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(Video 11/7/11) If you’re craving hardy, home-grown vegetables like lettuce, you might consider planting a fall vegetable garden. LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill explores the vegetable section at a local nursery and explains how to select lettuce plants and how to properly pick them when you’re ready for your salad. (Runtime: 1:34)
(Video 11/1/11) Now is a great time to plant cool-season flowers. But as you pick your plants at the nursery, don’t be confused by all the vibrant colors. LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill shares some important tips to help you choose the right colors for your cool-season flower beds. (Runtime: 1:41)
(Video 11/28/11) Want interesting indoor greenery that’s not difficult to care for? LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill explains why a tough tropical plant called pothos is the perfect choice. (Runtime: 1:37)
(Video 11/21/11) The saying goes, “out of sight, out of mind.” That slogan could apply to the obscure columbine. Not many Louisiana gardeners have ever heard of it. Until now. LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill explains why the Swan columbine is a great Louisiana Super Plant worthy of the spotlight. (Runtime: 1:30)
News Release Distributed 11/04/11By LSU AgCenter Horticulturists Dan Gill, Kyle Huffstickler and Allen Owings Sasanquas are one of our most popular flowering shrubs for the late fall through early winter. Also known by the scientific name Camellia sasanqua, sasanquas are typically smaller-growing than the plants we normally call camellias. They also have more finely textured foliage. They bloom from mid-October through December or January. Sasanquas are very abundant at retail garden centers these days. Popular sasanquas include Bonanza, Yuletide, Stephanie Golden, Leslie Ann and Sparkling Burgundy. A new dwarf variety with red flowers is Hot Flash. The most popular of these type plants is the ShiShi Gashira variety. It is a smaller-growing, “dwarf” type plant. Flowers are double and rosy pink. It is actually another species of camellia, technically Camellia hiemalis. This variety, though, is typically mistakenly lumped by most folks into the sasanqua group. ShiShi Gashira has been named a Louisiana Super Plant. Success with sasanquas depends on the planting site. Part sun to part shade is best, especially for younger plants. Choose a location that receives four hours to six hours of direct sun in the morning and shade in the afternoon, or find a a spot that receives light, dappled shade throughout the day. When planted in full sun, sasanquas are subject to more stressful conditions. The foliage sometimes has a yellowish look, and flower buds may not open properly. Plants in full sun also may be more susceptible to injury in freezing weather. Good drainage also is essential. Do not plant sasanquas in areas that are poorly drained or where water settles after a rain. If an area has poor drainage, plant camellias on mounds or in raised beds. These plants are acid-loving, and an alkaline soil (pH above 7) can limit their ability to obtain some nutrients, especially iron. When you prepare an area for planting, incorporate a soil acidifier to help make the soil more acid if your soil is alkaline. Three readily available materials for this are ground sulfur, iron sulfate (copperas) and aluminum sulfate. Copperas should generally be used because it is faster-acting than sulfur and provides additional iron. Fertilize in the spring as new growth begins – about March or early April. Use a fertilizer labeled for acid-loving plants or any general-purpose fertilizer according to the manufacturer s label directions. Sasanquas are part of our Southern gardening heritage. A few well-placed specimens will brighten up your landscape during these late fall and early winter days when few other shrubs are blooming. Visit LaHouse in Baton Rouge to see sustainable landscape practices in action. The home and landscape resource center is near the intersection of Burbank Drive and Nicholson Drive (Louisiana Highway 30) in Baton Rouge, across the street from the LSU baseball stadium. For more information, go to www.lsuagcenter.com/lahouse or www.lsuagcenter.com/lyn.
(Distributed 11/16/11) Fried turkey is not as unhealthful as it sounds – if you don't eat the skin of the bird, according LSU AgCenter nutritionist Beth Reames. In fact, experts recommend not eating the skin no matter how a turkey is prepared.
(Distributed 11/11/11) Ornamental kale and cabbage are becoming increasingly popular as fall bedding plants in Louisiana. Alternatives to garden mums and pansies, these plants have feathery leaves with robust colors that make them well suited for landscape and container plantings.
(Distributed 11/16/11) Diabetes is now considered an epidemic in the United States, and nearly 26 million children and adults are living with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes, says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Beth Reames.
(Distributed 11/23/11) November, December and into mid-January are excellent times for planting trees in Louisiana. During this period, the soil is still warm, encouraging vigorous root growth, and trees will have several months to get established before summer’s heat.
