Virginia Tech® home
Title Available As Summary Date ID Author
Prevention and Control of Palmer Amaranth in Cotton
Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri), a member of the "pigweed" family, is one of the most troublesome weeds in many southern row crops. Seed can germinate all season and plants can grow to over 6 feet in height. Plants have either male flowers that shed pollen or female flowers that can produce up to 600,000 seed per plant. One Palmer amaranth per 30 foot of row can reduce cotton yield by 6 to 12%.
Sep 22, 2020 2805-1001 (SPES-266NP)
Prevention and Control of Palmer Amaranth in Cotton
Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri), a member of the "pigweed" family, is one of the most troublesome weeds in many southern row crops. Seed can germinate all season and plants can grow to over 6 feet in height. Plants have either male flowers that shed pollen or female flowers that can produce up to 600,000 seed per plant. One Palmer amaranth per 30 foot of row can reduce cotton yield by 6 to 12%.
Sep 22, 2020 2805-1001 (SPES-266NP)
Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) Control in Soybeans Mar 20, 2020 2808-1006 (SPES-194NP)
Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) Control in Soybeans Mar 20, 2020 2808-1006 (SPES-194NP)
American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)
The primary and sole attribute of beautyberry, a large loosely branched shrub, is the showy display of magenta fruits in the fall.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1033NP
American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) Oct 10, 2018 2901-1033NP
American Yellowwood (Cladrastis kentukea (prior name C. lutea))
This vase-shaped medium tree has smooth bark and showy white flowers in the spring. It is also quite drought and alkaline soil tolerant.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1034NP
American Yellowwood (Cladrastis kentukea (prior name C. lutea)) Oct 10, 2018 2901-1034NP
Evergreen Azalea (Rhododendron species)
There are hundreds of evergreen azalea cultivars which vary in hardiness, size, form, flower color, time of flowering, and foliage. The primary attractive feature of azaleas is the very attractive and showy flower display in spring.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1035NP
Evergreen Azalea (Rhododendron species) Oct 10, 2018 2901-1035NP
Beautybush (Kolkwitzia amabilis)
There are hundreds of evergreen azalea cultivars which vary in hardiness, size, form, flower color, time of flowering, and foliage. The primary attractive feature of azaleas is the very attractive and showy flower display in spring.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1036NP
Beautybush (Kolkwitzia amabilis) Oct 12, 2018 2901-1036NP
Cherrylaurel (Prunus laurocerasus `Otto Luyken')
The species (Prunus laurocerasus) is generally not sold in the U.S. Cultivars of cherrylaurel are low-growing with handsome glossy foliage and white flowers in spring. This species tolerates shade and is used as a border, hedge, and in mass.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1038NP
Cherrylaurel (Prunus laurocerasus `Otto Luyken') Oct 12, 2018 2901-1038NP
Cotoneaster
Leaves are small and glossy green. Showy small, white/pink, spring flowers are followed by red or black fruit which cover branches in the fall. The fruit display can be quite showy.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1039NP
Cotoneaster Oct 12, 2018 2901-1039NP
Crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)
Glossy, dark green foliage turns yellow, orange, and red in fall. Flowers may be white, pink, red, or purple. Exfoliating bark is ornamental.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1040NP
Crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) Oct 15, 2018 2901-1040NP
Doublefile Viburnum (Viburnum plicatum var. tomentosum)
Doublefile viburnum is a large wide spreading shrub with a horizontal branching habit and a spectacular flower display in spring.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1041NP
Doublefile Viburnum (Viburnum plicatum var. tomentosum) Oct 15, 2018 2901-1041NP
Drooping Leucothoe (Leucothoe fontanesiana)
Drooping leucothoe is a beautiful and graceful evergreen medium-sized shrub with lustrous, dark green foliage. White bell-shaped flowers bloom in the spring. Its arching branches give it a fountain-like effect. This plant is not suitable for sunny or dry locations.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1042NP
Drooping Leucothoe (Leucothoe fontanesiana) Oct 17, 2018 2901-1042NP
European White Birch (Betula pendula)
European white birch is a small/medium fast-growing tree with showy white bark and pendulous branch tips (especially when bearing seed). Small, glossy-green summer foliage turns yellow in fall exposing ornamental white bark. This species is considered to be short lived due its susceptibility to pests.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1043NP
European White Birch (Betula pendula) Oct 17, 2018 2901-1043NP
Flowering Quince
Flowering quince is a large fast-growing shrub whose main merit is showy flowers (red, orange, white, pink depending on cultivar) in early spring. Uses of this species include hedge, shrub border, or mass plantings. Plants have thorns and therefore need careful placement.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1044NP
Flowering Quince Oct 23, 2018 2901-1044NP
Fraser Photinia, Red Tip
Red tip is a large evergreen shrub. Newly emerging foliage is red and quite showy for a few weeks after which it changes to glossy, dark green. Clusters of white flowers occur in late spring.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1045NP
Fraser Photinia, Red Tip Oct 23, 2018 2901-1045NP
Ginkgo, Maidenhair Tree
Ginkgo is a large shade tree that is tolerant of adverse growing conditions and has a bright yellow fall foliage color. One should only plant male trees since female trees bear fruit that smell like vomit.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1046NP
Ginkgo, Maidenhair Tree Oct 23, 2018 2901-1046NP
Goldenraintree
Goldenraintree is a medium tree with showy yellow flowers in early summer. Flowers are followed by bladder-like fruits that start out light green, turn yellow, and then brown. Fall color can be fair to good depending on the individual tree. This species is quite tolerant of adverse conditions.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1047NP
Goldenraintree Oct 23, 2018 2901-1047NP
Green Ash
This large fast-growing tree is very tolerant of adverse conditions. Its fall foliage color is a yellow.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1048NP
Green Ash Oct 23, 2018 2901-1048NP
Japanese Maple
Japanese maple is a small tree (usually less than 25 feet tall) with a fine texture and year round appeal. The combination of its showy spring, summer and fall foliage, smooth bark, and interesting form make is suitable for specimen tree status.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1049NP
Japanese Maple Oct 23, 2018 2901-1049NP
Japanese Barberry
This medium to large shrub has purple foliage throughout the growing season. Japanese barberry has thorns which may be an advantage (deer proof, pedestrian traffic control) or a liability (injury to pedestrians).
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1050NP
Japanese Barberry Oct 23, 2018 2901-1050NP
Japanese Camillia (Camellia japonica)
Beeches, both the American and European species, are large stately and noble trees. They have a smooth sensuous dark gray bark that is exceptionally attractive. Unfortunately, this feature often beckons graffiti practitioners to denigrate trees by carving their initials on trunks.
Mar 6, 2024 2901-1051NP
Japanese Camillia (Camellia japonica) Oct 5, 2018 2901-1051NP
Japanese Holly (Ilex crenata)
There are numerous cultivars of Japanese holly. Many are compact, mounded forms with small, spineless, dark-green leaves and black fruit. They are primarily used in mass for borders, backgrounds, and foundation plants.
Mar 6, 2024 2901-1052NP
Japanese Holly (Ilex crenata) Oct 5, 2018 2901-1052NP
Japanese Pagodatree, Sophora
Japanese pagodatree is a medium/large shade tree with showy flowers in summer. Green seed pods, somewhat ornamental, hang on tree until late in the fall. Flower petals can be messy if tree is used near a house, road, or pathway.
Mar 6, 2024 2901-1053NP
Japanese Pagodatree, Sophora Oct 5, 2018 2901-1053NP
Leatherleaf Viburnum (Viburnum rhytidophyllum)
This large shrub has dark green leaves that are large, slender, and wrinkled. This species has showy white flowers in late spring. Clusters of red to black berries form (inconsistently) in late summer.
Mar 6, 2024 2901-1054NP
Littleleaf Linden (Tilia cordata)
This medium tree has wonderfully fragrant flowers in June and is tolerant of adverse conditions.
Mar 6, 2024 2901-1055NP
Littleleaf Linden (Tilia cordata) Oct 5, 2018 2901-1055NP
Live Oak (Quercus virginiana)
A massive and majestic shade tree with evergreen foliage that is bright olive-green when new and changes to a glossy, dark green when mature.
Mar 6, 2024 2901-1056NP
Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) Oct 5, 2018 2901-1056NP
London Planetree (Platanus x acerifolia)
London planetree is a medium/large species that is very tolerant of adverse conditions. It has ornamental which bark flakes off, exposing tan, greenish and creamy white colors.
Mar 6, 2024 2901-1057NP
London Planetree (Platanus x acerifolia) Oct 5, 2018 2901-1057NP
Nandina, Heavenly Bamboo (Nandina domestica)
Heavenly bamboo is a medium-large upright shrub. In late spring it bears showy white flowers and in the late fall/winter it has attractive reddish foliage (sun) and large clusters of red berries. This species can tolerate full sun or full shade and is drought tolerant. There are several dwarf cultivars that are suitable for small spaces.
Mar 6, 2024 2901-1058NP
Nandina, Heavenly Bamboo (Nandina domestica) Oct 5, 2018 2901-1058NP
Norway Maple (Acer platanoides)
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Resources and the Virginia Native Plant Society have ranked Norway maple as a “moderately invasive species” in the mountain, piedmont, and coastal areas of Virginia.
Mar 6, 2024 2901-1059
Norway Maple (Acer platanoides) Oct 5, 2018 2901-1059
Old Fashioned Weigela (Weigela florida)
Old fashioned weigela is a large shrub with a coarse texture and showy spring flowers. This plant is best suited for a shrub border. There are several new cultivars which are improved versions (dwarf, foliage and flower characteristics) compared to the species.
Mar 6, 2024 2901-1060
Old Fashioned Weigela (Weigela florida) Oct 5, 2018 2901-1060
Oregon Grape Holly (Mahonia) (Mahonia aquifolium)
Oregon grape holly is a slow-growing, medium to large evergreen shrub with lustrous foliage and bright yellow flowers in spring which are followed by robin egg blue fruit in summer.
Mar 5, 2024 2901-1061
Oregon Grape Holly (Mahonia) (Mahonia aquifolium) Oct 5, 2018 2901-1061
Pin Oak (Quercus palustris)
In about the first thirty years, the branching habit of the native pin oak is truly unique. The upper branches are ascending, the middle ones horizontal, and the lower ones drooping.
Mar 5, 2024 2901-1062
Pin Oak (Quercus palustris) Oct 5, 2018 2901-1062
Privet (Ligustrum species)
Small, green, summer foliage. When unpruned, pyramidal clusters of small white flowers produce black berries.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1063
Privet (Ligustrum species) Oct 17, 2018 2901-1063
Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
Red maple is a fast-growing medium/large shade tree species with a spectacular fall foliage color. It has showy red flowers in the spring. There are many cultivars of this species that vary in form, tolerance of wet conditions, and fall color.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1064
Red Maple (Acer rubrum) Oct 17, 2018 2901-1064
Evergreen Rhododendron (Rhododendron species) Oct 17, 2018 2901-1065
Evergreen Rhododendron (Rhododendron species) Oct 17, 2018 2901-1065
Rose-of-Sharon, Shrub Althea (Hibiscus syriacus)
Rose-of- Sharon is a large shrub with showy, relatively large single or double flowers, that bloom in summer. Flower colors include white, red, purple, violet, and blue.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1066
Rose-of-Sharon, Shrub Althea (Hibiscus syriacus) Oct 17, 2018 2901-1066
Scarlet Firethorn, Pyracantha (Pyracantha coccinea)
Pyracantha is a large, fast-growing shrub has showy white blooms in spring and a spectacular display of orange/red fruit in the fall. This plant requires pruning since unpruned plants are very rangy looking.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1067
Scarlet Firethorn, Pyracantha (Pyracantha coccinea) Oct 17, 2018 2901-1067
Smokebush, Smoketree (Cotinus coggygria)
Smokebush is a small tree or large shrub depending on how one prunes the plant. Leaves of the species are green. Depending on cultivar; leaves can be purple or yellow during the growing season.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1068
Smokebush, Smoketree (Cotinus coggygria) Oct 17, 2018 2901-1068
Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)
This is a magnificent large evergreen tree with very large, wonderfully fragrant white flowers in late spring and early summer. There are many cultivars with variations in tree shape and size, flower, and foliage characteristics.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1069
Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) Oct 19, 2018 2901-1069
Southern Waxmyrtle (Myrica cerifera)
Southern waxmyrtle is a large evergreen shrub or small tree depending on how one prunes it. This species tolerates wet and dry soils and females have a somewhat showy display of gray berries in the fall/winter.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1070
Southern Waxmyrtle (Myrica cerifera) Oct 19, 2018 2901-1070
Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum)
Sugar maple is a medium/large shade tree with a no less than spectacular fall foliage display. There are many cultivars; cultivar characteristics include growth rate, form, and fall foliage color.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1071
Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum) Oct 19, 2018 2901-1071
Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Pyramidal in youth, round to oval at maturity Sweetgum is a medium/large tree with very showy fall foliage colors. It tolerates moist to dry soils. A notable disadvantage is the mess created by the fallen spiny fruit (gum balls).
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1072
Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) Oct 24, 2018 2901-1072
Thornless Common Honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis)
Thornless honeylocust is a large tree that tolerates both wet and dry soils. One should select a cultivar for fruitlessness and pest resistance.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1073
Thornless Common Honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis) Oct 24, 2018 2901-1073
Tuliptree (Liriodendron tulipifera)
Tuliptree is a very tall, large tree with a straight trunk. It bears beautiful tulip-shaped flowers in May but generally go unnoticed since they high in the tree.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1074
Tuliptree (Liriodendron tulipifera) Oct 24, 2018 2901-1074
Vanhoutte Spirea (Spiraea x vanhouttei)
Vase-shaped with arching branches Vanhoutte spirea is a large shrub with graceful arching branches. Its main claim to fame is it abundant and showy display of white flowers in spring. This species is best used in a shrub border or in mass.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1075
Vanhoutte Spirea (Spiraea x vanhouttei) Oct 24, 2018 2901-1075
White Oak (Quercus alba)
White oak is a magnificent large spreading tree. This species is somewhat slow growing but is well worth the wait. Do not plant this tree in an area that is apt to be subjected to soil compaction.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1076
White Oak (Quercus alba) Oct 24, 2018 2901-1076
Winterberry (Ilex verticillata)
Winterberry is a large shrub and somewhat informal in character. There are cultivars that are shorter and have a more formal appearance. This native wetland species has very showy bright red fruit (on female plants) in early autumn that persist till February.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1077
Winterberry (Ilex verticillata) Oct 26, 2018 2901-1077
Wintercreeper Euonymus (Eunymus fortunei)
Wintercreeper euonymus is a low-growing evergreen ground cover that will climb when it encounters a vertical surface. There are several cultivars which vary in foliage color and height.
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1078
Wintercreeper Euonymus (Eunymus fortunei) Oct 26, 2018 2901-1078
Yaupon Holly Cultivars (Ilex vomitoria)
This and several other similar cultivars are used in landscapes as border plants or in mass. This species is very tolerant of most adverse landscape conditions. Some female cultivars have stems laden with very showy persistent red fruit. This species is suited to warmer areas of Virginia (zone 7 and higher).
