News Stories - Page 783

Can't use it, can't lose it. That's the dilemma farmers have faced for years with canceled chemicals and empty pesticide containers. But two programs run by the University of Georgia Extension Service and the Georgia Department of Agriculture (DOA) offer a legal, low-cost option that helps farmers protect the environment. "The Pesticide Container Recycling and Georgia Clean Day programs help farmers who really want to do the right thing," said Paul Guillebeau.

Dry weather had already hurt the Georgia pecan crop before the season began. And things could worsen quickly without a break in the summer drought, said a University of Georgia expert. "The dry weather has definitely hurt pecan trees," said Tom Crocker.

A federal program to prevent farm and rural pollution has won a major award for its successes. The program has been used well in high-risk Georgia areas.

Just when Southerners thought they'd seen the last of El Ni¤o's effects, in come the biting blackflies. Blackflies are interesting pests," said Ray Noblet.

When you finish reading this article, your plants would enjoy it, too. No, the words won't mean much to them. But the paper they're printed on will. A University of Georgia scientist says two or three newspaper pages can make a world of difference to your garden and landscape plants -- and to your water bill.

Sometimes the best thing you can do for a drought-stressed garden or landscape is to not do some things, said a University of Georgia scientist. Fertilizing and routine pruning, for instance, encourage new growth that requires more water. "Fertilizing isn't wise during long dry periods if you don't water regularly," said Gary Wade.

Dust grit is between your teeth. Heat radiates from everything. The summer has turned oppressive. You may be slowed and burdened by the heat, but what about your trees?

A recent outbreak of E. coli infections linked to potato salad in the Chicago area has many summer picnickers thinking about food safety. In truth, food safety should always be a concern, says a University of Georgia food scientist.

Humans aren't the only ones the sun's rays can damage. Plants can also suffer 'sunburns' and other damage. Researchers with the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences are working with the Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory at Colorado State University to monitor ultraviolet radiation across the nation.

Spraying soapy water on your landscape plants can keep deer from munching them, say University of Georgia experts. Just don't expect it to be a perfect solution. "When deer destroy my newly planted camellias or munch my day lilies and hostas to the ground, I get angry," said Gary Wade.