFORMATION
Please click on the links below to see hours of operation and contact information for our various entities. Please note that The Market at Grelen & Grelen Nursery are incorporated separately and have different hours!!


Dr. Joseph Harrision
, professor and researcher at Washington State University.
Dr. Joseph Harrison, professor and researcher at Washington State University, is involved with extensive research related to dairy cattle nutrition and its influence on nutrient management. The following research focuses on the effects of potassium and positive dietary cation-anion difference (DCAD) levels on lactating dairy cattle performance.
Tell us a little about your experience with DCAD research.¹
Potassium is an essential regulator of sweat glands, helping keep cows cool, maintain rumen integrity and produce high levels of milk. Realizing that dairy cattle lose excessive amounts of potassium each day through normal daily functions and production needs, our research has focused on increasing levels and delivering potassium to the dairy cow.
In our study, 30 Holstein cows were randomly assigned to one of two groups at 15 days in milk (DIM) through 85 DIM. The Control group was fed potassium through forage sources only at the rate of 1.2% dry matter, resulting in a ration formulated for a DCAD of +25 meq/100g ration dry matter. Treatment cows were supplemented with DCAD Plus® Feed Grade Potassium Carbonate to increase dietary potassium to 2% dry matter and to increase DCAD to +42 meq/100g as shown in the table below.
What were the results of boosting DCAD in lactating cow rations?
Through our research we found that boosting DCAD levels in the early stages of lactation can optimize dry matter intake (DMI) and increase milk and component yields. The chart below outlines the significant improvements in milk fat that were seen in cows fed DCAD Plus. We attributed these improvements to additional rumen buffering to help stabilize the high metabolic acid load occurring to meet the production demands of early lactation animals.
From the trials and milk samples we discovered that potassium also has an effect at the rumen level, lowering the amount of trans-fatty acids in fluid milk.
What are the implications of these findings for dairy producers?
Over the last 18 months, dairy producers have faced many financial hardships; increasing the DCAD levels in the early lactation cows of your herd can improve income over feed cost (IOFC) through increased component levels and feed efficiency.
1 White R, Harrison J, Kincaid R, Block E, St-Pierre N. Effectiveness of potassium carbonate to increase dietary cation-anion difference in early lactation cows. J Dairy Sci 2008; 91: Abstr. 106


Jinshan Zhang, Zhenyu Zhou, Jinjuan Bai, Xiaoping Tao, Ling Wang, Hui Zhang, Jian-Kang Zhu, Disruption of MIR396e and MIR396f improves rice yield under nitrogen-deficient conditions, National Science Review, Volume 7, Issue 1, January 2020, Pages 102–112, https://doi.org/10.1093/nsr/nwz142
The microRNA miR396 directly represses GROWTH-REGULATING FACTORs (OsGRFs) and has been implicated in regulating rice yield and in nitrogen assimilation. Overexpressing the miR396 targets OsGRF4 and OsGRF6 improves rice yield via increased grain size and panicle branching, respectively. Here, we used CRISPR/Cas9 to assess the function of miR396 genes in rice. Knockout of MIR396ef (MIR396e and MIR396f), but not other isoforms, enhanced both grain size and panicle branching, resulting in increased grain yield. Importantly, under nitrogen-deficient conditions, mir396ef mutants showed an even higher relative increase in grain yield as well as elevated above-ground biomass. Furthermore, we identified OsGRF8 as a new target of miR396, in addition to the known targets OsGRF4 and OsGRF6. Disruption of the miR396-targeting site in OsGRF8 was sufficient to both enlarge grain size and elongate panicles. Our results suggest that rice-seed and panicle development are regulated by miR396ef-GRF4/6/8-GIF1/2/3 modules and that miR396ef are promising targets of genome editing for breeding environmentally friendly rice varieties that require less nitrogen fertilization.
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are single-stranded, non-coding RNAs of 21–24 nucleotides, which typically load into a silencing complex to direct cleavage or translational inhibition, and thus repression, of complementary messenger RNAs (mRNAs) [1–3]. In plants, miRNAs act as key regulators to control development, growth and stress tolerance [4–6].
Several miRNAs have been shown to control rice yield. For example, miR156 and miR397 affect rice yield by regulating their targets, OsSPLs and OsLACs, respectively [5–9]. The microRNA miR396 was recently shown to regulate rice-grain yield by targeting the transcription factors growth-regulating factors (GRFs), which execute their function via GRF-interacting factors (GIFs) . miR396 can target and thus limit the expression of both OsGRF4 and OsGRF6 in rice . OsGRF4 controls grain development by regulating many brassinosteroid-induced genes and disruption of the miR396 target site in OsGRF4 enhances grain size and yield in rice [12,13]. OsGRF4 also balances the inhibitory activities of DELLA to promote and integrate nitrogen assimilation, carbon fixation and growth , but whether this is regulated by miR396 is not known. OsGRF6 directly promotes the expression of panicle-branching factor genes OsTAWAWA1 and OsMADS34, and decreased expression of MIR396b or overexpression of OsGRF6 increases the panicle-branching number and, in turn, grain yield . Overexpression of the miR396 target genes AtGRF1, AtGRF2 and AtGRF5 in Arabidopsis leads to the production of larger seeds, indicating that a miR396-GRF regulatory network broadly participates in seed development .
miR396 antagonizes the expression of its target GRF2 in the distal part of leaves, restricting cell proliferation in developed tissues . miR396 also negatively regulates cell proliferation by markedly decreasing the expression of cell-cycle-related genes, such as CYCLINB1;1 and TCP4 [17,18]. An miR396-GRF-GIF regulatory network has also been reported to regulate growth, development and abiotic stress tolerance in Arabidopsis [19,20]. Overexpression of miR396 in Arabidopsis reduces the accumulation of GRF7 [19,21]. GRF7 directly represses DEHYDRATION-RESPONSIVE ELEMENT BINDING PROTEIN2A (DREB2A) and other genes that are up-regulated in response to abscisic acid; these genes enhance tolerance of dehydration and high-salinity conditions in Arabidopsis plants .
Given that a single miRNA often targets multiple genes to regulate diverse biological processes, identifying and manipulating key miRNAs is considered a potential strategy to improve agronomic traits of crop plants . Gene-editing technology has been applied to improve agronomic traits and we were interested in using this approach to manipulate key miRNAs and generate resources for breeding elite crop varieties. Here, we studied the individual functions of the eight members of the miR396 gene family in rice. We discovered that two members, miR396e and miR396f (miR396ef), regulate seed and panicle development. mir396ef mutants showed increases in grain size and panicle branching, which resulted in increased grain yield. Importantly, mir396ef mutations showed a more substantial increase in grain yield and above-ground biomass under conditions of nitrogen deficiency. We demonstrated that OsGRF4, OsGRF6 and OsGRF8 are the main targets of miR396ef and that miR396-GRF4/6/8-GIF1/2/3 modules regulate rice-grain and panicle development. Our work suggests that miR396ef is an attractive target for generating high-yield rice plants that are less dependent on nitrogen fertilization.
miR396ef isoforms regulate grain development in rice
Rice contains five different miR396 isoforms, encoded by eight genes (Fig. 1A). According to the plant miRNA database PmiREN (Plant miRNA ENcyclopedia, http://www.pmiren.com/), the family members MIR396e and f have the highest expression in reproductive tissues, such as inflorescence, florets and spikelets (Supplementary Table 1) [23,24]. MIR396c is also expressed in these reproductive tissues, but at a relatively lower level (Supplementary Table 1) [23,24]. To identify the miR396 isoforms that modulate rice-seed and panicle development, we used CRISPR-Cas9 and five sgRNA constructs to knock out the eight MIR396 members (Supplementary Fig. 1). miR396a–c and miR396e–f have the same mature sequences, respectively, and each group was targeted by one construct. Although miR396 d, g and h also have the same mature sequence, they are located on the complementary strands of different genes, and therefore were targeted by three different constructs to avoid functional disruptions of overlapping genes (Supplementary Fig. 1D).
