Listed here are those events of interest to the Louisiana sugarcane industry for the Spring/Summer of 2009. The times listed for field days are for the actual start time of the function itself. Registration generally begins at least one hour prior to the event.

The results of demonstration plots of 16 seedless watermelon varieties planted at six locations across the state.

Number of seeds/pound, seeding rate/acre, spacing, planting dates, optimum soil temperature range for germination, depth to plant seed, days to germinate, days from planting to harvest begins, approximate time from pollination to market and recommended varieties included. Revised May 2009.

Results of 11 TSWV-resistant tomato varieties planted at seven different locations across Louisiana in the summer of 2009.

The cold weather we typically receive now through January can cause problems for home and commercial citrus in our area. It is important to know the critical temperatures and the factors affecting them.

(Distributed 04/07/09) JEANERETTE, La. – Sugarcane farmers got a look at LSU AgCenter statewide wheat variety trials and nearby demonstration strips on April 6 to see what varieties are best suited as a rotational crop in the south Louisiana soils.

2008 Extension Demonstrations

The 2009 Vegetable Crop Handbook is a 200-plus-page glossy publication that includes all the latest information on vegetable production as well as insect, disease and weed control put together by a cooperative effort of extension vegetable specialists in the southeastern states. This is an effort to take advantage of research efforts from other states to provide up-to-date research-based information to help vegetable growers.

Bed shapers are available in pan-type and spool-type versions. Pan-type bed shapers are easy to make in a farm shop. These plans will show you how to build one.

Distribution maps of Louisiana rice acreage by parish and variety.

Performance of grain sorghum hybrids is annually evaluated by Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station (LAES) researchers.

Sustainable and profitable commercial sweet potato production requires proper management of nitrogen fertilizer. Inadequate or excessive amounts of nitrogen fertilizer can be detrimental to a sweet potato crop and can negatively affect yield potential. What Amount of Nitrogen Fertilizer Does My Sweet Potato Crop Need? When Should Nitrogen Be Applied? How Should a Sweet Potato Crop Look 30 Days After Transplanting? Find these answers and more in this publication.

Each year the LSU AgCenter tests commercial corn hybrids which are entered in the state yield tests by private seed companies. From these, a grower should choose several which are adapted to an individual farm.

2010 recommendations. This information will help producers choose grain sorghum hybrids which have displayed good yield potential and agronomic performance. The LSU AgCenter conducts yearly grain sorghum hybrid yield tests at several locations in Louisiana. This is done to provide producers with unbiased information on hybrid performance under different soil types and climatic conditions.

2010 Recommendations. Each year the LSU AgCenter tests commercial soybean varieties that are entered in yield tests by private seed companies. This publication provides information about results of those tests at various locations across the state. For best results using this guide, refer to the tables for variety yield results and pick the location fitting your situation -- or if your farm does not fit any location, choose varieties that performed well at multiple locations.

Summaries of Louisiana Rice Acreage by variety and by Parish.

2010 recommendations. This information will help producers choose grain sorghum hybrids which have displayed good yield potential and agronomic performance. The LSU AgCenter conducts yearly grain sorghum hybrid yield tests at several locations in Louisiana. This is done to provide producers with unbiased information on hybrid performance under different soil types and climatic conditions.

A soybean verification program was initiated in 1994 to verify research by the LSU AgCenter at the farm level. Fields are selected statewide, including various cropping systems, and are monitored weekly. Data are collected throughout the growing season, and cooperators follow LSU AgCenter recommendations until harvest. Historically, LSRVP fields outyield the statewide average by 12 bushels per acre.

Since 2005, the Soybean and Grain Research and Promotion Board has provided monies for an AgCenter Communications project to develop a research report highlighting board-funded projects. This publication serves as a report to soybean and small grain producers about the results from LSU AgCenter projects that their check-off dollars funded. It also serves as a marketing piece for the board and grain industry. This is the report for 2009.

The Louisiana Soybean and Grain Research and Promotion Board funded these projects in various LSU AgCenter departments, research stations and regions during the past year. Projects list the researcher leaders, total funding and the portions allocated from soybean, corn/wheat or grain sorghum checkoff funds.

LSU AgCenter faculty members had five projects funded by the new United Sorghum Checkoff Program during its first year of operation.The new program was established in 2008 under the authority of the Commodity Promotion, Research and Information Act of 1996 and began collecting checkoff dollars in July 2008. It is designed to use producers’ checkoff dollars to boost profits for sorghum growers with new market development, research and education.

Dr. Blair Buckley, associate professor for the LSU AgCenter, focuses on breeding soybeans to develop varieties with resistance to Cercospora leaf blight. Disease-resistant varieties reduce the need for fungicide applications.

Dr. Daniel Stephenson is conducting research trials with feed grains and soybeans at the LSU AgCenter’s Dean Lee Research and Extension Center in Alexandria and its Red River Research Station in Bossier City.

A new research program in the LSU AgCenter is using optical sensors to help corn growers improve nitrogen efficiency by matching fertilizer rates to the yield potential of the crop and available nitrogen in the soil.

The 2009 season is the second year of a research project attempting to provide a better understanding of the complex symptoms associated with soybean plants that appear to mature abnormally.Known as “green bean syndrome” by some and “green stem” by others, the phenomenon has become relatively common across Louisiana

Field corn and small grains represent substantial acreage and contribute significant crop value to agriculture in Louisiana – with more than 1 million acres and $553 million in value for 2008.

The latest challenge on the horizon for wheat breeding is developing resistance to fusarium head blight or scab, according to Dr. Steve Harrison, the LSU AgCenter’s small grains breeder.

Glyphosate – the active ingredient in Roundup – is convenient, easy-to-use and cost-effective. Repeated use likely has led to glyphosate-resistant weeds, however, according to Jim Griffin, a weed scientist with the LSU AgCenter.

LSU AgCenter researchers are looking at disease resistance in corn and wheat varieties and working to determine how fungicide timing and use may affect disease development.

Louisiana Soybean and Grain Research and Promotion Board Members

LSU AgCenter scientists are taking aim at the diverse mix of insect pests southern soybean producers have traditionally faced as well as new and resurging pests.

Dr. Jack Losso’s research could be considered insightful. This LSU AgCenter food scientist is working with lutein, an antioxidant that can delay vision loss in older individuals or people with diabetes.

An LSU AgCenter demonstration program is a proving ground for new varieties of soybeans, corn and grain sorghum. Planting several varieties side by side lets farmers compare disease susceptibility, yields, insect resistance and other characteristics.

LSU AgCenter researchers are attacking the problem of aflatoxin on several fronts.Aflatoxin, a chemical produced by mold inside corn kernels, is harmful to livestock and is considered a cancer-causing agent.

Each year the LSU AgCenter tests commercial corn hybrids which are entered in the state yield tests by private seed companies. From these, a grower should choose several which are adapted to an individualfarm.

2010 recommendations. Each year the LSU AgCenter tests commercial corn hybrids that are entered in the state yield trials by private seed companies. From these, a grower should choose several that are adapted to an individual farm. Information in the tables should help you make these important decisions.

Summaries of Louisiana rice acreage by variety and by parish.

LSU AgCenter researchers are taking a variety of approaches to combat soybean diseases.

The Louisiana Soybean and Grain Research and Promotion Board directs your checkoff dollars to research projects that address Louisiana’s most important production issues. The board administers Louisiana’s wheat and corn checkoff and the national checkoffs on soybeans and sorghum for Louisiana. Whether obtained through national or state checkoff programs, your checkoff dollars make it possible to fund continuing research that addresses issues specific to Louisiana conditions.

Summaries of Louisiana rice acreage by variety and by parish.

This publication serves as the 2009 report to soybean and small grain producers about the results from LSU AgCenter projects that their check-off dollars funded. It also serves as a marketing piece for the board and grain industry.

The Chinese tallow tree is a fast-growing species that produces abundant quantities of seed rich in lipids suitable for the production of biodiesel and other uses. Because of its high seed yields, this perennial crop has legitimate potential to supply the biodiesel industry with critical feedstock at low-cost.

Pick up Louisiana citrus at roadside stands and in local markets and groceries from now through the holidays. The 2009 crop is one of the best in recent years, says Alan Vaughn, LSU AgCenter agent in Plaquemines Parish, the leading citrus-producing parish in the state.

Distribution maps of Louisiana rice acreage by parish and variety.

A common problem with hydraulic cylinders is rust and pitting of the cylinder rods. If equipment that incorporates hydraulic cylinders is stored outside with the cylinder rods extended, the rods are exposed to weathering. Eventually, the rods will begin to show specks of rust that develop into pits. Once rusting and pitting occur, the rod will destroy the cylinder seal the next time it is activated.

Louisiana farmers and forest producers could find a silver lining in the cloud of rising fuel prices – with the development of new fuels from crops they already grow or could grow.

Sweet potatoes are not very sweet or moist when first dug. It takes six to eight weeks of proper curing and storage before they have the sweet, moist taste and texture desired when baked, says LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Tom Koske.

This publication includes keys to identification of water paspalum, brook paspalum, knotgrass and perennial barnyardgrass. (PDF Format Only)

As a result of the excellent stubbling ability of LCP 85-384, producers are now considering such production decisions as how long stubble crops should be kept in production before plowing out, or whether they should be kept in production if a net profit could be made from harvest. This report outlines a procedure that can be used to determine the optimal number of sugarcane stubble crops to keep in production with the goal of maximizing producer net returns.

This page contains the 2006 grain sorghum hybrids performance trials research summaries.

The dry weather really shows areas in fields that have been damaged by plant nematodes. Plants that are already weakened by the presence of nematodes simply cannot handle the additional stress produced by drought.

