Like all living organisms, vegetables need nutrients for their proper growth and development. But where do they get their mineral nutrients from? The answer is soil. Okay, the next question is, how […]
How do nutrients get into my vegetables?
How is cabbage grown organically?
Despite the ongoing controversy of “who started the corned beef and cabbage” tradition, many still celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with this meal. Researchers are looking at ways to grow your cabbage organically […]
How are seeds dispersed?
Seed dispersal in plants takes on countless forms, yet most dispersal mechanisms fall within the categories of gravity, wind, water, and animal dispersal. Let’s dive into these mechanisms in more detail. Next […]
Why are certain crops used to make biofuels?
Climate change is one of the top issues of our time. Wind power, solar energy and electric cars grab a lot of headlines as solutions. Biofuels hold promise too, as part of […]
How are new varieties of plants registered and why?
You may see a new variety of vegetable at the grocery store, for example an unusual new lettuce or apple. There are other important new varieties of crops that don’t show up […]
How do orange peels influence soybean growth?
Soybean is one of the most important crops cultivated around the world and it is the principal grain legume grown in the United States. It is valued because it has a high […]
What is sunn hemp and how is it used in agronomy?
Let’s talk about a crop that can grow in inhospitable environments and still provide numerous benefits. It can increase soil organic matter and provide lots of nitrogen. It suppresses plant parasitic nematodes […]
Sesame cultivation: expansion versus temperature stress
Garnished on top of a freshly baked hamburger bun or deeply nestled within a crunchy granola bar, tiny sesame seed seldom gets enough of our attention. But it’s captured the interest of […]
What is the quinoa seed and germplasm collection like?
You may never have heard of quinoa before 2013. That’s when the United Nations ran a campaign to promote awareness of this cereal crop. Now, many people enjoy a bowl of cooked […]
Why mix varieties of wheat in a field?
You’ve probably heard of the value of diversification in your financial portfolio. Having more than one type of financial investment reduces risk of losing all your money. My research involves lowering risks […]