CRISPR lines with mutations in mature miR396 regions, which should disrupt function, were selected for further study. Unexpectedly, only mir396ef mutants exhibited grain-size phenotypes, whereas the remaining mir396 mutants displayed no differences compared with wild-type (WT) (Fig. 1B and Supplementary Figs 2 and 3). In addition, mir396abc triple mutants, mir396d and mir396g single mutants (with non-frameshift mutations in overlapping genes) and mir396h mutants exhibited no differences in morphological phenotypes compared to WT, including plant height (Supplementary Figs 2A and 3A, E and I), grain length, grain width (Fig. 1B and Supplementary Figs 2B and C and 3B, C, F, G, J and K) and panicle architecture (Supplementary Figs 2D and E and 3M and N). We also applied the short tandem target MIMICs (STTM) technology to block miR396ab functions (Supplementary Fig. 4A and E). The STTM-miR396 lines showed similar seed length, seed width and panicle branching compared with WT (Supplementary Fig. 4B–D).
In contrast, compared with the WT, mir396ef mutants showed obvious increases in grain length, width and thickness (increased 8.46%, 7.95% and 8.16%, respectively) (Fig. 1B and C). The 1000-grain weight was also significantly increased in mir396ef (31.78 ± 0.55 g) compared to WT (25.12 ± 0.30 g) (Fig. 1D). We obtained many mir396ef double-mutant CRISPR lines with different genotypes, all of which displayed the same seed phenotypes, confirming the functions of MIR396ef during seed development (Fig. 1B and Supplementary Fig. 5A and B). We generated mir396abcef mutants by crossing mir396abc with mir396ef mutants, which showed similar grain length and width as mir396ef (Fig. 1B). The mature isoform of miR396ef was almost undetectable in mir396ef leaf and flower (Fig. 1E and F), indicating successful elimination of MIR396e and f.
Due to the extremely high genome-editing efficiency at the mi396e and f target sites, we obtained only mir396ef double mutants. To obtain an mir396e single mutant, we designed an sgRNA to specifically disrupt MIR396e (Supplementary Fig. 6A and B). The grain length and width of mir396e mutants are 4.77% and 5.58% larger than the WT, respectively (Supplementary Fig. 6C and D). The seed phenotypes of mir396e are weaker than that of mir396ef double mutants (Supplementary Fig. 6C), suggesting that both MIR396e and MIR396f contribute to the grain-size development. We examined putative off-target loci for miR396abc and miR396ef target sequences and did not observe any mutations (Supplementary Fig. 7). These results indicate that both miR396e and f isoforms are involved in rice-grain development, although mir396f single mutants are needed to confirm the function of miR396f.
mir396ef mutants display simultaneous increases in grain size and panicle branching
The increased seed size of the mir396ef mutants was associated with a significantly enlarged grain husk, as demonstrated by both histological sectioning and scanning electron microscopy (Fig. 2O and P). The length and number of inner palea and lemma cells were significantly increased in the mir396ef grain husk compared with the WT (Fig. 2M and N). An MIR396e-promoter::GUS assay indicated that MIR396e was expressed in grain hull, spikelet, leaf and root (Supplementary Fig. 8), consistently with its regulation of grain-husk development.
We found that mir396ef mutant plants (74.13 ±3.54 cm) were taller than the WT (69.33 ± 3.20 cm), though the tiller number was similar to WT (Fig. 2A–C). In addition, compared to the WT flag leaf, the mir396ef flag leaf was 32.8% longer but had the same width (Fig. 2D, G and H), resulting in an increased leaf area. The photosynthetic rates of the flag leaf showed no difference between the mir396ef and the WT in the paddy field (Supplementary Fig. 9). The unchanged photosynthetic rates with increased leaf area would enhance overall photosynthesis, perhaps leading to the seed increase in mir396ef mutants relative to WT.
Rice grains grow on the panicle with numerous branches. Longer panicles and more panicle branches generally correlate with more grains. Compared to WT, mir396ef lines had longer panicles (20.55 ± 1.83 vs 17.93 ± 1.64 cm), more primary branches (8.8 ± 1.34 vs 7.33 ± 1.56) and higher grain numbers per panicle (77.82 ± 8.89 vs 72.35 ± 10.96) (Fig. 2E, F, I, J and K). However, the mir396ef panicles were partly enwrapped by the flag leaf, which affects the fertility and filling of the enwrapped panicle (Supplementary Fig. 10A–C).
The phenotypes of mir396ef, including a longer flag leaf for enhanced photosynthesis, larger grain size for more grain weight and more grains per panicle, suggest that mir396ef could be valuable targets to increase grain yield. Our paddy-field plot-yield test revealed an approximately 4% increase in grain yield on conventional agricultural 270 kg ha−1 nitrogen fertilizer (Fig. 2L). Like WT mature pollens, mir396ef pollens were deeply stained by iodine–potassium iodide (I2-KI) and their fertility was not changed (Supplementary Fig. 10D–F). The yield increase of 396ef was below what we expected, perhaps due to a higher rate of empty grains in the mir396ef mutants than in WT (Supplementary Fig. 10C).
We also tested grain-quality traits in the mir396ef mutants. The brown and polished grains of mir396ef mutants had a more ‘white splotch’ appearance compared with the WT-grain appearance (Supplementary Fig. 11A and B). The alkali-spreading value (gelatinization temperature) as well as the percentage and degree of chalkiness were increased (Supplementary Fig. 11C, D and F), whereas the gel consistency was decreased in the mir396ef mutants compared with the WT (Supplementary Fig. 11E).
mir396ef mutants exhibit significantly increased grain yield under nitrogen-deficient conditions
The miR396 target OsGRF4 confers increased nitrogen assimilation and biomass accumulation in rice . To investigate the response of miR396 to nitrogen treatments, we examined the expression of miR396 family members in seedlings grown in hydroponic culture either with or without nitrogen supply. We found that the levels of miR396f increased transiently in seedlings grown under nitrogen-deficient conditions, reaching a maximum at about 6 hours after exposure to nitrogen deficiency, then decreasing and returning to normal levels at about 24 hours (Supplementary Fig. 12). In contrast, miR396e expression did not change in response to nitrogen deficiency (Supplementary Fig. 12).
Next, we examined the nitrogen assimilation of the mir396ef mutants at the rice-seedling stage. We found that seedlings from mir396ef plants had a significantly higher nitrogen content than those from WT plants, when grown in hydroponic culture either with or without nitrogen supply (Fig. 3A and B). Recently, Li et al. showed that OsGRF4 recognizes the GCGG core motif by ChIP-Seq; ChIP-PCR and Electrophoretic Mobility Shift Assay (EMSA) confirmed that OsGRF4 associates with promoters that contain this motif and regulate genes involved in ammonia and nitrate metabolism, including GOGAT2, NIR1 and GS1.2, etc. . To determine whether genes involved in nitrogen assimilation and utilization are differentially expressed in mir396ef mutant and WT seedlings, we performed reverse-transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Specifically, we examined the expression of NIR1, NIR2, GOGAT2 and GS1.2, which encode enzymes involved in nitrogen assimilation . We also examined the AMINO ACID PERMEASE genes (OsAAPs), which are nitrogen-use-efficiency-related genes that determine amino-acid delivery from source to sink in plants [25,26]. All of these genes we examined showed increased expression in mir396ef mutant seedlings compared to WT seedlings (Fig. 3C and D). These results suggest that MIR396ef is involved in nitrogen assimilation and utilization in rice.
