The history of The American Chestnut Foundation (TACF) chronicles the ongoing pursuit of a fundamental goal: to develop a blight-resistant American chestnut tree through scientific research and breeding, and to restore the tree to its native forests … [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...]
Pruning Ornamental Plants in the Landscape
Anyone can prune, but not everyone prunes properly. Improper pruning, or pruning at the wrong time of the year, can result in mis-shapened plants, reduced flowering or plants that are more likely to be damaged by insects, diseases or winter cold. … [Read more...]
The Appealing Core Nutrition of Apples
Can you remember the fragrance of an apple pie baking in your grandmother’s oven? Do you have memories of cinnamon and nutmeg embracing your home? The smell of fall is upon us and one of the brightest aromas that is cherished is the warm … [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...]
BOBCAT
A southern cousin of the lynx, the bobcat (Lynx rufus rufus) is the only “wildcat” in Virginia. Native to most counties in Virginia, the bobcat is a medium-sized cat characterized by dark spots, tufted ears and a short “bobbed” tail. Its color varies … [Read more...]
Growing Pumpkins for the Home Garden
Pumpkins are a warm-season vining crop. They come in a variety of sizes, shapes, colors, and textures. Continued: … [Read more...]
Chrysanthemum Care
Though associated with fall, chrysanthemums are a great addition to the garden throughout the growing season. Find out how to plant and care for mums for maximum bloom. Continued: … [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...]