Mar 7, 2024 2901-1079
Yaupon Holly Cultivars (Ilex vomitoria ) Oct 26, 2018 2901-1079
Sell Cut Flowers from Perennial Summer-flowering Bulbs Jan 25, 2019 2906-1370 (SPES-101NP)
Virginia No-Till Fact Sheet Series Number Five: Understanding Ammonia Volatilization from Fertilizers
Loss of nitrogen (N) as ammonia gas (NH3) is known as volatilization. While volatilization directly from soil can occur, such loss is generally relatively small compared to the amount that can be lost from fertilizers. Volatilization losses can be significant with granular urea and urea-ammonium nitrate (UAN) sources, but the amount of loss varies greatly depending on placement of the fertilizer, soil pH, soil texture, and climatic conditions after application.
Sep 29, 2020 2908-1404 (SPES-264NP)
Virginia No-Till Fact Sheet Series Number Six - Nitrogen Fertilizer Sources and Properties Nov 16, 2018 2908-1405 (SPES-78NP)
Tools to More Efficiently Manage In-Season Corn Nitrogen Needs Nov 16, 2018 2909-1410 (SPES-80NP)
Bacterial Leaf Scorch of Landscape Trees
Bacterial leaf scorch is an important and often lethal disease of many landscape trees, particularly in the southern and eastern U.S. In Virginia landscapes it is most often observed on oak, elm, and sycamore; however, many other landscape tree species are susceptible to this disease. The bacterium that causes bacterial leaf scorch colonizes the tree's water-conducting tissue (xylem), disrupting water movement and reducing water availability to the tree. The symptoms of bacterial leaf scorch are very similar to symptoms of other problems that limit water uptake. This is why marginal leaf scorch symptoms caused by other problems, such as drought stress or root disease, are often mistaken for symptoms of bacterial leaf scorch. Laboratory identification of the causal bacterium (Xylella fastidiosa) from affected petiole and leaf tissue is necessary for positive confirmation of the disease.
Feb 2, 2024 3001-1433 (SPES-568NP)
Pop-up and/or Starter Fertilizers for Corn Nov 16, 2018 3002-1438 (SPES-77NP)
Effects of Twin-Row Spacing on Corn Silage Growth Development and Yield in the Shenandoah Valley Nov 16, 2018 3003-1440 (SPES-79NP)
Austrian Pine, Pinus nigra
Austrian pine is a medium to large pine tree that is quite dense in its youth (about first 20 years). As most other pines, with age this species loses its lower branches and assumes a flat-topped irregular form.
Mar 7, 2024 3010-1462
Bigleaf Hydrangea, Hydrangea macrophylla
Bigleaf hydrangea is a very popular flowering shrub. Flowers are mostly produced in June and July but newer cultivars (that flower on new growth) flower through the summer. Depending on the particular cultivar, bigleaf hydrangeas bear one of two types of flowers.
Mar 7, 2024 3010-1463
Bradford Callery Pear (and other cultivars) Pyrus calleryana ‘Bradford’
Bradford callery pear is a medium size fast-growing tree that has an exceptionally showy flower show (March/April), has handsome glossy leaves that turn a brilliant red-orange in fall, has a symmetrical oval to round shape with a neat branching pattern, is resistant to fire blight, and is remarkably tolerant of drought, heat, pollution, and poor soils.
Mar 7, 2024 3010-1464
Canadian Hemlock, Tsuga canadensis Oct 31, 2018 3010-1465
Carolina Silverbell, Halesia carolina (formerly H. tetraptera)
Carolina sIlverbell is a medium sized tree with a very showy display of bell- shaped white flowers in April. Brown four-winged fruits are persistent into the fall that are considered aesthetically pleasing by some; at the least they are interesting and an aid in plant identification.
Mar 7, 2024 3010-1466
Cedars, Cedrus spp.
True cedars, the genus Cedrus, are large exceptionally beautiful conifers. In youth they are conical trees but mature into grand picturesque specimens. There are three cedar (Cedrus) species in the landscape trade.
Mar 7, 2024 3010-1467
Chastetree, Monk’s Pepper Tree, Vitex agnus-castus
Chastetree is a large fast-growing shrub or small tree that produces showy pale violet flowers in June/July through September. This species is quite drought tolerant.
Mar 7, 2024 3010-1468
Chinese Juniper, Juniperus chinensis
Chinese juniper, the species, is a medium/large tree, however, only cultivars, ranging from small trees/large shrubs to low-growing shrubs are sold at garden centers.
Mar 7, 2024 3010-1469
Colorado Spruce, Picea pungens var. glauca
Colorado spruce is usually a dense conical conifer. Within the species there is a botanical variety called the Glauca Group (var. glauca). The foliage of seedlings from plants in the Glauca Group can vary from green to bright powder blue.
Mar 7, 2024 3010-1470
Common Periwinkle, Lesser Periwinkle, Vinca minor
Common Periwinkle is an attractive low-growing broad leaved evergreen ground cover. The plant produces 1-inch blue-violet flowers in early spring that are noticeable upon close inspection. Plants do best in light shade but will tolerate full sun and full shade; full sun plantings often show leaf discoloration.
Mar 7, 2024 3010-1471
Cornelian Cherry Dogwood, Cornus mas
Cornelian cherry dogwood is a multi-stem large shrub or small tree depending on how one prunes it. In either case, its main showy characteristic is in February/March at which time it produces numerous small yellow flowers which collectively are quite showy.
Mar 7, 2024 3010-1472
Creeping Juniper, Juniperus horizontalis
Creeping juniper, a conifer, is a ground cover species represented by numerous cultivars (more than 60) that vary in height, form, foliage color, and the presence of juniper “berries” (on females).
Mar 7, 2024 3010-1473
Dawn Redwood, Metasequoia glyptostroboides
Dawn redwood is a fast-growing large deciduous conifer with a distinctly conical form. This species is quite majestic; its feather-like foliage confers a fine texture. Fall foliage color is variable but a pleasant brown-orange color is typical.
Mar 7, 2024 3010-1474
Dwarf Alberta Spruce, Picea glauca ‘Conica’
Dwarf Alberta Spruce is quite common in the garden center trade. It is a slow- growing densely compact conical conifer with a formal look due to its dense symmetrical form.
Mar 7, 2024 3010-1475
Eastern Arborvitae, American Arborvitae, White Cedar, Thuja occidentalis
Eastern arborvitae is a conical conifer that has a stately appearance and useful as a specimen plant (used alone as a focal point), as a border planting, or anywhere a conical evergreen is appropriate.
Mar 7, 2024 3010-1476
Eastern Redcedar, Juniperus virginiana
Eastern redcedar is widely distributed throughout the eastern US. It is a pioneer species in that is quickly populates farm fields and other open areas (seeds spread in bird droppings). Its common place presence throughout makes it suffer the stigma of being too familiar.
Mar 7, 2024 3010-1477
English Ivy, Hedera helix
English ivy is an attractive evergreen ground cover and vine that grows in full sun or full shade. While very attractive due to its lustrous green foliage and numerous foliage variations found in the cultivars, and being very tolerant of adverse conditions, this species has been documented as an invasive species.
Mar 7, 2024 3010-1478NP
European Cranberrybush Viburnum (Guelder Rose), Viburnum opulus Nov 6, 2023 3010-1479NP
European Hornbeam, Carpinus betulus Nov 6, 2023 3010-1480NP
European Larch, Larix decidua Nov 6, 2023 3010-1481NP
Evergreen Hollies, (Ilex spp.) Nov 6, 2023 3010-1482NP
Flowering Crabapple Nov 6, 2023 3010-1483NP
Flowering Dogwood, Cornus florida Nov 6, 2023 3010-1484NP
Franklinia Nov 6, 2023 3010-1485NP
Garden Sumacs, Rhus spp. Nov 6, 2023 3010-1486NP
Giant Arborviatae, Western Arborvitae Nov 6, 2023 3010-1487NP
Glossy Abelia May 1, 2023 3010-1488NP
Heaths (several species of Erica) and Heathers (Calluna vulgaris) Nov 6, 2023 3010-1489NP
Japanese Garden Juniper Nov 6, 2023 3010-1490NP
Japanese Pachysandra, Japanese Spurge Nov 6, 2023 3010-1491NP
Japanese Pieris Nov 6, 2023 3010-1492NP
Lilacs Nov 6, 2023 3010-1493NP
Mountain-Laurel Nov 6, 2023 3010-1494NP
Mugo Pine, Pinus mugo
Main Features: Generally only dwarf forms of mugo pine are sold at garden centers; the species (non-dwarf) is a multi-stem medium to large tree. Dwarf forms vary in their growth rate from 1 to 8 inches per year, and in their form (mounded to upright oval). Hence, cultivar selection is important to match the cultivar to the available garden/landscape space.
Feb 1, 2024 3010-1495NP
Oriental Arborvitae, Thuja orientalis (also known as Platycladus orientalis)
Foliage: Flat scale-like foliage without a sweet fragrance when crushed; branches are held in a flat vertical plane; evergreen Height: About 20 feet Spread: About 15 feet
Feb 1, 2024 3010-1496NP
Red Twig Dogwoods, Tatarian Dogwood (Cornus alba) and Redosier Dogwood (Cornus sericea)
There are two species of dogwoods that have showy red stems in the winter, Tatarian dogwood (Cornus alba) and redosier dogwood (C. sericea). Both are deciduous medium to large shrubs and have similar flowering and fruit characteristics, as well as cultural aspects. Thus, the general information (Summary, Plant Needs, Functions, and Care) will be presented for both species). Each species has several cultivars that vary in stem color and foliage variegation; cultivar information will be presented for each species in the Additional Information section.
Feb 1, 2024 3010-1497NP
Shore Juniper Nov 6, 2023 3010-1498NP
White Fringetree, Old-man’s-beard Nov 6, 2023 3010-1499NP
Yews, Taxus spp. Nov 6, 2023 3010-1500NP
Yuccas, Yucca spp. Nov 6, 2023 3010-1501NP
Virginia No-Till Fact Sheet Series Number Two: Nitrogen Fertilizer Injection in No-Till Systems
Liquid nitrogen fertilizers have typically been surface applied. This method of application places the fertilizer where the urea nitrogen component of the solution is susceptible to volatilization losses.
Sep 22, 2020 3011-1516 (SPES-265NP)
Agromyzid Leafminers Mar 1, 2021 3104-1554 (ENTO-437NP)
Choosing Community-Based Services for Older Adults and Their Families May 1, 2019 350-252(FCS-130P)
Virtual Farm to Table: Potatoes Aug 3, 2020 4H-919NP
Virginia Virtual Farm to Table: Herbs Aug 19, 2020 4H-920
Virginia Farm to Table: Wine and Lamb Sep 4, 2020 4H-926NP
Virginia Virtual Farm to Table: Greenhouse and Nursery Ornamentals Oct 27, 2020 4H-934NP
Virginia Virtual Farm to Table: Pumpkins Oct 26, 2020 4H-937NP
Warm-Season Annual Grasses for Summer Forage Apr 1, 2019 418-004 (SPES-88P)
Nitrogen Soil Testing For Corn in Virginia Apr 6, 2023 418-016 (SPES-484P)
Fertilizing Cool-Season Forages with Poultry Litter versus Commercial Fertilizer Aug 30, 2019 418-142
Growing Pears in Virginia
Pears are the second most important deciduous tree fruit after apple, and it has been grown in Europe since prehistoric times. Pears belong to the genus Pyrus and probably originated near the Black and Caspian Seas. French and English colonists brought pears to America and the first record of pears in the North America was in Massachusetts in 1630. Although pear is a popular fruit, it is not grown as widely as apple. Pears can be grown throughout much of North America because they tolerate a wide range of climatic conditions.
Sep 14, 2020 422-017 (SPES-257P)
Growing Cherries in Virginia
Cherries are grown in many parts of the world, but they have never gained the popularity in North America that they have in Europe and the Middle East. Cherries probably originated in the region between the Caspian and Black Seas, where trees still grow in the wild.
Sep 21, 2020 422-018 (SPES-258P)
Growing Peaches and Nectarines in Virginia
An orchard is a long-term investment and careful planning is essential to ensure economic success. Establishing and maintaining a peach planting to bearing age (three years) costs about $3,500 per acre. Mistakes made at planting often cannot be corrected; other mistakes that can be corrected could seriously jeopardize the economic success of the orchard. Because profit margins for commercial fruit plantings are small, orchards should be established only under the most favorable conditions for success.
Aug 17, 2020 422-019 (SPES-232P)
Pruning Peach Trees
Annual pruning is a critical management practice for producing easily harvested, heavy crops of high quality peaches. However, pruning is not a substitute for other orchard practices such as fertilization, irrigation, and pest control. Pruning practices vary slightly in different regions of the United States, but have changed little in the East during the past 70 years. Although pruning may vary slightly for different varieties and localities, certain general practices should be followed. The successful pruner must understand the principles of plant growth, the natural growth habit of the tree, and how the tree will respond to certain types of pruning cuts. Improper pruning will reduce yield and fruit quality.
Jul 15, 2020 422-020 (SPES-221P)
Training and Pruning Apple Trees
Proper training and pruning of trees is a major component of a profitable apple orchard operation. Successful pruning is an art based upon scientific principles of tree growth and physiology and an experienced understanding of tree response to various pruning cuts and practices. Each tree is an individual and should be treated accordingly. Varieties differ in growth characteristics and response to pruning cuts, rootstocks, soil, and growing conditions. It is important that orchard designs, objectives, and goals be clearly defined and that pruning principles are developed accordingly. Mediumto high-density plantings require greater commitment to detailed training and pruning than low-density orchards and should not be attempted unless such a commitment is made.
Jul 15, 2020 422-021(SPES-222P)
Growing Apples in Virginia
Growing apples in the home garden can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, but consistent production of high quality fruit requires knowledge of tree and fruit growth and a willingness to perform certain practices at the appropriate time. Virginia is on the southern fringe of the U. S. apple producing region. Most apple varieties produce the highest quality fruit when night-time temperatures are cool (less than 60°F) at harvest time. Apples grown under warmer conditions tend to be large, soft, poorly colored, and less flavorful than when grown under cooler conditions. Our warm humid summers are also conducive for infection of many diseases. For these reasons, the best Virginia apples are grown at elevations higher than 800 feet above sea level in the western part of the state. However, even apples grown in eastern Virginia usually have quality superior to apples purchased in the supermarkets.
Aug 17, 2020 422-023 (SPES-233P)
Training and Pruning Apple Trees in Intensive Orchards
Since the mid 1970s in the U. S., the number of apple trees per acre in new orchards has gradually been increasing. Orchard intensification is motivated by the desire to produce fruit early in the life of the orchard to rapidly recover establishment costs. Intensification is possible by using dwarfing rootstocks that control tree size, induce early cropping, and produce large quantities of fruit relative to the amount of wood produced.