Next, we determined whether the improved nitrogen assimilation and utilization of mir396ef mutant plants affect growth and yield under nitrogen-deficient conditions. We found that mir396ef mutants grew substantially taller than WT plants when grown in hydroponic culture without nitrogen supply (Fig. 3A). Moreover, mir396ef plants showed a substantial yield increase (∼15%) compared with the WT under nitrogen-deficient conditions (0 kg ha−1 nitrogen fertilizer application) in the paddy field (Fig. 3E and F). The yield of mir396ef under low-nitrogen conditions was comparable to the yield of WT under normal nitrogen-fertilization conditions (Supplementary Table 2). Interestingly, mir396ef showed a 25% increase in above-ground dry biomass per plant under nitrogen-deficient conditions compared to WT plants (Fig. 3G).
Regulation of grain size and branch length by an miR396ef-GRFs-GIFs module
Twelve GRF transcription factors in rice harbor the miR396 target site . We found that only OsGRF4, OsGRF6 and OsGRF8 were up-regulated in mir396ef plants compared to WT (Fig. 4A). RLM-RACE (5′ RNA ligase mediated rapid amplification of cDNA ends) analysis showed that miR396 could direct the cleavage of OsGRF4 and OsGRF6 mRNAs in vivo at a specific site within the miR396 pairing region with leaf samples (Supplementary Fig. 13A). Interestingly, in leaf samples, miR396 caused the cleavage of OsGRF8 mRNA at a site 118 bp downstream of the miR396 pairing region, and results of transient co-expression assays in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves are consistent with such a cleavage (Supplementary Figs 13A and 14). However, in flower samples, miR396 could direct the cleavage of OsGRF8 mRNA at the predicted miR396 pairing region (Supplementary Fig. 13A).
To investigate whether miR396-mediated regulation of OsGRF4, OsGRF6 and OsGRF8 control seed and panicle development, we constructed miR396 target-resistant versions of OsGRF4, OsGRF6 and OsGRF8 (designated np:rGRF4, np:rGRF6 and np:rGRF8, respectively) (Fig. 4B) and introduced them into rice under the control of their respective native promoters. We found that np:rGRF4, np:rGRF6 and np:rGRF8 lines exhibited larger grain sizes than WT plants (Fig. 4C and Supplementary Fig. 13B–D), with np:rGRF4 showing the largest increase and np:rGRF6 showing the smallest increase (Fig. 4D and Supplementary Fig. 13B–D). Both np:rGRF6 and np:rGRF8 lines showed increased panicle lengths (Fig. 4E and F and Supplementary Fig. 13I), but their branching numbers remained unchanged compared to WT. The np:rGRF4 lines displayed similar panicle length and branching numbers to WT (Supplementary Fig. 13H). These results suggest that the miR396ef members regulate seed and panicle development by regulating their target genes OsGRF4, OsGRF6 and OsGRF8.
GRFs have been shown to interact with transcription coactivators GIFs [12,20]. To uncover GIFs that interact with OsGRF4 and OsGRF6, we performed a yeast two-hybrid assay. We found that OsGIF1, OsGIF2 and OsGIF3 interacted with OsGRF4, and OsGIF3 also interacted with OsGRF6 (Fig. 5A). Biomolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) assays confirmed these interactions in tobacco leaves (Supplementary Fig. 15). The expression of OsGIF1 was significantly increased in mir396ef plants (Supplementary Fig. 16A). We used the CRISPR/Cas9 technology to generate gif1 mutants and observed the expected short-leaf phenotype (Supplementary Fig. 16B). osgif1 mutants also exhibited smaller plant stature and aborted seed phenotypes compared to WT (Supplementary Fig. 16B and C). These findings suggest that rice-seed and panicle development are regulated by the miR396ef-GRF4/6/8-GIF1/2/3 module.
To further explore the function of miR396ef in plants, we used RNA-sequencing analysis to examine the transcriptomes of leaves and young spikelet tissues from mir396ef and WT plants. We detected 558 DEGs (differentially expressed genes, ratio > 1.5) in young spikelet tissues, but only 189 DEGs in leaves. We observed 314 and 127 up-regulated genes in mir396ef mutant spikelet and leaves, respectively, compared to WT. In addition, 244 and 62 genes were down-regulated in mir396ef mutant spikelet and leaves compared to WT, respectively (Supplementary Fig. 17A). We observed 15 DEGs encoding ‘nitrogen-related genes’ in leaves and enrichment analysis of the DEGs identified ‘nitrate ion transport and metabolism’ as the top annotated category (Fig. 5B and C). In addition, 26 DEGs were related to brassinonsteroid-induced genes and 21 DEGs were related to auxin signaling, consistently with auxin- and brassinosteroid-mediated regulation of spikelet number and grain size (Supplementary Fig. 18A and B) [12,15]. We confirmed the expression of key genes within brassinosteroid and auxin-signaling pathways by RT-qPCR (Supplementary Fig. 19A and B). We also observed increased expression of the cell-proliferation-related genes, two CYCLINB1;1 homologous genes and one TCP4 homologous gene, in mir396ef mutant, consistently with the increases in cell number (Supplementary Fig. 19C–E).
Here, we investigated the role of the miR396 gene family in controlling grain yield in rice, with the goal of identifying targets and strategies for breeding elite crop varieties. The miR396 target gene OsGRF4 increases grain size by activating brassinosteroid responses , whereas the miR396 target gene OsGRF6 promotes panicle branching through the activation of several auxin biosynthesis factors . Thus, targeting miR396 itself would be expected to enhance both grain size and panicle branching. We examined the miR396 members by CRISPR/Cas9 editing (Fig. 1A and Supplementary Fig. 1) and found that mir396ef mutants showed the expected traits of increased grain size and panicle branching. It was reported that miR396b negatively regulates panicle branching by targeting OsGRF6, and STTM-miR396b plants showed increased panicle branching and grain yield . However, in our data, STTM-miR396ab lines showed unchanged panicle branching compared with the WT. This discrepancy may be caused by the different genetic backgrounds, since the reported STTM-miR396b lines were in the indica background whereas our STTM-miR396ab lines are in the japonica background. More recently, Miao et al.  reported that mir396e single mutant rice had a similar grain size to the WT Xiushui 134. However, in our data, the grain length and width of mir396e mutants are larger than the WT Nipponbare, which may also be explained by the background difference.
We found that mir396ef mutants have several beneficial traits relative to WT plants, including increased plant height (Fig. 2A and B), enhanced length of the flag leaves and panicles (Fig. 2D and E), increased primary branch and grain number in panicle (Fig. 2F, J and K) and increased grain size and weight (Fig. 1B–D). Furthermore, the cell length and cell number in the grain hull of mir396ef mutants are both increased, which enlarged the sink size. Just as in OsGRF4-overexpression grains, the mir396ef mutant showed decreased grain quality because of increased chalkiness (Supplementary Fig. 11), which could be offset by alleles of high-quality genes .
miR396 attenuates cell proliferation in developing leaves and negatively regulates leaf growth in Arabidopsis thaliana [17,27]. We found that mir396ef mutant rice plants also showed an obvious increase in leaf length. In addition, the np:rGRF4, np:rGRF6 and np:rGRF8 lines all exhibited increased leaf length and enwrapped panicles (Supplementary Fig. 13E–G). The np:rGRF4 plants are obviously shorter than the WT, perhaps because the np:rGRF4 panicles were severely enwrapped by the flag leaf (Supplementary Fig. 13E). The significant increases in the source leaves of mir396ef mutants could explain the increased grain yield and biomass. Although the grain yield of mir396ef mutants was only 4.0% greater than that of WT in test plots with normal nitrogen fertilization (Fig. 2L), it was 15.0% greater in natural paddy fields without nitrogen fertilization (Fig. 3E and F). Further, the above-ground biomass of mir396ef mutant plants was 25.0% more than that of WT plants under nitrogen-deficient conditions (Fig. 3G). These results suggest that mir396ef mutations cause enhanced nitrogen utilization, consistently with increased OsGRF4 function, which has been shown to balance the inhibitory activities of DELLA to promote and integrate nitrogen assimilation, carbon fixation and growth (Fig. 3C and D) . This notion is supported by our discovery that nitrogen transport and metabolism genes are up-regulated in mir396ef mutants (Fig. 5B and C).