(Audio 11/18/11) Fried foods carry an unhealthful perception. Many cooks fry their turkeys on Thanksgiving. LSU AgCenter nutritionist Beth Reames says a fried turkey isn't as unhealthful as it might sound. (Runtime: 1:15)
(Radio News 11/17/11) The potential for foodborne illness lurks around the Thanksgiving meal. For cooks starting with a frozen turkey, the first step in preparing the bird is properly thawing it. LSU AgCenter nutritionist and food safety expert Beth Reames says cooks can use three methods to thaw their turkey; the first is in the refrigerator. (Runtime: 1:25)
(Video 11/02/11) The sun was perched behind a cloud as participants of the Hammond Research Station’s landscape horticulture field day toured the station’s shade garden and learned about high-performing varieties of caladiums, hostas and impatiens. A focus of the station is to evaluate how well bedding plants, perennials and roses in do in landscapes. (Runtime: 1:48)
(Video News 11/28/11) Many Louisiana wheat farmers had to wait to plant their crop. LSU AgCenter correspondent Tobie Blanchard reports that dry weather kept farmers out of their fields. (Runtime: 1:14)
(Video News 11/16/11) A tour titled From Cow to Cone took dairy industry professionals through the research at the LSU AgCenter’s on-campus dairy facilities. LSU AgCenter correspondent Tobie Blanchard toured the dairy farm and creamery and has this report. (Runtime: 1:48)
(Video 11/08/11) Sweet potatoes are more than just a Thanksgiving dish. They have become a year-round staple. LSU AgCenter correspondent Tobie Blanchard reports Louisiana growers have a good crop of sweet potatoes this year. (Runtime: 1:31)
(Radio News 11/08/11) Crawfish farmers have been flooding their fields in preparation for the current season, but in Vermilion Parish a lack of water and saltwater intrusion are complicating the crop. LSU AgCenter coastal area agent Mark Shirley explains. (Runtime: 1:15)
(Radio 11/29/11) At Star Nursery and Farm in Belle Chase, workers are busy packing and shipping boxes of satsumas. Joseph Ranatza, a fifth-generation citrus grower, says this year the quality is high and volume is plentiful. (Runtime: 1:20)
(Radio News 11/28/11) Many families looking for the perfect Christmas tree will visit a tree farm this year. Choose-and-cut farms are a fun way to buy a tree and provide good income for growers, says LSU AgCenter forestry and wildlife specialist Don Reed. (Runtime: 1:25)
(Audio 11/22/11) The LSU AgCenter dairy store is known for its in-house-made ice creams, but even as temperatures fall, there are still reasons to visit the store located on South Stadium Dr. on LSU’s campus. Chuck Boeneke, dairy science professor, said this time of the year, the store is gearing up for holiday sales. (Runtime: 1:20)
(Radio News 11/15/11) Louisiana cooks will find the cost of the basic Thanksgiving dinner down this year. An LSU AgCenter survey shows the 2011 Thanksgiving market basket will average $39.10 for 10 people. That’s a decrease of $1.49 from last year’s Baton Rouge average of $40.68. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/23/11) The hunt for the perfect Christmas tree generally starts soon after the Thanksgiving turkey, stuffing and pies have been put away. The first thing to do when picking a tree, whether at a retail outlet or a choose-and-cut farm, is to look for ones that will fit your space, says LSU AgCenter wildlife and forestry expert Don Reed. (Runtime: 1:05)
(Audio 11/14/11) Farmers typically plant Louisiana’s wheat crop in October and early November, but dry weather has delayed planting this year. LSU AgCenter wheat specialist Ed Twidwell estimates about half of the crop has been planted. (Runtime: 1:10)
(Radio News 11/03/11) Dairy farmers, processors and others from Louisiana’s dairy industry toured the LSU AgCenter’s dairy farm and creamery on the LSU campus. Gary Hay, director of the School of Animal Science, said the Cow to Cone field day was to show people in the dairy industry the research on campus that is benefiting them. (Runtime: 1:20)
(Audio 11/21/11) Weeds, diseases and insects are fewer in the winter vegetable garden. Still, gardeners need to look out for pests such as aphids, caterpillars, snails and slugs. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Video 11/21/11) The saying goes, “out of sight, out of mind.” That slogan could apply to the obscure columbine. Not many Louisiana gardeners have ever heard of it. Until now. LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill explains why the Swan columbine is a great Louisiana Super Plant worthy of the spotlight. (Runtime: 1:30)
(Audio 11/14/11) Louisiana gardeners rarely grow columbines, but a new Louisiana Super Plant selection can change that. The Swan columbine is a beautiful plant that is more robust and has larger flowers than other columbines. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/07/11) Lawn grasses go dormant and turn brown during the winter. If you want a green lawn over the next few months, plant ryegrass. A ryegrass lawn will require maintenance through the winter. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Video 11/28/11) Want interesting indoor greenery that’s not difficult to care for? LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill explains why a tough tropical plant called pothos is the perfect choice. (Runtime: 1:37)
