We often take seeds for granted. We expect that we can plant them, they will grow, and produce a crop – or flower bed if that’s your goal. But seeds don’t always […]
How can seed enhancement effect the viability and vigor of seeds?
Does growing location influence garlic flavor and health benefits?
Garlic is mainly consumed as a spice or condiment, giving flavor and aroma to other foods. And what gives garlic those wonderful aromas and flavors? Mainly, substances called “organosulfur compounds” that are […]
What storage conditions affect seed quality?
Most people are aware that seeds need to be kept cool and dry to maintain their quality in storage. But the real questions are: How cool, and how dry, do the storage […]
How is tractor guidance used to improve crop production?
When driving, you might be familiar with using a navigation app to get you to your destination. Often, you can choose the fastest route or the most gas-efficient route. Farmers also can […]
What is some current research in growing cumin?
Cumin seeds can be used alone to spice up dishes, or in combination with other spices. Cumin seeds are also known to have medicinal benefits. But farmers have to grow the cumin […]
Why do farmers need to test their soils?
Have you ever wondered what is in the soil that supports a plant to survive, reproduce, and complete its life cycle? Where do all those nutrients present in your breakfast corn flakes, […]
Wild about peanuts – using crop wild relatives to improve today’s crops
However you eat your peanuts – shelled, salted, or in a favorite mix – they are a snack item enjoyed by many. They are also a main ingredient in many favorite dishes, […]
How do nutrients in leaves inform farming practices?
Last fall, I spent hours washing leaves as I would wash my hands – first, I dunked them in soapy water and wiped off any residues. Then I rinsed the leaves with […]
What are drain tiles?
Drain tiles are pipes buried in the ground at a shallow depth, to remove excess water from saturated soils. Modern drain “tiles” are actually perforated plastic drain tubes typically placed at a […]
“Does dew provide water to plants?”
In ancient times, the dew was believed to be a source of vegetative and plant life and considered a great blessing. According to the literature, the accumulation of dew at night on […]