2012 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. (PDF Format Only)

2008 Extension Demonstrations

The cold weather we typically receive December 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.

This publication contains recommendations for commercial production of vegetables ranging from artichokes, asparagus and beets to strawberries, tomatoes and watermelons. Among its guidelines for more than 30 different vegetables are recommended seeding rates, planting dates and varieties. It also includes information about days from planting to harvest, the approximate time from pollination to market and optimum soil temperatures for the various vegetables covered in this guidebook.

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

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

Information about variety trials & production guidelines for corn, soybean, sorghum, and small grain.

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 page contains the 2005 small grain data report.

This page contains the grain corn hybrids performance trials research summaries

Results from the LSU AgCenter cotton variety trials. These trials test commercially available cotton varieties and measure their performance across a wide range of conditions in Louisiana. Contains recommendations to aid cotton producers in choosing high-yielding, good-quality cotton varieties for planting in 2005.

Micrograph of Burkholderia glumae stained with safari red.

This page contains the grain corn hybrids performance trials research summaries for the year 2002

This page contains the grain corn hybrids performance trials research summaries for the year 2005

This page contains the grain corn hybrids performance trials research summaries for the year 2006

This page contains the grain corn hybrids performance trials research summaries for the year 2003

Results from the LSU AgCenter cotton variety trials. These trials test commercially available cotton varieties and measure their performance across a wide range of conditions in Louisiana. Contains recommendations to aid cotton producers in choosing high yielding, good quality cotton varieties for planting in 2004.

Results from the LSU AgCenter cotton variety trials. These trials test commercially available cotton varieties and measure their performance across a wide range of conditions in Louisiana. Contains recommendations to aid cotton producers in choosing high yielding, good quality cotton varieties for planting in 2003.

Each year, scientists with the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station evaluate cotton varieties at the Dean Lee Research Station at Alexandria, Red River Research Station at Bossier City, Northeast Research Station at St. Joseph and Macon Ridge Research Station at Winnsboro. Varieties are grown only using practices recommended for producing nontransgenic varieties.Data from this research are used to determine recommended varieties based primarily on yield.

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.

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 2011.

2012 Recommendations. Corn seed manufacturers participated in the LSU AgCenter’s official variety trials and on-farm core block trials. The on-farm core block trials were conducted with 19 varieties over 32 trials throughout the corn-growing areas of Louisiana, with parish agents coordinating trial activities. The corn OVT trials were conducted according to LSU AgCenter best management practices. (PDF Format Only)

This page contains the grain corn hybrids performance trials research summaries for the year 2004.

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. (PDF format only)

This guide for 2010 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Great prices and good weather have generated plenty of optimism.

The Louisiana Farm Record Book provides a farmer with an organized system for keeping vital records. Its 72 pages (plus cover) 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: $10 plus tax and shipping. Order a printed copy through our online store by using the Order Publication button.

Pecan scab disease is the most economically damaging disease of pecan production in the southeastern United States. The disease affects stem, leaf and nut growth, causing reduced yield. This publication includes information on the development, symptoms and control of the disease. (PDF format only)

Prepared by Don Groth, Professor, LSU AgCenter Rice Research Station, Crowley, LA and Clayton Hollier, Professor, LSU AgCenter, Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology, Baton Rouge LA.

Results of hot-set tomato variety demonstration plots in Lousiana in the summer/fall of 2006.

Prepared by Don Groth, Professor, LSU AgCenter Rice Research Station, Crowley, LA and Clayton Hollier, Professor, LSU AgCenter, Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology, Baton Rouge LA.

White tip nematode damage to rice leaf tip (Note shredded tissues).

Prepared by Don Groth, Professor, LSU AgCenter Rice Research Station, Crowley, LA and Clayton Hollier, Professor, LSU AgCenter, Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology, Baton Rouge LA.

Prepared by Don Groth, Professor, LSU AgCenter Rice Research Station, Crowley, LA and Clayton Hollier, Professor, LSU AgCenter, Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology, Baton Rouge LA.

Prepared by Don Groth, Professor, LSU AgCenter Rice Research Station, Crowley, LA and Clayton Hollier, Professor, LSU AgCenter, Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology, Baton Rouge LA.

Arial view of sheath blight damage in a rice field showing windblown distribution of floating inoculum early in the season.

Prepared by Don Groth, Professor, LSU AgCenter Rice Research Station, Crowley, LA and Clayton Hollier, Professor, LSU AgCenter, Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology, Baton Rouge LA.

Prepared by Don Groth, Professor, LSU AgCenter Rice Research Station, Crowley, LA and Clayton Hollier, Professor, LSU AgCenter, Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology, Baton Rouge LA.

Sclerotial development on sheath blight lesion.

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

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

Prepared by Don Groth, Professor, LSU AgCenter Rice Research Station, Crowley, LA and Clayton Hollier, Professor, LSU AgCenter, Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology, Baton Rouge LA.

This report presents estimates of projected costs for rice production in Louisiana for the 2012 crop year. Cost estimates are included for typical rice production systems, including conventional tillage and stale seedbed, as well as production of conventional, Clearfield and hybrid rice varieties. Production cost estimates are also included for soybeans, wheat and sorghum production in southwest Louisiana.

The 2012 Projected Sugarcane Farm Costs and Returns Model was developed as a farm planning decision tool for Louisiana sugarcane growers. The model is an Excel spreadsheet that allows sugarcane producers to project sugarcane net returns for the coming year and to evaluate the impact of chagnes in yields, sugar prices, input prices and other factors on whole farm net returns and breakeven values.

The following maps consist of sites that were sampled, analyzed and then ranked, post Hurricane Rita.

The data provided is from the sites that were sampled in the Salt Water Intrusion Maps. Each site is numbered the same as it is on the maps that are provided.

Early water-soaked sheath blight lesions on rice stems.

This page contains the soybean performance trial research summaries.

This page contains the soybean performance trials research summaries for the year 2006.

Rhizoctonia solani mycelium growing in agar (Note right angle branching pattern).

Severe rice seedling blight symptoms.