OsGRF4 and OsGRF6 have been reported as targets of miR396ef. Based on expression and mRNA cleavage studies, we uncovered OsGRF4, OsGRF6 and OsGRF8 as major targets of miR396ef (Fig. 4A and Supplementary 13A). Plants expressing miR396ef-resistant versions of target genes, np:rGRF4, np:rGRF6 and np:rGRF8, all exhibited larger grain size to varying degrees, with the largest increase in np:rGRF4. However, the panicle length and branching numbers of np:rGRF4 were unchanged compared to WT (Fig. 4C and D and Supplementary Fig. 13E). Panicle lengths were increased in np:rGRF6 and np:rGRF8 (Fig. 4E and F), but branching numbers were unaffected (Supplementary Fig. 13H and I). In summary, we did not observe synchronous increases in grain size and panicle branching in np:rGRF4, np:rGRF6 and np:rGRF8 plants. These data suggest that the seed-size and panicle-length improvement of mir396ef mutants is due to the combined functions of OsGRF4, OsGRF6 and OsGRF8.
We found that GIFs OsGIF1, OsGIF2 and OsGIF3 interact with OsGRF4, and OsGIF3 also interacts with OsGRF6 (Fig. 5A). Knockout of OsGIF1 led to an expected short-leaf phenotype, suggesting that miR396ef-GRFs-GIFs modules directly control the development of seeds, panicles and leaves in rice. Previous studies demonstrated that miR396 regulates seed and panicle development through brassinosteroid and auxin-signaling pathways [12,15] and our RNA-seq data revealed an altered expression of many brassinosteroid-induced genes and auxin-signaling genes in the mir396ef mutant (Supplementary Fig. 18). We also found that np:rGRF4 and np:rGRF6 have enlarged leaf angles, exhibited as losing plant structure, which are typical phenotypes of brassinosteroid pathway mutants, such as m107 and Gi-2 . These data suggest that miR396ef might influence rice architecture by activating brassinosteroid responses.
Taken together, our findings reveal that manipulation of miR396ef can simultaneously improve grain size and panicle branching. miR396ef thus represents a promising target to increase grain size and grain yield, especially in nitrogen-deficient environments, which might help breeders develop environmentally friendly elite rice varieties.
Materials and methods
Plant materials and growth conditions
The rice variety Nipponbare (Oryza. Sativa L. spp. Japonica, var Nipponbare) was used in this study. Rice plants were cultivated under field conditions at two different experimental stations located in Shanghai (30°N, 121°E) and Lingshui (Hainan Province, 18°N, 110°E). The phytotron, with a 30/24 ± 1°C day/night temperature, 50%–70% relative humidity and a light/dark period of 14 hours/10 hours was used to culture rice seedlings.
Nitrogen-deficiency response assay
Nitrogen deficiency in hydroponic culture conditions was modified from previous work . Seeds were disinfected in 20% sodium hypochlorite solution for 20 min, thoroughly washed with deionized water and then germinated in a dish with sterilized water. The germinated grains were then selected and transplanted to PVC culture pots that contained hydroponic nutrient solution (0.5 mM NaH2PO4, 0.75 mM K2SO4, 1 mM CaCl2, 1.667 mM MgSO4, 40 μM Fe-EDTA (Na), 19 μM H3BO3, 9.1 μM MnSO4, 0.15 μM ZnSO4, 0.16 μM CuSO4 and 0.52 μM (NH4)3Mo7O24, pH 5.5) with or without 1.25 mM NH4NO3. All nutrient solutions were changed every 2 days. The temperature was maintained at 30°C day and 24°C night, and the relative humidity was 70% in phytotron.
The CRISPR-Cas9 vectors targeting MIR396abc, MIR396d, MIR396ef, MIR396g, MIR396h, MIR396e and OsGIF1 were constructed as previously described  and the oligos used are listed in Supplementary Table 3. To construct the miR396-resisitant vectors for OsGRF4, OsGRF6 and OsGRF8, the genomic sequences of OsGRF4, OsGRF6 and OsGRF8, fused with the OsGRF4 promoter, OsGRF6 promoter and OsGRF8 promoter, respectively, were amplified and the synonymous mutations were introduced in the miR396 target sequences. All the vectors described above were used to transform rice Nipponbare by Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated methods.
Phenotyping and histological experiments
Plant materials were photographed using a Canon EOS7D digital camera and observed using an OLYMPUS BX53 microscope. Grain size was analysed using an SC-A grain analysis system (Wseen Company, China).
Young rice grains were collected and fixed overnight at 4°C in FAA (50% ethanol, 10% formalin and 5% acetic acid) solution and dehydrated in a graded ethanol series. The samples were then embedded in Technovit 7100 resin (Hereaus Kulzer) and made into 2-μm sections using a Leica RM 2265 programmable rotary microtome (Leica Microsystems). After being stained with 0.05% Toluidine Blue, transverse sections were photographed using an OLYMPUS BX53 microscope. Dehydrated grain-husk samples were stocked on the copper stub and sputter-coated with gold-palladium. The seed samples were examined under a scanning electron microscope, JSM-6360LV. Cell number and cell length in the outer parenchyma layer of the spikelet hulls were measured using the OLYMPUS stream software.
Total RNA was isolated using the Trizol Reagent (Invitrogen) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. About 40 μg of total RNA from leaves and flowers were analysed on a denaturing 19% polyacrylamide gel, transferred to Nytran Super Charge Nylon Membranes (Schleicher & Schuell BioScience) and cross-linked using a Stratagene UV Crosslinker. DNA oligonucleotides complementary to different sequences of miRNAs were synthesized and labeled with [32P]-γ-ATP (PerkinElmer) using T4 polynucleotide kinase (TaKaRa). The membranes were pre-hybridized with PerfectHyb (Sigma) hybridization solution and then hybridized with the labeled probes. After several times of washing, the membranes were autoradiographed using an X-ray film (Carestream, X-OMAT BT Film). For RNA loading, 18S and 5S rRNAs were used as controls. The probe sequences are listed in Supplementary Table 3.
Plants of the WT and mir396ef were grown in Shanghai paddy fields under natural conditions. The area per plot was 2.0 × 2.0 m and 100 plants were cultivated in each plot with planting density of 20 × 20 cm. The nitrogen fertilizer was 270 kg ha−1 in the control field, whereas the nitrogen-deficient fields were without nitrogen fertilizer. Plants were irrigated with river water.
RNA extraction and RT-qPCR and stem-loop PCR
Total RNA was isolated from roots, leaves and flowers from different developmental stages of rice plants. The RNA extraction followed the method mentioned above. After being treated with RNase-free DNase I (Promega), total RNA (1 μg) was reverse transcribed using the TransScript II One-Step gDNA Removal and cDNA Synthesis SuperMix kits (TransGen Biotech). The reverse-transcription products were used as templates for RT-qPCR performed on a CFX96 real-time PCR system (Bio-Rad) using SYBR Premix Taq (TransGen Biotech) according to the manufacturer’s protocol. ACTIN1 was used to normalize gene expression and OsU6 was used in microRNA expression. Relative expression levels were measured using the 2–ΔΔCt analysis method. The primers used in RT-qPCR or stem-loop RT-qPCR are listed in Supplementary Table 3.