2009 Extension Demonstrations

Many growers pick up plastic mulch but several machines are available for this job. Work at the LSU AgCenter has demonstrated that, in some cases, plastic mulch can be picked up by a hay baler.

Performance of grain sorghum hybrids is annually evaluated by Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station (LAES) researchers. The purpose of these trials is to provide Louisiana growers, seedsmen, county agents of the LCES, and other interested individuals and organizations with unbiased performance data for commercial grain sorghum hybrids submitted for evaluation by private agencies. Results from these trials are used by the LCES for recommending hybrids.

(Distributed 10/28/09) The LSU AgCenter has received two specialty crop block grants for two research and promotion projects to enhance the competitiveness of Louisiana-grown sweet potatoes and nursery crops.

The 'Drift' series roses from Conard-Pyle are being evaluated in landscape studies at the LSU AgCenter's Burden Center. Here is some information on performance.

The 'Drift' series roses from Conard-Pyle are being evaluated in landscape studies at the LSU AgCenter's Burden Center. Colors are red, pink, coral and peach. New for 2010 will be apricot and sweet.

Distribution maps of Louisiana rice acreage by parish and variety.

Distribution maps of Louisiana rice acreage by parish and variety.

The use of plastic mulch is a common practice for nearly all strawberry growers and most vegetable growers. Installing the mulch is easier than it used to be when mulch was installed by hand, but it can be challenging.

Distribution maps of Louisiana rice acreage by parish and variety.

Summaries of Louisiana rice acreage by variety and by parish.

Site-specific agriculture is a management strategy that uses information technologies to bring spatial data from numerous sources, which can influence decisions associated with crop production. This page defines the term "information" in general and describes what it implies in terms of agricultural site-specific management practices.

2004 rice research program included breeding, biotechnology, variety testing, production and distribution of foundation seed, fertilization, soil and water management, cultural practices, weed control, insect control, disease investigations, rice drying, bird control in rice, and physiology studies. The aquaculture research program places emphasis upon production practices, forages, and multi-cropping of crawfish with agronomic crops

Article that provides instructions of how to prevent and treat insects infesting stored rice.

The LSU AgCenter soon will begin comprehensive tests for salt contamination in areas of Vermilion Parish hit by Hurricane Rita’s storm surge, but officials this week said the problem may not be as bad as originally feared.

A seeder can be a tremendous aid in planting a vegetable garden. With it, you can stand and walk along the row pushing a seeder instead of having to make a furrow with a hoe, going back along the row bent over dropping seeds, and then covering and packing the row.

This page contains the soybean performance trials research summaries for the year 2008.

After Hurricane Katrina made landfall in Louisiana on August 29, 2005, the AgCenter quickly began to assess the damage caused to the agriculture, forestry, and fisheries industries. Since those initial estimates, the AgCenter has refined its projections and now pegs the total economic impact due losses in revenue and additional production costs at slightly over $1.0 billion.

The first caterpillar-resistant transgenic cotton varieties (Bollgard) were approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1996. The Bollgard technology has successfully reduced the frequency of sprays for caterpillar pests by about half.

Summaries of Louisiana rice acreage by variety and by parish.

Distribution maps of Louisiana rice acreage by parish and variety.

Rice is one of the world’s most important cereal crops. Rice and wheat are two of the most important cereal crops and together make up the majority of the world’s source of calories. They feed the world. Information on general agronomic guidelines, varieties, soils, plant nutrition, fertilization, rice drying, economics and weed, disease and pest management. Revised June 2009.

This report highlights changes in the costs of producing sugarcane in Louisiana over the 2004-2008 period. Comparisons are made between production costs per pound of raw sugar produced and the average net price for raw sugar received by growers.

Based on the information known at the time of the storm, and given the historical value of these industries to the state, the AgCenter was able to provide preliminary estimates on losses of revenue due to production losses.

The dollar amounts, which are estimates of reduced revenue and increased costs, are broken down by storm and commodity. Total estimated costs are also provided.

Increased profit is the primary reason producers need to know the quality of the forages they feed livestock. It’s important to know the nutrient composition and potential animal performance that can be expected from a given forage. Methods of Testing Feeds, Definitions of Common Forage Analysis Terms, Application of Forage Testing Results, Forage Sampling and Sample Submission information included. (PDF Format Only)

This page contains the 2007 grain sorghum hybrids performance trials research summaries.

(Distributed 11/06/03) Three new, early-ripening varieties of satsuma mandarins have given Louisiana producers a head start on the state’s annual citrus harvest.

The perfromance of eight BT sweet cron varieties planted in four locations in Louisiana in 2008.

Eighteen varieties of watermelon were planted at three locations in Louisiana in the summer of 2008. The varieties were evaluated for yield , shape, weight of melons, foliage degree of sunburning, rind color, rind thickness, flesh clor, seed color, seed size, size of seed cavity and soluble solids.

Twelve onion varieties were planted in replicated plots at the Burden Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA in January of 2008. Plants were obatined from Bland Farms, Glennville, GA, Dixondale Farms, Carrizo Springs, TX and Dietrich Gembler, Knippa, TX. The varietes were evaluated for maturity, yield, bulb size, bulb shape, degree of bolting, degree of double bulbs and tast

This page contains the grain corn hybrids performance trials research summaries for the year 2007

This page contains the grain corn hybrids performance trials research summaries for the year 2008.

This page contains the grain corn hybrids performance trials research summaries for the year 2009.

The 2007 statewide wheat performance trials included 51 varieties and experimental lines. Recommendations are based on the relative performance of an entry for two years within a region.

The Louisiana Soybean and Grain Research and Promotion Board focuses your checkoff dollars on projects that address Louisiana’s most important production and marketing issues.

This publication serves as a report to soybean and small grain producers about the results from LSU AgCenter projects that their check-off dollars funded. It also serves as a marketing piece for the board and grain industry.

Late-fall to early-winter herbicide application is a new approach to managing winter weeds in Louisiana.

The two most important corn borer pests are the sugarcane borer and the southwestern corn borer.

Dr. Zhimin Xu is taking what was a relatively useless product and making it a healthful preservative. Defatted soy flour is a byproduct of producing vegetable oil from soybeans, and until now, it was used only as animal feed – and only in some cases.

The Louisiana Soybean and Grain Research and Promotion Board funded these projects in various LSU AgCenter departments, research stations and regions during the past year. Projects list researchers, total funding and the portions allocated from soybean funding or feed grain funding.

Getting pesticides to the intended target is the goal of Dr. Roberto Barbosa, LSU AgCenter assistant professor of agricultural and biological engineering.

One of the main focuses of the LSU AgCenter’s soybean breeding program is to develop soybean varieties with resistance to Cercospora leaf blight.

Monitoring programs and educational efforts from the LSU AgCenter are among an array of factors that have kept Asian soybean rust from inflicting major harm on the state’s crop.

Since the Louisiana Soybean Research and Verification Program began in 1994, soybean farmers have been increasing yields and profits by following the recommended practices of the LSU AgCenter.During the 14 years of the program, more than 120 producers in 20 parishes have participated in helping to verify the LSU AgCenter’s research results and recommendations in their fields. In turn, the fields in the program have averaged yields of 43.5 bushels of soybeans per acre while the state average is

With dry conditions this season, ways to combat aflatoxin in corn are taking on huge significance.LSU AgCenter plant breeder Dr. Steve Moore continues to look for ways to combat aflatoxin in corn, especially in evaluating lines for resistance.

LSU AgCenter researchers continue their quest for short-term and long-term solutions in the battle with soybean diseases – particularly Asian soybean rust.

Fertilizer recommendations for Louisiana crops are being improved with the adoption of new soil testing methods by the LSU AgCenter’s soils lab, according to Dr. Jim Wang.

Louisiana soybean growers have become increasingly interested in early planting, and LSU AgCenter researchers have been evaluating how different cultural practices affect soybean performance.

LSU AgCenter researchers are using a multidisciplinary approach to study soybean green plant problems across Louisiana.

LSU AgCenter personnel at the Dean Lee Research Station are studying raised-bed planting of a double crop of wheat and soybeans.

Last year the state’s farmers harvested 228,000 acres of wheat, up from 110,000 acres in 2006. For 2008, the total increased to approximately 400,000 acres, according to LSU AgCenter wheat breeder Dr. Steve Harrison.

The cotton industry in Louisiana has seen major structural changes in a short time. Total cotton production was reduced by almost 75 percent between 2005 and 2008. This article explores the future of the cotton industry.

A phenology research garden was planted in fall 2007 at the LSU AgCenter Hammond Research Station in Hammond, La. Data collected in 2008 indicated that a sequence of phonological events in advance of pest activities is available from 15 ornamental plants for predicting landscape pest activity.

Nutsedge is probably the most difficult weed to control in sugarcane. The most effective means to control nutsedge is through a foliar treatment that is safe to sugarcane.

A photograph of a labeled grass spikelet.

This PDF file provides a description of LSU AgCenter Bioenergy Projects and the faculty leading the research and outreach. Topics covered include: development of alternative renewable fuels; bagasse to ethanol; gasification technologies; use of bran to produce bio-diesel; costs of producing energy sugarcane; production and management aspects and biofuel potential.

Growing commercial vegetables is different from growing agronomic crops and requires a different approach to equipment. A precision cultural system (PCS) developed by the LSU AgCenter can make commercial vegetable production much easier.

Strawberries can be grown in all parts of the state and have been an important horticulture crop for many years. With a good crop, good harvest labor and excess to markets, strawberries can return high profits.

Photographs and accompanying text on rice research verification harvest and hurricane damage on rice production.