Aug 17, 2020 422-024 (SPES-234P)
Physiology of Pruning Fruit Trees
Woody plants are pruned to maintain a desired size and shape and to promote a certain type of growth. Ornamental plants are pruned to improve the aesthetic quality of the plant, but fruit trees are pruned to improve fruit quality by encouraging an appropriate balance between vegetative (wood) and reproductive (fruiting) growth.
Aug 17, 2020 422-025 (SPES-235P)
Peach and Nectarine Varieties for Virginia
Peach and nectarine are both members of the genus and species Prunus persica, and probably differ by only a single gene for skin pubescence (hairs on the fruit surface). One probably originated as a mutation of the other, but we do not know which came first. The species originated in China and was taken by traders from there into Persia, Greece, Italy, and other temperate areas of Europe. Peach and nectarine varieties may have yellow or white flesh. In Virginia different varieties ripen over a wide range of dates, from early June until mid-September. Varieties also differ in fruit size, susceptibility to some diseases and susceptibility to low winter temperatures, chilling requirements, and fruit disorders such as fruit cracking and split-pit. Descriptions of some of these characteristics are included in the next section of this publication.
Aug 17, 2020 422-762 (SPES-236P)
Growing Small Grains for Forage in Virginia Dec 19, 2018 424-006 (SPES-81P)
Growing Hulless Barley in the Mid-Atlantic Mar 20, 2019 424-022
Growing Bread Wheat in the Mid-Atlantic Region Mar 20, 2019 424-024
Nitrogen Management for Winter Wheat: Principles and Recommendations Mar 20, 2019 424-026(SPES-82P)
Nitrogen and Phosphorous Fertilization of Corn Mar 20, 2019 424-027
Phosphorus, Agriculture & The Environment Jan 24, 2019 424-029
Successful No-Tillage Corn Production Mar 20, 2019 424-030
Successful No-Tillage Corn Production Mar 20, 2019 424-030
Corn Planting Dates in the Piedmont and Valley Regions of Virginia: How Early is Early?
Early-planted corn generally produces higher yields than later-planted corn due to improved utilization of sunlight during the long days of June and July, assuming moisture is adequate. Also, silage harvest can begin earlier and drying costs are reduced for grain corn; and earlier harvest enables growers to begin preparation for the fall seeding of small grain crops.
Mar 29, 2019 424-032
Corn Planting Dates in the Virginia Coastal Plain: How early is early? Feb 13, 2019 424-033
Fertilizer Types and Calculating Application Rates Aug 30, 2019 424-035
Tips for Profitable Variety Selection: How to Use Data From Different Types of Variety Trials Mar 29, 2019 424-040
Deep Tillage Prior to No-Till Corn: Research and Recommendations Mar 29, 2019 424-053
Understanding Pre-harvest Sprouting of Wheat Mar 29, 2019 424-060
Agronomy Handbook 2023 Dec 11, 2023 424-100 (SPES-299P)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part I. Crop Descriptions Dec 15, 2023 424-100-A (SPES-299P-A)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part II. Forage Crops Dec 15, 2023 424-100-B (SPES-299P-B)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part III. Turfgrass Dec 15, 2023 424-100-C (SPES-299P-C)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part IV. Seed Facts Dec 15, 2023 424-100-D (SPES-299P-D)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part V. Seeds and Stored Grains Dec 15, 2023 424-100-E (SPES-299P-E)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part VI. Soils of Virginia Dec 15, 2023 424-100-F (SPES-299P-F)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part VII. Soil Health Management Dec 18, 2023 424-100-G (SPES-299P-G)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part VIII. Soil Testing and Plant Analysis Dec 18, 2023 424-100-H (SPES-299P-H)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part X. Lime: Common Soil Additives To Raise Soil pH in Virginia Dec 18, 2023 424-100-J (SPES-299P-J)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part XI. Fertilizing With Manures Dec 18, 2023 424-100-K (SPES-299P-K)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part XII. Land Application of Biosolids Dec 18, 2023 424-100-L (SPES-299P-L)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part XIII. Weeds and Weed Management Dec 18, 2023 424-100-M (SPES-299P-M)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part XIV. Nutritional Composition of Feeds Dec 18, 2023 424-100-N (SPES-299P-N)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part XV. Diagnostic Laboratory Services Dec 18, 2023 424-100-O (SPES-299P-O)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part XVI. Commonly Used Weights and Measures Dec 18, 2023 424-100-P (SPES-299P-P)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part XVII. Calibration of Sprayers Dec 18, 2023 424-100-Q (SPES-299P-Q)
Agronomy Handbook 2023: Part IX. Conversion Factors Needed for Common Fertilizer Calculations Dec 18, 2023 424-100-I (SPES-299P-I)
Nitrogen Fertilization of Winter Barley: Principles and Recommendations Jan 24, 2019 424-801
Plant Propagation from Seed Oct 11, 2019 426-001
Propagation by Cuttings, Layering and Division Oct 11, 2019 426-002
Container and Raised-Bed Gardening Nov 5, 2018 426-020
Jardinería en macetas y camas elevadas (Container and Raised Bed Gardening)
La jardinería en macetas le permite tener y disfrutar de muchas plantas ornamentales y cuando no puede cultivarlas directamente en la tierra. Puede utilizar plantas cultivadas en macetas en entradas, patios, terrazas, azoteas, jardines, interiores o en cualquier lugar donde necesite añadir un componente vivo para mejorar el atractivo de una zona. Cada maceta plantada tendrá su propia personalidad; puede crear un paisaje en cada maceta. Pueden ser impresionantes o sutiles, grandes o pequeñas. Las plantas y las macetas ofrecen combinaciones ilimitadas de tamaño, color, forma y textura que pueden dar a su entorno interior y exterior un aspecto más agradable desde el punto de vista estético.
Nov 6, 2023 426-020s (SPES-428P)
What Is a Watershed?
This publication defines watersheds, why they are important to everyone, and how people positively and negatively impact them.
Sep 11, 2023 426-041 (SPES-2P)
Winterizing the Water Garden
Water gardens require maintenance throughout the year. Preparation for the winter months is especially important for the survival of both the aquatic plants and the wildlife in and around the pond. Some plants will not tolerate winter weather and must be removed from the pond while cold-hardy plants need only to be completely immersed in the pond. Debris such as leaves and dying plants must be removed, especially if there are fish in the pond. Fall is the time to take action. Prepare the pond for the winter months by managing the plants, cleaning the pond, and monitoring the water conditions. If treated properly, many aquatic plants and wildlife can survive in the water garden for years.
Mar 1, 2020 426-042 (SPES-261P)
Rain Garden Plants
A rain garden is a landscaped area specially designed to collect rainfall and storm-water runoff. The plants and soil in the rain garden clean pollutants from the water as it seeps into the ground and evaporates back into the atmosphere. For a rain garden to work, plants must be selected, installed, and maintained properly.
Jan 2, 2024 426-043 (SPES-57P)
Urban Water-Quality Management: Wildlife in the Home Pond Garden
Small home pond gardens support aquatic plants and also attract a variety of wildlife. Turtles, frogs, birds, snakes, lizards, and raccoons as well as many other animals may use these ponds. Most wildlife needs water to survive and will seek out ponds for drinking, bathing, habitat, and in some cases, reproduction.
Sep 2, 2020 426-045 (HORT-126P)
The Effect of Landscape Plants on Perceived Home Value
The value of an attractive landscape to a home’s perceived value has often been stated at 15 percent. Is this figure reliable, and what landscape features do contribute to the value of a home? How does a landscape contractor convince his/her client to spend a significant portion of a home’s construction budget on landscaping, and is this a wise investment? How can a homeowner feel justified by spending thousands of dollars to landscape a newly constructed house? Or, will thousands of dollars worth of landscaping, significantly increase the “curb appeal” of a home for sale? To answer these questions, researchers conducted a seven-state survey of attendees at consumer home and garden shows to determine consumer perspective on how plant size, type, and design sophistication in a landscape affect the perceived value of a home (Behe et al., 2005).
Nov 6, 2023 426-087
Indoor Plant Culture
Select only those plants that appear to be free of pests. Check the undersides of the foliage and the junction of leaf and stem for signs of insects or disease. Select plants that look sturdy, clean, and well-potted. Choose plants with healthy foliage. Avoid plants with yellow or chlorotic leaves, brown leaf margins, wilted foliage, spots or blotches, or spindly growth. In addition, avoid those with torn leaves. Plants that have new flower and leaf buds along with young growth are usually of superior quality.
Nov 6, 2023 426-100
Care of Specialty Potted Plants Dec 12, 2022 426-101 (SPES-449P)
Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 1: Rooftop Disconnection Dec 4, 2019 426-120 (BSE-269P)
Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 2: Sheet Flow to Open Space
Sheet flow to open space (SOS) is a group of best management practices (BMPs) designed to disperse concentrated runoff to sheet flow into filter strips or a riparian buffer. An SOS reduces runoff volume and associated sediment and nutrients that are carried with it (see figure 1). It is used as a stormwater treatment practice in both urban and rural areas. This practice is often used after another treatment practice to disperse or eliminate runoff. In a few cases, an SOS can be used as a pretreatment to remove small amounts of sediment via a vegetated filter strip — prior to a bioretention device, for example.
Dec 4, 2019 426-121 (BSE-270P)
Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 3: Grass Channels Dec 11, 2019 426-122 (BSE-271P)
Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 8: Infiltration Practices
Infiltration practices provide temporary surface and/or subsurface storage, allowing infiltration of runoff into soils. In practice, an excavated trench is usually filled with gravel or stone media, where runoff is stored in pore spaces or voids between the stones (see figure 1). These systems can reduce significant quantities of stormwater by enhancing infiltration, as well as provide filtering and adsorption of pollutants within the stone media and soils. Infiltration practices are part of a group of stormwater treatment practices, also known as best management practices (BMPs)
Dec 4, 2019 426-127 (BSE-276P)
Seed For The Garden Apr 8, 2022 426-316 (SPES-392P)
Fertilizing the Vegetable Garden
The amount of fertilizer to apply to a garden depends on the natural fertility of the soil, the amount of organic matter present, the type of fertilizer used, and the crop being grown. The best way to determine fertilizer needs is to have the soil tested. Soil testing is available through your local Extension agent, through private labs, and with soil test kits which can be purchased from garden shops and catalogs.
Jan 14, 2021 426-323 (SPES-295P)
Virginia’s Home Garden Vegetable Planting Guide: Recommended Planting Dates and Amounts to Plant Jan 21, 2020 426-331 (SPES-170P)
Guía para cultivar una huerta de hortalizas en Virginia: Fechas de cultivo y cantidades recomendadas para plantar (Virginia’s Home Garden Vegetable Planting Guide: Recommended Planting Dates and Amounts to Plant) Jan 21, 2020 426-331 (SPES-170P)
Intensive Gardening Methods Nov 6, 2023 426-335
Métodos de huerta intensiva (Intensive Gardening Methods)
El objetivo de la jardinería intensiva es cosechar la mayor cantidad posible de productos en un espacio limitado. Las huertas más tradicionales constan de largas hileras de hortalizas muy separadas entre sí. Gran parte de la superficie de la huerta está ocupada por el espacio entre las hileras. Una huerta intensiva minimiza el espacio desperdiciado. La práctica de la huerta intensiva no es solo para los que tienen un espacio limitado en el jardín; más bien, una huerta intensiva concentra sus esfuerzos de trabajo para crear un entorno ideal para las plantas, lo que brinda mejores rendimientos.
Nov 6, 2023 426-335s (SPES-427P)
Sprouting Seeds for Food
Seeds themselves are a very nutritious form of food because they contain proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and oils that a beginning plant needs to grow. Many of these nutritious components are increased greatly when the seeds are sprouted.
Apr 6, 2022 426-419 (SPES-394P)
Herb Culture and Use Oct 11, 2019 426-420
Selecting Landscape Plants: Rare and Unusual Trees
There are many tree species that can be successfully grown in Virginia, but are rarely seen in our landscapes. Although not ordinarily recommended or readily available, these trees may be useful to carry out a specific landscape theme, to substitute for an exotic type which is not locally adapted, or may be prized for unusual form, flowers, fruits, bark, or foliage.
May 19, 2021 426-604 (SPES-320P)
Selecting Landscape Plants: Groundcovers
Landscapes are composed of plants that form ceilings, walls, and floors spaces. Groundcovers serve as attractive carpets of foliage that cloak and beautify our landscape “floors” (fig. 1). A groundcover is a low-growing plant species — 3 feet tall or shorter — that spreads to form a relatively dense layer of vegetation. In covering bare soil, groundcovers reduce soil erosion and provide habitat for insects and other animals, along with a host of other positive environmental effects.
Nov 6, 2023 426-609 (HORT-31P)
Selecting Landscape Plants: Flowering Trees May 19, 2021 426-611 (SPES-321P)
Getting Started in the Production of Field-Grown, Specialty Cut Flowers
Specialty cut flowers are one of the most profitable field crops you can grow. Lynn Byczynski, editor of Growing For Market newsletter (see Resources section), estimates a value of $25,000 to $35,000 per acre for field-grown cuts. The most basic requirements are at least half an acre of open, arable land, a rototiller, and, of course, time and effort. This publication is directed to those new to market gardening, but commercial vegetable growers, tobacco farmers, and young people interested in summer income are all potential candidates. Even grain and livestock farmers have increased profitability in their operations by adding cut flower production. For many greenhouse and nursery operations, mid-summer business is slower, relative to spring. A field-grown cut flower business is a viable option to fill in the summer production and cash flow gap.
Nov 13, 2019 426-618 (SPES-171P)
Shrubs: Functions, Planting, and Maintenance
What is a shrub? A shrub is generally considered a multi-stem woody plant that is less than 15 feet tall. Of course, this and other plant size categories are definitions contrived by humans to categorize nature. What is the difference between a large shrub and a small tree? In many cases, there is none. A shrub does not become a tree just because it grows higher than 15 feet. Classifying plants into ground cover, shrub, and tree designations are aids to allow us to conveniently classify and describe plants, albeit with a significant amount of ambiguity.
Nov 6, 2023 426-701
Making Compost from Yard Waste Sep 2, 2022 426-703 (SPES-393P)
Using Compost in Your Landscape Mar 13, 2021 426-704 (SPES-304P)
Creating a Water-Wise Landscape Feb 2, 2021 426-713 (HORT-200P)
Diagnosing Plant Problems
Something is wrong with your plant. What’s the cause? You can begin to determine the cause of the problem by taking on the role of Sherlock Holmes – be a keen observer and ask many questions. Diagnosing plant problems is often a difficult task. There can be many different causes for a given symptom, not all of them related to insects or diseases. The health of a plant may be affected by soil nutrition and texture, weather conditions, quantity of light, other environmental and cultural conditions, and animals, including humans. Complicating this scenario is the fact that any two of the above factors can interact to give rise to a problem. For example, a prolonged period of drought may weaken plants so that they are more susceptible to pests; this is typically observed with boxwoods.
Nov 6, 2023 426-714
The Value of Landscaping
Landscaping is an integral part of our culture and plays an essential role in the quality of our environment, affecting our economic well-being and our physical and psychological health. If we are to keep our communities strong and prosperous, we must take responsibility for our environment.