Transient expression assays in N. benthamiana leaves
The CDS of OSGIF1, OsGIF2 and OsGIF3 were fused in frame with nYFP (yellow fluorescent protein) sequence. The CDS of OsGRF4, OsGRF6 and OsGRF8 were fused in frame with cYFP sequence. nYFP-OsGIF1, nYFP-OsGIF2, nYFP-OsGIF3, cYFP-OsGRF4, cYFP-OsGRF6 and cYFP-OsGRF8 constructs were transformed into Agrobacteria. These stains containing nYFP and cYFP plasmids were co-infiltrated into leaves of N. benthamiana. YFP signals were detected by confocal microscopy LSM800 (ZEISS). The full-length and C-terminal deletion cDNAs of OsGRF8 were fused in frame with eGFP (enhancer Green Fluorescent Protein) sequence and driven by the 35S promoter. The stem-loop sequences of miR396e and miR396f were cloned and inserted after the 35S promoter. nYFP-OsGIF1, nYFP-OsGIF2, nYFP-OsGIF3, cYFP-OsGRF4, cYFP-OsGRF6, cYFP-OsGRF8, 35S::GRF8-eGFP, 35S::GRF8(1–574)-eGFP, 35S::GRF8(1–694)-eGFP, 35S::miR396e and 35S::miR396f constructs were transformed into Agrobacteria. These stains were co-infiltrated into leaves of N. benthamiana. YFP and GFP signals were detected by confocal microscopy LSM800 (ZEISS).
Yeast two-hybrid assay
The prey vector pGADT7 and bait vector pGBKT7 were used in the yeast two-hybrid assay. Full-length cDNAs of OSGIF1, OsGIF2, OsGIF3, OsGRF4, OsGRF6 and OsGRF8 were amplified and separately cloned into pGADT7 and pGBKT7. The prey and bait plasmids were co-transformed into the yeast AH109 strain and grew on SD-Leu-Trp solid media (Clontech). The strains were transferred to the SD-Ade-His-Leu-Trp solid media to test the interactions between prey and bait.
RLM-RACE was performed with the FirstChoice™ RLM-RACE Kit (Ambion). In general, total RNA was extracted from samples and the first and second PCRs were performed, with the primers of OsGRF4/6/8-inner and OsGRF4/6/8-outer (Supplementary Table 3), respectively. The products from the second PCR were purified by agarose gel electrophoresis and then cloned for sequencing. For OsGRF4 and OsGRF6, leaf samples were used in these experiments. For OsGRF8, flower samples were also used in these experiments.
Total RNA was extracted using the RNeasy Plant mini Kit (Qiagen) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Two independent replicates were used for each sample. The cDNA synthesis, purification and labeling were then performed following the standard protocols. The RNA-seq data were analysed with TopHat and Cufflinks software. Genes with at least 1.5-fold up- and down-regulation in the mir396ef plants compared with those in WT plants were considered as DEGs.
Net photosynthetic rate measurements
The net photosynthetic rate was measured using an LI-6400XT (LICOR Biosciences) at a light intensity of 1000 μmol m−2 s−1 and the reference CO2 concentration was 400 μmol mol−1. The measurement followed the method from the LI-6400XT manual. Two leaves were used in one measurement and placed side by side in order to fill the area of the measure room because the rice leaves were narrower than the diameter of the measure room. The net photosynthetic rate was calculated and recorded by the machine. All experiments were conducted with at least five replicates.
This work was supported by the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (XDB27040101 to J.-K.Z.), Postdoctoral Science Foundation Grant of China (2017 M621553 to J.Z.), National Natural Science Foundation of China (31801016 to J.Z. and 31871223 to H.Z.) and Shanghai Pujiang Program (18PJ1411000 to H.Z.).
J.Z., Z.Z., J.B., X.T. and L.W. performed the experiments and analysed the data. J.-K.Z. and H.Z. supervised the project, designed the research and participated in data analysis. J.Z., H.Z. and J.-K.Z. wrote the paper.
Conflict of interest statement. None declared.
Equally contributed to this work.


What is grass-cycling? Grass-cycling is the practice of recycling your lawn’s grass clippings by leaving them on your lawn instead of raking or bagging them for disposal. The shredded clippings then decompose and return moisture and nutrients to the lawn. By simply leaving the clippings on your lawn you can: reduce mowing time; save money; and reduce waste. You don’t need a special lawn mower to do grass-cycling. Just remove the grass catcher from your mower and you’re ready to grass-cycle.
Just keep in mind the following tips: · Never cut more than 1/3 of the grass height in a single mowing, otherwise, you’ll end up with messy clumps of grass clippings on the lawn. Adjust you mower blade height to approximately 3”—4” for summer mowing. The height may be lowered to about 2” for spring and fall mowing. Keeping your grass height higher also has the effect of shading out weeds in the lawn. · Mow when the grass is dry. This will help avoid clumps of grass being left on the lawn. · NOTE: If you do have a wet or taller growing patch of lawn and your mower leaves grass clumps behind, mow over the clippings a second time to further shred them. · Keep your mower blade sharp. A dull blade will tear the grass blades and leave ragged edges that will appear brownish. JUST THINK: A typical 40-foot by 100-foot lawn (4,000 square feet) produces about 1,200 pounds – nearly 50 bags – of grass clippings each year!!! Think of the time, money, and effort it takes to bag all those clippings. Why go through all that hassle when it’s not necessary? Start grass-cycling now.


In today’s fast-paced digital world, it’s more important than ever to connect kids with nature. One fantastic way to do this is by teaching them about gardening. Gardening offers a host of benefits for children, like teaching responsibility, patience, and a deeper love for the environment. In this blog post, we’ll explore why teaching kids about gardening is so important and how it can positively shape their lives.
Nurturing Environmental Heroes
Gardening is a fantastic way to instill a sense of environmental stewardship in young minds. By getting involved in gardening, children learn about the significance of plants, their role in the ecosystem, and how they benefit us all. Understanding how everything in nature is connected helps children feel responsible for taking care of the environment. Who knows, they might even grow up to be the future superheroes saving our planet!
Planting Healthy Habits
Gardening gets kids off the couch and into the fresh air, giving them an opportunity to be active and healthy. Digging, watering, and caring for plants are all forms of exercise that keep their bodies moving. Plus, spending time outside exposes them to sunlight, which helps their bodies produce vitamin D for strong bones and a strong immune system.
Growing their own fruits and vegetables also encourages kids to make healthier food choices. When they see how much effort goes into growing food, they’re more likely to appreciate fresh, organic produce and make it a part of their diet. It’s a win-win for their health and taste buds!
Cultivating Patience and Responsibility
Gardening teaches children the virtues of patience and responsibility. They learn that plants need time, care, and love to grow and produce flowers or fruits. This understanding helps them develop patience, perseverance, and a sense of pride when they see their hard work pay off.
Taking care of a garden also teaches kids to be responsible. Giving them tasks like watering or weeding helps them understand the importance of looking after something outside of themselves. This sense of responsibility can extend beyond the garden and positively influence their behavior and relationships with others.
Learning through Fun and Adventure
Gardening is an exciting and hands-on way for kids to learn about science. They can explore plant life cycles, how photosynthesis works, and why soil and sunlight are essential for plants to thrive. It’s like having a real-life science experiment right in their backyard!
In addition to scientific knowledge, gardening teaches practical skills. Kids learn how to plan, organize, solve problems, and make decisions as they choose plants, prepare the soil, and deal with garden pests. These skills are valuable for life and help children become more independent and capable individuals.
In a world where children are becoming increasingly disconnected from nature, gardening is a powerful tool to help them reconnect. It’s not just about growing plants; it’s about nurturing environmental heroes, fostering healthy habits, cultivating patience and responsibility, and providing fun learning experiences. By introducing kids to the joys of gardening, we equip them with essential skills and values that will positively shape their lives and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future. So let’s grab our shovels, get our hands dirty, and sow the seeds of curiosity, responsibility, and love for the environment in our children’s hearts. Together, we can cultivate a generation of green thumbs!


SAN MARTIN — Blaming market conditions, one of Santa Clara County’s largest family-owned farm operations is going out of business, though its most popular attraction — the fall Pumpkin Patch festival — will continue to offer the usual hayrides as well a chance to blast apart the orange orbs with an air gun.
About 50 full-time employees and 250 seasonal workers will lose their jobs as family-owned Uesugi Farms winds down operations in more than 5,000 acres in California, Arizona and Mexico, where it grows cabbage, corn, pumpkins and peppers.