This report presents projected cost estimates for sugarcane production in Louisiana for the 2012 crop year. Cost estimates are included for all phases of sugarcane production, including seedbed preparation, planting, plant-cane and stubble-crop field operations and harvest. Whole-farm projected income and expense statements are also included for harvest of sugarcane through second-, third-, and fourth-stubble crops.

A summary of the 2009 sugarcane crop in Louisiana.

Screening for leaf blast resistance in an upland nursery showing dead susceptible plants to undamaged resistant plant symptoms

Single white leaf streak lesions on rice leaves.

Multiple white leaf streak lesions on rice leaves.

Typical white leaf streak symptoms.

Water mold-infected and uninfected rice seeds.

Mycelium causing wet areas around rice seeds infected with water molds.

Typical signs and symptoms of water molds on water-seeded rice.

(Video, 0:15) Complete video gallery of the rice White Tip disease photographs.

Mycelium and wet areas around rice seeds infected with water mold.

Course mycelium radiating out from water mold-infected seeds.

Deformed and discolored sterile grain caused by rice straighthead disorder.

Curved palea and lemma symptoms on rice grain called parrot beak due to the straighthead disorder.

Upright heads with sterile grain due to the straighthead disorder.

Rice grains severely affected by straighthead disorder.

Curved palea and lemma called parrot beaks symptom of rice grain due to the straighthead disorder.

Close up of rice stubble sheath showing sclerotia imbedded in tissues.

Rice sheath and stem showing severe stem rot symptoms, including withered stem and sclerotia (signs) imbedded in sheath tissues.

Rice sheath and stem showing stem rot symptoms and sclerotia (signs) imbedded in sheath tissues.

Severe rice sheath and stem infection symptoms of stem rot.

Moderately severe rice stem rot.

Healthy vs. stem rot infected rice stems.

Stem rot sheath infection symptoms (Note black angular lesions).

(Video, 0:15) Complete video gallery of the rice White Leaf Streak disease photographs.

Single Alternaria leaf spot rice leaf lesion.

Atypical Alternaria leaf spot lesions on rice.

Older Alternaria leaf spot lesions on rice leaves.

Rice leaves with stackburn (Alternaria leaf spot) symptoms.

Broader lesion boarders on Alternaria leaf spot lesions.

Rice leaf showing symptoms and signs (sclerotia) of Alternaria leaf spot.

(Video, 0:21) Complete video gallery of the rice Water Mold disease photographs.

Rice leaf sheath spot symptoms.

Rice leaf sheath with symptoms of sheath spot.

Rice stem with symptoms of sheath spot.

(Video, 0:21) Complete video gallery of the rice Straighthead disorder photographs.

Grain discoloration associated with sheath rot infection.

Severe sheath rot and grain symptoms.

Rice sheath rot infection symptoms.

Sheath and head infection symptoms.

Severe grain damage due to sheath rot infection (Note the head did not completely exert from the leaf sheath).

Rice flag leaf sheath and grain sheath rot symptoms.

Typical symptoms of rice sheath rot.

(Video, 0:27) Complete video gallery of the rice Stem Rot disease photographs.

Older sheath blight leaf lesion with early stage sclerotial development.

Sheath blight damage to rice flag leaf sheath and head with sclerotia development.

Sheath blight damage to rice head.

Typical sheath blight symptoms on rice leaves with sclerotia development.

Severe sheath blight damage to rice.

Typical snake skin-like lesion symptoms on rice leaves.

Sheath blight lesion development showing early and late lesion development on rice leaves.

Severe sheath blight damage on rice stems.

Severe sheath blight lesions on rice leaves at maturity.

Late-season sheath blight damage to rice plants.

Typical damage to rice leaves from sheath blight infection.

Older dried sheath blight lesions on rice stems.

Old culture of Rhizoctonia solani grown on potato dextrose agar showing darker mycelium and extensive sclerotia formation.

Lodging caused by sheath blight damage to the rice stems.

Rhizoctonia solani mycelium grown on agar-coated microscope slides stained with cotton blue (Note right angle branching pattern).

Electron micrograph of Rhizoctonia solani mycelium on a rice leaf showing mycelium growth and infection cushion formation.

Rhizoctonia solani mycelium growing from a sheath blight lesion allowing leaf-to-leaf and plant-to-plant movement in the field.

(Video, 0:27) Complete video gallery of the rice Sheath Rot disease photographs.

Rice roots showing rotting and discolored symptoms.

Rice roots showing symptoms of rot by several fungal pathogens.

Fine roots of rice rotted by various fungal pathogens (also called feeder root necrosis).

Severe panicle blast.

Rice heads showing symptoms of rotten neck, neck, and collar blast infections.

Small panicle branches infected with blast.

Neck and panicle blast symptoms on rice heads.

Left to right - very susceptible, susceptible, and moderately resistant reactions to neck blast.

Close up view of neck blast showing tissue damage.

Neck blast (right and center) versus rotten neck blast (right).

Severe blast infection on rice leaf collar.

Rice nodes with blast infection symptoms

Rice neck blast.

Rice flag leaf collars symptomatic of infection with the rice blast pathogen

Blast leaf lesions on resistant (top leaf) and susceptible (lower leaf) varieties (Note smaller and darker lesions on resistant leaves)

Dark shriveled rice stem nodes symptomatic of infection with the rice blast pathogen

Older dried rice blast leaf lesions

Early blast lesion formation on rice leaves

Pyricularia oryzae spore germination and early infection cushion formation on a rice leaf

A longer type blast leaf lesions

Typical Pyricularia oryzae spores produced on the rice plant showing conidia forming on conidiophores

Lemon-shaped Pyricularia oryzae spores produced on agar culture

(Video, 1:21) Complete video gallery of the rice Sheath Blight disease photographs.

Rice stems showing leaf smut signs and symptoms.

Rice leaves showing signs and symptoms of infection with leaf smut (Note desiccation on leaf tips.

Rice leaves showing signs and severe leaf smut symptoms.

Moderate leaf smut infection.

Light leaf smut infection.

Close up view of severe leaf smut infection.

Back-lighted rice leaf showing leaf smut signs and symptoms.

