(Distributed 07/02/08) A “gorilla” of a barnyardgrass and a “tough critter” nematode are two of the problems being tackled by LSU AgCenter researchers as reported at a recent field day at the Northeast Research Station in St. Joseph. Dr. Daniel Stephenson, LSU AgCenter weed scientist, told farmers at the June 24 event that barnyardgrass “is setting up shop” in the neighboring area of the station.

(Distributed 07/02/08) Two campuses of the LSU System recently combined their international programs offices to better serve the needs of faculty, students and citizens in an increasingly global society. The LSU AgCenter and the LSU A&M campus in Baton Rouge announced the merger this summer.

(Distributed 07/02/08) The LSU AgCenter’s annual Northeast Louisiana rice field day will be held July 21 at the Elliot Colvin farm and the Rayville Civic Center.

(Distributed 07/02/08) The No. 1 yard tree problem in Shreveport-Bossier is construction damage, according to Ricky Kilpatrick, LSU AgCenter area forestry agent.

(Distributed 07/01/08) Back by popular demand, the LSU AgCenter will host another set of one-day workshops on how to make your own biodiesel. The choices are July 29, 30 or 31 at the W.A. Callegari Environmental Center in Baton Rouge.

(Distributed 07/01/08) The LSU AgCenter has joined forces with Orleans Catholic Charities’ Operation Helping Hand and the U.S. Department of Energy’s Building America program to construct an affordable home uniquely tailored to local needs and risks. The house, dubbed the “Green Dream Home,” is in mid-construction and, until its completion, serves as a teaching tool about best building practices for the New Orleans area.

(For Release On Or After 07/25/08) Wherever you go in America, gardeners will tell you about the terrible pest problems they have to deal with. Still, it seems like we have more than our share of insects, diseases and weeds in Louisiana.

(For Release On Or After 07/18/08) Many vegetables planted in spring are finishing or already have reached the end of their productive season. Once the harvest is finished, they should be removed from the garden.

(For Release On Or After 07/11/08) Deadheading is an important but often neglected gardening technique. It refers to pruning off old, faded flowers from a plant as it blooms.

(For Release On Or After 07/04/08) Few sights are more thrilling in the garden than rapidly moving hummingbirds darting among the flowers.