This manual is a study guide for preparing to take the Pesticide Applicator Certification Core Exam. This manual satisfies the basic applicator training requirements of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) and the Louisiana Pesticide Laws and Regulations. Cost: $15 plus tax (free shipping). You can order this book through our online store by using the Order Publication link below.

The Louisiana Farm Record Book is designed to provide a farmer with an organized system for keeping vital records. Its 72 pages provide space for recording farm income and expenses, as well as data on loans, open accounts, land use and crops planted. It also provides a means of producing an income statement, evaluating cash flow, analyzing farm enterprises and more. Cost: $12 + tax (free shipping). Order a printed copy through our online store by using the Order Publication button below.

Farm and grounds maintenance equipment is often exposed to rain, high humidity, fertilizer, pesticides and corrosive plant materials (such as grass clippings). The manufacturers of that equipment have taken steps to try to protect the equipment and reduce the potential for corrosion.

While equipment companies are doing their part to reduce corrosion of tractors and farm equipment, how well you maintain your machinery will determine its useful life. Here are some rust prevention tips.

The panicle rice mite is a pest of commercial rice, Oryza sativa L., and also completes its development on the invasive plant Oryza latifolia Desv. During the summer of 2007, breeding facility greenhouses and fields in Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas and New York were found to be infested by PRM.

This document provides a step-by-step procedure for hot water treatment of pecan scion wood to eliminate the bacterial leaf scorch pathogen.

Sweet potato nutrition information, per-capita consumption, products and U.S. production statistical information. (PDF Format Only)

Louisiana growers want a carrot variety that makes long tapered roots with good exterior and interior color and produces a high percentage of marketable roots with tall to medium tops.

This video will teach you how to scout your citrus trees for the asian citrus psyllid and greening disease.

Both adult and nymph chinch bugs will feed on rice.

This short publication provides information on cultural practices related to wheat production, including planting dates and rates and fertilizer recommendations.

The purpose of this report is to provide estimates of cost of production and net returns for a Louisiana citrus grower with about 5 acres in production. A citrus grove has a long productive life. Budgets evolve over the first five years of the enterprise from establishment costs to a grove approaching maturity. Succeeding years would be similar to the 5th year budget.

The article provides a brief description of factors to consider when harvesting and storing pecans.

This article provides information on storing shelled and unshelled pecans. A table indicating the average shelf life of pecans when stored at various temperatures is included.

The key components of the effective use of fungicides for pecan disease control are timing, coverage and concentration. The updated 2009 fungicide list is included.

An illustrated fact sheet describing the appearance and life cycle of the black pecan aphid. A description of the damage and information on sampling are included.

An illustrated fact sheet describing the appearance, damage and life cycle of yellow aphids. Additional information on sampling is included.

An illustrated fact sheet describing two types of traps that can be used to monitor seasonal activity of the nut curculio in pecan orchards. This fact sheet describes how to build and use both types of traps.

An illustrated fact sheet describing the appearance and life cycle of the pecan nut casebearer. A description of the damage and information on monitoring pecan nut casebearer activity are included.

An illustrated fact sheet describing the appearance and life cycle of the walnut caterpillar. Included in the article is information on damage and control.

An illustrated fact sheet describing the appearance and life cycle of the pecan spittlebug. A description of the damage caused by the pecan spittlebug and sampling information are included.

An illustrated fact sheet describing the appearance and life cycle of the nut curculio. A description of the damage and information on sampling are also covered.

This page provides information on pecan pollen shed and pistillate flower receptivity dates for numerous pecan cultivars. This information is useful for determining which pecan cultivars will pollinate other cultivars.

This article provides instructions on when and how to collect leaf samples for pecan nutritional analysis.

The information contained in this article was presented at the LSU Pecan Research Station as part of the program of the Louisiana Pecan Growers Association Annual Conference held in Shreveport, LA on June 15-16, 2006. Demonstration plots of many of the herbicides were shown to participants and general information about each herbicide discussed. A general overview of pecan orchard floor management is given and herbicides labeled for use in pecan orchards are listed by site activity.

The most important cultural practice the homeowner with pecan trees needs to consider is proper fertilization. This publication includes information and guidelines for fertilizing pecan trees.

The following list contains contact information for nurseries that sell pecan trees and/or propagation wood. The list is furnished for your information with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no guarantee of reliability is implied.

Pecan variety recommendations for yards and small, unmanaged plantings.

Photographs of sheath blight symptoms on rice.

Small grain variety trials are conducted annually by scientists of the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station (LAES) to evaluate grain yield, agronomic performance, and disease reaction of varieties and advanced lines. The trials are conducted at seven LAES research stations representative of the major soil and climate regions of the state. The 2009 statewide wheat performance trials included 70 varieties and experimental lines.

A series of PowerPoint slides explaining several aspects of soil testing, analysis and interpretation of results.

A series of PowerPoint images illustrating the identifying characteristcs of the European corn borer, the rice stalk borer and the sugarcane borer in rice.

A series of PowerPoint slides illustrating the biology, life cycle of the rice stink bug and the injury it causes to rice.

Photographs of pickerelweed and its parts.

Many different strategies are available for fertilizing pastures. They vary according to stocking rate, presence or absence of legumes and whether the pastures consist of summer or winter plants. Includes information on soil testing, pH, liming and winter annuals. (PDF Format Only)

Research-based newsletter on everything cotton. Articles in this issue include information on Cotton IPM and insecticide termination timing

This is a spreadsheet of the LSU AgCenter sugarcane faculty listing. It contains all sugarcane faculty members with the LSU AgCenter, their area of specialty and contact information. This list was last modified on 09/25/2008.

All varieties of sweet sorghum remain completely recumbent two weeks after Hurricane Gustav, whereas, sugarcane has become considerably more erect. The inability of sweet sorghum to erect itself after lodging will make harvesting more difficult and losses will be greater.

A tiny pest called the “panicle rice mite” has been found in the southern United States, including the LSU AgCenter’s Rice Research Station at Crowley.

These files contain cost and returns estimates for fields enrolled in the 2008 Sweet Potato Research Verification Program

Research-based newsletter on everything cotton. Articles in this issue include information on the use of PGRs in cotton.

Research-based newsletter on everything cotton. Articles in this issue include information on cotton foliar fertilization and bollworm control.

Photographs and accompanying text on long horned grasshopper eggs on a rice plant and Louisiana Rice Research Verification Program yields.

This article provides valuable information on sugarcane weed control at planting. It also cites scenarios on single-application versus split-application weed control programs for use at planting based on specific weed problems.

The N fertilizer treatments (0, 45, 90 and 135 lb/A) were applied as urea by hand just after each harvest date.

We began to harvest the Dale and Theis sweet sorghum varieties on July 24 and completed the harvest on the 25th. Only the Dale and Theis varieties were harvested on these dates because they reached harvest maturity before the M81-E and Topper varieties.

Sweet Sorghum Blog from Iberia Research Station on August 26, 2008

One of the last, but most important, steps in producing a cotton crop is harvest preparation. Successful preparation includes scheduling for defoliation and harvest operations, removing foliage and facilitating boll opening. Use these recommendations for a successful cotton harvest. (PDF Format Only)

Research-based newsletter on everything cotton. Articles in this issue: Cotton Defoliation, Defoliation Guidelines for 2009, Defoliation Timing, Defoliation Materials, Boil-Opening Materials

This is to report on the activities related to the boiling program from August 2000 to February 2001. A brief account is given of the accomplishments as well as comments where the actual work deviated from the tentative plans.

Louisiana growers want a beet variety that matures early with globe-shaped roots 2 to 2-1/2 inches in diameter with good exterior and interior color with tall dark green glossy tops that remain in good condition for an extended period of time.

Louisiana growers want a spinach variety that is early in maturing with dark green, savoy type leaves on an upright growing plant with good vigor that does not bolt. Twenty-two spinach varieties were evaluated at the Burden Center in Baton Rouge, La.

Nine insecticide treatments were evaluated for control of two aphid pest species in sugarcane: the sugarcane aphid (WSA) and the yellow sugarcane aphid (YSA).

The citrus root weevil, Diaprepes abbreviatus, is an important crop pest that has now invaded Louisiana. This article describes the life history, host range and recommended management strategies in commercial citrus groves.

Photographs and accompanying text on the identification of leaf scald, brown spot, and gramoxone injury.

Photographs and accompanying text on the use of harvest aids in rice.

The southern green stink bug (Nezara viridula) has one of the widest host ranges of any insect pest. Not surprisingly then, it is occasionally a pest of rice.

Photographs and accompanying text on beaver occurrence in rice fields as well as impact on rice production and water management influence on blast in rice crops.

One of the most important decisions a forage producer must make is which variety or varieties to plant. To help farmers make logical choices among crops and varieties, the LSU AgCenter conducts variety trials and makes recommendations each year. Suggested varieties, seeding rates, planting depths and seeding dates are included. (PDF Format Only)

For several years Arkansas rice farmers have had to deal with grape colaspis, a small beetle, whose larvae feed on the roots of rice. Rice drilled into soybean stubble is particularly susceptible to damage from this insect. Larval feeding can cause more than 50 percent reduction in stand. This season colaspis has caused stand reductions in a few rice fields in Acadia, Evangeline and St. Landry parishes. This short video will train you to scout for colaspis in rice. (Runtime: 3:58)

The rice water weevil (RWW) is the most important early-season insect pest of rice in Louisiana. Adults of this insect emerge from overwintering sites beginning in early April in southern Louisiana (later in northern Louisiana) and fly to rice fields, where they feed on young rice leaves. Egg-laying commences when standing water is present in fields. This video will train you to scout for RWW larvae & adults in your rice field. (Runtime: 7:16)

Louisiana and the southeastern United States has an abundance of native plants that have potential for ornamental and fruit crop use. One of these that LSU AgCenter personnel have been investigating in recent years is the pawpaw.