Rice leaves showing tan-type symptoms of leaf scald infection.

Rice leaves showing tan-type symptoms of leaf scald infection (Note yellow lesion boarders).

Rice leaves with chevron leaf scald symptoms starting from the leaf tip.

Rice leaf with chevron leaf scald symptoms starting from leaf edge.

(Video, 0:09) Complete video gallery of the rice Seedling Blight disease photographs.

Kernel smut infected rice showing spores oozing from grain.

Comparison of kernel smut-infected and healthy milled rice.

Kernel smut infected rice grains.

Kernel smut infected rice grains.

Close up of kernel smut infected rice showing spores oozing from grain.

Up close view of heavily infected pecky rice.

Severe peck on brown rice.

Symptoms of pecky rice grain compared with healthy rice.

(Video, 1:09) Complete video gallery of the rice Blast disease photographs.

(Video, 0:27) Complete video gallery of the rice Leaf Smut disease photographs.

(Video, 0:22) Complete video gallery of the rice Leaf Scald disease photographs.

(Video, 0:22) Complete video gallery of the rice Kernel Smut disease photographs.

(Video, 0:34) Complete video gallery of the rice False Smut disease photographs.

(Video, 0:19) Complete video gallery of the rice Crown Sheath Rot disease photographs.

Sugarcane is the highest valued row crop in Louisiana. The following article summarizes the 2010 sugarcane harvest.

(Video, 0:58) Complete video gallery of the rice Rice Cercospora, including Narrow Brown Leaf Spot, disease photographs.

(Video, 0:27) Complete video gallery of the rice Brown Spot disease photographs.

(Video, 1:00) Complete video gallery of the rice Bacterial Panicle Blight disease photographs.

(Video, 0:21) Complete video gallery of the rice Grain Spotting and Peck disease photographs.

Peck-infected milled rice grain showing areas of discolored rotting endosperm.

Rice stink bug feeding scar symptoms on rice grain.

False smut galls removed by a dockage machine from rice grain.

Rice grain replaced by false smut fungal spores and sclerotia.

Up close of a rice grain replaced by a mass of false smut spores.

Later darker symptoms and signs of false smut infection.

Severe infection of rice grain by false smut.

Rice grain showing false smut symptoms and signs of infection.

Rice seedhead showing symptoms and signs of infection with false smut.

Early symptoms and signs of false smut infection (Note silver cover over spores).

Very early symptoms and signs of false smut infection.

Mat of Gaeumannomyces graminis mycelium growing on the inside of the rice leaf sheath.

Rice crown sheath rot symptoms.

Rice crown sheath rot symptoms.

Rice plant showing symptoms of crown sheath rot infection.

Rice leaves showing later symptoms caused by the white tip nematode.

Rice leaves showing early symptoms caused by the white tip nematode .

Very early infection by the bacterial panicle blight pathogen of rice grain showing water soaked discoloration on the lower part of the grain.

Rice panicle showing symptoms of panicle branches infected by Cercospora.

Rice plant death and lodging caused by crown rot.

Dead rice plants in the field due to crown rot.

Severe stem and root damage due to crown rot infection.

Rice infected with crown rot bacteria.

Rice head showing internodal stem infection by Cercospora.

Field view of severe infection by Cercospora on a very susceptible variety (right) compared with less damage on a moderately resistant variety (left).

Rice head showing intermodal stem infection by Cercospora.

Riceleaf sheath showing discolored veins; a typical symptom of Cercospora net blotch, second view.

Rice leaf sheath infection showing moderate Cercospora sheath rot.

Rice leaf sheath infection showing moderate Cercospora sheath rot.

Rice leaf sheath infection showing severe Cercospora sheath rot.

Rice flag leaf sheath infection showing Cercospora sheath rot.

Rice leaf showing Cercospora infection on midrib.

Rice leaves showing severe signs of infection with narrow brown leaf spot.

Rice leaves showing severe signs of infection with narrow brown leaf spot.

Rice leaves showing light signs of infection with narrow brown leaf spot.

Rice leaves showing moderate signs of infection with narrow brown leaf spot.

Rice head showing internodal stem infection by Cercospora

Cercospora janseana sporulation on a rice stem.

Rice leaf sheath showing discolored veins; a typical symptom of Cercospora net blotch.

Rice leaf sheath showing discolored veins; a typical symptom of Cercospora net blotch.

Rice leaf showing severe brown spot leaf symptoms.

Rice leaf showing severe brown spot leaf symptoms.

Rice leaf showing moderate severity brown spot leaf symptoms.

Rice leaf showing light brown spot leaf symptoms.

Rice leaf with light brown spot infection symptoms.

Close-up view of rice leaf with brown spot.

Close-up view of rice leaf with brown spot.

Infected rice grain showing signs and symptoms of black kernel.

Infected rice grain showing signs and symptoms of black kernel

Close up of infected rice grain showing signs of black spores and symptoms of black kernel.

Bacterial panicle blight on resistant and susceptible rice varieties in an inoculated disease nursery.

Bacterial panicle blight infection of rice heads showing upright discolored heads compared to healthy heads.

Severe bacterial panicle blight infection of rice heads in the field.

Bacterial panicle blight infection of rice heads in the field showing a cluster of upright discolored heads.

Bacterial panicle blight late head infection compared with a healthy head.

Late symptoms of bacterial panicle blight infection of rice heads showing secondary fungal infection.

Rice heads with symptoms of bacterial panicle blight infection on the grain.

Rice heads with symptoms of bacterial panicle blight infection on the grain.

Comparison of bacterial panicle blight resistant (left) and susceptible (right) rice varieties inoculated with Burkholderia glumae in the field.

Severe rice leaf sheath rot symptoms caused the bacterial panicle blight pathogen .

Rice leaf sheath rot symptoms caused the bacterial panicle blight pathogen.

Rice with early symptoms of bacterial panicle blight infection on the grain.

Rice leaf sheath rot symptoms caused the bacterial panicle blight pathogen.

Bacterial panicle blight infection showing upright discolored heads and green stems.

