July 28, 1995
Gardening to Reduce Stress
Many of us garden because we want to grow our own fruits and vegetables. An attractive landscape may be the goal of others. Gardening, no matter what kind, can also be therapeutic. For many people gardening relaxes the mind, body and spirit. Actually, it is not "gardening" that's relaxing, but the way that we approach it. If gardening is seen as a chore, it's stressful. If we view it as enjoyable, it can help relieve stress.
Black Rot of Crucifers
Several cabbage samples submitted to the Plant Disease Clinic have been diagnosed with black rot. Black rot is caused by the bacterium, Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris and can attack all types of crucifers (cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, turnip, etc).
Harvesting and Storing Tree Fruit
In order to obtain the highest quality fruit, apples, apricots, pears, and plums must be harvested at the proper stage of maturity. Once harvested, proper storage is necessary to maximize storage life.
Apples. Harvest apples when the fruit are mature. There are several indicators of apple maturity. Mature apples are firm, crisp, juicy, well-colored, and good flavored. Fruit harvested too early are astringent, sour, starchy, and poorly flavored. Apples harvested too late are soft and mealy.
Effect of High Temperatures on Landscape Plants
Recently, we were again reminded of how dangerous high temperatures can be to livestock, pets, and people. But what about our trees and shrubs? Do they also suffer from the heat?