Sep 23, 2022 426-721 (SPES-404)
Home Landscape Practices to Protect Water Quality
In Virginia, we rely on reservoir systems, wells, and other sources for our freshwater. In recent years, our previously plentiful clean water supplies have been threatened not only by overuse, but also by contamination. Pollutants are carried down with water soaking through the soil to the water table. Runoff (water that does not soak into the ground) flows over the surface, often taking soil and polluting chemicals with it into lakes and streams.
Dec 12, 2022 426-723 (SPES-439NP)
Small Fruit in the Home Garden
As a general rule, plant selection and production area in a home garden should be limited to what you can properly care for. It is better to have a small, welltended planting area rather than a large, neglected one. Small fruits offer certain advantages over fruit trees for home culture because small fruits require less space for the amount of fruit produced, and they bear fruit one or two years after planting. Success with small-fruit planting will depend on the attention given to all phases of production, including crop and variety selection, site selection, soil management, fertilization, pruning, and pest management.
May 5, 2022 426-840 (SPES-399P)
Summer Lawn Management: Watering the Lawn Apr 1, 2019 430-010 (SPES-126P)
Lawn Fertilization in Virginia Jun 21, 2021 430-011 (SPES-334NP)
Fertilizing Landscape Trees and Shrubs
Maintenance programs should be developed for trees and shrubs in both residential and commercial landscapes. A good maintenance program includes monitoring and controlling insect and disease problems, suppressing weed competition, and making timely applications of water, mulch, and fertilizer. Tree and shrub fertilization is especially important in urban and suburban areas of Virginia where soils have been altered due to construction. These urban soils tend to be heavily compacted, poorly aerated, poorly drained, and low in organic matter. Even where soils have not been affected, fertilization may be needed as part of a maintenance program to increase plant vigor or to improve root or top growth.
Jul 12, 2021 430-018 (HORT-120P)
Fertilización de árboles y arbustos (Fertilizing Landscape Trees and Shrubs)
Los árboles y arbustos necesitan nutrientes para crecer y estar sanos. Los tres nutrientes más importantes son nitrógeno, fósforo y potasio. Un análisis de suelos es siempre la mejor manera de saber qué nutrientes se necesitan y la cantidad necesaria de cada uno.
Jul 12, 2021 430-018S (SPES-338P)
Trees for Problem Landscape Sites -- Air Pollution Aug 10, 2020 430-022 (HORT-123P)
Trees and Shrubs that Tolerate Saline Soils and Salt Spray Drift
Concentrated sodium (Na), a component of salt, can damage plant tissue whether it contacts above or below ground parts. High salinity can reduce plant growth and may even cause plant death. Care should be taken to avoid excessive salt accumulation from any source on tree and shrub roots, leaves or stems. Sites with saline (salty) soils, and those that are exposed to coastal salt spray or paving de-icing materials, present challenges to landscapers and homeowners.
Aug 19, 2021 430-031 (SPES-342P)
Mowing To Recycle Grass Clippings: Let the Clips Fall Where They May! Jul 8, 2021 430-402 (SPES-337P)
Pruning Crapemyrtles Apr 19, 2022 430-451 (SPES-387P)
A Guide to Successful Pruning: Pruning Deciduous Trees May 18, 2022 430-456 (SPES-403P)
A Guide to Successful Pruning, Pruning Evergreen Trees May 17, 2022 430-457 (SPES-402P)
A Guide to Successful Pruning: Deciduous Tree Pruning Calendar Jun 16, 2021 430-460 (SPES-328P)
Fall Lawn Care
The fall season is an important transition period of turfgrass growth and development, and the management of your warm- and cool-season grasses at this time of year means a great deal in terms of anticipated success in your lawn the following spring.
Jul 20, 2020 430-520 (SPES-223P)
"Leave" Them Alone: Lawn Leaf Management Jul 10, 2020 430-521 (SPES-212P)
Impact of Changing From Nitrogen- to Phosphorus-Based Manure Nutrient Management Plans Aug 30, 2019 442-310
Farm Security - “Treat it Seriously” – Security for Plant Agriculture: Producer Response for Plant Diseases, Chemical Contamination, and Unauthorized Activity Oct 11, 2019 445-004
On-Site Sewage Treatment Alternatives Oct 19, 2023 448-407 (SPES-520P)
Supermarkets as Alternative Market Outlets for Virginia-Grown Berries Feb 28, 2019 448-508 (SPES-121NP)
Plant Disease Diagnostic Form
Plant Disease Diagnostic Form
Jun 16, 2023 450-097 (SPES-487NP)
Instructions for Completing the Plant Disease Diagnostic Form (#450-097)
The Plant Disease Diagnostic Form was designed to accommodate a wide variety of plants and growing situations; therefore, certain entries on this form may not be appropriate for a particular specimen or situation. Much of the information requested helps reconstruct the "field situation" for the diagnostician. Consider each section of the form carefully; the information provides important clues to the diagnostician that are significant in guiding the diagnostic process and formulating the control recommendation. Your local Extension office staff can assist you in completing the form and include the relevant information requested on the form, so when possible, complete the form with the assistance of your local VCE agent or VCE staff member.
Sep 2, 2023 450-097-A (SPES-512NP)
Anthracnose - A Fungal Disease of Shade Trees
Anthracnose is a generic term for a disease that occurs on many ornamental and forest trees. A number of different fungi cause anthracnose on various hosts. It occurs most commonly and severely on sycamore, white oak, elm, dogwood, and maple. Other host plants that usually show only minor symptoms of anthracnose include linden (basswood), tulip tree, hickory, birch, and walnut. Anthracnose fungi may be host-specific, as in the case of sycamore anthracnose, which infects only sycamore and not other tree species. Anthracnose fungi have similar life cycles, but require slightly different moisture and temperature conditions for infection.
Feb 26, 2024 450-604 (SPES-555P)
Black Root Rot of Holly
Black root rot is a fungal root disease that is a serious and extremely common problem on Japanese holly (Ilex crenata), a commonly used evergreen landscape shrub. Inkberry holly (Ilex glabra), blue or Meserve holly (Ilex crenata) are also very susceptible to black root. The disease is not as commonly diagnosed on blue holly and inkberry holly as on Japanese holly in the Virginia Tech Plant Disease Clinic. The black root rot pathogen is soil-borne and can be introduced into a landscape on infected nursery plants. Chinese holly (Ilex cornuta) and English holly (Ilex aquifolium), are resistant to the black root rot pathogen.
Feb 7, 2024 450-606 (SPES-569P)
Verticillium Wilt of Shade Trees
Verticillium wilt is a serious vascular wilt disease affecting many shade tree species and over 80 tree genera, as well as many woody ornamental landscape plants, and herbaceous and vegetable plants. Verticillium wilt most commonly occurs in nursery, orchard and landscape locations. Maple (Acer spp.) are a tree genus commonly associated with the disease, but Verticillium wilt occurs on many other trees and woody ornamentals used in landscapes. Verticillium wilt more commonly occurs in locations with colder climates than Virginia; however, Verticillium wilt does cause disease on trees and woody ornamentals in Virginia.
Feb 29, 2024 450-619 (SPES-571NP)
Rose Rosette Disease
Rose rosette disease (RRD) is a serious disease problem of cultivated roses, and over the past two decades RRD has become the most important rose disease in North America. RRD is caused by Rose rosette virus (RRV). RRD leads to stunting, decline and death of roses, yet there are no easy, economical or particularly effective management tactics for RRD. Currently, the major rose cultivars available to growers are susceptible to RRD.
Dec 20, 2023 450-620 (SPES-556P)
Brown Rot on Peach and Other Stone Fruits
Brown rot is one of the most destructive diseases of peach and nectarine in Virginia, and also occurs on other stone fruits such as apricot, cherry, and plum. When environmental conditions favor this disease, crop loss can be devastating.
Feb 16, 2024 450-721 (SPES-554P)
Reducing Pesticide Use in the Home Lawn and Garden
Pesticide use affects the quality of human health, the environment, and nontarget organisms in the ecosystem. Therefore, any pesticide application warrants a careful assessment of the expected benefits and risks. Too often, however, homeowners use pesticides inappropriately or without careful consideration of alternatives. This fact sheet outlines general pest control tactics that can easily be implemented for home lawns and gardens, along with other information that home owners can use to make sound pest management decisions. The intent is to ensure that homeowners are aware of alternative control tactics and pesticide characteristics, and that pesticides are used properly and only when necessary
Mar 18, 2024 450-725 (SPES-589P)
Botryosphaeria Canker and Dieback of Trees and Shrubs in the Landscape
Most trees and shrubs are susceptible to dieback and cankers caused by several species of the fungal genus Botryosphaeria. Botryosphaeria fungi are typically opportunistic pathogens. Opportunistic pathogens only cause disease on plants that are stressed. Therefore, avoiding plant stress, which predisposes plant tissue to infection and colonization by this fungal group, is the best strategy to prevent Botryosphaeria disease problems.
Nov 17, 2023 450-726 (SPES-527P)
Soil Sample Information Sheet for Commercial Crop Production Sep 24, 2021 452-124 (SPES-356NP)
Soil Sample Information Sheet for Home Lawns, Gardens, Fruits, and Ornamentals May 25, 2021 452-125 (SPES-322NP)
Forma para el Muestreo de Suelos de Céspedes, Jardines, Frutas y Ornamentales en el Hogar (Soil Sample Information Sheet for Home Lawns, Gardens, Fruits, and Ornamentals) May 18, 2023 452-125S (SPES-501NP)
Soil Sample Information Sheet for Commercial Greenhouse and Nursery Production Aug 19, 2021 452-126 (SPES-349NP)
Soil Sample Information Sheet for Surface-Mined Areas Aug 12, 2021 452-127 (SPES-347NP)
Soil Sample Information Sheet for Golf Courses and Industrial Lawns Aug 19, 2021 452-128 (SPES-346NP)
Soil Sampling for the Home Gardener
This publication explains how to obtain representative soil samples and to submit them for analysis to the Virginia Tech Soil Testing Laboratory.
Feb 6, 2020 452-129 (SPES-176P)
Mid-Atlantic Composting Directory
This directory is intended to provide contact information for service and equipment suppliers, along with sources for information and education. Every attempt has been made to present accurate information. Contents are for informational purposes only and are based on details provided by the organizations and entities listed. Inclusion in this directory does not constitute an endorsement by the publishers of the products or services of any business organization or individual listed herein.
Aug 17, 2021 452-230 (SPES-345NP)
Soil Test Note 14: Athletic Fields, Golf Course Fairways, Sod Production, and Large Industrial/Recreational Lawns Mar 3, 2022 452-244 (SPES-362NP)
Explanation of Soil Tests
The accompanying Soil Test Report will help you assess your plant's need for fertilizer and lime.
Dec 7, 2018 452-701 (SPES-75NP)
Soil Test Note No.3 - Liming and Fertilization of Cool-Season Forage Crops Aug 30, 2019 452-703
Soil Test Note #4 - Trace Elements Dec 7, 2018 452-704 (SPES-76NP)
Soil Test Note 5: Fertilizing With Manures Aug 30, 2019 452-705
Soil Test Note 17: Lawn Fertilization for Cool Season Grasses Mar 16, 2021 452-717 (SPES-306P)
Soil Test Note 18: Lawn Fertilization for Warm Season Grasses Mar 25, 2021 452-718 (SPES-305P)
Soil Test Note 19: Vegetable and Flower Gardens (Supplement to Soil Test Report) Oct 11, 2019 452-719
Soil Test Note: 20 Home Shrubs and Trees Jun 29, 2021 452-720 (SPES-336P)
Soil Test Note 21: Home Fruit Trees Apr 14, 2023 452-721 (SPES-489NP)
Soil Test Note 23: Christmas Tree Crops Jun 16, 2021 452-723 (SPES-331P)
Laboratory Procedures: Virginia Tech Soil Testing Laboratory
The procedures for soil analysis used in the Soil Testing Laboratory were established in the early 1950s. A routine test, consisting of eleven separate analyses, is performed on all samples.
Mar 5, 2024 452-881 (SPES-91P)
2024 Pest Management Guide - Home Grounds and Animals Jan 19, 2024 456-018 (ENTO-567P)
2024/2025 Mid-Atlantic Commercial Vegetable Production Recommendations
This guide lists vegetable varieties that are available and are adapted to the mid-Atlantic region, gives an overview of cultural practices, and list chemicals recommended to manage pests, diseases and weeds in vegetable crops. New varieties of vegetables are constantly being developed throughout the world. While all efforts are made to have comprehensive lists, not all varieties that are adapted will be listed.
Feb 8, 2024 456-420 (SPES-586P)
Powell River Project - Growing Christmas Trees on Reclaimed Surface-mined Land
Christmas tree production can be an excellent use for reclaimed mined lands in Virginia. Most species do quite well on mine soils because they are more tolerant of infertile and droughty conditions than agricultural or horticultural crops, yet they do respond to active management. Christmas trees can be harvested within seven to 10 years, while timber crops take much longer to mature. For the person with time to invest, Christmas trees can be an ideal way to put small parcels of reclaimed mined lands to profitable use. Individual growers can conveniently maintain up to 5 acres of trees in their spare time.
Jul 1, 2023 460-116
Overview of Good Aquaculture Practices Feb 22, 2019 600-054 (CNRE-40P)
Getting Acquainted with Amyloodinium ocellatum Feb 22, 2019 600-200 (CNRE-39P)
Dealing with Trichodina and Trichodina-like species Feb 22, 2019 600-205(CNRE-38P)
User Notes for Small-scale Virginia Commercial Hops Production Enterprise Budgets and Financial Statements Feb 26, 2019 AAEC-170NP
Demystifying Food Labels: Labels for Specific Meat Products Feb 28, 2019 AAEC-171NP
One Bite at a Time: Virginia and North Carolina Food as a Business Program Mar 18, 2019 AAEC-172NP
Broadband Internet to Promote Economic Development in Southside Virginia Feb 28, 2019 AAEC-173NP
Taste of Farming: Grazing Math Apr 1, 2022 ALCE-296-11
Taste of Farming: Agroforestry Apr 4, 2022 ALCE-296-13
Taste of Farming: Small Fruit Production Apr 4, 2022 ALCE-296-14
Taste of Farming: Strawberry Production Apr 4, 2022 ALCE-296-15
Taste of Farming: Hydroponic Production Apr 4, 2022 ALCE-296-17
Taste of Farming: Basic Soils Apr 1, 2022 ALCE-296-4
Taste of Farming: Vegetable Production and Food Safety Requirements Apr 1, 2022 ALCE-296-5
Taste of Farming: Getting Started in the Greenhouse Apr 1, 2022 ALCE-296-7
Taste of Farming: Pumpkins Apr 1, 2022 ALCE-296-9
Eldon Farm's Graze 300 VA System Dec 16, 2022 ANR-290NP
Environmental Best Management Practices for Virginia's Golf Courses Jan 7, 2021 ANR-48NP (SPES-284NP)
Late Blight of Tomato and Potato Jan 19, 2024 ANR-6 (SPES-567P)
Vineyard Financial Calculator
The Vineyard Financial Calculator is an educational tool that is useful for comparing the financial performance of different vineyard operational scenarios. This tool's intended user is an individual or organization exploring the financial requirements of vineyard establishment and operation in Virginia. The tool was designed to forecast the approximate pretax annual cash inflows and outflows of a vineyard − information required to build a business prospectus. Users can modify certain input variables, such as vineyard size and labor costs, as well as outputs, such as crop level, to tailor the projections to personal expectations. The VFC is only a predictive tool; actual results could vary from those predicted due to site conditions, variances in costs, or unanticipated gains or losses. This tool was created in 2016 and originally published in 2017. The principals with which this tool operates are still valid, but the raw material prices may have changed.