Bacterial panicle blight infection of rice grain showing characteristic two tone discoloration symptom.

Bacterial panicle blight infection of rice grain showing characteristic two tone discoloration symptom.

Early bacterial panicle blight infection of rice grain showing characteristic two tone discoloration symptom and green stems.

Information about types of insects beneficial to blueberry plants.

An accounting of the value of agriculture in Louisiana. Agents and specialists of the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, as well as other agencies - both private and public - compile this information. It focuses on the animal, forestry, fisheries, plant and wildlife commodities that comprise our vital agricultural industry. This industry continues to contribute significantly to the state's economy with the potential for increased impacts through value-added processing.

An accounting of the value of agriculture in Louisiana. Agents and specialists of the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, as well as other agencies - both private and public - compile this information. It focuses on the animal, forestry, fisheries, plant and wildlife commodities that comprise our vital agricultural industry. This industry continues to contribute significantly to the state's economy with the potential for increased impacts through value-added processing.

An accounting of the value of agriculture in Louisiana. Agents and specialists of the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, as well as other agencies - both private and public - compile this information. It focuses on the animal, forestry, fisheries, plant and wildlife commodities that comprise our vital agricultural industry. This industry continues to contribute significantly to the state's economy with the potential for increased impacts through value-added processing.

An accounting of the value of agriculture in Louisiana. Agents and specialists of the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, as well as other agencies - both private and public - compile this information. It focuses on the animal, forestry, fisheries, plant and wildlife commodities that comprise our vital agricultural industry. This industry continues to contribute significantly to the state's economy with the potential for increased impacts through value-added processing.

Not only do Louisiana strawberries taste good. They’re good for the state’s economy. And this year Louisiana strawberry growers once again are producing a delicious crop.

This report presents estimates of prorated (unrecovered) planting costs for sugarcane in production for the 2010 crop year, including plant cane planted in 2009, first stubble planted in 2008, second stubble planted in 2007, and third stubble planted in 2006.

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)

(Video, 0:55) Now that you've decided which blueberry varieties you want to plant, how many blueberry bushes should you order? David Himelrick of the LSU AgCenter says it's a question of how much you like blueberries. Watch this video and find out how to determine how many blueberry bushes you should order.

(Video, 2:15) The LSU AgCenter’s Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology faculty work to combat diseases and environmental stresses that affect crops and ornamental plants grown in Louisiana.

(Video, 0:27) Complete video gallery of the rice Stackburn (Alternaria leaf spot) disease photographs.

(Video, 0:15) Complete video gallery of the rice Sheath Spot disease photographs.

This report presents estimates of projected production costs for rice production in Louisiana for the 2010 crop year. Cost estimates are included for typical rice production systems, including conventional tillage, stale seedbed, production in rotation and fallow, as well as production of conventional and herbicide-resistant varieties. Production cost estimates are also included for soybeans, wheat and sorghum production in southwest Louisiana.

The 2010 Projected Rice Cash Flow Model is an Excel spreadsheet-based, producer-decision tool that allows rice producers in Louisiana to project rice income and expenses for their operation for the 2010 crop year.

(Video, 0:15) Complete video gallery of the rice Root Rot disease photographs.

(Video, 0:15) Complete video gallery of the rice Black Kernel disease photographs.

2012 guidelines for cotton production practices associated with planting time and variety selection. (PDF Format Only)

2012 guidelines for cotton production practices associated with planting time and variety selection. (PDF Format Only)

The Louisiana Institute for Biofuels and Bioprocessing provides a sound, science-based roadmap to support new biofuels and bioprocessing enterprises in Louisiana. The institute links our state’s agricultural base with emerging bioenergy initiatives, thereby expanding and strengthening local, state and regional economies.

A presentation on rice variety recommendations for 2011.

A presentation on weeds and weed control recommendations for 2011.

A review of selected diseases of rice with recommendations for their control.

Presention given at producer meetings in January 2011 outlining effects of heat and outcrossing on the crop with recommendations for 2011.

Summaries of Louisiana rice acreage by variety and by parish.

This report presents estimates of the planting costs of sugarcane planted in 2009 as well as the allocation of those costs to plant cane and stubble cane crops in 2010.

This report presents projected cost estimates for sugarcane production in Louisiana for the 2010 crop year. Cost estimates are included for all phases of sugarcane production, including seedbed preparation, planting, plant-cane and stubble-crop field operations and harvest. Whole-farm projected income and expense statements also are included for harvest of sugacane through second-, third- and fourth-stubble crops.

The 2010 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 that 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.

Links to important information about rice fungicide.

The 2012 Sugarcane Crop Cycle Length Evaluation Model, an Excel spreadsheet-based producer decision tool, was developed to assist sugarcane producers in evaluating the optimal crop cycle length for various tracts of sugarcane produced on farms in Louisiana. Costs and returns are compared for sugarcane crop cycles through harvest of second and third stubble crops.

This report presents estimates of sugarcane planting costs for sugarcane planted in 2011. These planting costs would be allocated to the 2012 plantcane crop and succeeding stubble crops.

This report presents estimates of prorated (unrecovered) planting costs for sugarcane in produciton for the 2012 crop year, including plant cane planted in 2011, first stubble planted in 2010, second stubble planted in 2009, and third stubble planted in 2008.

The following analysis presents data for aflatoxin content of inoculated corn hybrids from the Corn Hybrid Performance Trial at the Macon Ridge Branch of the Northeast Research Station in Winnsboro, Louisiana.

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

The 2012 Projected Rice Cash Flow Model is an Excel spreadsheet model that allows rice producers in Louisiana to project rice income and expenses for their operation for the 2012 crop year.

Photographs of Hedge Hyssop plants.

Summaries of Louisiana rice acreage by variety and by parish.

This report presents projected cost estimates for sugarcane production in Louisiana for the 2009 crop year. Cost estimates are included for all phases of sugacane production including seedbed preparation, planting, plant-cane and stubble-crop operations and harvest. Whole-farm projected income and expense statements are also included for harvest of sugarcane through second, third and fourth stubble (ratoon) crops.