Lacassine sweet sorghum site.

The sweet sorghum varieties M-81E and Topper just began heading early this week (July 14).

Green industry professionals attending the landscape horticulture field day at the LSU AgCenter’s Hammond Research Station in June were given the opportunity to “pick their winning plants” from the sun garden evaluation trial gardens at the station. Over 340 varieties were planted this year. The planting mostly consists of annual bedding plants and herbaceous perennials, but new roses and some “companion” woody ornamental shrubs (such as Southern Living plants) are also included.

Information for greenhouse growers on media pH management in production.

Eighteen varieties of seeded watermelons were planted at three locations in the spring of 2008. The melons were evaluated at each location. The information was analyzed and the top varieties were selected.

Provides information and symptions related to several common diseases in sweet potatoes.

This page contains the faculty and staff information on those working in soybeans.

This video will teach you how to scout for the panicle rice mite in a rice field.

Small grain variety trials are conducted annually by scientists of the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station (LAES) to evaluate grain yield, agronomic performance, and disease reaction of varieties and advanced lines. The trials are conducted at seven LAES research stations representative of the major soil and climate regions of the state. The 2008 statewide wheat performance trials included 60 varieties and experimental lines.

(Distributed 03/19/03) Wet weather rather than climbing fuel and fertilizer costs is keeping Louisiana farmers from planting corn, according to an expert with the LSU AgCenter.

Text on correct rice harvest moisture, calculating yield to adjust 12 percent harvest moisture, and rice ratoon crop management practices.

The three sweet sorghum varieties being evaluated are relatively close in maturity.

Photographs and accompanying text on rice flower parts and iron toxicity in rice crops

Photographs and accompanying text on feral hog damage and sprangletop infestation.

Information on the Louisiana Cotton Variety Testing Program is given.Attached are entry forms for the 2009 Cotton OVT and the Commercial Strain Tests for Louisiana. Please review the instructions and return the application by March 1, 2009.

Sweet sorghum growth response to nitrogen rate is evident from this photo taken in late July 2008.

Lake Charles Sweet Sorghum Plot Updates - August 1, 2008 from County Agents Jerry Whatley and Allen Hogan.

Photographs and accompanying text on plant leaf tip injury, proper drainage for straighthead disorder, and the occurrence of rice pollination.

Photographs and accompanying text on bacteria panicle blight identification, bird damage on headed rice, potassium and sulfur deficiency problems in rice, and taking hand samples to determine harvest moisture.

Weeds compete with nursery crops for water, nutrients and light and can potentially harbor insects and diseases. They are common in all container nurseries and can cause significant losses in product quality and quantity.

(Distributed 06/17/08) The LSU AgCenter has conducted a considerable amount of evaluation research on crape myrtles over the last 10-plus years, according to LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Allen Owings. “Probably 40-50 varieties are worthy of being grown and sold in Louisiana,” Owing says.

Photographs and accompanying text on rice leaf blast.

Photographs and accompanying text on rice levee billbug.

This guide can be used to aid in the identification of soybean insects in Louisiana.

Photographs and accompanying text on the identification and injury caused by collar blast, rotten neck blast and panicle blast; rice plant identification and plant part functions; and potassium-deficiency symptoms.

Photographs and accompanying text on potassium deficiency symptoms on rice variety CL 151, iron toxicity problems, and pancile blight lookout.

Two new sugarcane varieties released earlier this year and "energy cane" were featured at the LSU AgCenter’s annual sugarcane field day on July 19 at the Sugar Research Station at St. Gabriel.

This publication provides general information on rice drying as an aid to the producer who desires to store and dry on his farm.

Photographs and accompanying text on leaf blast management and control, identification of crown rot disease, Clearfield varieties outcross with red rice, zinc and sulfur activity on localized decline, salt injury to rice plants, and stink bug management tips.

The agents are your local contact for all rice-related information produced by the LSU AgCenter.

A list of extension and research faculty to whom questions about rice may be addressed.

Overview of sweet sorghum variety test at the Southeast Research Station.

Post-directed chemicals have been used to provide weed control in our sweet sorghum plots.

Following a period with good growing conditions for the past couple of weeks, moisture stress conditions are beginning to affect sweet sorghum growth for the second time this growing season at the Hill Farm Research Station.

Currently, Southeast Research Station is conducting two sweet sorghum studies.

The adult rice water weevil is small (about 1/8 inch or 3mm long). It resembles the cotton boll weevil and other snout beetles.

Photographs and accompanying text on rice drain timing, rice moisture meter, rice disease, and glyphosate drift.

Photographs and accompanying text on rice leaf lesions, outer grain purple color and rice drain timing.

Photographs and accompanying text on leaf blast identification and control measures, grape colaspis damage to rice field, fall panicum control, glyphosate injury, and weed control with a pinpoint flood.

Root-knot nematode is the second most important nematode that damages cotton in Louisiana.

Description of Location 4 of RWW demonstration test.

Location 3 of rice water weevil demonstration test.

Description of location 5 in RWW demonstration test.

Photographs of red rice (Oryza sativa) and its various forms.

Photographs of water starwort (Callitriche heterophylla).

This newsletter provides valuable information for the Louisiana sugarcane producer on current events to include status of sugarcane disaster money, an update on sugarcane varieties, growth measurements, weed pressure, disease and insect information for Louisiana sugarcane farmers and processors. Click here to read more.

The ability of farmers to burn sugarcane is a significant economic factor for the state’s sugarcane industry. Burning of sugarcane before harvest eliminates from 30 percent to 50 percent of the leafy trash (residue), which constitutes from 20 percent to 25 percent of the total weight of the plant.

Photographs and accompanying text on Newpath injury to rice, phosphorous deficiency symptoms for a rice crop, adult rice water weevil damage to rice plants, and rice weed identification.

Photographs of mannagrass (Glyeria declinata) and some of its parts.

Photographs and accompanying text on rice disease management tips and best timing to drain rice fields for harvest.

These guidelines are intended to help manage smoke and ash from sugarcane prescribed burning operations to lessen their impact on public health and welfare.

Several images show the identifying markings of the Redbanded Stink Bug and comparisons to other stink bugs.

Adults are 10-12 mm and brilliant green, but as they get older, they may appear more yellow. Adults normally have two stripes across the back of the thorax, one yellow and one dark red to purple or even black .

Photograph and accompanying text on rice panicle size in relation to fungicide timing, dew and guttation affects on rice disease activity, identification of rice weeds, and rice insect pest management.

This publication includes information on soil preparation, fertilization, training, pruning, nutrient solutions, pollination, harvesting, marketing, and insect and disease control for greenhouse tomatoes.

Research-based newsletter on everything cotton. Articles in this issue: Cotton Crop Report and Cotton Irrigation

A prescribe burn plan should be completed by each grower before the harvest season. One plan can be completed for an entire farm or for an individual field. All information needed to plan and conduct a burn and for comments concerning the burn is contained in the form. The plan was devised to help farm operators control the burning of sugarcane to lessen their impact on public health and welfare, which includes pre-burn considerations and weather information.

The Rice Research Board has provided monies for an AgCenter Communications project to develop a research report highlighting board-funded projects. This publication serves as a report to rice producers about the results from LSU AgCenter projects that their check-off dollars funded. It also serves as a marketing piece for the board and rice industry.

The new and continued projects funded by the Louisiana Rice Research Board

Rice Research Report Masthead

This publication serves as a report to soybean and small grain producers about the results from LSU AgCenter projects that their check-off dollars funded. The continuation of this project will help build producer, industry and stakeholder awareness and support of board activities.

The use of plastic mulch is a common practice for strawberry and vegetable growers, but there are two major problems with plastic mulch: it is expensive to install and at some point it has to be removed from the field. Several machines are available that help simplify the removal of the mulch.

Research-based newsletter on everything cotton. Articles in this issue: Louisiana crop report and Foliar-applied Fungicides in Cotton

When he came to Louisiana in 1970, Dr. Chuck Rush started his LSU AgCenter career conducting rice research, and 39 years later he’s still searching for answers.

Broadleaf weeds and sedges have become more problematic in recent years in North Louisiana rice fields, probably because of the increased use of Command and other herbicides with limited broadleaf and sedge activity, according to Dr. Bill Williams, an LSU AgCenter weed management specialist at its Scott Research, Extension and Education Center.

LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Mike Stout is continuing his work to help farmers with their No. 1 insect pest, the rice water weevil.

Dr. Johnny Saichuk, LSU AgCenter Extension rice specialist, has become a traveling correspondent, relaying observations and thoughts in his weekly “Field Notes.”

LSU AgCenter rice breeder Dr. Xueyan Sha makes a cross by using a flowering rice plant from the greenhouse.

Improvements in rice varieties are likely from the RiceCAP project, a collaboration involving the LSU AgCenter, eight other universities and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

LSU AgCenter Communications has been actively supporting the efforts of the Louisiana Rice Research Board, rice growers across the state and AgCenter faculty members involved in rice research for more than eight years.

LSU AgCenter agronomist Dr. Dustin Harrell of the AgCenter’s Rice Research Station conducts a wide range of research to figure out how farmers can get the most effective benefits from fertilizer applications.

The new federal farm bill passed recently by Congress has increased the level of complexity faced by farmers.

The threat of Cercospora will remain a slight possibility for the 2009 crop, even though it hasn’t been a widespread problem since 2006, according to Dr. Don Groth, LSU AgCenter pathologist at the Rice Research Station.