But the company Wednesday announced it would continue to operate the annual festival from Sept. 28 through Halloween on Monterey Road in San Martin.
“The Pumpkin Patch is going to be open this fall,” said Uesugi’s general manager, Pete Aiello, whose father Joe Aiello bought the operation nearly 40 years ago.
The festival includes a pyramid of about 4,000 pumpkins, a petting corral, carousel and corn maze, as well as train and pony rides.
Pete Aiello declined to comment on the circumstances that drove the family to make the 2018 season its last. But he said the company was not declaring bankruptcy, though a bank was helping handle the sale of much of its machinery.
“We’re still winding down the situation,” he said.
A source familiar with the operation said the costs of renting the land, buying fuel, pumping water and paying field hands had eaten up profits to the point where it was no longer feasible to continue.
“They quit because they had to, not because they wanted to,” the source said.
A recent statement on Uesugi’s website said that “due to market conditions and factors outside of its control,” the company would “wind down” its operations once the current harvest season ends.
“Uesugi’s priority is to maximize the value of its assets and implement plans to work with customers, vendors, lenders, employees and others to obtain the best outcome possible for all its stakeholders,” according to the posting.
Despite such market forces, about 20,000 acres in Santa Clara County remain under cultivation by other farmers and the local county Farm Bureau has about 300 active members.
While the annual Gilroy Garlic Festival draws thousands every season, the most common crops in the county are actually peppers, including bells and jalapenos, and cherries, wine grapes, lettuce and tomatoes, said bureau president Paul Mirassou of B & T Farms.
Mushrooms were the top single crop with a market value of $74 million in 2017, according to the most recent Farm Bureau report.


In the bustling metropolis of San Francisco, nestled within the scenic beauty of the Bay Area, lies a thriving community of beekeepers cultivating sustainable apiaries. These apiaries not only produce delectable local honey but also offer an array of beeswax products, including luxurious hand creams and all-natural cosmetics. Join us as we delve into the enchanting world of apiaries, exploring the wonders of beekeeping, sustainability, and the magical benefits of beeswax.
Local Honey - Nature's Golden Nectar
Nothing compares to the rich and diverse flavors of local honey, and San Francisco Bay Area's apiaries boast some of the finest varieties. The region's diverse floral landscapes allow bees to collect nectar from a wide range of plants, resulting in unique honey flavors that reflect the essence of the area. From the delicate floral notes of lavender to the robust undertones of wildflowers, each jar of local honey tells a story of its origin.
San Francisco: A Paradise for Sustainable Beekeeping
San Francisco's commitment to sustainability extends to its vibrant beekeeping community. Embracing organic and eco-friendly practices, local beekeepers prioritize the well-being of their bees and the environment. With vast green spaces and abundant wildflowers in parks and gardens, the city provides an ideal haven for bees to thrive and contribute to the local ecosystem.
Beeswax Magic: Hand Creams and Cosmetics
Beyond the sweetness of honey, beeswax takes center stage in the realm of beauty and skincare. Local apiaries produce high-quality beeswax, which serves as a base for luxurious hand creams and natural cosmetics. Rich in natural emollients and antioxidants, beeswax hand cream nourishes and softens the skin, leaving it silky-smooth and revitalized. Similarly, beeswax cosmetics, free from harmful chemicals, offer a gentle and sustainable option for conscious beauty enthusiasts.
A Hobby with a Purpose
Beekeeping has emerged as more than just a hobby; it is an essential endeavor in promoting biodiversity and preserving our ecosystem. As beekeepers tend to their hives, they contribute to the vital pollination process, ensuring the flourishing of plants and agricultural crops. Engaging in beekeeping becomes a fulfilling and purposeful journey of coexistence with nature.
The sustainable apiaries of San Francisco Bay Area offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of beekeeping, local honey production, and the enchanting realm of beeswax products. Supporting these local beekeepers not only allows us to savor the sweetness of nature through local honey but also grants us access to natural and eco-friendly beeswax hand creams and cosmetics. As we immerse ourselves in this rewarding hobby, we contribute to the preservation of bees and the environment, making a positive impact on the planet and our lives. Embrace the magic of apiaries, where the wonders of sustainability and the charm of bees converge harmoniously.


At Goats in the City, we offer a comprehensive range of target grazing services designed to address your urban vegetation management needs while promoting sustainability and biodiversity. Our innovative approach, using goats as natural grazers, provides numerous benefits compared to traditional methods. Here is an overview of our services:
Invasive Plant Control: Invasive plants can rapidly spread and dominate urban landscapes, impacting native species and compromising ecosystem health. Our goats are expert grazers, selectively targeting and consuming invasive plants, such as kudzu, poison ivy, and multiflora rose. By employing goat target grazing, we effectively control and reduce the presence of these invasive species, restoring balance to the ecosystem.
Selective Grazing: One of the remarkable advantages of goat target grazing is their ability to selectively graze. Unlike machinery or chemical herbicides, goats have a natural inclination to prefer certain plants while avoiding others. This enables us to specifically target unwanted vegetation while preserving desirable native plants. Our goats graze with precision, promoting the growth and proliferation of diverse, resilient plant communities.
Habitat Restoration: Urban habitats often suffer from degradation and loss of biodiversity. Our target grazing services contribute to habitat restoration by revitalizing degraded areas. By selectively grazing on invasive plants and promoting the growth of native species, we create healthier ecosystems that support a wider range of wildlife, including birds, pollinators, and other beneficial insects.
Site Assessment: We understand that each site is unique, with its specific vegetation challenges. Our experienced team conducts thorough site assessments to evaluate the condition of your land, identify target grazing goals, and develop a tailored plan to address your specific needs. This ensures an effective and efficient grazing strategy that maximizes results.
Ongoing Maintenance Plans: Vegetation management is an ongoing process. We offer customized ongoing maintenance plans to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of your landscape. Our team will work with you to create a maintenance schedule that suits your requirements, providing regular grazing sessions to keep invasive plants in check and maintain the desired vegetation balance.
Educational Programs: At Goats in the City, we believe in the power of education and community engagement. We offer educational programs tailored for schools, organizations, and community events. Our programs provide valuable insights into the benefits of goat target grazing, sustainable land management practices, and the importance of biodiversity conservation in urban environments. Engage and inspire your community while learning about sustainable solutions.
By choosing our target grazing services, you can enjoy several advantages. These include reduced reliance on machinery and chemical herbicides, improved soil health through natural fertilization, cost-effectiveness compared to traditional methods, and the opportunity to actively contribute to urban conservation efforts.
Join us in embracing a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to vegetation management. Contact us today for a site assessment, ongoing maintenance plan, or to learn more about our educational programs. Together, let's create healthier, greener, and more vibrant urban landscapes.
We are always looking for innovative ways to enhance our target grazing services and provide the best possible outcomes for our clients. That's why we are thrilled to introduce our new Drone Assessment Service, utilizing advanced vegetation mapping technology to gather accurate property assessment information and assess the effectiveness of target grazing.
With our drone-assisted assessments, we combine the power of aerial imagery and cutting-edge vegetation mapping technology to gain a comprehensive understanding of the vegetation coverage on your target grazing site. Here's how our Drone Assessment Service can benefit you:
Accurate Property Assessment: Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras capture detailed aerial images of your site, providing an accurate depiction of the vegetation coverage and distribution. This information enables us to identify areas that require targeted grazing and assess the overall condition of the landscape.
Data-Driven Decision Making: The captured imagery is then processed using advanced vegetation mapping technology. This technology analyzes the images and generates detailed vegetation maps, highlighting areas of concern, such as invasive plant hotspots or areas with low vegetation density. This data-driven approach empowers us to make informed decisions and develop precise grazing strategies tailored to your site's specific needs.