Each year the LSU AgCenter tests commercial grain sorghum hybrids entered in the state yield tests 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

Louisiana has stepped out ahead of all other states in the nation in helping farmers learn to voluntarily comply with stricter environmental regulations governing water quality. This has happened because of the LSU AgCenter’s Master Farmer Program.

Photographs of Texasweed a.k.a. Mexicanweed, Birdeye

Photographs of alligatorweed and its parts.

Photographs of Jointvetch (Aeschynomene sp.) and its parts.

(Video, 0:55) Now that you've decided which blueberry varieties you want to plant, how many blueberry bushes should you order? David Himelrick of the LSU AgCenter says it's a question of how much you like blueberries. Watch this video and find out how to determine how many blueberry bushes you should order.

This report presents estimates of sugarcane planting costs for the 2009 crop year. Estimates in the report represent values of unrecovered planting costs for standing sugarcane crops in various seed cane and millable cane production stages as of January 1, 2009.

The 2008 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 2008 crop year.

Thrips are small, narrow insects with “fringe wings.” Adult thrips have two pairs (four) of wings that are “fringed” with hairs. Thrips are mostly plant pests.

Copy of the 2007 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.

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.

The Louisiana Rice Share Rent Evaluation Model was developed to assist rice producers in the evaluation of producer and landlord returns for share rent arrangements on their rice farming operations. The model is an Excel spreadsheet which allows for the estimation of net returns per planted acre for both grower and landlord / waterlord for alternative rental arrangments.

This report presents estimates of projected production costs for rice production in Louisiana for the 2008 crop year. Cost estimate are included for typical rice produciton systems, including conventional tillage, stale seedbed, production in rotation and fallow, as well as produciton of conventional and herbicide-resistant varieties. Production cost estimates are also included for soybeans, wheat and sorghum in Southwest Louisiana.

Rice farmers whose fields have high salt levels from Hurricane Rita’s storm surge should avoid plowing their fields, according to experts with the LSU AgCenter.

This report presents estimates of expected production cost differences in Clearfield hybrid rice production in Louisiana compared with production of conventional Clearfield varieties. Analysis compares differences between production of varities CLXL729 and CLXL745 to CL151. Estimates of breakeven rice yield increases required to cover increased production costs as well as impacts of milling yield on rough rice market price are also presented.

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.

This report presents estimates of projected production costs for rice production in Louisiana for the 2009 crop year. Cost estimates are included for typical rice production systems, including conventional tillage, stale seedbed, production in rotation and fallow, as well as production of conventional and herbicide-resistant varieties. Production cost estimates are also included for soybeans, wheat and sorghum production in southwest Louisiana.

This guide for 2010 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.

This guide for 2010 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.

This guide for 2010 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.

This guide for 2010 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.

(Audio) Heli Roy of the LSU AgCenter talks about how adding blueberries to your diet can help improve your health.

(Audio) Heli Roy of the LSU AgCenter explains how blueberries fit on the USDA's My Plate to help people meet the new dietary guidelines.

This report contains data reflecting the performance of soybean varieties in Louisiana.

This activity has information about how eating blueberries affects the eyes, brain, heart, liver, blood vessels, bones, skin, intestines, muscles, nerve cells and the whole body.

(Distributed 02/07/11) John Kruse discusses some soil issues related to corn production.

(Distributed 02/07/11) John Kruse explains some important issues to consider when selecting a corn variety. (Runtime: 4:03)

This 2011 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.

Crown rot of rice is believed to be caused by a bacterial infection – although this disease is rarely observed. Symptoms first appear during tillering. (PDF Format Only)

Brown spot is also called Helminthosporium leaf spot. It is one of the most prevalent rice diseases in Louisiana. (PDF Format Only)

Dr. Gene Reagan presented this handout to update the LSU AgCenter Sugarcane ACE group at the mtg on December 14, 2011.

Summaries of Louisiana rice acreage by variety and by parish.

Preliminary resutls for performance of grain sorghum hybrids is annually evaluated by Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station (LAES) researchers.

Yield performance of hybrids entered in the LSU AgCenter’s corn hybrid performance trials, 2010, Northeast Research Station, St. Joseph, Louisiana.

This page contains the 2005 grain sorghum hybrids performance trials research summaries.

The 2006 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.

Information about key terms related to blueberries.

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

Cercospora ratings for Official Variety Trials for soybeans trials at Dean Lee Research Station in 2010 & 2011.

This document estimates the remaining, unrecovered planting cost of plant and stubble sugarcane crops in the 2009 crop year. The estimated costs of planting are prorated by age based on remaining production. For example, it is assumed that the producer will have a 4-year crop cycle. The plant-cane will have 100%, first-year stubble 75%, second-year stubble 50% and third-year stubble 25% of its full production potential remaining, respectively.

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

Extension demonstrations are conducted annually in numerous parishes throughout the state. The objective of these demonstrations is to evaluate new varieties and continue evaluating proven or recommended varieties under “real world” situations. These large-scale demonstrations are conducted primarily by the parish county agent with assistance from the state specialist and seed dealers.

Distribution maps of Louisiana rice acreage by parish and variety.

J Stevens of the LSU AgCenter talks about the importance of soil sampling in this video. According to Stevens, it is important to get a representative sample of soil in the area where your blueberry plant roots are going to be. Click on the link under the image to watch Stevens demonstrate how to obtain soil samples for testing.

The type of blueberry bush you plant depends on where you live.

Do you know what chemicals or treatments are best for getting your garden or lawn ready for the growing season? In this video, J Stevens of the LSU AgCenter talks about the importance of soil sampling and shows the proper method for collecting a soil sample to send in to the local Cooperative Extension Service office.

This posting contains information on the 2011 Soybean Trials.

This page contains the soybean performance trials research summaries for the year 2007.

PDF files for 2007 soybean variety trials

This page contains the 2008 extension demonstration data.

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. (PDF Format Only)

Developing disease-resistant varieties is the best approach to help farmers fight diseases that afflict rice, said Don Groth, LSU AgCenter plant pathologist at the Rice Research Station in Crowley.

This page contains some important wheat and oat links.

Summaries of Louisiana rice acreage by variety and by parish.