Sep 23, 2022 AREC-188NP (SPES-424NP)
Assessing the Economic Feasibility of Growing Specialized Apple Cultivars for Sale to Commercial Hard Cider Producers
This publication describes a set of associated budget spreadsheets that utilize a systematic means to assess the feasibility of growing specialty apple cultivars for sale to commercial hard cider producers.
Mar 20, 2019 AREC-46P (SPES-117P)
Soybean Reproductive Development Stages
Remove the soybean plant at ground level to make it easier to stage. Examine each main stem node one at a time to determine the development stage. Focus on the top four nodes that contain fully developed leaves (shown below). A fully developed leaf is one that is located immediately below a node containing a leaf with unrolled or unfolded leaflets (leaflet edges are no longer touching). The soybean crop is considered to be at a particular stage when 50% of the plants reach that stage. Listed with stage description for R1 through R6 are the approximate number of days to R7, or physiological maturity, for full season (FS) soybean planted in May and double crop (DC) soybean planted in June/July.
Jul 25, 2019 AREC-59NP (SPES-156NP)
Soybean Insect Guide
Numerous kinds of insects can be found in soybeans. Most are beneficial or harmless, but some can cause yield loss and even crop failure if not controlled.
Mar 20, 2019 AREC-68NP
Virginia Cover Crops Fact Sheet Series No. 1: Beneficial Uses of Cover Crops
The general purpose of a cover crop is to improve the soil, the broader environment, or other crops in rotation, not for direct harvest. Cover crops, depending on which are selected, are capable of providing many diverse assets. This publication provides a short description of these main benefits.
Sep 23, 2020 CSES-120NP (SPES-241NP)
Virginia Cover Crops Fact Sheet Series No. 2: Cover Crop Performance Evaluation in Field and Controlled Studies
Cover crops increase soil organic matter, reduce erosion, suppress weeds, forage for nutrients, and reduce fertilizer costs (Clark, 2007). Cover crop species vary greatly and provide varied benefits. Performance evaluation of cover crop species and mixtures is needed in Virginia.
Sep 23, 2020 CSES-121NP (SPES-240NP)
Creating Silvopastures: Some Considerations When Thinning Existing Timber Stands
Silvopastures intentionally integrate trees with forage and livestock production in a rotational grazing system. These systems have the potential to improve animal comfort, increase farm resource use efficiency, boost income, and mitigate environmental costs.
Apr 20, 2021 CSES-155P
Soil Judging in Virginia Dec 5, 2022 CSES-183
Using a Summer Stockpiling System to Extend the Grazing Season Nov 14, 2017 CSES-201NP
Virginia Soil Judging Scorecard Dec 5, 2022 CSES- 202P(4H-845P)
A Lawn To Dye For - How to Create a Perfect Lawn: Soil Testing Oct 24, 2019 CSES-34NP
A Lawn To Dye For - How to Create a Perfect Lawn: Watering The Lawn Oct 24, 2019 CSES-35NP
A Lawn To Dye For - How to Create a Perfect Lawn: Dethatching Your Lawn Oct 24, 2019 CSES-36NP
A Lawn To Dye For - How to Create a Perfect Lawn: Lawn Composting Oct 14, 2019 CSES-37NP
A Lawn To Dye For - How to Create a Perfect Lawn: Aerating Your Lawn Oct 14, 2019 CSES-38NP
A Lawn To Dye For - How to Create a Perfect Lawn: Mowing Your Lawn Oct 14, 2019 CSES-39NP
A Lawn To Dye For - How to Create a Perfect Lawn: Fighting Weeds Oct 14, 2019 CSES-40NP
A Lawn To Dye For - How to Create a Perfect Lawn: Choosing The Right Grass Oct 14, 2019 CSES-41NP
A Lawn To Dye For - How to Create a Perfect Lawn: Fighting Lawn Pests Oct 14, 2019 CSES-42NP
A Lawn To Dye For - How to Create a Perfect Lawn: Dealing With Lawn Disease Oct 14, 2019 CSES-43NP
Importance of Farm Phosphorus Mass Balance and Management Options
Phosphorus is a naturally occurring element that is one of 16 elements essential for plant growth and animal health. Research has documented that applying phosphorus in fertilizers or manure increases crop growth and yield on soils that are below critical agronomic levels, as measured during routine soil testing. Although the economic benefits of phosphorus fertilization on crop production are well-documented, too much of a good thing can be detrimental to the environment. Excessive soil phosphorus is a potential threat to water quality.
Feb 21, 2020 CSES-98P(SPES-178P)
Virginia Farm to Table: Healthy Farms and Healthy Food for the Common Wealth and Common Good Aug 29, 2018 CV-3 (SPES-27P)
Kudzu Bug, Megacopta cribraria, a pest of soybeans Jan 28, 2019 ENTO-303NP
What do I need to know to sell REFRIGERATED DIPS, SPREADS, DRESSINGS and SALADS, at the farmers market? Jun 2, 2020 FST-300P (FST-363P)
Expanding Food Safety Protocols in an Evolving Landscape of COVID-19 May 28, 2020 FST-373NP
Goldenchain tree, Laburnum × watereri
Goldenchain tree is a small tree that is primarily noted for its very showy pendulous flowers (16 inches plus in May). This species is best grown in zones 5 to 7 and generally requires afternoon shade. Plants in full sun are often stressed and succumb to pest problems. ‘Vossii’ is a long-flowered cultivar.
Feb 1, 2024 HORT-10NP
Hinoki Falsecypress, Chamaecyparis obtusa
Hinoki falsecypress is a medium to large conifer. There are numerous cultivars that are more popular and prevalent in the nursery trade than the species. However, the species is a very beautiful conifer and well worth the hunt in garden centers or mail order nurseries. In my opinion, the hinoki falsecypress (species, not a cultivar) is more desirable than the sawara falsecypress (Chamaecyparis pisifera species, not a cultivar) since hinoki falsecypress foliage is denser and brighter green, and the bark is a brighter red-brown color. Cultivars vary in size (growth rate), foliage size and color, and form.
Feb 1, 2024 HORT-11NP
Japanese Cryptomeria, Cryptomeria japonica
Japanese cryptomeria is a handsome medium to large conifer with a conical to narrow conical form. This species is fast growing and is relatively popular in the trade. If lower limbs are removed, one can observe a beautiful orange-brown bark (on most trees). The foliage tends to turn brownish on the south side of the plant in winter due to desiccation; however, foliage will turn green in spring. Japanese cryptomeria does have a few disease problems, although these are not considered a major issue at this point in time.
Feb 1, 2024 HORT-12NP
Japanese Stewartia, Stewartia pseudocamellia
Japanese stewartia is a strikingly beautiful small tree. It has very showy white flowers with gold-colored stamens in June; bright maroon-red fall foliage color; and with age develops bark with a patchwork of brown, orange-brown, and cream colors. Bark characteristics vary from tree to tree and some trees have lustrous bark.
Feb 1, 2024 HORT-13NP
Japanese Zelkova, Zelkova serrata
Japanese zelkova is a medium to large shade tree with a distinct vase shape. This species is quite drought and heat tolerant; its use as a street tree species is testimony to its toughness. Fall foliage colors range from fair to quite good (orange to bronze-red to maroon) and will vary from tree to tree (seedling-grown trees) or from cultivar to cultivar.
Feb 1, 2024 HORT-14NP
Katsuratree, Cercidiphyllum japonicum
Katsuratree is a magnificent medium to large shade tree. Its accolade-deserving qualities are its form, beautiful foliage, and bark. Seedling-grown trees have a variable form ranging from upright oval to pyramidal to wide spreading. This species has a tendency to develop major branches near ground level, and if one has ample space, such low slung trunks give the lower portion of the tree a majestic “octopus-like” appearance.
Feb 1, 2024 HORT-15NP
Kousa Dogwood, Cornus kousa Oct 1, 2018 HORT-16NP
Lacebark Pine, Pinus bungeana
Lacebark pine is a medium (sometimes large) conifer species that has strikingly beautiful bark. Bark is a camouflage-like patchwork of greens, silvery-white, creams, browns, and red-browns. There is a great amount of tree to tree variation in bark color; patchwork of colors begins to appear on approximately 2 inch diameter branches.
Mar 5, 2024 HORT-17NP
Leyland Cypress, Cupressocyparis leylandii
Leyland cypress is a fast-growing conifer that is one of the most popular landscape conifers in the eastern U.S. In addition to its vigor, this species is relatively drought tolerant and can be pruned into a hedge.
Mar 5, 2024 HORT-18NP
Vertical Gardening Using Trellises, Stakes, and Cages Dec 12, 2022 HORT-189NP (SPES-450NP)
Mimosa (Silk-tree or Albizia), Albizia julibrissin
Mimosa is a fast-growing small tree with very attractive pink pin cushion-like flowers in summer. This species has tropical-like foliage (bipinnately compound foliage with very small leaflets) that confers a very fine texture to the tree.
Mar 5, 2024 HORT-19NP
Norway Spruce, Picea abies
Norway spruce is a medium to large conical conifer. When young (first 10 years or so), the plant is stiffly conical. With age, the secondary branches hang from the primary horizontal branches.
Mar 5, 2024 HORT-20NP
Paperbark Maple, Acer griseum
Paperbark maple is a small tree with exceptionally beautiful peeling cinnamon-colored bark. Most branches, those that have a diameter about one-half inch and larger, will have peeling (exfoliating) orange-brown bark.
Mar 7, 2024 HORT-21NP
Red Buckeye, Aesculus pavia
Red buckeye is typically a multi-trunk small tree (large shrub). Its claim to fame is the red flowers that cover the plant in April/May. Flower stalks (panicles) are about 8 inches long with 2 inch long red tubular flowers. Flowers are pollinated by ruby-throated hummingbirds.
Mar 6, 2024 HORT-22NP
Evaluation of Blackberry Varieties in Virginia May 6, 2022 HORT-226P (SPES-400P)
River Birch, Betula nigra
River birch is a fast-growing shade tree species. As the common name implies, river birch trees tolerate wet soils and are a very suitable species for portions of the landscape that characteristically have moist soil, such as low areas or in poorly drained soils.
Mar 5, 2024 HORT-23NP
Saucer Magnolia, Magnolia ×soulangeana
Saucer magnolia is generally a small (occasionally medium) multi-stem tree that is known for its outstanding flower display in March (February in southern U.S. and April in northern U.S.). Flowers are about 8 inches in diameter; outer sides of petals (actually called tepals; about 9 tepals) are various shades of pink-purple while inner sides of tepals are white.
Mar 5, 2024 HORT-24NP
Sawara Falsecypress (Japanese Falsecypress), Chamaecyparis pisifera
Sawara falsecypress is a medium to large conifer. There are numerous cultivars that are more popular and prevalent in the nursery trade than the species. Cultivars vary in size (growth rate), foliage type and color, and form. Many of the cultivars are considered “dwarf” since they do not attain the mature size of the species.
Mar 5, 2024 HORT-25NP
A Guide to the Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Certification Process Jan 24, 2018 HORT-252NP (HORT-285NP)
Scotch Pine, Pinus sylvestris
Scotch pine is a medium tree. Like most pines, the first 20 or so years of its life it has a conical shape and with maturity it loses its lower limbs and has an irregular flat topped or oval shape. Scotch pine has a relatively showy orange colored bark (with the exception of the lower trunk). It is also relatively drought tolerant, thus it is suitable for landscape sites that tend to be dry.
Mar 6, 2024 HORT-26NP
Mixed Infection of Strawberry Mottle Virus and Strawberry Mild Yellow Edge Virus in the Southeastern United States Apr 17, 2023 HORT 268P (SPES-488P)
Sourwood, Oxydendrum arboreum
Sourwood is a small slow-growing tree although forest specimens exceed this small status. This species is certainly worthy to be a specimen plant (sufficient attributes to be featured as a focal point). Sourwood has beautiful lustrous foliage in the growing season which turns a bright maroon to pink-red in the fall.
Mar 6, 2024 HORT-27NP
Shoppers Guide for Berry Plants in the Mid-Atlantic and the Carolinas Apr 5, 2023 HORT-270NP (SPES-481NP)
Star Magnolia, Magnolia stellata
Star magnolia is a small multi-stem tree that is known for its outstanding flower display in March (February in southern U.S. and April in northern U.S.). Flowers are about 3 to 4 inches in diameter and fragrant; outer sides of petals (actually called tepals; about 12 to 18 tepals) are white or blushed with pink while inner sides of tepals are white.
Mar 6, 2024 HORT-28NP
Umbrella-Pine (Japanese Umbrella-Pine), Sciadopitys verticillata
Umbrella-pine is a beautiful slow-growing conical conifer. Its beauty is mostly derived from the unusual texture that is imparted by the glossy dark-green needles that occur in whorls along the stem.
Mar 6, 2024 HORT-29NP
Washington Hawthorn, Crataegus phaenopyrum
Washington hawthorn is a small tree (single or multiple trunks) with showy white flowers in June. Trees produce an abundance of persistent glossy bright red fruit (about 0.25 inches in diameter) that result in a spectacular fruit display that persist into winter months.
Mar 6, 2024 HORT-30NP
Selecting and Using Plant Growth Regulators on Floricultural Crops
Plant growth regulators (PGRs) are chemicals that are designed to affect plant growth and/or development (figure 1). They are applied for specific purposes to elicit specific plant responses. Although there is much scientific information on using PGRs in the greenhouse, it is not an exact science. Achieving the best results with PGRs is a combination of art and science — science tempered with a lot of trial and error and a good understanding of plant growth and development. good understanding of plant growth and development.
Nov 15, 2019 HORT-43P (SPES-149P)
American Hornbeam, Carpinus caroliniana
American hornbeam, also called blue beech, musclewood, water beech, and ironwood, is a small to medium tree. In its youth, and even sometimes at maturity, this species tends be multi-trunked and densely branched. It also tends to develop major branches near ground level which can be a desirable or undesirable characteristic depending on how this species is intended to be used in the landscape.
Mar 6, 2024 HORT-5NP
American (Fagus grandifolia) and European (Fagus sylvatica) Beeches
Beeches, both the American and European species, are large stately and noble trees. They have a smooth sensuous dark gray bark that is exceptionally attractive. Unfortunately, this feature often beckons graffiti practitioners to denigrate trees by carving their initials on trunks.