(Audio 11/21/11) Tropical container plants can be damaged by winter freezes. Many gardeners move tender plants indoors this time of the year. Prepare the plant before the move by washing the plant off and getting it acclimated to lower light conditions. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/07/11) Gardeners can plant cool-season bedding plants in November. Many of these plants will provide color now and through the winter, then put on a beautiful display in the spring. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/28/11) Three outstanding plants have been named fall 2011 Super Plants. They include Belinda's Dream rose, Swan columbine and Redbor kale. Try these plants in your landscape this season. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/14/11) One of the most beautiful roses available for Louisiana gardeners is Belinda's Dream. This rose has the toughness of a Knock Out rose with flowers that look like hybrid tea roses. It's a fall 2011 Louisiana Super Plant selection. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/07/11) Camellias are beautiful shrubs that bloom during the winter when not much else is blooming. They can suffer from infestations of the insect tea scale. Symptoms include a white fuzzy appearance on the underside of the leaf. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/28/11) Late November to early December is a good time to plant hardy trees and shrubs in our landscapes. These plants go through a root growth phase this time of the year, which helps establish them before they start growing foliage. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/28/11) Landscapes can stay attractive throughout the winter. Your garden may need some grooming and maintenance this time of the year, such as removing old growth from summer perennials and bulbs. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/21/11) Paperwhites are among the easiest spring-flowering bulbs to force to bloom for the winter in our homes. Bulbs are available loose or in kits. Following a few tips will help the plants grow and bloom beautifully. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/07/11) November is a great month to plant spring bulbs in your landscapes. By now, the soil has had a chance to cool down from the summer. Check nurseries for these bulbs, and remember tulips and hyacinths need refrigeration before planting. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/28/11) Gardeners use fertilizer to provide nutrients to plants. Nitrogen helps to stimulate vigorous growth. Plants going dormant do not need fertilizer. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/14/11) The amaryllis is a spring-blooming plant that is hardy in Louisiana. Bulbs are available but they should not be planted into the garden now. Pot them in a container, and force them to bloom indoors. Next year, bulbs treated that way this year can be planted into your landscape. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Video 11/1/11) Now is a great time to plant cool-season flowers. But as you pick your plants at the nursery, don’t be confused by all the vibrant colors. LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill shares some important tips to help you choose the right colors for your cool-season flower beds. (Runtime: 1:41)
(Audio 11/21/11) Leaves are falling from decidious trees. Don't bag up leaves and throw them away. These leaves can be used for mulch or made into compost. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/14/11) Redbor kale is a Louisiana Super Plant selection for fall 2011. This ornamental vegetable is beautiful and edible. Plant it this time of the year for an attractive tall plant in the spring. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/14/11) Fall is a great time to add hardy fruit trees to the landscape. Louisiana gardeners can plant a wide variety of fruit trees and shrubs, but you must choose ones that are suitable for our climate. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/07/11) Lettuce harvested fresh from the garden has an outstanding flavor. Gardeners can grow lettuce this time of the year. Leafy lettuce and semi-heading varieties grow best in Louisiana. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(For Release On Or After 11/25/11) If you are considering replanting a lost hedge, now is a great time to get the job done. A common part of landscapes, hedges generally are created by planting a row of shrubs or small trees.
(Audio 11/21/11) Many of the herbs Louisiana cooks enjoy are hardy and can be grown during the winter. All herbs need a sunny location and a well-drained bed or container. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/28/11) The ideal time to plant trees in Louisiana is from November to March. To properly plant a tree, start by measuring the root ball. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Video 11/7/11) If you’re craving hardy, home-grown vegetables like lettuce, you might consider planting a fall vegetable garden. LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill explores the vegetable section at a local nursery and explains how to select lettuce plants and how to properly pick them when you’re ready for your salad. (Runtime: 1:34)
(Distributed 11/16/11) Trying to keep the University Lakes in Baton Rouge clean and healthy is a goal of LSU AgCenter researcher Yi Jun Xu, associate professor in the School of Renewable Natural Resources.