Corn hybrids performance is evaluated annually by Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station researchers. These trials provide Louisiana growers, seedsmen and Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service county agents with unbiased performance data for commercial corn hybrids submitted for evaluation by private agencies. Cooperating LAES units were Dean Lee Research Station, Red River Research Station, Northeast Research Station and Macon Ridge Research Station.

This page contains the 2008 extension demonstration data.

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 to losses in revenue and additional production costs at slightly over $1.0 billion.

2012 recommendations. This information will help Louisiana producers choose grain sorghum hybrids that 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. (PDF format only)

Summaries of Louisiana rice acreage by variety and by parish.

Distribution maps of Louisiana rice acreage by parish and variety.

2012 recommendations for rice varieties and management tips for them. Decisions about rice varieties are some of the most critical you will make, and those deicisions have to be made early each year. The information in this publication will help you decide which rice varieties are best suited to your particular growing conditions. (PDF Format Only)

2012 recommendations for rice varieties and management tips for them. Decisions about rice varieties are some of the most critical you will make, and those deicisions have to be made early each year. The information in this publication will help you decide which rice varieties are best suited to your particular growing conditions. (PDF Format Only)

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.

2012 recommendations for rice varieties and management tips for them. Decisions about rice varieties are some of the most critical you will make, and those deicisions have to be made early each year. The information in this publication will help you decide which rice varieties are best suited to your particular growing conditions. (PDF Format Only)

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 .

Distribution maps of Louisiana rice acreage by parish and variety.

First described in 1837, Piezodorus guildinii (a.k.a the red-shouldered stink bug) has been reported throughout the Americas. In Brazil, it is one of the principal pentatomid pests of soybean and has been common since 1970. In North America, it occurs in the southeast, as far north as Arkansas, as far east as South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida, and as far west as New Mexico.

This page contains the contact information for the parish county agents.

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.

A series of tables reporting long grain, medium grain, rice of all types, and ratoon crop acreage by parish and variety for 2010.

Louisiana state maps showing the distribution of rice acreage by parish for 2010.

A series of tables reporting long grain, medium grain, and rice of all types by parish and variety for 2009. Also includes a table of ratoon crop by parish for 2009.

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.

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 2011.

The 2011 LSU AgCenter Soybean Verification Program included fields in 10 parishes across the state – with the goal of applying practical research in the field to help farmers increase economic returns.

Soil fertility issues can be challenging for both farmers and scientists. An issue with soil fertility in one field – or one part of a field – may not exist in another.

Progress is being made, but research continues on the redbanded stink bug problem in soybeans across Louisiana.

List of Soybean and Grain Board of Directors

The Louisiana Soybean and Grain Research and Promotion Board administers the national checkoffs for soybeans and grain sorghum as well as Louisiana’s wheat and feed grains checkoff. The board focuses your checkoff dollars on projects that address Louisiana’s most important production and marketing issues.

Dr. Ron Levy, LSU AgCenter soybeans and grain specialist, is conducting more work this year with the Syngenta product, Afla-Guard, to reduce aflatoxin.

It takes about a decade to develop a new wheat variety, and the diligence of LSU AgCenter wheat breeder Dr. Stephen Harrison is paying off. Next year, the LSU AgCenter’s wheat breeding program will release LA01110D-150.

A healthy plant is the first step toward optimizingyields and preventing disease in soybeans.

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

LSU AgCenter plant pathologist Dr. Zhi-Yuan Chen is teaming up with AgCenter soybean breeder Dr. Blair Buckley to work on a new project that should take them closer to finding a soybean variety that might repel Cercospora.

For several years, Louisiana soybean growershave experienced significant problems with plants that retained excessive green leaves, green stems and/or green pods after they have reached normal maturity. These symptoms – either alone or together – have been termed the “green plant malady” or “green bean malady.”

LSU AgCenter researcher Dr. Roberto Barbosa is beginning tests on methods for measuring drift from ground and aerial applicators that could be easier for farmers to use to improve the efficiency of pesticide application.

It’s no secret that producers must be able to identify and control existing and emerging weed, pest and disease issues for the Louisiana soybean industry to remain viable.

LSU AgCenter scientists are wagingwar on weeds on several fronts as herbicide resistance becomes an increasing threat.

The United Sorghum Checkoff Program is using producer dollars to boost profits for sorghum growers with new market development, research and education.

For the past five years, LSU AgCenter researchers have been looking for ways to determine the optimum time to spray fungicides to control the major diseases in wheat and corn.

For corn producers, two major issues are determining how much nitrogen fertilizer to apply and when to apply it to get maximum results.

LSU AgCenter experts say good insect control practices and planting resistant wheat varieties may help wheat producers avoid widespread damage to their crops.

The Louisiana Soybean and Grain Research and Promotion Board has approved funding for these projects in various LSU AgCenter departments, research stations and regions during the 2010-2011 fiscal year. Projects list the researcher leaders, total funding and the portions allocated from soybean, corn/wheat or grain sorghum checkoff funds.

Aspergillus is a genus of molds, and there are hundreds of its species. One type in particular, Aspergillus flavus, shows up in corn and can produce aflatoxin.

Very early applications of fungicides, long before symptoms develop, provide a surprising level of disease control for Cercospera leaf blight, according to LSU AgCenter research.

Dr. Cristina Sabliov, working with a team of scientists in the LSU AgCenter’s Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, has developed a continuous microwave system that can be used to extract beneficial compounds, such as isoflavone oils, from soy flour.

LSU AgCenter soybean specialist Dr. Ron Levy conducts the soybean research verification and on-farm demonstration programs.

The health benefits of soybeans are numerous, but an important protein is lost when soybeans are made into products such as soy milk and tofu.

Determining the most effective insecticides for control of Louisiana soybean pests is showing positive results, but more work is needed.

Roundup Ready soybeans were introduced in Louisiana in the mid-1990s. Today, almost all soybean varieties grown in the state are Roundup Ready.

LSU AgCenter researchers are trying to determine the best ways to control weeds that have plagued corn and feed grain producers for years as well as some just emerging as major problems.