LSU AgCenter molecular biologist Dr. Herry Utomo is on a mission to find genes of interest to improve rice varieties.

After 12 years of development by the LSU AgCenter, an experimental line of an aromatic Jasmine-type rice is a likely candidate for release for the 2009 growing season.

Members of the Louisiana Rice Research Board

We just completed another usual unusual year. It seems each crop year is unique in its own way. We look to this next one in 2009 and we see uncertainty even more than ever. As Donald Rumsfeld once said, “We have a list of known unknowns.”

Herbicide drift often occurs when it seems the morning air is still and calm, according to Dr. Eric Webster, LSU AgCenter weed specialist.

When growing carrots for commercial production, it is helpful to run a knife in the soil beside the rows. This breaks up any soil compaction, allowing the carrot roots to grow straight.

Research-based newsletter on everything cotton. Articles in this issue: Louisiana crop report and nematode problems starting to show up in cotton.

The Rice Research Board has provided monies for an AgCenter Communications project to develop a research report highlighting board-funded projects. This publication serves as a report to rice producers about the results from LSU AgCenter projects that their check-off dollars funded. It also serves as a marketing piece for the board and rice industry.

Many Louisiana rice farmers may look back on 2008 as the year when everything could have converged into an excellent crop, maybe even a record-setting harvest. But hurricane wind and water changed that, first with Gustav on Sept. 1 and then Ike on Sept. 13.

Citrus trees that survived hurricane damage may have lost significant amounts of foliage. These trees could experience a strong flush as they start their own healing process. This is very important because new foliage will provide nutrients needed for winter survival and faster tree recovery. Producers must implement practices to protect from additional leaf loss which can be caused by the citrus leafminer.

This page contains important links to prescribed burning of sugarcane in Louisiana.

Photographs and accompanying text on rice seed panicle development, sugarcane borer damage to rice plants and 2-4,D rice injury.

Photographs and accompanying text on fungicide applications, rice potassium deficiency, and rice panicle development.

The best plots at the Iberia Research Station are about 8 feet tall and varietal differences in height and plant population are evident.

Material presented to parish agents on the general concept of grain drying and stored-grain pest management.

A pumping system’s efficiency is calculated by comparing the amount of fuel used to the amount of water pumped.

This guide for 2009 contains suggestions for management of the most important or more prevalent diseases of Louisiana plants. It includes information on fungicides, bactericides and nematicides, as well as safety precautions for using them.

Photographs and accompanying text on rice plant growth stage, rice disease identification and control measures, weed identification, and iron problematic issues in rice fields

A lot has happened since my last blog. Let me see if I can get you caught up…On Friday, June 20, we began to see a few heads emerge from the flag leaf of the Dale and the Theis varieties.

2009 will be the first opportunity for crop producers to enroll in the ACRE program of the 2008 farm bill or stay with the DCP program. Although the ACRE program is a whole-farm program, Louisiana rice producers need to understand how the program would operate for their rice-farming operations in evaluating enrollment decisions. A spreadsheet- based decision tool and related information report have been developed to assist Louisiana rice producers in evaluating the ACRE program.

Identification of rice diseases based on plant part infected and symptoms utilizing a PowerPoint presentation with photo links. Some of the diseases included are sheath blight, blast, bacterial panicle blight, cercospora and kernel smut.

Eclipta is a member of the Sunflower family, Asteraceae. Its flowers are numerous in a tight head.

Rice stink bugs (Oebalus pugnax) are the most important insect pest of headed rice in Louisiana.

Provides a list of plant hosts for Asian Soybean Rust.

Treatment description and field map for Location 1.

Information for location 2.

Photogaphs of red ludwigia or waterpurslane.

Symptoms of soybean rust appear identical regardless if they are caused by Phakopsora pachyrhizi or Phakopsora meibomiae. Host plants infected with soybean rust first exhibit small lesions that gradually increase in size and turn from gray to tan or brown. They become polygonally shaped restricted by leaf veins, and may eventually reach 2 to 3 square millimeters.

Images identifiying Asian Soybean Rust

More images to help with the identification of Asian soybean rust

This guide includes helpful information on herbicides and weed control with detailed suggestions for aquatics, commercial nursery stock, field crops, forestry, fruit crops, home gardens, lawns and many other Louisiana crops. It includes information on different types of herbicide registrations, as well as information on herbicide labels and restricted uses. Also included are sprayer calibration techniques, suggestions for reducing herbicide drift and a guide to proper spray tip selection.

This 2009 guide was compiled by LSU AgCenter experts and includes regulations, precautions and suggestions for pest control in Louisiana. Detailed topics include drift of pesticides, hazards of pesticides to beneficial insects and wildlife, phytotoxicity and using beneficial insects to control pest populations. A section on organic gardening also is included.

Sweet sorghum growing at the Macon Ridge Research Station near Winnsboro, LA.

Photographs and accompanying text on rice plant panicle development and irrigation polypipe.

This study aims to identify and compare the performance of major yield components of doubled haploid (DH) lines influencing yield under irrigated conditions.

This publication emphasizes the use of a total integrated management system to reduce wheat diseases and the damage they cause in the field.

Three images from the Lacassine site planting study.

The sweet sorghum varieties Dale, M81-E, Theis, and Topper were planted in a variety trial at the Hill Farm Research Station on April 16, 2008.

Sweet sorghum plots at Jeanerette are now benefitting from hot temperatures, adequate moisture and available fertilizer.

Field was sprayed right after planting with 1 quart/acre of Atrazine as a pre-emergence herbicide.

Photographs and accompanying text on firing of rice leaf tips and rice insect pest identification and control.

In order to maximize the return on fertilizer investment and ensure minimal environmental damage, it is necessary to follow sound, research-backed guidelines provided in this article. Producers will harvest better yields and make more profit.

Photographs and accompanying text describing rice disease and hail damage.

Nematodes are a serious pest to both our sweet potato industry and for those people growing them in a home garden. These pests affect the total production and quality of the sweet potato. Since the damage occurs to roots below ground, they are often not recognized as being a problem.

There is a wide range of seeder types and models available for direct seeding vegetable crops. Smaller growers typically use the less expensive seeders; larger growers can justify more expensive precision seeders.

Research-based newsletter on everything cotton. Articles in this issue: Managing cotton for fruit retention

Understanding the epidemiology and management of the major rice diseases through a series of powerpoint presentations.

This page contains the 2005 small grain data report.

Table and accompanying text on rice disease management, scouting procedures, rice variety reaction to major diseases and disease control strategies.

These are the presentations that were given at the grape colaspis training. All Louisiana rice producers, consultants, county agents and industry cooperators were invited and encouraged to attend this training on how to scout for grape colaspis in rice. The AgCenter has identified 4 fields in southwest Louisiana that have experienced stand reduction as a result of grape colaspis feeding on roots.

Photographs and accompanying text describing internode elongation (green ring), panicle differentiation, the Cercopspora complex, a table on fungicide rates and the adult rice leaf miner.

Photographs and accompanying discussion of Narrow Brown Leaf Spot disease, herbicide injury and localized decline in rice.

Louisianians love pecans. And they also like to grow them. Pecan production contributes nearly $5 million to the Louisiana economy each year. Producers learn how to grow pecans and manage pecan orchards at the nation's No. 1 – and only – Pecan Research and Extension Station, which is located in Shreveport.

Research-based newsletter on everything cotton. Articles in this issue: Louisiana crop report and double-crop cotton following wheat

Research-based newsletter on everything cotton. Articles in this issue: Lousiana crop report and early season arthropod pest management on cotton seedlings

Photographs and accompanying text on torpedograss, black rice bug identification, sugarcane borer activity in rice, and panicle development in rice plants.

A bacterial (rust-like) disease on kudzu was found on May 18 in Madison Parish. These pictures should help you identify the differences between this disease and rust. The water-soaked lesions are not usually present in the field, which causes this to look more like rust.

This report presents results from a 2007 survey of rice production cropland rental arrangments in Louisiana. Results include average cash rent paid on a per land tract, per rice base acre and per rice planted acre basis. Additional information is also included for common share rental arrangements.

The information contained in this article was presented at the March 31, 2006, Pecan Clinic near Cloutierville, La. The objectives for pruning damaged trees are listed and several types of pruning cuts are defined.

The 2008 Louisiana State Pecan Show made an excellent exhibit at Ag Expo in West Monroe January 18-19, 2008. Nearly 100 entries representative of 28 named varieties and 29 native/seedlings were judged to determine class and division winners. Pecan Show winners are listed.

For more than two decades there was uncertainty about the cause of a common disease among pecan trees referred to as leaf scorch. LSU AgCenter researchers were able to distinguish the cause of the disease, which has improved pecan production.

Photographs and accompanying text on regiment injury to rice plants, rice leaf tip burn by environmental factors, and brown spot disease in rice production.

Photographs and accompanying text on managing localized decline in rice production, rice water weevil scarring on leaf blades, and herbicide injury to rice plants.

Photographs and accompanying text on the identification of rice injury due to the Grape Colaspis and control measures.

Photographs and accompanying text on herbicide drift, insect identification, weed identification, nutrient deficiency, water management for rice production and fungicide rates.

County Agent Jimmy Flanagan viewing a plot of sweet sorghum that had an excessive amount of annual weeds.

A series of photographs depicting key growth stages in the development of rice before heading. Some of these are important in rice managment.

Photographs and accompanying text showing and explaining Newpath injury on rice.

Photographs and accompanying text describing the rice water weevil, localized decline of rice and lightning injury in rice.

Photographs and accompanying text describing chinch bugs and armyworms in rice.

Photographs and accompanying text describing temperature inversions, herbicide drift and nutrient deficiencies in rice.

