(Distributed 04/30/08) BOSSIER CITY – Bees are the angels of agriculture, said honey producer Bill Walker at the LSU AgCenter Lunch and Ag Discovery held April 22 at the Red River Research Station.

(Distributed 03/25/08) BOSSIER CITY – A soil analysis is the first thing to consider when planting fruit trees, said Dr. Charles Graham, research horticulturist, at the monthly Lunch and Ag Discovery talk at the LSU AgCenter’s Red River Research Station March 18.

Bumblebee pollination of small greenhouse tomato operations may not be the best option, but simple changes made a difference.

Sifting and disinfecting used perlite is a simple technique developed at the LSU AgCenter Red River Research Station to recycle perlite for repeat use as a growing media. The recycled perlite was used for 10 years so far with no negative impact on tomato yield.

An investigation of the use of poultry litter as a fertilizer on production cotton fields and its potential impact on the environment.

Overview of research examining the use of poultry litter as fertilizer on production forest lands and the possible environmental effects.

Images of activities related to research concerning the fertilization of forest lands utilizing poultry litter.

The hot, summer months are a great time to enjoy fresh tomatoes. Enjoy them in green salads, chicken or shrimp salads, stuffed with tuna or simply on their own. They also make a wonderful addition to a heart-healthy and cancer-preventing diet, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

LSU AgCenter scientists confirmed on Friday (June 30) that Asian soybean rust is in Louisiana. This is the first finding of the disease for 2006, and it was found on kudzu, another plant besides soybeans susceptible to the disease.

Following the best management practices (BMPs) given here should help keep your lawn in good condition. A healthy and properly cared for lawn will resist weeds and other pest problems; thus, a minimum of pesticide products will be needed. Basic lawn care consists of proper fertilizing, watering and mowing and appropriate pest management, as needed.