The Louisiana Soybean and Grain Research and Promotion Board of Directors

The simple presence of green stems in an apparently mature soybean field may not be abnormal, but if they’re found in conjunction with other symptoms of delayed plant maturity, they may indicate a problem, according to the latest research by a multidisciplinary team of LSU AgCenter scientists.

Every year, Louisiana corn farmers cross their fingers all the way to the grain elevator after harvesting their crops, aware that a simple test could result in lower prices or rejection of an entire truckload of grain.

The complete PDF file of the 2010 Soybean & Grain Research Board Report

14 varieties of pumpkins were planted at Burden Center to determine best producing varieties for Louisiana farmers.

Louisiana map showing the distribution of ratoon crop acreage by parish for 2009.

Louisiana map showing the distribution of medium-grain rice acreage for 2009.

As required by statute, the state wheat and feed grain checkoff program will conduct a referendum on Aug. 26, 2010, to vote on the continuation of this checkoff.

Distribution maps of Louisiana rice acreage by parish and variety.

The Louisiana Soybean and Grain Research and Promotion Board administers the state’s share of the national checkoffs for soybeans and grain sorghum and Louisiana’s wheat and feed grains checkoff. The board tries to address the most challenging production and market-related issues faced by Louisiana’s producers through the investment of your checkoff dollars.

Summaries of Louisiana rice acreage by variety and by parish.

The Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station is now accepting applications for the 2011 corn hybrid performance trials. Please write the exact name for each entry as you want it to be printed in reporting media, including blanks and capitalization.

The Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station is now accepting applications for the 2011 grain sorghum performance trials. Necessary information is provided below. If you have any questions, please contact the coordinator.

Louisiana maps showing the distribution of rice acreage by types and parishes for 2009.

Pick up Louisiana oranges at roadside stands and in local markets and groceries from now through January. The 2010 crop of Louisiana citrus has been excellent, says Alan Vaughn, LSU AgCenter agent in Plaquemines Parish, the leading citrus-producing parish in the state.

Soybean is the most important oilseed crop grown in the world (56% of world oil seed production: U.S. Soybean Export Council, 2008). Major producers are the United States (33% of world production), followed closely by Brazil (28%) and Argentina (21%). Remaining producers are China, India and a few other countries.

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.

Distribution maps of Louisiana rice acreage by parish and variety.

Summaries of Louisiana Rice Acreage by variety and by Parish.

Distribution maps of Louisiana rice acreage by parish and variety.

Distribution maps of Louisiana rice acreage by parish and variety.

Soybean Extension Demostrations for 2011.

Sweet potatoes are an important commodity in Louisiana. Best Management Practices (BMPs) provide sweet potato growers guidelines on what practices they can implement to reduce the impact agricultural practices may have on the environment. (PDF Format Only)

This page contains the contact information for the parish county agents. Also included is a list of soybean specialists.

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.

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

Summaries of Louisiana rice acreage by variety and by parish.

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.

Tables reporting long grain, medium grain, all grain types, Clearfield and hybrid, and ratoon acreage by parish for 2011.

A series of maps indicating rice acreage by parish by grain type and cultural practices.

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

Farmers attending workshops in Acadia and Calcasieu parishes Tuesday (Oct. 25) learned about assistance for dealing with hardships caused by two hurricanes that struck the state this summer. Similar sessions, organized by the LSU AgCenter, were planned for New Iberia, Hammond and Raceland over the next few days.

This meeting was held at the Texas A&M University AgriLife Research Center at Beaumont, Texas. Mexican rice borer and sugarcane borer field research observations were reported. The attached document summarizes the latest research observations in rice and sugarcane.

Presentations given at the 3rd LSU AgCenter Advanced Entomology Training. This workshop focused on Mexican rice borer biology and management options in Louisiana rice. Speakers: Natalie Hummel (Dept. of Entomology, LSU AgCenter), M. O. Way (Dept. of Entomology, Texas A&M AgriLife Research Center at Beaumont, TX), Julien Beuzelin (Dept. of Entomology, LSU AgCenter), Mike Stout (Dept. of Entomology, LSU AgCenter), Tad Hardy (LDAF – quarantine program).

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.

Distribution maps of Louisiana rice acreage by parish and variety.

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.

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

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.

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.

Useful information about rice crops from 2011. Topics include aerial seeding, temperature monitoring, various weed, disease, and insect problems, physiological problems, salt water issues, and other timely topics.

Extension demonstrations are conducted annually in numerous parishes. The objective of these demonstrations is to evaluate new varieties and continue evaluating proven or recommended varieties under “real world” situations. These large-scale demonstrations are conducted primarily by the parish county agent with assistance from the state specialist and seed dealers.

Information about rice diseases, rice disease identification, rice disease management, rice disease photo galleries, rice diseasse articles, and rice fungicide links.

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

2009 Extension Demonstrations for Red River Research Station and Dean Lee Research Station.

Summaries of Louisiana rice acreage by variety and by parish.

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

This page contains the faculty and staff contact information on those working in wheat and oats.

Monthly Feedgrain Review Newletters

This page contains the small grain variety trials research reports & recommendations.

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

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

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.

Information about rice disease identification, rice production handbook, rice diseases of Louisiana, rice disease fact sheets.

This page contains the contact information for the parish county agents.

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.

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.

Collection of pages related to the Acadia demonstration sites.

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.

This article summarizes in a few bullet points recommended management practices for Mexican rice borer in Louisiana rice.

More images to help with the identification of Asian soybean rust

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

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

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

Rice leaves showing typical symptoms of Alternaria leaf spot (Note double or kissing lesions on upper leaf).

The key components of the effective use of fungicides for pecan disease control are timing, coverage and concentration. The updated 2011 fungicide list is included.

Photographs of sheath blight symptoms on rice.

A series of PowerPoint slides presenting data on the effect of date of planting on yield and milling of selected rice varieties. Data are based on Dr. Steve Linscombe's date of planting studies at the Rice Research Station.

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

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)

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

Dr. Boyd Padgett demonstrates how to scout soybean fields for diseases such as cercospora. (Runtime: 4:32)

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.