(Distributed 11/23/11) HAMMOND, La. – An LSU AgCenter water resources scientist is trying to keep Louisiana in compliance with the 1972 Clean Water Act by testing plant mats in a pond at the Hammond Research Station.
(Distributed 11/09/11) A citrus disease fairly new to Louisiana may cause problems for commercial growers, but not so much for backyard growers, according to LSU AgCenter experts.
(Distributed 11/11/11) The LSU AgCenter is honoring six individuals and four teams of faculty members for outstanding service to extension and research at a ceremony on Dec. 2.
(Distributed 11/11/11) Top officials at the LSU AgCenter and Pennington Biomedical Research Center signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Nov. 11 to join forces in a five-year initiative to fight obesity in Louisiana.
(Distributed 11/10/11) NEW ORLEANS, La. – About 40 students gathered in the lunch room at Langston Hughes Academy charter school recently (Nov. 8) to sample and rate potential menu items made from local products.
(Distributed 11/10/11) SHREVEPORT, La. – AgMagic at the State Fair is taking children through a journey of Louisiana agriculture and economically beneficial commodities they may use every day.
(Distributed 11/04/11) LSU AgCenter employees from across the state brought home awards from the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents conference held Oct. 24-27 in Omaha, Neb.
(Distributed 11/18/11) MANY, La. – 4-H members comprised six of the eight Sabine Parish students who received the Discovering Tomorrow’s Leaders awards, a program sponsored by Chesapeake Energy Corp.
(Distributed 11/17/11) OAK GROVE, La. – Producers from Louisiana, Arkansas and Mississippi will have an opportunity to hear the latest in soybean research during the 2012 Tri-State Soybean Forum on Friday, Jan. 6, at 8 a.m. at the Thomas Jason Lingo Center in Oak Grove.
(Distributed 11/02/11) MANSURA, La. – The Louisiana 4-H Museum is offering “Discovery Days,” an educational program series for groups of children ages 3-8.
(Distributed 11/03/11) For an urban university, it may be a well-kept secret that some of the best dairy products in Louisiana are produced on the LSU campus.
(Distributed 11/02/11) THORNWELL, La. – Birdwatchers from 23 states and two countries converged on rice fields in Jefferson Davis Parish to get a glimpse of the small, elusive bird called the yellow rail.
(Distributed 11/14/11) Louisiana cooks shopping for Thanksgiving will find the costs of basic dinner items down this year. The 2011 Thanksgiving market basket will average $39.10 for 10 people, according to an LSU AgCenter survey.
(Distributed 11/28/11) The Louisiana 4-H Poultry Judging Team placed fourth overall at the National 4-H Poultry and Egg Conference in Louisville, Ky., on Nov. 16-17.
(Distributed 11/18/11) Louisiana sugarcane farmers are harvesting their crop ahead of schedule, and they expect to be out of the fields sooner than usual.
(Distributed 11/11/11) The recruitment process for the 2012-2013 class of the LSU AgCenter’s Louisiana Young Ag Producers Program has begun, according to Bradley Leger, the program’s coordinator.
(Distributed 11/30/11) Louisiana 4-H will conduct its first Day of Service on Sat., Dec. 3, to show that one day can make a difference in the life of an individual, a community and a state.
(Distributed 11/11/11) It’s time to think about choosing this year’s Christmas tree. But before you do, there are a few things to consider.
(Distributed 11/02/11) Agriculture is a multi-billion dollar industry in Louisiana. To acknowledge the exceptional contributions of its farmers, the Louisiana Radio Network, Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation, LSU AgCenter and Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry will honor the 2012 Louisiana Farmer of the Year.
(Distributed 11/18/11) The ideal planting time for cool-season bedding plants in Louisiana runs from late September through early December. Some of our common cool-season flowers prefer the earlier planting dates, and some do better with the later planting dates.
(Distributed 11/15/11) Many people face the holiday season afraid they will gain weight. And that is a fear with some merit, says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Beth Reames. There are temptations galore, and many people gain a pound or two – but usually not any more.
