January 12, 2018
Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic: What We Were Up To in 2017
2017 sample type distribution
The PIDC staff processed a total of 2581 samples in 2017. The bulk of our samples originate in the state of Iowa (2556), while 29 samples (~1%) originated from other states in the US, mainly from the Midwest.
Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic: What’s To Come in Spring 2018
We are moving! The PIDC will move to the newly built Advanced Research and Teaching Building (ATRB) here on campus in March, 2018. This new space will allow us increase the quality of service we provide and we are very excited for this change.
Pine Cone Musings
Over the holidays, I bribed my son into collecting pine cones for me. Not only does this activity keep the future entrepreneur busy, but it helps clean up the landscape, and gives me something to use for winter decorations and crafts.
Planting Onions in the Home Garden
Onions are one of the most popular vegetables in the home garden. They are also easy to grow. Onions are grown for green onions or dry (storage) bulbs.
Onions perform best in well-drained, slightly acidic soils. Heavy clay soils can be improved by incorporating organic matter, such as compost, into the soil. Onions also require six or more hours of direct sun each day.
Onions may be grown from seeds, sets, and transplants. The planting method selected is based on cost, use, availability, and ease of planting.
Get a Start on Geraniums for Summer
Geraniums can be grown from cuttings or seeds and they can be overwintered from one year to the next. Learn more about getting geraniums ready for spring planting in the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Yard & Garden news release from January 10, 2018.
Winter Care for Houseplants
Give houseplants special care and attention during winter to keep them healthy, growing and vibrant. Learn about special care for specific houseplants in the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Yard & Garden news release from January 3, 2018.
Food Safety Training Offered for Fruit and Vegetable Growers
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will hold five Produce Safety Alliance trainings during the spring of 2018 to help growers comply with the Food Safety Modernization Act. Training sessions will be held in Indianola, Ottumwa, Cedar Rapids, Sheldon and Mason City. Cost of the training is $20 per farm or organization for Iowa growers and $120 for out of state growers.
Revised Ornamental and Turfgrass Pest Management Certification Manual Available
An updated version of the Iowa Commercial Pesticide Applicator Manual for Ornamental and Turfgrass Pest Management Category 3 OT is available from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. The manual is intended to be used by people preparing to take pesticide certification exams in categories 3T, 3OT, or 3O. More details are available in the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach news release from January 4, 2018.