Mar 6, 2024 HORT-6NP
Care Sheet for Sabal minor or “Dwarf Palmetto” in Virginia Landscapes May 29, 2019 HORT-60NP (SPES-137NP)
Therapeutic Gardening Dec 12, 2022 HORT-66NP (SPES-432NP)
Chinese Elm (Lacebark Elm), Ulmus parvifolia
Chinese elm is a medium to large fast-growing shade tree. This species is quite tolerant of drought and poor soil; hence, it has been extensively used in urban situations. There are numerous cultivars; cultivar selection criteria include cold hardiness, form, growth rate, foliage characteristics, and bark showiness.
Mar 6, 2024 HORT-7NP
Fooling Mother Nature: Forcing Flower Bulbs for Indoor Bloom
Have you ever wondered if it is possible to enjoy the beauty of bulbs in the middle of winter? The answer is definitely yes! Many people are familiar with the hourglass-shaped vase filled with water and topped with a hyacinth bulb, or a low bowl filled with several Paper White narcissus, and the popular boxed amaryllis bulb as a welcome winter holiday gift. Most bulbs can be forced but additional planning is required in order to have a successful period of blooms.
Oct 2, 2019 HORT-76NP
Chinese Pistache, Pistacia chinensis
Chinese pistache is a medium-size shade tree. It is quite tolerant of full sun, hot, and dry conditions (once established). This species has separate male and female plants (dioecious); female plants (if male trees are present) will produce clusters of reddish pea-size fruit that are somewhat attractive.
Mar 7, 2024 HORT-8NP
Selecting Plants for Virginia Landscapes: Showy Flowering Shrubs
This publication features small, medium, and large flowering shrubs (five of each category) with photos. All photos are by the author. There are at least eight shrubs from each category noted in a table (without photos) at the end of this publication. All shrubs — featured or in the table — are landscape worthy and are especially suited to landscapes in Virginia and the Mid-Atlantic States.
Jul 30, 2020 HORT-84P
Douglasfir, Pseudotsuga menziesii
Douglasfir is a large and stately narrow conical conifer that is native to the Pacific Northwest (P. menziesii var. menziesii) and Rocky Mountains (P. menziesii var. glauca). Trees in native habitats are often taller than 100 feet; however, landscape trees rarely exceed 50 feet.
Mar 8, 2024 HORT-9NP
Weed Management in Small Fruit Crops
For small fruit growers, weed management is one of the greatest challenges they will face to successfully grow these crops. Factors such as climate, new weed species, weed species shifts, and years of agricultural activity have come together to select for weed species that are aggressive and persistent. Without management, weeds compete with crops for light, nutrients, and water, resulting in reduced vegetative growth of the crop plant, poor fruit quality and lower yield. Stressed crops are also more susceptible to disease and insect infestations, while excessive weed growth itself creates higher humidity in the crop foliage, enhancing disease spread and inviting unwanted insects. Weed management principles for the perennial small fruit crops are similar, with the exception of strawberries in the annual system. Grapes, brambles, blueberries and matted row strawberries are considered permanent plantings in which weed management must be addressed throughout the life of the planting. When compared to annual crops, perennial culture is a greater challenge, as weeds need to be managed through all seasons and perennial weed species increase in numbers and diversity. Understanding seasonal weed thresholds, and integrating cultural and chemical management becomes even more important in the year-round culture.
Aug 9, 2023 HORT-286NP (SPES-513NP)
Best Management Practices for Boxwood Blight in the Virginia Home Landscape
Boxwood blight is a devastating disease of boxwood that results in defoliation and decline of susceptible boxwood. This best management practices factsheet provides guidelines for home growers of landscape boxwood to avoid introduction of the boxwood blight pathogen into a landscape or, if the disease is already present in a landscape, to manage to disease in the most effective manner and avoid spread of the disease to new locations.
Dec 19, 2023 PPWS-29NP (SPES-557NP)
Best Management Practices for Boxwood Blight in Virginia Production Nurseries WITH Boxwood Blight
This Best Management Practice document is a set of guidelines for home growers of landscape boxwood to avoid introduction of the boxwood blight pathogen into a landscape or, if the disease is already present in a landscape, to manage the disease in the most effective manner and avoid spread of the disease to new locations.
Feb 16, 2021 PPWS-32NP (PPWS-87NP)
Best Management Practices for Boxwood Blight in Virginia Production Nurseries WITHOUT Boxwood Blight Version 2, September 2016
This Best Management Practice document is a set of guidelines for home growers of landscape boxwood to avoid introduction of the boxwood blight pathogen into a landscape or, if the disease is already present in a landscape, to manage the disease in the most effective manner and avoid spread of the disease to new locations.
Jan 5, 2021 PPWS-33NP (PPWS-86NP)
Best Management Practices for Boxwood Blight: Best Management Practices for Virginia Retail Nurseries WITH Boxwood Blight
This Best Management Practice document is a set of guidelines for home growers of landscape boxwood to avoid introduction of the boxwood blight pathogen into a landscape or, if the disease is already present in a landscape, to manage the disease in the most effective manner and avoid spread of the disease to new locations.
Jan 6, 2021 PPWS-34NP (PPWS-89NP)
Best Management Practices for Boxwood Blight: Best management Practices for Virginia Retail Nurseries WITHOUT Boxwood Blight
This Best Management Practice document is a set of guidelines for home growers of landscape boxwood to avoid introduction of the boxwood blight pathogen into a landscape or, if the disease is already present in a landscape, to manage the disease in the most effective manner and avoid spread of the disease to new locations.
Jan 6, 2021 PPWS-35NP (PPWS-88NP)
Best Management Practices for Boxwood Blight for Greenery Producers
Best management practices for boxwood blight (also called “box blight”) for greenery producers are practices recommended to avoid the introduction and spread of boxwood blight, caused by the fungus Calonectria pseudonaviculata (syn. Cylindrocladium pseudonaviculatum). The recommendations in this document are designed to avoid spread of boxwood blight within a planting or to new locations when pruned tips are collected, sold and/or used for holiday greenery1. These recommendations are relevant to anyone involved in the greenery (“tipping”) industry, including small and large-scale greenery producers, home growers who sell boxwood tips, and people who tip-prune boxwood on other people’s property. Care must be taken at all levels of greenery production to prevent the spread of the boxwood blight pathogen and avoid economic losses associated with this disease.
Jan 6, 2021 PPWS-39NP (PPWS-95NP)
Stormwater Management for Homeowners Fact Sheet 2: Rain Barrels Jun 25, 2018 SPES-10P
USDA Edamame Project Feb 15, 2019 SPES-104NP
Results for the 2017 VSU Blueberry Variety Field Trial Mar 20, 2019 SPES-108NP
Stormwater Management for Homeowners Fact Sheet 3: Permeable Pavement Jun 25, 2018 SPES-11P
Chemical Blossom Thinning in Virginia Apple Orchards Feb 11, 2019 SPES-110NP
Glyphosate Q & A Sheet Feb 8, 2019 SPES-113NP
Tall Fescue, Endophytes and Alkaloids, and Fescue Toxicosis Apr 12, 2019 SPES-114P
Soils, Science, and Stakeholders
Climate change is documented by research data, yet some deny evidence of the causes, underestimate the impacts, or fail to adjust their activities and choices. Soil is tied to climate change in many ways. Presented on-line to a national professional meeting of soil scientists, this video discusses the way that Americans perceive climate change and the relationships between climate change and soil science.
Feb 6, 2024 SPES-115NP
Directions for Establishing One Acre of Blackberries in Virginia Feb 16, 2019 SPES-116NP
Stormwater Management for Homeowners Fact Sheet 4: Grass Swales Jun 25, 2018 SPES-12P
Leaching Fraction: A Tool to Schedule Irrigation for Container-Grown Nursery Crops Jun 11, 2019 SPES-128P
Stormwater Management for Homeowners Fact Sheet 5: Rain Gardens Jun 26, 2018 SPES-13P
Changes to USDA GAP & GHP, Produce Harmonized GAP, and Harmonized GAP Plus+ Audit Billing and Scheduling Jun 17, 2019 SPES-132NP (SPES-147NP)
Crop Load Management in Commercial Apple Orchards: Chemical Fruit Thinning May 31, 2019 SPES-134P
2019 - 2020 Shenandoah Valley Buy Fresh Buy Local Guide May 2, 2019 SPES-136NP
Catastrophic Livestock and Poultry Carcass Disposal Jun 5, 2019 SPES-138NP
On Farm Mortality Disposal Options for Livestock Producers Jun 3, 2019 SPES-139NP
Stormwater Management for Homeowners Fact Sheet 6: Buffers Jun 26, 2018 SPES-14P
Most Troublesome Pumpkin Diseases in Virginia May 28, 2019 SPES-140NP
Soil Sampling Instructions for the Farm Jun 6, 2019 SPES-141
Visioning a Preferred Future for Virginia's Food System for 2027 Jun 3, 2019 SPES-142NP
Common Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) Control in Soybeans Jun 6, 2019 SPES-143NP
Facilitating Community, Local, and Regional Food Systems Jun 10, 2019 SPES-144NP
Considerations for Producers Seeking Market Access to Schools Jun 11, 2019 SPES-145NP
Considerations for School Nutrition Directors Seeking to Increase Farm to School Purchases Jun 11, 2019 SPES-146NP
Invasive Tree-of-Heaven & Native Look-Alike Identification Photographs Jun 24, 2019 SPES-148NP
A Survey of Strawberry Production Practices in Virginia Aug 12, 2019 SPES-150P
Mortality of Great Rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum) in Virginia
Since 2015, Extension specialists from Virginia Tech (VT) have visited and collected plant and soil samples from several large areas of dying great rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum) in Virginia’s mountainous regions. In 2016 VT specialists met with Virginia Department of Forestry, US Forest Service personnel, and other experts to revisit some of these sites. No consistent cause of this mortality has yet been identified. It is possible that a variety of factors are stressing the rhododendrons in these areas to a point where opportunistic pathogens or insects can successfully attack and kill them. The following information summarizes our observations and diagnostic results from four separate great rhododendron mortality sites in Virginia. This information is not equivalent to a research study, which would also include samples taken from healthy great rhododendron for comparison; however, we are confident that we have ruled out two diseases that are frequently mentioned both online and anecdotally as a cause of this mortality, specifically Phytophthora root rot and Botryosphaeria dieback.
Aug 21, 2019 SPES-151P
2019-20 Virginia Turfgrass Variety Recommendations Jul 22, 2019 SPES-154NP
Strategies for Managing Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue – A Whole-Farm Approach Nov 26, 2019 SPES-163P
Using Cover Crops to Suppress Horseweed Sep 14, 2020 SPES-164P (SPES-202P)
Herbicide Options to Terminate Winter Cover Crops Sep 18, 2019 SPES-167NP
Adaptive Challenges Jan 24, 2020 SPES-183NP
Motivations of Farming: A Soil, Conservation and Place supplement video Aug 12, 2020 SPES-184NP
Drone Use in the Winter Nov 2, 2020 SPES-186NP
Fertilizer: The Many Forms You Can Use Mar 18, 2020 SPES-187NP
Getting Started and Managing Resources Jan 24, 2020 SPES-189NP
Virginia Soybean Performance Tests 2019 Feb 12, 2020 SPES-191NP
Converting Pastures to Native Warm Season Grasses: Forage for Drought in Bedford County Mar 31, 2020 SPES-196NP
Foliar Injury: Spring Nitrogen Applications to Small Grains Apr 2, 2020 SPES-197NP
Common Fertilizers Used in Virginia: Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium Apr 7, 2020 SPES-199NP
Common Fertilizers Used in Virginia: Secondary and Micronutrients Apr 10, 2020 SPES-200NP
Conversion Factors Needed for Common Fertilizer Calculations Apr 29, 2020 SPES-201NP
Electric Fencing: Installing and Testing a Proper Grounding System Jan 27, 2021 SPES-204NP (SPES-300NP)
Expanding Food Safety Protocols in an Evolving Landscape of COVID-19 - Part 1 Apr 20, 2020 SPES-205NP
Expanding Food Safety Protocols in an Evolving Landscape of COVID-19 - Part 2 Apr 20, 2020 SPES-206NP
Expanding Food Safety Protocols in an Evolving Landscape of COVID-19 - Part 3 Apr 20, 2020 SPES-207NP
Expanding Food Safety Protocols in an Evolving Landscape of COVID-19: Part 4 Apr 20, 2020 SPES-208NP
Floor Management Strategies for Virginia Vineyards Jul 28, 2020 SPES-209P
Sampling Tall Fescue for Endophyte Infection and Ergot Alkaloid Concentration
Endophyte-infected tall fescue is the dominant forages in Virginia. As such, it is imperative to manage this important forage resource wisely. Ergot alkaloids produced by fescue’s fungal endophyte create challenges to accomplishing this. Tests for endophyte presence and alkaloid levels are important management tools that producers can use to minimize alkaloid consumption and the negative impacts of on animal performance. Consistent testing methods are important for adequately assessing alkaloid levels and for making comparisons among pastures over time. These results then can be used to develop a custom grazing strategy to avoid severe incidences of fescue toxicosis. Repeated testing during a grazing season can help determine possible benefits to pasture renovation or addition of legumes. Similar to testing forages for nutrient concentrations and devising a winter feeding and supplement plan, testing fescue-based pastures for endophyte infection level and for ergot alkaloid concentrations at various times during the year can facilitate management to reduce alkaloid consumption and also help determine if further mitigation is needed.
Aug 1, 2024 SPES-21P
Soil, Conservation, and Place -- Janet Aardema and Dan Gagnon of Broadfork Farm Jun 8, 2020 SPES-214NP
Soil, Conservation and Place -- Ira Wallace of Southern Exposure Seed Exchange Jun 8, 2020 SPES-215NP
Soil, Conservation and Place -- C.J. Isbell of Keenbell Farm Jun 8, 2020 SPES-216NP
Expanding Food Safety Protocols in an Evolving Landscape of COVID-19 May 28, 2020 SPES-217NP
Kitchen Garden Presentation by Henrico Master Gardeners Jul 14, 2020 SPES-225NP
How To Plant A Tree Jul 14, 2020 SPES-226NP
Best Septic System Management During the Covid-19 Pandemic Aug 5, 2020 SPES-229NP
Fusarium Wilt of Mimosa (Albizia julibrissin) Aug 13, 2020 SPES-230NP
2020 Virginia On-Farm Wheat Test Plots Aug 19, 2020 SPES-238NP
A Virginia Producer-Buyer Networking Event Toolkit: Facilitating Value Chain Connections Aug 19, 2020 SPES-242NP
Identification of Virginia’s Noxious Weeds May 17, 2023 SPES-244NP (SPES-502NP)
Biofortification: Creating a Healthier Food Supply Nov 23, 2020 SPES-267P
Strawberry Variety Evaluation, Opportunities, and Challenges of High Tunnel Production Feb 9, 2021 SPES-273P
The Right Answer: How to Find Unbiased, Research-Based Answers Horticultural Questions Feb 19, 2021 SPES-275P
Managing Phosphorus Balance on Virginia Dairy Farms Mar 15, 2021 SPES-278NP
Stockpile Grazing in Autumn Nov 2, 2023 SPES-29P
Virginia On-Farm Soybean Research 2020 Jan 18, 2021 SPES-294NP
Lime: Common Soil Additives to Raise Soil pH in Virginia Feb 16, 2021 SPES-298NP
Using Grazing Charts
This is a Graze 300 Virginia video which is part of an Extension initiative to enable Virginia farmers to achieve 300 days of livestock grazing by facilitating better pasture management and environmental stewardship. In this video clip, Tim Mize, Extension Agent with Virginia Cooperative Extension, and Norman Bower, a cooperating farmer, share how a grazing chart can be a roadmap for communicating and planning a farm's grazing plan. For more information about Graze 300 VA and Virginia Cooperative Extension, please visit Graze 300. Funding for the video was generously provided by the Agua Fund to encourage sustainable resilient agriculture and the conservation of important natural resources.