Monitoring Grazing Effectiveness: After implementing target grazing, we can conduct subsequent drone flights to assess the effectiveness of our grazing efforts. By comparing before and after imagery, we can evaluate the changes in vegetation coverage, identify areas where the grazing has been successful, and pinpoint any areas that may require additional attention.
Enhanced Efficiency and Precision: Our Drone Assessment Service enables us to gather valuable information in a highly efficient and precise manner. With drones, we can cover large areas quickly, reducing the time and resources needed for manual assessments. The detailed imagery and vegetation maps allow us to target specific areas with greater precision, optimizing the grazing process for maximum effectiveness.
By incorporating drone technology into our target grazing services, we are able to provide a more comprehensive and data-driven approach to vegetation management. This ensures that our grazing strategies are tailored to your site's specific needs and that we achieve the desired outcomes effectively.
Are you ready to experience the benefits of our Drone Assessment Service? Contact us today to learn more about how we can utilize advanced drone technology to assess your property, monitor grazing effectiveness, and optimize your urban conservation efforts.
We are dedicated to raising awareness about sustainable land management practices and the importance of biodiversity conservation in urban environments. Our educational programs are designed to engage and inspire schools, organizations, and community events, providing valuable insights into the benefits of goat target grazing and sustainable solutions. Here's an overview of our educational programs:
School Programs: We offer interactive and age-appropriate educational programs for students of all ages, from elementary schools to universities. Our knowledgeable team will visit your school and conduct engaging presentations, workshops, and demonstrations. Students will learn about the ecological benefits of goat target grazing, the importance of biodiversity conservation, and how sustainable land management practices can contribute to a greener future.
Organization Workshops: We collaborate with organizations and groups interested in sustainable practices and environmental conservation. Our workshops are tailored to meet the specific needs and objectives of your organization. We can cover topics such as urban conservation, sustainable land management, and the role of goat target grazing in promoting biodiversity. These workshops provide valuable knowledge and practical insights that can be applied to your organization's initiatives.
Community Events: We actively participate in community events, fairs, and festivals to engage with a wider audience and spread awareness about sustainable practices. Our presence at these events includes informative booths, interactive displays, and engaging activities for all ages. We strive to make learning about sustainable land management and goat target grazing a fun and memorable experience for everyone in the community.
Demonstration Visits: We offer on-site demonstration visits, where interested groups can witness our goats in action and observe the benefits of goat target grazing firsthand. Our team will explain the grazing process, highlight the ecological impact, and answer any questions participants may have. These visits provide a unique opportunity to experience sustainable land management practices in action and learn from our team of experts.
By participating in our educational programs, you can expect to gain a deeper understanding of sustainable land management, the vital role of biodiversity conservation, and the positive impact of goat target grazing on urban environments. Our programs are designed to inspire and empower individuals and communities to make environmentally conscious choices and contribute to a greener future.
If you're interested in scheduling an educational program for your school, organization, or community event, please contact us. Together, let's learn, engage, and create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly world.


Belimo Releases New Dual Channel CO2 / Temperature Sensors
Belimo Americas is excited to release the new dual channel CO2/temperature sensors with an increased range to 5000 ppm. The dual channel technology measures two-wave lengths split from a single light source.
The sensor automatically takes a reading using the reference channel. Any change in the measurement indicates a change in the optics of the sensor. The sensors automatically adjusts the CO2 measurement when a change is detected to prevent drift. Manual calibration is not needed. High accuracy is maintained even in busy applications such as retail stores or hospitals. The CO2/temperature sensors features accurate, reliable readings available in degrees Fahrenheit (model 22DTC-5105) or Celsius (model 22DTC-1105). The new CO2/temperature dual channel sensors are ideally suited for applications requiring 24/7 hours of operation such as hospitals, retail stores, manufacturing, and indoor farming.
“Greenhouses, indoor farming, and hydroponic growers have expressed their need to monitor CO2 and temperature levels accurately. CO2 levels are essential for maximizing plant growth. Our high accuracy CO2/temperature sensors provide the opportunity for grow farmers to really boost their profit while increasing plant yields and reducing cropping time,” states Eddie Kelley, Belimo Sensors Product Specialist.
Belimo is the global market leader in the development, production, and marketing of field device solutions for controlling heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Actuators, control valves, and sensors make up the company’s core business. Known for its direct-coupled actuator and innovations in pressure independent control valve technology, Belimo has solutions to maintain an efficient building environment. For 40 years, Belimo has provided innovations in comfort, energy efficiency, and safety solutions to customers through the world, all of which are backed by Belimo’s unsurpassed five-year warranty. For more information, contact Belimo at 1-800-543-9038 or visit the website at www.belimo.us.
For additional information, contact Lisa Hickey at 203.749.3341 or email at Lisa.Hickey@us.belimo.com.


Coocentral’s Mujeres Cafeteras (Women’s Coffee) program started from an initiative to teach and empower 300 women coffee growers in the municipalities of Garzón, Pital, and El Agrado. Through Best Agricultural Practices training, the women learn technical skills in coffee harvesting, fermentation, and drying that they use to develop a differentiated cup profile with added value.
Located at altitudes between 1,200 and 2,000 meters above sea level, the farms produce coffee throughout the year. Nearly 700 hectares of farmland are planted with Caturra (54%) and other Colombian varieties (46%).
Location: Garzón, Huila, Colombia
Elevation: 1,200-2,000 masl
Harvest Months: October - December
Shipping months: May - July
Number of Members: 584


Possessing your very own garden can be a relaxing and satisfying way to increase the appearance of your property and give pleasure to all who view it. You can adhere to these suggestions to aid you on your way to making a stunning garden. You will be certain to appreciate the time expended admiring your yard.
Start off your crops in containers before transferring them to the yard. This raises the likelihood that your crops will endure to adulthood. This also will help tighten time between plantings. As shortly as the mature crops are taken out, you can replace them with clean seedlings.
Planting a bare-root rose. Bare-root roses are greatest planted at the commencing of their dormant period to lessen the shock of transplanting. If the roots search dry, soak them in a bucket of h2o for a handful of several hours before planting. Take away diseased or broken stems, and trim any thick roots by a 3rd. 8 foot metal garden bridge Area the rose in a freshly dug gap, spreading out the roots and examining that the bud union is marginally previously mentioned floor amount. Backfill with soil and h2o extensively.
Plant veggies and flowers that are native to your regional region. These plants will develop better with significantly less operate than crops that are not native. Also, indigenous plants will not likely need much extra watering, as they will normally adapt to the quantity of rain typical to that area. This will also lessen your require for pesticides and fertilizers, given that the vegetation will be in a position to deal with the soil and pests in your spot.
Know what grows in your location. When you see the vast range of seed packets supplied online, it is straightforward to get sucked into the concept of developing almost everything and anything! In truth, though, only some of them may possibly flourish in your regional environment. Research up on your region and what crops can survive.
The use of natural crops can make a garden with out any perform. Many crops will self seed and expand a perpetual crop without any perform at all. Butternut squash, pumpkins, and cilantro will grow and self seed increasing new crops 12 months following calendar year with practically no function and turn out to be a long lasting garden feature. Grow them in locations these kinds of as the compost pile or together fences for greatest results.
Not only is gardening a great way to grow your very own food, but you can also develop your very own consume. You can grow apple mint to make a delicious tea or rhubarb stalk to make a tart substitute to lemonade. You should also can or freeze your berries and fruits to make them into soda, challenging cider, or wines.
To destroy off aphids on rose crops, spray them with a powdered milk and drinking water combination (one/three cup powdered milk to one particular quart drinking water). When the combination is sprayed, the aphids get caught in the liquid and at some point die. Each couple of months spray down the roses with drinking water to rinse off the mixture and reapply it if needed.
Put on comfortable footwear and garments when gardening. Never work in the yard in bare feet or sandals. Put on shoes that lace up and give great cushioning and arch support. If it is hot and sunny out, use a hat to shade from the solar and clothing that will safeguard the pores and skin from burning. The much more comfortable you are, the far more you will get pleasure from your garden.