Photographs and accompanying text describing the pupal stages and puparia of the rice water weevil.

Precision Agriculture and Soils

Cone guide wheels are the heart of a precision cultural system (PCS). Cone guide wheels allow an implement to follow along a shaped bed with no effort on the part of the tractor driver.

Sheath blight has been the most economically significant disease of rice in Louisiana since the early 1970s. The disease is caused by a fungal pathogen of both rice and soybeans. This fact sheet describes the symptoms of the disease and gives suggested management procedures.

This page contains the map of Louisiana Research Stations and Soil Map

LSU AgCenter scientists are launching a series of research projects in 2005 to learn what they can about Asian soybean rust and how this potentially devastating disease will develop in Louisiana.

In this edition: 1) Update on rice water weevil demonstration plots, 2) RWW observations this week, 3) Grape colaspis, 4) Aphids & ladybugs, and 5) Southern green stink bugs.

Photographs and accompanying text on phosphorus deficiency, glyphosate rice injury, chinch bug and rice water weevil activity, and aerial applications.

Sweet sorghum plots at the Iberia Research Station were fertilized after emergence on May 12

Photographs of spikerush (Eleocharis sp.)

Photographs and accompanying text describing herbicide injury on rice plants.

Photographs and accompanying text on an identified field having a persistent unknown rice disease, rice hail damage, salt injury on seedling rice, rice water weevil control and identification of rice green ring.

2009 recommended treatments and thresholds for corn and grain sorghum insects. Brief biological sketches of pests included. (PDF Format Only)

Photographs and accompanying text on slow-growing rice, rice water weevil and chinch bug management, phosphorus deficiency and lightning storm damage on wheat.

Photographs and accompany text on controlling emerged volunteer rice in a prepared seedbed, zinc and water management on seedling rice, controlling weeds in rice production and utilizing the herbicide Ricestar HT on medium-grain varieties.

Salt water can become a problem in rice production, especially in some areas in dry years. This table can be used as a guide for tolerance of rice to salt water.

Proper nitrogen fertilizer management is critical for high rice grain yields. The source of the nitrogen fertilizer, the placement of the fertilizer in the field, the application rate and application timing should all be carefully considered when developing a fertilizer management plan.

Traditional pot-in-pot production in a nursery attempts to combine field and container-growing techniques and offers advantages over both production systems.

Research-based newsletter on everything cotton. Articles in this issue: Cotton Planting Report and Double-Cropping Cotton

(Radio News 05/04/09) The value of wheat residue was an important topic at the LSU AgCenter’s Wheat and Oat Field Day in Winnsboro. LSU AgCenter researcher Dr. Don Boquet explains. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

Photographs and accompanying text on red rice invading rice fields, seedling rice emergence, and planting rice in stubble ground.

This powerpoint presentation includes pictures of insects and mites that attack commercial citrus groves in Louisiana. It also discusses a recommended insecticide plan to control these insects and mites to minimize their impact on yield in citrus groves. Be sure to check and make sure all chemicals that are recommended are currently labeled before applying them to citrus trees.

This presentation includes a number of pictures of insects and mites that attack backyard citrus in Louisiana. It also includes current recommendations for control. Note that you should check to make sure that all insecticides are currently labeled before using them on your citrus.

Photographs and accompanying text illustrating leaf miners and localized decline in rice.

Sweet Sorghum Blog from the Iberia Research Station on 5/9/2008

This article examines the impact on profits of planting grain sorghum late. Late planting generally occurs when grain sorghum follows winter wheat. Grain sorghum planted beyond the optimum planting window has lower yields and increased insect pressure. These two factors combine to drastically reduce the profit potential compared to grain sorghum planted in the optimal planting window.

The mature rice kernel or grain is made up of several parts.

Economic Outlook for 2009

(Radio News 08/13/07) In early December of last year, Louisiana saw some of the coldest temperatures for that time in more than 60 years. The early winter freezes allowed researchers to look at cold tolerance of some new sugarcane varieties, says LSU AgCenter sugarcane specialist Dr. Ben Legendre. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

Gene Reagan, LSU AgCenter entomologist, has been studying the Mexican rice borer’s spread northward from the Rio Grande Valley for almost 30 years.

Copy of the 2004 Louisiana Rice Research Verification Program Report. These recommendations included, but were not limited to: Fertilization, weed control, disease control, insect control and water management to a limited degree. The fields were followed from planting to harvest.

Copy of the 2003 Louisiana Rice Research Verification Program Report. These recommendations included, but were not limited to: Fertilization, weed control, disease control, insect control and water management to a limited degree. The fields were followed from planting to harvest.

Copy of the 2002 Louisiana Rice Research Verification Program Report. These recommendations included, but were not limited to: Fertilization, weed control, disease control, insect control and water management to a limited degree. The fields were followed from planting to harvest.

Copy of the 2001 Louisiana Rice Research Verification Program Report. These recommendations included, but were not limited to: Fertilization, weed control, disease control, insect control and water management to a limited degree. The fields were followed from planting to harvest.

Copy of the 2000 Louisiana Rice Research Verification Program Report. These recommendations included, but were not limited to: Fertilization, weed control, disease control, insect control and water management to a limited degree. The fields were followed from planting to harvest.

Copy of the 1999 Louisiana Rice Research Verification Program Report. These recommendations included, but were not limited to: Fertilization, weed control, disease control, insect control and water management to a limited degree. The fields were followed from planting to harvest.

Copy of the 1998 Louisiana Rice Research Verification Program Report. These recommendations included, but were not limited to: Fertilization, weed control, disease control, insect control and water management to a limited degree. The fields were followed from planting to harvest.

Copy of the 2005 Louisiana Rice Research Verification Program Report. These recommendations included, but were not limited to: Fertilization, weed control, disease control, insect control and water management to a limited degree. The fields were followed from planting to harvest.

This publication includes information on the process of brixing and how it can help improve sugarcane quality. It also includes information on the correct treatments for your fields with the highest brix.

Genetically engineered plants are an important part of integrated pest management (IPM) programs in cotton production. One such plant, Bollgard cotton, includes a gene from a bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis, that is toxic to caterpillar pests, while being safe for humans, other animals and the environment.

Newsletter that discusses RWW management and explains the 2009 RWW demonstration test.

This gallery includes pictures of insects that attack citrus in Louisiana, such as: woolly white flies, citrus blackfly nymphs and adults, citrus leafminers, Western leaf-footed bugs, Mealybugs, and orange-dog caterpillars.

Photographs and accompany text on rice planting seed drift, rice plant stretching due to water levels, and new possible rice weed identified.

2009 RWW insecticide demonstration test

This page provides a description of the lifecycle, damage to crop, and how to prevent and manage the rice leafminer in rice.

This article will provide a description, lifecycle, and damage to the crop caused by the rice stink bug. As well as recommendations for prevention and control.

Photographs and discussion of blackbird damage to rice, identification of weed seedlings, alligatorweed control and yellow rice.

Photographs and accompanying text on permanent rice flood, rice stand counts, identification of eclipta and fall panicum, rice water weevil damage, and rice seedling germination.

This article gives insight on the current economic aspects of nitrogen fertilization written by Dr. Michael Salassi, LSU AgCenter, and was published in The Sugar Bulletin, April 09, Volume 87, Number 7, Page 15-16. Visit the American Sugar Cane League Web site to order a copy of this volume: www.amscl.org.

Kinder field Demo Planted 4/1/2008 4 varieties (Dale, Topper, M81, Theis) replicated 4 times on 32” rows; single drill.

South Lake Charles Site First planting April 1, second planting April 15, future planting April 29 Demonstration objective -- Date of planting, yield and optimum harvest

Laccassine SitePlanted April 15Double drilled on 72” rows, 200’ long, one variety per row(M81, Theis, Dale, Topper) .Planted with commercial vacuum drill

Precision vertical plate seeders are available for planting many vegetable crops. These seeders use a vertical metal plate with the cells (holes) on the edge.

Cultivation is essential for nearly all commercial vegetable crops since herbicide choices are limited and vegetable crops cannot tolerate much weed competition. A basic sweep cultivator can do an excellent job of precision cultivation if set up and equipped properly.

4/25/2008 - On Monday of this week we noticed that many leaves of the sweet sorghum plants had a purplish tint to them.

The Southeast Research Station, located in the states dairy area is working on sweet sorghum studies aiming on evaluation of ethanol production potential.

Sweet Sorghum images from County Agents Whatley and Hogan.

5/2/2008 It rained approximately 1.4 inches this past Saturday. This rain helped the sorghum to move quite a bit since last week’s blog.

Around the world, sugarcane is usually planted as stalk sections or “billets.” In Louisiana, whole stalks have traditionally been planted due to stalk rots and environmental stress. Despite the greater potential for stand problems, there are times when farmers need to plant billets. Therefore, practices have been identified that will maximize the chances of success with billet planting in Louisiana.

This article will provide you with a starting point to help plan your weed control program. A meeting with your county agent, consultant or crop advisor may help to develop or to fine-tune a weed-control program specific to your needs. Dr. Jim Griffin is with the LSU AgCenter in the School of Plant, Environmental, and Soil Sciences and has research and extension responsibilities in the area of sugarcane weed management. Click here to read more about sugarcane weed control.

LSU AgCenter researchers recently completed a study that examines the marketing and economic feasibility of using sugarcane rind as a supplemental raw material for manufacturing oriented strand board (OSB) and similar products.

This article provides and description of the two-spotted spider mites on strawberries. It also provides a recommended spray schedule to control these mites in Louisiana strawberry fields.