Nov 2, 2023 SPES-30P
Virginia Soybean Performance Tests 2020 Feb 19, 2021 SPES-303NP
Converting pastures to native warm season grasses: Summer forage and wildlife habitat in Caroline County Mar 5, 2021 SPES-308NP
Stockpile Grazing with Horses
This is a Graze 300 Virginia video which is part of an Extension initiative to enable Virginia farmers to achieve 300 days of livestock grazing by facilitating better pasture management and environmental stewardship. In this video clip, Carrie Swanson, Extension Agent with Virginia Cooperative Extension, discusses and demonstrates the benefits of stockpile grazing with horses. For more information about Graze 300 VA and Virginia Cooperative Extension, please visit Graze 300. Funding for the video was generously provided by the Agua Fund to encourage sustainable resilient agriculture and the conservation of important natural resources.
Nov 2, 2023 SPES-31P
2021 Virtual Eastern Shore Agricultural Conference and Trade Show Mar 12, 2021 SPES-312NP
How to Evaluate a Tree May 19, 2021 SPES-313P
Fungicide Spray Guidelines for Non-bearing Vineyards Jul 14, 2021 SPES-315NP
Edible Landscape Species – Trees Oct 21, 2021 SPES-316
Edible Landscape Species – Shrubs, Vines, and Groundcovers Oct 21, 2021 SPES-317
Does Land Application of Biosolids Pose Health Concerns for Grazing Livestock? Aug 3, 2021 SPES-318P
Assessing On-Farm Risks and Documenting Food Safety Practices to Meet Farm to School Requirements May 7, 2021 SPES-319NP
Benefits of a Dry Lot for Horses
This is a Graze 300 Virginia video which is part of an Extension initiative to enable Virginia farmers to achieve 300 days of livestock grazing by facilitating better pasture management and environmental stewardship. In this video clip, Carrie Swanson, Extension Agent with Virginia Cooperative Extension, discusses the benefits of a dry lot as a horse and pasture management strategy. For more information about Graze 300 VA and Virginia Cooperative Extension, please visit Graze 300. Funding for the video was generously provided by the Agua Fund to encourage sustainable resilient agriculture and the conservation of important natural resources.
Nov 2, 2023 SPES-32P
Maintenance Calendar for Bermudagrass Jun 21, 2021 SPES-329NP
Using a Grazing Muzzle
This is a Graze 300 Virginia video which is part of an Extension initiative to enable Virginia farmers to achieve 300 days of livestock grazing by facilitating better pasture management and environmental stewardship. In this video clip, Carrie Swanson, Extension Agent with Virginia Cooperative Extension, discusses the benefits of a dry lot as a horse and pasture management strategy. For more information about Graze 300 VA and Virginia Cooperative Extension, please visit Graze 300. Funding for the video was generously provided by the Agua Fund to encourage sustainable resilient agriculture and the conservation of important natural resources.
Nov 2, 2023 SPES-33P
Beetlemania Jul 7, 2021 SPES-333NP
Small Grain Forage Variety Testing, 2021 Jun 28, 2021 SPES-335NP
4 The Soil Live Kickoff Jul 23, 2021 SPES-339NP
Grazing Through Snow Nov 1, 2023 SPES-34P
Hurricane Preparedness for Turfgrass Systems Jul 20, 2021 SPES-340NP
Cool-Season Turfgrass Sports Field Maintenance Calendar Jul 22, 2021 SPES-341NP
2021-22 Virginia Turfgrass Variety Recommendations Jul 21, 2021 SPES-343NP
Driving Homeowners ‘Nuts’: Sedge in the Lawn Jul 23, 2021 SPES-344NP
Small Grains in 2021 Aug 3, 2021 SPES-348NP
Grazing Summer Annuals
This is a Graze 300 Virginia video which is part of an Extension initiative to enable Virginia farmers to achieve 300 days of livestock grazing by facilitating better pasture management and environmental stewardship. In this video clip, Jason Thurman of Lazy Acre Angus, in cooperation with Chris Brown Extension Agent with Virginia Cooperative Extension, explains his farm’s rotational grazing system and how he has incorporated summer annuals such as Sorghum-Sudangrass in the system to improve cow performance during the hot summer months. For more information about Graze 300 VA and Virginia Cooperative Extension, please visit Graze 300. Funding for the video was generously provided by the Agua Fund to encourage sustainable resilient agriculture and the conservation of important natural resources.
Nov 2, 2023 SPES-35P
2021 Virginia On-farm Wheat Test Plots Sep 8, 2021 SPES-352NP
Cool Season Lawn Renovation Sep 16, 2021 SPES-353NP
Protective Agriculture Production Series: Fundamentals Sep 16, 2021 SPES-355NP
Managing Fall Armyworms on Lawns Aug 31, 2021 SPES-357NP
2021 Eastern Shore AREC Interactive Research Field Day Oct 8, 2021 SPES-359NP
Measuring Forage with a Falling Plate Meter
This is a Graze 300 Virginia video which is part of an Extension initiative to enable Virginia farmers to achieve 300 days of livestock grazing by facilitating better pasture management and environmental stewardship. In this video clip, Jeanie Layton-Dudding, Extension Agent with Virginia Cooperative Extension, demonstrates how to use a falling plate meter measure the amount of forage available in a pasture and to plan your winter feeding management. For more information about Graze 300 VA and Virginia Cooperative Extension, please visit Graze 300. Funding for the video was generously provided by the Agua Fund to encourage sustainable resilient agriculture and the conservation of important natural resources.
Nov 2, 2023 SPES-36P
Specialty Small Grains in 2021 Sep 24, 2021 SPES-360NP
Virginia Corn Silage Hybrid Trials in 2021 Dec 16, 2021 SPES-364NP
Virginia Corn Hybrid and Management Trials in 2021 Dec 17, 2021 SPES-365NP
2023 Virginia Peanut Production Guide Jan 3, 2023 SPES-367NP (SPES-451NP)
2021 Virginia On-Farm Soybean Research Jan 28, 2022 SPES-377NP
Caring for Our Communities and Land: A Story of Healthy Relationships and Trust Feb 15, 2022 SPES-381NP
Peanut Variety and Quality Evaluation Results I. Agronomic and Grade Data Feb 18, 2022 SPES-382NP
2021 Virginia On-Farm Corn Test Plots Feb 18, 2022 SPES-383NP
2021 Cotton Variety Testing and On-Farm Results Feb 17, 2022 SPES-385NP
2021 Virginia Soybean Performance Tests Feb 21, 2022 SPES-386NP
Consider Your Whole System: Nitrogen and Sulfur Leaching Potential in Virginia Jun 25, 2018 SPES-39NP
Consider Your Whole System: Nitrogen and Sulfur Leaching Potential in Virginia
Early summer often means locally heavy and sporadic rainfall as thunderstorms deliver intense rains, and 2018 appears to be no different with many areas in eastern Virginia receiving 3+ inches of rain in a few days (Figure 1). These storms also often coincide with the timing of sidedress nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) applications on corn. While some rainfall after sidedress is very beneficial to facilitate N movement into soil, heavy rain (2+ inches) often leaves us wondering how much, if any, of that recently-applied N remains and if additional N is needed.
Jan 31, 2024 SPES-39NP
Consider Your Whole System: Nitrogen and Sulfur Leaching Potential in Virginia Jun 25, 2018 SPES-39NP
Planted Hardwood Silvopasture: Producer Perspective From Rockingham Co. VA Jul 26, 2022 SPES-410NP
Planted Hardwood Silvopasture: Producer Perspective From Wythe Co. VA Jul 26, 2022 SPES-411NP
Silvopasture Best Management Practices Jul 26, 2022 SPES-412NP
Silvopasture Challenges: Producer Perspectives Jul 26, 2022 SPES-413NP
Thinned Hardwood Silvopasture: Producer Perspective From Nelson Co. VA Jul 27, 2022 SPES-414NP
Thinned Hardwood Silvopasture Producer Perspective From Rockbridge Co. VA Jul 28, 2022 SPES-415NP
Thinned Pine Silvopasture Producer: (#1) Perspective From Charlotte Co. VA Jul 28, 2022 SPES-416NP
Thinned Pine Silvopasture Producer: (#2) Perspective From Charlotte Co. VA Jul 28, 2022 SPES-417NP
Thinned Pine Silvopasture: Producer Perspective from Orange Co. VA Jul 28, 2022 SPES-418NP
Thinned Pine Silvopasture: Producer Perspective From Pender Co. NC Jul 28, 2022 SPES-419NP
Fresh Hops Harvesting and Handling Tips Jun 29, 2018 SPES-43NP
Giant Hogweed: Identification and Control
This publication provides information on giant hogweed identification, including how to distinguish between look alike species, and what to do if you think you have found giant hogweed.
Jul 10, 2023 SPES-48NP (SPES-245NP)
Frost/Freeze Protection in Strawberry Aug 27, 2018 SPES-56NP
Fescue Toxicosis and Some Strategies to Mitigate Alkaloids May 3, 2023 SPES-6
A Spreadsheet-Based Soil Test Converter for Turfgrass Professionals and Nutrient Management Planning in Virginia Dec 5, 2023 SPES-60
A Spreadsheet-Based Soil Test Converter for Turfgrass Professionals and Nutrient Management Planning in Virginia - Workbook Dec 5, 2023 SPES-60A
Animal Performance on Toxic Tall Fescue During the Summer Sep 19, 2018 SPES-62NP
Glyphosate: Health Controversy, Benefits and Continuing Debate Sep 20, 2018 SPES-63NP
Stormwater Management for Homeowners Fact Sheet 1: Rooftop Redirection (Disconnection) Jun 25, 2018 SPES-9P
Irrigation Considerations for Commercial Hop Producers Mar 7, 2019 SPES-95P
For the Love of the Chip Jan 23, 2020 SPES-179NP
Specialty Small Grains in 2019 Jan 21, 2020 SPES-185NP
The Story of the Food Value Chain Jan 23, 2020 SPES-188NP
Weed Management Planner - Before Planting Aug 2, 2023 SPES-268NP (SPES-506NP-A)
Weed Management Planner - After Planting Feb 13, 2024 SPES-268NP (SPES-570NP-B)
Small Scale Perennial Production Using Iris as an Example Crop Apr 20, 2022 SPES-354P
Blackberry Fruit: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits Mar 16, 2022 SPES-366P
What Happens If My Septic System Fails? Apr 29, 2022 SPES-379P
Septic System Best Management Practices Apr 29, 2022 SPES-380P
Your Soil Test Report Simplified A Guide for Homeowners Mar 10, 2022 SPES-384NP
Container Production of Herbaceous Peonies: Information for Greenhouse and Nursery Operators Oct 26, 2022 SPES-388P
Gardening for Health: Benefits for Adults May 11, 2022 SPES-389NP
2021 Peanut Variety and Quality Evaluation Results - Quality Data Mar 24, 2022 SPES-395NP
Chemical Options for Defruiting Young Apple Trees
Apple trees can produce plenty of fruits in the first two years of planting. If kept on the tree until harvest, these fruits would have a negative effect on tree growth and structure. Defruting newly planted and young apple trees (e.g., 2nd and 3rd leaf), particularly those on dwarfing rootstocks, allows the trees to fill their allotted bearing space and become structurally capable of bearing a decent crop by the fourth and fifth year. Although defruting can be achieved manually by removing flower clusters and small fruitlets, several chemical options can make defruting much faster and less labor-intensive. This publication aims to provide information about the rates and application timing of chemical materials apple growers can use to effectively defrut young trees.
Apr 14, 2022 SPES-396NP
Fertilizing Landscape Trees and Shrubs - Basic May 12, 2022 SPES-397P
Rootstock Effects on Tree Growth and Yield of ‘Honeycrisp’ Apple under Virginia State Climatic Conditions May 4, 2022 SPES-398NP
A Spreadsheet-Based Calculator for Lawn Fertilizer and Lime Applications in Virginia Dec 5, 2023 SPES-40P
How to develop a planting plan for vegetables in Virginia: A sample spreadsheet May 11, 2022 SPES-401NP
Bringing Apples to Life: A Story of Perseverance, Collaboration, and Innovation Jun 8, 2022 SPES-405NP
Small Grain Forage Variety Testing, 2022 Jun 24, 2022 SPES-406NP
Against the Grain, Beyond the Grind Jul 7, 2022 SPES-407NP
A Spreadsheet-Based Calculator for Lawn Fertilizer and Lime Applications in Virginia - Workbook Dec 5, 2023 SPES-40A
Small Grains in 2022 Aug 24, 2022 SPES-420NP
2022-23 Virginia Turfgrass Variety Recommendations Aug 17, 2022 SPES-421NP
2022 Virginia On-Farm Wheat Test Plots Aug 23, 2022 SPES-422NP
Arbustos ideales para los paisajes de Virginia (Problem-free Shrubs for Virginia Landscapes) Dec 5, 2022 SPES-429P
Managing Drought with Roy Boldridge Nov 7, 2022 SPES-433NP
Managing Spring Flush with Jim Manwaring Nov 7, 2022 SPES-434NP
Managing Spring Flush with Roy Boldridge Nov 7, 2022 SPES-435NP
Powering Electric Fences with Steve Jones Nov 7, 2022 SPES-436NP
Springwood Farm Profile with Will Hueston Nov 7, 2022 SPES-437
Temporary Electric Fencing for Small Ruminants with Tim Mize Nov 7, 2022 SPES-438NP
“Lost in the Weeds” part 1 Nov 28, 2022 SPES-441NP
“Lost in the Weeds” part 2 Nov 28, 2022 SPES-442NP
“Let the Clips Fall Where they May” Nov 28, 2022 SPES-443NP
"Don't Guess, Do the Test" Nov 28, 2022 SPES-444NP
“Application Without Calibration" Nov 28, 2022 SPES-445NP
"Fungus Among Us" Nov 28, 2022 SPES-446NP
"PPE and Me" Nov 28, 2022 SPES-447NP
"Don't Waste Water" Nov 28, 2022 SPES-448NP
Virginia Corn Hybrid and Management Trials in 2022 Dec 9, 2022 SPES-453NP
Edamame in Virginia I: Products and Marketing Mar 29, 2023 SPES-454NP
Edamame in Virginia II. Producing a High-Quality Product Apr 13, 2023 SPES-455P
Edamame in Virginia III. Handling and Processing from Harvest to Package Apr 14, 2023 SPES-456P
Virginia Corn Silage Hybrid Trials in 2022 Dec 16, 2022 SPES-457NP
2022 Virginia On-Farm Soybean Research Jan 6, 2023 SPES-460NP
Hydroponic Production of Edible Crops: Planning for the Market
According to the 2017 Census of Agriculture, U.S. greenhouse vegetable farms more than doubled from 2012 (USDA 2019). Virginia fell within the top 10 states for acreage of vegetables and berry crops grown under protected culture. Protected culture includes greenhouses and structures like high tunnels. With close to two and a half million square feet devoted mostly to tomatoes, vegetables, herbs, and strawberries, the value of Virginia greenhouse sales in 2017 was over 31 million dollars! A lot of this increase in square footage was due to the addition of large operations coming into Virginia.
