(Distributed 07/30/10) We often associate many of our warm-season bedding plants with the spring and summer growing seasons. Often overlooked is the fact that many of these plants may actually do better in our Louisiana landscapes during mid- and late summer through fall. Zinnias and marigolds are two excellent examples of warm-season bedding plants to try from August through the first killing frost.
(Distributed 07/14/10) A few weeks before elementary school begins, remind your child that school is starting and pay attention to your child’s reactions, says LSU AgCenter family and child development specialist Linda Robinson. Reactions may range from excitement to nervousness to disappointment.
(Distributed 07/08/10) The high school years are usually a time of experimentation and testing limits. Recent studies, however, reveal that conflict between parents and adolescents is much less than popular culture leads us to believe, according to LSU AgCenter family and child development expert Linda Robinson.
(Distributed 07/27/10) Starting in August, a new federal program will be available that provides help for homeowners who have become unemployed so they can temporarily reduce or suspend their mortgage payments while they seek employment, according to Gloria Nye, LSU AgCenter extension family economist.
(Distributed 07/07/10) A take-along lunch can be a healthful, economical choice for students and teachers, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Beth Reames.
(Distributed 07/09/10) One of the most popular summer bedding plants in Louisiana is vinca, also called periwinkle. This annual plant is known for having a very long blooming season. It is also very heat- and drought-tolerant.
(Distributed 07/20/10) Young athletes need adequate fuel, fluids and nutrients to perform their best. Eating right helps delay fatigue and allows them to push harder and recover faster, says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Beth Reames.
(Distributed 07/22/10) Most people think of mid-summer as the “down time” in the landscape. Many of our warm-season bedding plants from earlier in the spring and summer have a tendency to not be performing as well by the time we get to late summer. We do, however, have a wonderful assortment of tropical plants that can be grown very successfully in south Louisiana.
(Distributed 07/29/10) A recent study funded by the U. S. Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Research Service suggests that a woman’s weight during pregnancy may influence the likelihood of her child becoming an overweight or obese adult.
(Distributed 07/16/10) Summer is prime growing season for lawns in Louisiana. Lawns that are not performing their best can be made better through the fall. If you did not fertilize your lawn during the spring, you still have time to fertilize and get your lawn in good shape prior to fall
(Distributed 07/02/10) Many times, we tend to neglect our home landscapes during the summer, but this can be a time of the year when problems arise. Summer officially will last only three months, but real summer growing conditions in Louisiana can last 120-150 days. During this hard time of the year in the landscape, several horticultural practices need to be done.
(Distributed 07/15/10) Proper hydration is essential for healthy physical activity. Drinking the right amount of fluids before, during and after every physical activity is vital to providing the fluids the body needs to perform properly, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Beth Reames.
(Distributed 07/06/10) Experts often call breakfast the most important meal of the day, and this is especially true for kids headed off to school.
(Distributed 07/08/10) As of July 1, the U.S. Congress has reauthorized and extended the National Flood Insurance Program until Sep. 30, making it possible for many people to purchase affordable flood insurance for their dwellings, says Gloria Nye, extension family economist with the LSU AgCenter.
(Distributed 07/08/10) After the more leisurely pace of summer, preparing and serving meals can be a challenge when juggling family members’ busy schedules of school, work, sports, homework, etc., says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Beth Reames.
(Distributed 07/07/10) The transition to middle school occurs at a time when children are moving into adolescence, and the preteen years can be stressful for children as their bodies prepare for puberty.
(Distributed 07/30/10) Hot summer weather can pose special health risks to older adults, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Beth Reames.
(Distributed 07/06/10) As the first day of school approaches, many parents find themselves anxious about how their children will adjust. Parents of young children may be anxious about leaving their children in a new environment for the first time.
(Distributed 07/14/10) Getting off to a good start with your child’s new teacher requires communication and respecting the role of a teacher, says LSU AgCenter youth development specialist Janet Fox. A strong connection between families and teachers is essential for building a positive environment for children.
(Distributed 7/14/10) A durable home that withstands natural hazards like hurricanes saves money, time, the ordeal of making repairs and, potentially, your health.