Use scale, shade and texture in your backyard to boost interest. Use crops of distinct heights, placing tiny ones in front and tall kinds in the back again. Incorporate a few crops that have deep maroon leaves, which seems great next to greenery. Plant a tree or shrub that alterations to oranges and golds in autumn, and combine small-leafed plants with bigger-leafed or spiky crops, these kinds of as agave.
When you acquire seeds for your backyard garden, be certain to purchase seeds that are labeled "qualified natural." This makes certain that your plants will be natural through their lifespan and that the seeds you are getting are not contaminated with chemical fertilizers or pesticides. View out for labels, this kind of as "genetically engineered" or any mention of "all-natural" that does not contain the phrase "certified organic and natural."
Sometimes when you are growing vegetables or fruits, it can be beneficial to lower off freshly fashioned buds or other non-fruit bearing regions. This will encourage the expansion of heavier fruit simply because the plant re-routes nutrients to in which its expansion should be navigating. When using care your yard, it truly is critical to make the distinction between harvesting the plant, or encouraging its development.
When commencing your own organic and natural yard, you need to always make sure you moisten your mix that is in the containers prior to you sow the seeds. If your blend is not moist, it will dry out. This could trigger your plant to die before it is offered a chance to grow.
When expanding your personal natural vegetation, you should go your seedlings absent from any air vents or radiators quickly upon germination. This is due to the fact your seedlings do not need to be truly warm like germinating seeds do. They require to be cooler in get for them to expand in the very best way.
Use a soaker hose to h2o your yard. A soaker hose permits the drinking water to be absorbed right in to the soil, fairly than disbursed in to the air. This will help to conserve h2o, a valuable resource. Plant leaves also keep dry, which implies you get to keep away from pesky fungus issues.
To control weeds in your backyard garden without employing chemical herbicides about your organic crops, mulch between rows with bark, thoroughly clean straw, mulch-coated newspapers, or sawdust from untreated wooden. Beware of using anything to mulch or fertilize that may possibly contain seeds that can include much more weeds, such as grass clippings or clean manure.
The tips in this post are created to support you in creating the garden you want in your property. By utilizing these suggestions, you will be nicely on your way to getting the garden you wish to have. Your neighbors are certain to recognize the visual attraction it adds to the neighborhood.


The project is a Rural Innovation Group (EIP), with participating researchers from the Molecular Plant Biology unit of the Department of Biochemistry and from the Department of Future Technologies. In addition, local farmers and a local drone service company participate in the project. We develop methods for field imaging and for automatic analysis of the images.
The fields under investigation are located in the Nousiainen-Mynämäki area near the village of Valpperi.
For more information, please contact Esa Tyystjärvi (mailto: email@example.com).
Department of Biochemistry / Molecular plant biology
Department of Future Technologies


TAFE Announces Free Tractor Rental Scheme for the Second Year in a Row to Support Small Farmers of Rajasthan as COVID Relief
June 02, 2021 | Rajasthan: TAFE - Tractors and Farm Equipment Limited, the world’s third largest tractor manufacturer, in a continuing effort to support the farming community and the Government amidst the second wave of the COVID surge, announced its ‘Free Tractor Rental Scheme’ to support the small farmers of Rajasthan during this critical cropping season.
This is the second year in a row that TAFE has offered this unique and much popular free tractor rental scheme. Over 1 Lakh Hours of free rental service, cultivating over 70,100 acres for small and marginal farmers was provided in Rajasthan alone, and over 213,500 acres were cultivated for free across India last year. This scheme is available from June 1 – July 31, 2021, for a period of 60 days in all the districts of Rajasthan. TAFE will offer over 41,800 Massey Ferguson and Eicher Tractors along with 116,700 implements, on a “free-of-cost” rental basis to small farmers owning 1 hectare or less.
TAFE’s Chairman and Managing Director - Mallika Srinivasan said, “The Corona pandemic has disrupted functioning in rural areas at a critical time during the cropping cycle. Towards supporting farmers, we are happy to once again offer free-of-cost tractor rental services to the small and marginal farmers of the state. With the encouragement and support of the Rajasthan Government, TAFE will offer its Massey Ferguson and Eicher Tractors along with farm implements to support the farmers through this crucial cropping season. We thank the Hon’ble Chief Minister for his keen focus on the welfare of the farming community, and express our gratitude to the Hon’ble Agricultural Minister and the Department of Agriculture for extending their support towards this free tractor rental scheme.”
Farmers can rent or hire tractors or farm implements using TAFE’s JFarmServices App or the toll-free helpline 1800-4200-100. The scheme will be implemented with the support of the Agriculture Department of Rajasthan and its district officials.
About TAFE: tafe.com
The world’s third largest tractor manufacturer and second largest in India by volumes with an annual sale of about 180,000 tractors; TAFE is one of the leading exporters of tractors from India with a turnover in excess of INR 10,000 Crores. TAFE manufactures a range of tractors, in both the air-cooled and water-cooled platforms, and markets them under its four iconic brands - Massey Ferguson, TAFE, Eicher, and the recently acquired Serbian tractor and agricultural equipment brand - Industrija Mašina i Traktora (IMT). Acclaimed for its quality and dependability, TAFE’s products and services are present in over 100 countries across the world, including developed countries in Europe and the Americas.
Besides tractors and farm machinery, TAFE manufactures diesel engines, silent gensets, agro engines, batteries, hydraulic pumps and cylinders, gears and transmission components, and has business interest in vehicle franchises and plantations. TAFE is committed to the Total Quality Movement (TQM). In the recent past various manufacturing plants of TAFE have garnered numerous ‘TPM Excellence Awards’ from the Japan Institute of Plant Maintenance (JIPM), as well as a number of other regional awards for TPM excellence. TAFE became the first Indian tractor manufacturer to win the Frost & Sullivan Global Manufacturing Leadership Award in 2018, being recognized with the ‘Enterprise Integration and Technology Leadership Award’ and two ‘Supply Chain Leadership Awards’. In recognition of its outstanding contribution to engineering exports, TAFE has been named the ‘Star Performer – Large Enterprise (Agricultural Tractors)’ at the 40th Engineering Exports Promotion Council of India – Southern Region Awards (2015-16), for the 21st time in a row. TAFE has also been conferred the ‘Regional Contributor Award’ for quality supplies from Toyota Motor Company, Japan, and the ‘Manufacturing Supply Chain Operational Excellence - Automobiles Award’ at the second Asia Manufacturing Supply Chain Summit for its supply chain transformation in 2013. TAFE's tractor plants are certified under ISO 9001 for efficient quality management systems and under ISO 14001 for environment friendly operations.
About 'JFarm' and 'JFarm Services': JFarmServices.in
TAFE established JFarm India in Chennai, Tamil Nadu in 1964 with an objective of empowering farmers with advanced farm technologies to increase farm productivity and meet India’s growing food demands. Over the years, JFarm focuses on sustainable agriculture, adapting existing technologies in farming for local farming conditions and sharing this knowledge with farmers.
JFarm Services is an initiative by TAFE to increase easy access to farm mechanization solutions through rental of tractors and farm equipment for small and large farms, localized weather forecast, latest mandi prices, agri-news alerts and advisory.
Small and marginal farmers, who hold about 85% of the land holdings in India may not be able to afford ownership of tractors or implements. JFarm Services bridges this gap by connecting these farmers with tractor and equipment owners through its Farmer-2-Farmer platform. Farmers can explore and book nearby equipment through: https://bit.ly/JFSAppLite
JFarm Services since its creation has impacted the lives of about 26 Lakh farmers across 16 states in India since its inception. Currently, JFarm Services (JFS) operates in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh (MP), Uttar Pradesh (UP), Haryana, Punjab, Maharashtra, Bihar, Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Assam - making farm mechanization viable and affordable to all.


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