Jul 27, 2023 SPES-461NP
Hydroponic Production of Edible Crops: Management Basics Jul 21, 2023 SPES-462NP
Hydroponic Production of Edible Crops: Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) Systems
With the increasing number of controlled environment agriculture farms, Virginia Cooperative Extension is working closely with specialty crop growers to address the challenges of establishing and managing hydroponic greenhouse operations. Growers interested in producing food crops in controlled environments can use several different types of hydroponic systems. One of the most common types of hydroponic systems is called nutrient film technique (NFT).
Jul 24, 2023 SPES-463NP
Hydroponic Production of Edible Crops: Deep Water Culture (DWC) Systems Jul 19, 2023 SPES-464NP
Hydroponic Production of Edible Crops: System and Crop Comparisons
This factsheet is part of a series of seven factsheets targeting beginning farmers growing edible crops using hydroponic greenhouse systems. There are also five videos that are related to the factsheets and included in the numbering sequence.
Jul 26, 2023 SPES-466NP
Hydroponic Production of Edible Crops: Food Safety Considerations Jul 20, 2023 SPES-467NP
Farming Foundations in Hydroponics: Targeting the Marketplace Jul 12, 2023 SPES-468NP
Farming Foundations in Hydroponics: Crop and System Types Jul 12, 2023 SPES-469NP
Farming Foundations in Hydroponics: Planning Your Production Jul 12, 2023 SPES-470NP
Local, Community Focused Hydroponics: Endless Summer Harvest Jul 12, 2023 SPES-471NP
High Tech for Small-Scale Hydroponics: Schuyler Greens Company Jul 12, 2023 SPES-472NP
Specialty Small Grains in 2022 Jan 17, 2023 SPES-473NP
Protective Agriculture Production Series: Plant density recommendations Feb 2, 2023 SPES-474NP
Peanut Variety and Quality Evaluation 2022 I. Agronomic and Grade Data Feb 22, 2023 SPES-475NP
Tree Selection Guide for Mid-Atlantic Silvopastures Feb 2, 2023 SPES-476NP
Virginia On-Farm Corn Test Plots 2022 Jan 27, 2023 SPES-477NP
Virginia Soybean Performance Tests 2022 Feb 13, 2023 SPES-478NP
Virginia Vegetable Specialist Team Mar 31, 2023 SPES-480NP
2022 Cotton Variety Testing and On-Farm Results Mar 15, 2023 SPES-482NP
Vascular Streak Dieback: An Emerging Problem on Woody Ornamentals in the U.S. Feb 28, 2024 SPES-483P (SPES-587P)
Lessons learned from peanut variety testing in 2022 Apr 24, 2023 SPES-485NP
Managing the Spring Pasture Flush May 8, 2023 SPES-486P
Peanut Variety and Quality Evaluation Results 2022 Apr 21, 2023 SPES-499NP
Virginia Cooperative Extension Gardener Handbook Jun 8, 2023 SPES-504NP
Basic melon (Cucumis melo L.) physiology and morphology
Understanding the fundamental aspects of melon physiology and morphology is essential for optimizing its cultivation, improving yield, and enhancing fruit quality. This document provides a concise overview of the key physiological and morphological characteristics of the basic melon plant, highlighting its growth and development processes. The physiological aspects encompass various essential factors that influence melon growth, including photosynthesis, water relations, nutrient uptake and assimilation, and hormone regulation. Melon plants exhibit distinct physiological responses to environmental stimuli such as light, temperature, and water availability, which directly impact their growth, flowering, and fruiting. An understanding of these physiological processes aids in implementing appropriate cultivation practices and management strategies for maximizing melon productivity.
Jun 9, 2023 SPES-507NP
Basic Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) Physiology and Morphology May 31, 2023 SPES-508NP
Apple Blotch Disease
In this publication, we describe apple blotch disease, also known as Marssonina leaf blotch, an emerging apple disease in the Eastern United States. This disease leads to severe apple tree crown defoliation that indirectly affects the apple fruit size, color, yield and twig development. The causal gent of this disease is a fungus Diplocarpon coronariae (also known as Marssonina coronaria).
Jun 14, 2023 SPES-509NP
Converting pastures to native warm season grasses: Filling the summer forage slump in Orange County
A farmer's experience of converting a tall fescue field into native warm season grasses for improved forage production in the summertime.
Aug 11, 2023 SPES-514NP
Aerial imagery to improve disease diagnosis and management in field crops Aug 11, 2023 SPES-515NP
2023-24 Virginia Turfgrass Variety Recommendations Aug 31, 2023 SPES-518NP
Converting pastures to native warm season grasses: Alternative summer forage for cattle in Orange County
A farmer's experience of converting a tall fescue field into native warm season grasses for improved forage production in the summertime.
Sep 7, 2023 SPES-519NP
2023 Potato Variety Evaluation for the Eastern Shore of Virginia
The publication delves into the critical aspects of potato cultivar selection for Eastern Virginia. It highlights the importance of choosing cultivars well-suited to the region's climate and growing conditions. Factors like temperature fluctuations, precipitation patterns, tuber yield and quality are considered when making these selections. The evaluation process encompasses parameters such as yield potential, vegetative characteristics, and quality attributes like Specific Gravity and chip color. Moreover, the publication explores the use of metrics like NDVI and SPAD for assessing plant health. Detailed results for specific cultivars, such as 'Atlantic' and 'Chieftain,' among others, are provided, emphasizing data-driven decisions for optimal potato production in Eastern Virginia.
Oct 18, 2023 SPES-521NP
2022 Potato Industry Status at the Eastern Shore of Virginia
This document provides an overview of the potato industry's status in 2022, including key statistics such as acreage, cultivar selection methods, planting practices, and pest control measures. The challenges faced by potato farmers in the region are also discussed, including issues related to fertilization, labor, pests, and market conditions. Additionally, the document outlines the research priorities identified by potato farmers, focusing on soil analysis, weather data accessibility, and irrigation management. It emphasizes the importance of research and innovation for the sector's future growth. Lastly, the document explores communication preferences among potato farmers, highlighting their preference for email and annual conferences as effective means of information exchange.
Oct 23, 2023 SPES-522NP
2023 Virginia On-Farm Wheat Test Plots
This is the thirtieth year of this ongoing annual project. Further work is planned for the upcoming 2023-2024 growing season. The demonstration and research plot results discussed in this publication are a cooperative effort by eight Virginia Cooperative Extension ANR agents, one retired agent, and the EVAREC superintendent. We are proud to present this year’s on-farm small grain plot work to you. We hope the information in this publication will help farmers produce a profitable crop in 2024.
Oct 13, 2023 SPES-523NP
Aerial multispectral imagery for high-throughput mapping of spatial corn yield potentials.
Drone-based spectral imaging is a nondestructive approach for estimating corn grain yield efficiently prior to harvest. Such spatial estimations if done early in the season could help growers to identify lower performing areas of the field. This will guide them to adopt prompt, precise and cost-effective crop management operations (e.g., irrigation, fertilizer or fungicide applications) in the same season or before/during next cropping season. Pre-harvest yield estimates would help in better planning and allocation of harvest, storage, and sales resources for higher profitability and crop value. This article summarizes a recent exploration on drone-based multispectral imagery to estimate grain yield potential of corn.
Oct 24, 2023 SPES-526NP
Hops in Virginia: Quality Changes During Cone Ripeness
This project studied how the harvest timing affect the aroma quality of Va hops, and shared some ideas using hop to make value-added products.
Nov 1, 2023 SPES-529NP
Planted Hardwood Silvopasture: Producer Perspective from Madison Co. GA Dec 6, 2023 SPES-558NP
Thinned Pine Silvopasture: Producer Perspective from Russell Co. AL. (Early stage conversion) Dec 6, 2023 SPES-559NP
Planted Hardwood Silvopasture: Producer Perspective from Jefferson Co, TN (Establishment system) Dec 6, 2023 SPES-560NP
Thinned Pine Silvopasture: Producer (#1) Perspective from Oglethorpe Co., GA (Beef cattle) Dec 6, 2023 SPES-561NP
Native warm season grass variety trial, 2021-2023
Native warm season grasses may provide valuable forage resources for farmers in the summer months, while also providing habitat for wildlife, among other conservation benefits. This report provides the results of a three-year forage yield variety trial of 20 different cultivars and ecotypes of native warm season grasses at five different locations in Virginia.
Dec 1, 2023 SPES-562NP
Thinned Pine Silvopasture: Producer (#2) Perspective from Oglethorpe Co., GA (Goats) Dec 6, 2023 SPES-564NP
Stone Burier Implement
Demonstration and explanation of operation and use of a stone burier implement for tractor. The tool buries stones in a field and makes raised beds at the same time. Burying stones prevents cultivation and planting equipment from skipping and causing loss of production. The stone burier can also be used to bury cover crops allowing quicker field turnovers.
Feb 26, 2024 SPES-572NP
Demonstrating conversion of tall fescue pastures to native warm season grasses
Native warm season grasses may provide farms with summer forage and improved animal performance, while also providing habitat for wildlife species. This paper describes the conversion process of a tall fescue-based pasture at the Southern Piedmont AREC to native warm season grasses. Subsequent beef cattle performance on this pasture was compared to cattle performance on nearby novel-endophyte tall fescue pastures, indicating the potential for good animal performance in the summer on these grasses.
Jan 4, 2024 SPES-573NP
What to Expect When Getting Your Septic Tank Pumped
This publication will help homeowners understand how, why, and how frequently septic tanks are pumped. The publication covers the basics of how septic systems operate, both in the septic tank and the drainlines. The publication discusses why septic tanks need to be pumped and what is being pumped out of the tank. Information about who to contact regarding having a septic tank pumped is provided. Ways that the homeowner can help facilitate the pumping are included. The publication also provides a discussion of the consequences of not having septic tanks pumped.
Jan 26, 2024 SPES-574NP
Septic Systems: What to Ask When Buying a House
This publication is intended to let house buyers (and realtors) understand what questions they should be asking regarding septic systems when looking for and buying a house. The publication covers the basics of how septic systems operate, both in the septic tank and the drainlines. Questions addressed include: if the house is on the public sewer network or a septic system; what type of system is installed; what regulations must be followed to maintain the system; when the last time the system was pumped or inspected; has there been renovations to the property that would alter the septic system required, and if changes to reflect this have been made; has there been any previous failures with the system, or are there current visible failures to be seen; and does the property have a reserve field.
Jan 4, 2024 SPES-575NP
2023 Virginia On-Farm Soybean Research
These demonstration and research results are a collaborative effort of Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) Agents and Specialists, Virginia producers, and agribusiness. The purpose of this publication is to provide research-based information to aid in the decision-making process for soybean producers in Virginia. It provides an unbiased evaluation of varieties, management practices, and new technologies through on-farm replicated research using producer equipment and time. These experiments enable producers to make better management decisions based on research and provide greater opportunities to improve yields and profits, which improves quality of life for them and their families.
Jan 12, 2024 SPES-577NP
Virginia On-Farm Corn Test Plots 2023
These demonstrations and replicated studies provide information that can be used by Virginia corn growers to make better management decisions on their farm. These results should be used along with data from other replicated studies when making decisions. Refer to individual location results for additional detail.
Feb 14, 2024 SPES-579NP
Control of Common Grassy Weeds in Pastures and Hayfields
This publication reviews options for controlling common grassy weeds in grass forages including chemical and cultural management options. Specific weeds are discussed in detail including johnsongrass, Japanese stiltgrass, broomsedge, and foxtail species.
Jan 17, 2024 SPES-58P (SPES-563P)
What to Know About Septic Systems When Building a House
This publication is intended to give those making initial plans about building a house an idea of what must be considered in regards to their septic system. The publication covers the basics of how septic systems operate, both in the septic tank and the drainlines. It also provides information about soil evaluations, including who can evaluate the soil and reasons that the soil must be evaluated. The publication includes information on how much space both the septic tank and the full septic system will take up. Finally, the publication discusses set-back distances that are required for the septic system, the home and various other features that may be found on the property.
Jan 31, 2024 SPES-580NP
Prohexadione Calcium or Seed Aging?
Peanut is a “cash” commodity for Virginians and most farmers grow this crop for certified seed. Seed quality and germination in particular are, therefore, very important. Even though the 2022 results were inconclusive, potential for prohexadione calcium to reduce germination and increase abnormal seedling production was clearly suggested by these data. The inconclusiveness could have been the result of a combination of factors, other than PC, affecting seed quality during storage. A differential response of the cultivars to both, seed aging and PC, was clearly suggested by our preliminary data. Evidence that PC may affect the seed quality, through seed weight, was also notable from the 2022 tests.
Feb 13, 2024 SPES-581NP
Aerial Spectral Imagery to Determine Wheat Fertility Rate and Timing
An overview of how to use aerial spectral imagery to determine wheat fertility rate and timing.
Feb 22, 2024 SPES-582NP
4 The Soil Feb 14, 2024 SPES-583NP
4 The Soil: A Conversation podcast Feb 14, 2024 SPES-584NP
2023 Cotton Variety Testing and On-Farm Results Mar 13, 2024 SPES-588NP
No-Till Seeding of Forage Grasses and Legumes May 6, 2019 SPES-92P
VCE AG Today: Soybean pest update Feb 13, 2022 VCE-1027-57NP
VCE AG Today: Small Grain Preplant Considerations Feb 11, 2022 VCE-1027-58NP
VCE AG Today: Soybean Variety Selection Tool Feb 10, 2022 VCE-1027-59NP
VCE AG Today: Tips For Starting the Vegetable Season off Right Feb 10, 2022 VCE-1027-62NP
VCE Ag Today: Soil Amendments —Poultry Litter Apr 12, 2021 VCE-1027-29NP
VCE Ag Today: Small Grains Update May 7, 2021 VCE-1027-41NP
VCE Ag Today: Grow Award - Winning Hay May 5, 2021 VCE-1027-47NP
VCE Ag Today: Virginia Pesticide Collection Programs Nov 10, 2021 VCE-1027-52NP
VCE Ag Today: Weed Control in Pastures Nov 10, 2021 VCE-1027-55NP
VCE Ag Today: Post-plant Strawberry Disease Management in Fall and Winter Nov 10, 2021 VCE-1027-56NP
VCE Ag Today: Vineyard Update Apr 12, 2021 VCE-1027-9NP