Ratoon stunting disease (RSD) has been a long-time problem for the Louisiana sugarcane industry. Disease levels are down now due to more effective healthy seedcane programs and disease monitoring provided by the LSU AgCenter Sugarcane Disease Detection Lab. Learn more about RSD and disease testing in this article.

Photographs and accompanying text on rice bronzing, weed seedling identification, starter fertilizer and chinch bugs.

The page provides a description of the rice water weevil (RWW) lifecycle, damage caused by the RWW, and how to manage RWW infestations in your field.

(Distributed 04/23/08) Using Louisiana sugar mills to produce biofuels and value-added chemicals in addition to sugar can help the state’s sugar industry become a driving force for economic growth in Louisiana and produce alternative fuels to satisfy the state’s demand, LSU AgCenter researchers told the U.S. secretary of energy April 21.

This article discusses the sap beetle (also called a picnic beetle) Lobiopa insularis (Cast.), which is a late-season pest of strawberries.

Sweet Sorghum Blog from the Iberia Research Station.

The LSU AgCenter is also conducting a sweet sorghum trial at the Rice Research Station South Farm location.

Photographs and accompanying text on the effects cold temperature has on seedling rice and the damage seed midge has on emerging rice.

On April 23rd Dr. Ronnie Levy and I scouted a field in Acadia Parish and found it to be heavily infested with first instar chinch bug nymphs and shield bugs. This article includes pictures of the infestation and describes recommendations for control.

The information in this article was an exhibition at the LSU Hill Memorial Library. the exhibit was compiled by Christina Riquelmy and Debra Currie in 1996 to mark the 300th year of sugarcane growth in Louisiana.

Research-based newsletter on everything cotton. Articles in this issue: Planting Dates, Seedling Disease Management, Nematode Management.

Research-based newsletter on everything cotton. Articles in this issue: Poultry Litter, Slugs and Snails, Cotton Market Situation and Outlook.

Research-based newsletter on everything cotton. Articles in this issue: Planting Time Has Arrived, Early Weed Control, Optimal Nitrogen Rates.

Welcome to the LSU AgCenter Sorghum Production Web site.

The program continues to provide an accurate evaluation of current recommendations and provide insight into other areas of research.

The newest series of crape myrtles are the 'Razzle Dazzle' series. There are hybrids and are dwarf in form. Landscape performance evaluations are underway at the LSU AgCenter.

The agents are your local contact for all corn-related information produced by the LSU AgCenter.

2009 recomended controls and thresholds for soybean insect pests. Brief biological sketches of soybean insect pests included. Soybeans can be damaged by insects any time from plant emergence until they get near to the harvest in Louisiana. Many kinds of insects feed on leaves, stems, roots, nodules and pods, but only a few require control with insecticides. (PDF Fomat Only)

Good marketing is the process of fulfilling the objectives of both the buyer and the seller. The factors you have some control over are the 4 Ps of product, price, placement and promotion. Here are some tips to help you tune up your produce marketing plan.

This article "Control of Sugarcane with Glyphosate: Non-Crop Fallow Programs and No-Tillage Soybeans” will be of value in planning weed control programs. A meeting with your county agent, consultant, or crop advisor may help to develop or to fine tune a weed control program specific to your needs. Dr. Jim Griffin is with the LSU AgCenter in the School of Plant, Environmental, and Soil Sciences and has research and extension responsibilities in sugarcane weed management.

Greenhouse tomatoes are about a $2.2 million business in Louisiana, assuming growers can sell what they produce for a profit. Learn the secrets of turning a profit from your tomatoes.

Photographs and accompanying text describing principles of emergence, symptoms of Clincher herbicide, iron plaque on rice roots, and salt injury to rice reproduction.

All vegetable seeders require openers, coverers and presswheels to provide a furrow for the seeds and to then cover the seeds and assure proper soil contact. These devices must be matched to the soil type and condition for optimum germination and seedling vigor.

Photographs and accompanying text describing cold temperature effects, seedling emergence and mud plantain.

Citrus greening is one of the most serious citrus diseases, and a pest responsible for spreading it has now been found in Louisiana. Information on what to look for and where to look, what plants are preferred by the disease and where to report suspected disease symptoms or insect sightings.

Identification of citrus greening and the Asian citrus psyllid.

The April 2007 newsletter provides valuable information for the Louisiana sugarcane producer on current events to include status of hurricane disaster payments, the 2006 variety survey and weed and insect control measures for consideration during the early spring months. Click here for more information.

Both nymphs and adults cause damage by feeding with their piercing mouthparts.

Photographs of arrowhead or duck-potato (Sagittaria sp.)

This page contains the faculty and staff information on those working in sorghum.

Photographs and accompanying text describing side inlet irrigation and pinpoint flood.

Photographs and accompanying text on rice zinc deficiency (bronzing), soil-water management, and herbicide weed control.

The South American rice leaf miner, Hydrellia wirthi Korytkowski, is a newly reported insect pest of rice in the United States. It affected several rice fields in southwest Louisiana and southeast Texas in 2004. Topics include description and life cycle, injury, scouting and managment. Color photos also included.

This document describes the diseases that occur most frequently on pecan trees in Louisiana.

Photographs of water paspalum (Paspalum hydrophilum) and its distinguishing features.

Sorghum County Agents by Parish

Soybean County Agents by Parish

How do sweet potatoes get from the field to your table? This video explains the amazing multi-step, labor intensive process to producing sweet potatoes. It's your chance to learn the "sweet truth" about sweet potato production in Louisiana.

This page contains pictures of some common wheat diseases.

This is a cooperative report done through an agreement among the Office of Energy Policy and New Uses (OEPNU), Office of the Chief Economist (OCE), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the LSU AgCenter. Principal authors of this report are Dr. Hossein Shapouri, OEPNU/OCE, USDA and Dr. Michael Salassi, J. Nelson Fairbanks Professor of Agricultural Economics, Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness, LSUAgCenter.

Johnsongrass is one of the most important noxious weeds found in sugarcane grown in Louisiana. Johnsongrass can emerge from seeds germinating in the soil and from underground rhizomes. To control Johnsongrass after it has emerged requires use of Asulox/Asulam, either alone or in combination with Envoke. The attached article, The Weed Patch, sites programs using these herbicides for the control of Johnsongrass.

Photographs and accompanying text on herbicide control of Juncus, Rice Water Weevil scouting, and rice seed drift.

Photographs and accompanying text explaining cold temperature effects on rice.

This is a list of corn faculty of the LSU AgCenter by area of responsibility. Specific questions about corn can be directed to them on the basis of subject matter.

This article provides producers with an overview of the potential marketing and production environment for sugarcane following the 2005 crop year.

During the last 15 years an alternative program has been developed through a partnership between the LSU AgCenter and a private company using tissue culture, or micropropagation, to produce healthy seedcane for farmers. The Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station (LAES) was involved in initial evaluations of "Kleentek*" seedcane.

Photographs and accompanying text on rice planting, rice seedling plants and rice seedling management decisions.

Spreaders are attached to agricultural aircraft and used to distribute seeds, fertilizers and dry chemical products. Aricultural aviation has proven to be a fast and efficient form of product application to our crops. Information on adjustments, spreader mounting, application altitude, swath width, application rate, GPS sensors, variable rate application and LSU AgCenter calibration clinics. (PDF Format Only)

The use of boomless sprayers mounted on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is becoming a popular way to spray pesticides and herbicides in difficult-to-reach areas such as under trees and along fences. As with any other sprayer, a boomless one has also to be calibrated. To ensure a correct spray operation, follow the steps outlined in this publication. (PDF Format Only)

Control of johnsongrass after it has emerged requires the use of Asulox/Asulam either alone or in combination with Envoke.

Describes the potential impact on soybean profits of late-planted soybeans infested with the Red-Banded Stink Bug.

A series of slides on the method used to correctly calibrate a drill for rice planting.

Photographs and accompanying text describing the rice seed midge, swamp dayflower (Murdannia keisak), and a black widow spider.

A standard sweep cultivator can do an excellent job of cultivating vegetable crops once the plants reach 4-6 inches, but it must run very slowly in small crops (1-2 inches) and has a tendency to throw soil over the crop plants. An alternative is a rotary tiller/cultivator.

A key component of a precision cultural system is precision bed shaping. A precisely shaped bed is essential to locate the crop row properly when planting and to provide a basis for guidance of subsequent operations.

With an ever-changing production and marketing environment, sugarcane producers face a number of difficult decisions. This article provides producers with an overview of the potential marketing and production environment for sugarcane following the 2006 crop year. We hope this information will help producers as they complete their farm management and production plans for 2007.

This report presents estimates of projected production costs for the production of cotton, soybeans, corn, grain sorghum and wheat in Northeast Louisiana for the 2009 crop year.

This report presents estimates of projected production costs for the production of cotton, soybeans, corn, grain sorghum and wheat in the Red River and central areas of Louisiana for the 2009 crop year.

The southern green stink bug, Nezara viridula (L.), and the brown stink bug, Euschistus servus (Say), are common pests in Louisiana agricultural crops including cotton, soybeans, corn and grain sorghum. The objective of this presentation is to point out some visual differences between the two species which are helpful for early field detection.

Links to provide essential information on organizations, Web sites, pest management and cultural practices, industry, growth and development, and market data.

This page contains pictures of wheat and oats planting and harvesting activities.

A brief PowerPoint presentation that shows the locations where the stink bugs have been found and compares indentifying characteristics with other stink bugs.

2008 Issue: Agriculture is a multibillion dollar industry for Louisiana -- creating jobs and generating income in rural and urban areas. This publication contains facts about Louisiana's agricultural commodities, agriculture's monetary value, what agriculture is and what agriculture means to you.

LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames says to choose Louisiana strawberries for a nutritious, healthy treat.

A discussion of the procedure to calibrate a drill with accompanying photographs and calculations.

Based upon the recent success of the SSAWG sponsored “Commercial Organic Vegetable Production Workshop”, the Louisiana SARE PDP Program has been able to assess the sustainable agriculture education needs of agriculture professionals and farmers.

Several nematode pests cause serious losses in cotton.

The correct use of drip irrigation provides an ideal soil moisture level for plant growth.

A basic sweep cultivator can do an excellent job of cultivating vegetable crops but must be run slowly (1-2 mph) when the crop plants are small. A simple modification to a sweep cultivator allows high-speed cultivation of small vegetable crops.

Application of herbicides formulated on granular carriers is a common practice in container nurseries. Depending on the container arrangement and plant species, a high percentage of the material applied may not be retained in the containers - particularly when the material is applied with a broadcast rotary spreader, as is a common practice.

Studies of water distribution uniformity and fertigation uniformity with sprinkler irrigation were conducted in a commercial container nursery. The first phase of the study consisted of determining water uniformity for two sprinkler heights. The second phase consisted of determining fertilizer application uniformity.

Photographs of various stages in the life cycle and type of damage associated with the sugarcane borer in rice.

2007 pre-emergence and post-emergence chemical recommendations for controlling weeds in cotton. (PDF Format Only)

Here's a photograph of long, medium and short rice grains with an explanation of how the classes are determined.

The 2009 Sugarcane Weed Management Guide was prepared as a joint effort among Dr. Jim Griffin, School of Plant, Environmental and Soil Sciences, LSU AgCenter, Baton Rouge, La., and Drs. Ed Richard and Caleb Dalley, USDA-ARS SRRC, Sugarcane Research Unit, Houma, La.

The 2009 Projected Sugarcane Farm Costs and Returns Model was developed as a farm planning decision tool for Louisiana sugarcane producers. The model is an Excel spreadsheet which allows sugarcane producers to project sugarcane net returns for the coming year and to evaluate the impact of changes in yields, sugar prices, input prices and other factors on farm returns and breakeven values.

A two-acre camellia garden at the LSU AgCenter’s Hammond Research Station is now open again, thanks to the efforts of the Tangipahoa Parish Master Gardeners.

One of the great groups of ornamental plants introduced in 2004 was the ‘Crimson’ series of azaleas from Country Pines Nursery in Forest Hill, La.

Photographs of roundleaf mudplantain (Heteranthera reniformis) and in comparison to ducksalad (H. limosa)

photograph of ducksalad in flower and compared to Roundleaf Mud Plantain

The Awards Program for the 2004 crop year was held on February 22nd, 2006, and was presented by Dr. Paul Coreil, Vice Chancellor and Director of Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, LSU AgCenter. The three categories of awards are 1-Top 20 Producers in the State, 2-District Acreage Category Winners, and 3-Top-Parish Winners. For the past 50 years, the American Sugar Cane League and the LSU AgCenter have recognized the state's top high-yield sugarcane producers.

Photographs of brook paspalum and its distinguishing features.

Photographs of Amazon Sprangletop (Leptochloa panicoides)

Photographs of red sprangletop (Leptochloa filiformis)

Photographs of Swamp Dayflower (Murdannia keisak syn Aneilema keisak).

Photographs and accompanying text on identification and control of Nealley's sprangletop and narrowleaf aster.

Sugarcane has been an integral part of the south Louisiana economy and culture for more than 200 years. When Jesuit priests first brought sugarcane into south Louisiana in 1751, little did they know that the foundation was being laid for an industry that now contributes $2 billion to the Louisiana economy.

2009 recommendations. Decisions about rice varieties are some of the earliest and most critical you will make. This information will help you decide which rice varieties are best suited to your particular growing conditions. (PDF Format Only)

This publication helps to understand the importance of calibration of sprayers. Hand-ons examples guide the reader through different phases of calibration. (PDF Format Only)

(Distributed 09/10/08) Rains from Hurricane Gustav significantly affected a diversity of crops in Northeast Louisiana – particularly with parts of Tensas and Franklin parishes getting 19 inches of rain.

(Distributed 09/10/08) Louisiana’s farmers are facing lost income from reduced yields and product quality in the neighborhood of $370 to $450 million as a result of the effects of Hurricane Gustav, according to economists with the LSU AgCenter.

A description of how biomass is being used for energy in Louisiana with an emphasis on the potential for expansion in the industry. (Revised 11/06)

This guide for 2009 contains suggestions for management of the most important or more prevalent diseases of Louisiana plants. It includes information on fungicides, bactericides and nematicides, as well as safety precautions for using them.

Louisiana’s agricultural producers already faced problems including drought, high fuel and fertilizer costs and low prices for their commodities in 2005 – even before the hurricanes struck, an LSU AgCenter economist said Friday (Jan. 27).

Farmers are enjoying their first improved commodities market in several years. Record yields and good prices in 2003 helped offset losses from the previous four to five years.

Several ongoing projects teach young people and adults that much of their necessities begin with farmers.

The LSU AgCenter operates 25 weather stations at research stations and other cooperating locations throughout Louisiana. The Louisiana Agriclimatic Information System privides temperature and humidity data that researchers can correlate to livestock and crop production. Each station provides minute-by-minute measurements of air temperature, rainfall, wind speed, wind direction, relative humidity, solar radiation and soil temperature.

(Distributed 07/02/04) Some people say summer is sweet – or at least that’s the opinion when it comes to watermelons.

MARKSVILLE – Tree farming is a good alternative for landowners to consider in making long-term investments in their land resources, but some knowledge is required to protect that investment.

Irrigation ponds can irrigate fields during the summer without resorting to pumping water from wells.

Mayhaw Association members met in Alexandria to learn about new developments. The health benefits and commercial uses of the fruit were discussed. New varieties and harvesting techniques were also examined.

Great prices and good weather have generated plenty of optimism.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns made a brief stop at a storm-damaged farm in Calcasieu Parish Wednesday morning (Oct. 5) to learn how Hurricane Rita devastated the region’s agriculture.

Vegetable growers have many choices in tractors, ranging from older, smaller tractors to large, new tractors. Many are designed specifically for vegetable work.

Why is the sugarcane industry important to Louisiana? Why do farmers burn sugarcane in the first place? What are the benefits of burning sugarcane? Find these answers and more.

The success of a sugarcane farming operation depends on the ability to produce good stands of plant cane and maintain suitable stands for stubble crops. This publication provides information to help growers make management decisions about planting practices that should result in excellent plant cane stands. (PDF Format Only)

Asian soybean rust ( Phakopsora pachyrhizi ) was found for the first time in the United States in Louisiana. While doing a routine inspection of a soybean production field at the LSU AgCenter’s Ben Hur Research Farm, Dr. Ray Schneider, plant pathologist, found what he suspected as Asian soybean rust.

In managing soybean rust, the use of “sentinel plots” plays a large role in providing information on the spread of the disease. The objective of sentinel plots is to have a crop in the field well ahead of the traditional crop, thus acting as a “trap” crop for the spores. If rust is detected in the sentinel plots, this will allow proper production decisions on a regional and statewide basis to be made accordingly.

Potential Louisiana Sentinel Plots are indicated by red triangles.

The purpose of this plan is to outline actions for the pre- and post-confirmation of the establishment of Asian soybean rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi) in the United States and Louisiana.

Sugarcane is the highest-valued row crop grown in Louisiana. For sugarcane production to continue to thrive in Louisiana, responsible management of soil and water resources should be a priority. This guide lists the Best Management Practices (BMPs) to use in Louisiana sugarcane production.

Rice fertilization requirements vary according to soil type. Use this publication to determine fertilizing requirements.

Photographs and accompanying text on variety selection and cultural practices for medium grain rice.

Copy of the 2008 Louisiana Rice Research Verification Program Report. The Louisiana Rice Research Verification Program is a venue to evaluate in a field field practical, research-based recommendations in such areas but not limited to: fertilization, weed control, disease control, insect control and, to a limited degree, water management. The fields were evaluated from planting to harvest.

Many years of testing at the LSU AgCenter have demonstrated that precision belt seeders deliver the best seed spacing uniformity of any type of vegetable seeder – if the seeds are spherical (round) or nearly so. Belt seeders are versatile and can meter a wide range of seed types and sizes.

(Distributed 02/17/09) Asian soybean rust has been found in Louisiana kudzu in Washington, East Baton Rouge, Tangipahoa, Iberia and St. Mary parishes, but weather conditions will be the telling factor for the disease outlook in 2009, according to LSU AgCenter plant pathologist Dr. Boyd Padgett.

Each year, the LSU AgCenter conducts a number of on-farm cotton variety trials. These trials can be a useful supplement to Official Variety Trial (OVT) information as well as other sources of data on which to base cotton variety selection decisions.

This large (about 1 cm long) billbug or snout beetle is an occasional pest of rice in Louisiana.

The 2009 Projected Rice Cash Flow Model is an Excel spreadsheet model which allows rice producers in Louisiana to project rice income and expenses for their operation for the 2009 crop year.

The LSU AgCenter provides annual outlooks for different agriculture commodities in Louisiana. 2008 was a tough year for nursery growers with the national economic slowdown, along with damage to the industry from Hurricane Gustav, Hurricane Ike and snowfall in December. Here is an overview of the current national and state situation.

Presentations from the 2008 Louisiana rice clinics conducted throughout the state. Topics covered included: update on best management practices for rice production, weed control measures, rice variety research, rice production financial management, rice disease problems, insect pest control procedures and rice nutrient challenges.