Large numbers of lady beetles (ladybugs) infesting homes and buildings in the United States were first reported in the early 1990s. Ladybugs normally are considered beneficial since they live outdoors and feed on plant pests. MORE SOURCE: … [Read more...]
FORCING BULBS FOR WINTER CHEER
There is nothing more cheerful than colorful, often fragrant blooms during the dreary days of winter. Forcing flowe bulbs is a simple and fun process to bring that bit of sunshine into your home. It just takes a little planning! A bulb is not … [Read more...]
Growing and caring for amaryllis
Whether the first bulb or the fiftieth, there is high anticipation for the plant owner when the large, bright green bud emerges from a beefy amaryllis bulb! CONTINUE SOURCE: https://extension.umn.edu/houseplants/amaryllis#planting-858661 … [Read more...]
Fall Garden Care for Pollinators
This article discusses the beneficial pollinators that overwinter in the garden and best practices for providing habitat for them. CONTINUE SOURCE: https://extension.psu.edu/fall-garden-care-for-pollinators … [Read more...]
WEED ALERT
Asiatic Bittersweet Image 1: Unopened Asiatic bittersweet fruit in early October, by Gloria SchoenholtzImage 2: Asiatic bittersweet vine with expanded fruit later in the fall, by Gloria SchoenholtzIntroduced to the United … [Read more...]
Fall armyworm outbreak in Virginia – Turf, sod, small grains, late sweet corn, sorghum, and other crops at risk.
Recently, some VCE agents as well as golf course superintendents in the northcentral and southwestern counties of Virginia have reported fall armyworm outbreaks on lawns and golf courses. This outbreak is earlier than usual and potentially could … [Read more...]
Laurel Wilt Disease
From EMG Communications, ALERT: Laurel wilt found in Virginia! In June, laurel wilt was discovered in Scott County. Laurel wilt is caused by the fungal pathogen Raffaelea lauricola, which is carried by the redbay ambrosia beetle (Xyleborus … [Read more...]
Acorn Collection
The Virginia Department of Forestry (VDOF) collects a variety of species of acorns and nuts that can be planted at its Augusta Forestry Center (Crimora, Va.) to grow into tree seedlings that will become the forests of tomorrow. These seeds will … [Read more...]
The Beloved Peony
Peony flowers have richness unlike any others. Home gardeners can create an exquisite and long-lasting display by understanding the types of peonies available and the proper planting requirements. CONTINUE SOURCE: … [Read more...]
Saving the monarch butterfly, one milkweed plant at a time
On a hot summer day at Claytor Nature Center, a handful of students are plucking fingernail-sized clippings among rows and rows of milkweed plants. What are they doing? Broadly speaking, they are researching how to save the declining monarch … [Read more...]