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

This study was designed to examine the biological and economic efficacy of relaying crawfish into a growing rice crop in an intercropping manner. (PDF format only)

View information listed by the part of the blueberry plant where you suspect insect pest damage is occurring. Then, click on each symptom you see on your plants. You will be brought to a page indicating which insect(s) may be causing the damage.

Full sun is desirable, but up to 50 percent shade is usually acceptable.

Blueberry leaf beetles are post-harvest pests of blueberries in the southeastern United States. Leaf beetles indirectly affect blueberry production and are seldom considered serious pests like those feeding on flowers or fruit.

Adult cherry fruitworms lay their eggs on both the fruit and foliage of blueberry plants.

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

Performance of corn hybrids is annually evaluated by Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station (LAES) researchers. The purpose of these trials is to provide to Louisiana growers, seedsmen, county agents of the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service (LCES) and other interested individuals and organizations with unbiased performance data for commercial corn hybrids submitted for evaluation by private agencies.The cooperating LAES units in 2009 were: Dean Lee Research Station, Alexandria; Red R

This week I’ve received a few calls from consultants about high rice stink bug counts in late-planted rice and second crop. With advances in variety yield potential and improvements in second-crop management, the second crop has become important enough to warrant protection (in most situations).

Blueberry maggots and spotted wing drosophila can cause blueberries to become soft.

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.

Information about how fire ants, leaf-footed bugs and stink bugs damage blueberries. Also, information to use in determining if these insects are damaging a blueberry crop and how to manage these insects.

Small grain variety trials are conducted annually by scientists of the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station 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. Entries are included in the trials based upon previous performance or at the request of the originating agency.

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.

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 the recommendations available through the links below for a successful cotton harvest.

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.

Blueberry gall midge occurs sporadically, but when present it can cause reductions of 20 percent to 80 percent flower buds/fruit.

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.

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

Solving the whodunit mystery of insect damage in a rice crop will be easier with a new online program developed by the LSU AgCenter.

On Monday, Johnny Saichuk (rice specialist), Donna Lee (county agent – East Caroll Parish) and I headed over to Beaumont, Texas for the annual Mexican Rice Borer (MRB) Site Visit. This meeting is held annually to share the latest results of a long-running cooperative research effort between Texas A&M and the LSU AgCenter.

If you are wondering why I’ve been a little quiet lately, it’s because we’ve been busy cutting test plots and gathering harvest data. After long days in this horrendous heat, it’s hard to find a desire to sit at a computer and write. I’ll wait until all the numbers are in to make any comments about the effect of treatments on yields. In the meantime, I thought you might like to see some equipment in action. The best part of harvest is that it really is a gathering of friends.

Here is a summary of the blog for 2010. Thanks to everyone who followed the content. We hope to make more improvements in 2011. If you have suggestions to improve the content, please send them to me. Happy New Year!

I recently assembled a list of iPhone apps that have some utility in agriculture or entomology. If you use an iPhone you might be able to use some of these apps in your agricultural endeavors. I’d be curious to know if you have any favorite agriculturally related apps. Also, if you know of any other agricultural apps that are not in my table, please post a comment or e-mail to me: nhummel@agcenter.lsu.edu

The Mexican rice borer, a threat to sugarcane and rice, has moved eastward from Texas extending farther into Louisiana. On Nov. 22, 2010, four male adults were found in a pheromone trap about six miles southwest of Sulphur, according to Gene Reagan, LSU AgCenter entomologist. Chris Carlton, director of the Louisiana State Arthropod Museum, confirmed that these trap catches were Mexican rice borers.

On Feb 7, 2011, US EPA granted the Experimental Use Permit (EUP) for NipsIt INSIDE® Insecticide for seed treatment use in rice. The EUP is for the states of AR, LA, MS and TX for a total of 40,000 acres for 2011. This includes 5,000 acres in Louisiana. Rice water weevil and grape colaspis are target pests on the label. According to the EUP, use of this product is restricted to dry-seeded rice in drill-planters. The seeding rate cannot exceed 15

This week the House of Representatives will debate H.R. 1, the Full Year Continuing Resolution (CR), to fund federal departments, agencies, and programs through Sept. 30, 2011. As reported last week, the CR would reduce the topline number for the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA is the USDA agency that supports Land-grant research and extension) by $217.056 million compared to FY 2010.

About a week ago Calcasieu Parish County Agent Jimmy Meaux e-mailed me a picture of a borer larva in rice that he suspected was the Mexican rice borer (MRB). This was a highly suspect sample due to a combination of the morphology of the larva and where it was found – which was in the same area where LDAF caught the first adult MRBs in pheromone traps in Louisiana.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

In the 2011 production season, Louisiana rice producers will have a variety of options for seed treatment in dry-seeded production systems. This article should help make the decision about which seed treatment you may want to consider.

I’m pleased to announce the release of the Louisiana Online Rice Pest Identification Guide. The purpose of this guide is to improve identification of arthropods (insects and mites) that damage rice in Louisiana. Once the arthropod is properly identified, a link to the Louisiana pest management guidelines is provided. Although the arthropods featured infest rice in Louisiana, this online guide should be a useful tool in other Southern rice producing states.

Anna and I have been working together to summarize the 2009 Louisiana rice insects survey data, and the graphs are now starting to take shape. We observed some interesting trends. Over the next couple of weeks, I’ll post a series of blogs that will summarize some of the highlights of our findings.

The Louisiana Institute for Biofuels and Bioprocessing will be a research, education, and outreach initiative within the LSU Agricultural Center.

Grasshoppers are generally elongated insects with narrow, leathery forewings; large, membranous flying wings; and chewing mouthparts.

Aphids can cause deformation, wilting and defoliation of new growth of blueberry plants. High infestations can reduce fruiting bud formation for the following year's crop. Aphids produce copious amounts of honeydew and can cause secondary pest outbreaks of sooty molds on foliage and fruit. Aphids also can transmit blueberry scorch virus.

Information about how blueberry stem borers and thrips cause damage by scarring and/or tunneling through blueberry plant stems, as well as information on how to manage them.