April 13, 2001
Improving Indoor Air Quality with Houseplants
Due to improved construction methods, buildings are better sealed to maximize energy efficiency. Yet, these "sealed" buildings often trap gases from synthetic materials that can pollute the indoor air. These air pollutants can cause problems for inhabitants especially during the winter when people are forced to spend a great deal of time indoors.
Peach Leaf Curl Control
Peach leaf curl is a common disease of peaches in Iowa. The disease is easy to recognize. When infected leaves emerge from buds they appear thickened, puckered, and pinkish-red in color.
Pollination Requirements for Tree and Small Fruits
In the flower, pollination is the transfer of pollen from the anther to the stigma. After pollination and fertilization, fruit set occurs. There are two types of pollination. Self-pollination occurs when the pollen is transferred from the anther to the stigma on the same flower, from another flower on the same plant, or from a flower on another plant of the same variety. Self-pollinated plants are said to be self-fruitful. Many plants cannot produce fruit from their own pollen and are considered self-unfruitful. These plants require cross-pollination for fruit set.