June 8, 2001
Dollar Spot
Dollar spot is a disease of turfgrass caused by the fungus Sclerotinia homoeocarpa. Kentucky bluegrass, annual bluegrass, bentgrass, fescue, perennial ryegrass, and zoysiagrass are some of the grasses affected.
Harvesting Cole Crops
Vegetables must be harvested at the proper stage of maturity in order to obtain the highest quality produce. The harvest and storage recommendations for broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage are listed below.
Broccoli should be harvested when the head is fully developed, but before the small yellow flower buds start to open. At harvest, the terminal head should be tight, blue-green, and approximately 6 to 7 inches in diameter. Several smaller side heads (about 1 to 3 inches across) will develop in the axils of the leaves after the central head is removed.
EPA Responding to Problems with Pesticide Internet Sales
Want to buy some DDT? How about a World War II-era pesticide container? These are some of the things state and federal pesticide regulators have been spotting for sale over the Internet.
Acknowledging that the issue is becoming much more pressing, EPA's Office of Pesticide Programs has launched a work-group effort to address the issues raised by the sale of pesticides over the Internet.
Mosses and Mushrooms in the Lawn
The cool, wet weather this spring has helped produce lush, green lawns across Iowa. This spring's weather has also provided ideal growing conditions for mosses and mushroom (toadstools).
MossesMosses are small, thread-like plants that form mats on the soil surface. They are adapted to a wide range of environmental conditions. Mosses can be found in moist and dry sites, sun or shade, and in acidic and alkaline soils.