Jun 3, 2020

New Web-Based Series to Feature Latest Research By Tim Hodson

The Horticultural Research Institute recently introduced a new web-based series featuring key research findings that help horticulture businesses grow.

The series, called tHRIve, features web-based offerings covering research that is directly funded by HRI as well as federally funded research.

The new tHRIve sessions will be posted throughout the year, with all content available online for free at any time at www.HRIresearch.org. The tHRIve sessions will offer everything from bite-sized research clips and researcher interviews to short webinars and live Q&A with researchers.

The first tHRIve content debuted June 1. It includes a set of videos focusing on research being done at Michigan State University, University of Florida, Texas A&M, Clemson University and the University of Maryland. Some of the topics they address include energy inputs, water use optimization, resource efficiencies, economic efficiencies and lighting.

HRI President Gary Knosher said, “HRI was created to improve the horticultural community through research that addresses critical issues and new innovations. HRI trustees recognize that research is critical to help our industry succeed and grow, and sharing new findings is part of that equation.”

You can learn how to become involved in the work supported through HRI, the AmericanHort Foundation, at hriresearch.org.

— Tim

Home Depot, Publix Join Other Retailers to Offer Coronavirus Testing

Earlier this week, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that the Home Depot and Publix grocery stores would be offering the parking lots at several of their store locations to medical professionals and state officials as coronavirus testing sites. According to DeSantis, these new testing sites will be in addition to 77 CVS pharmacies, nine Walgreens, and nine Walmart locations offering the services throughout Florida. The specific testing locations have yet to be determined.

Kroger Offers Free Telenutrition Service to Promote Healthy, Affordable Eating

Kroger Health, the healthcare division of The Kroger Co., recently introduced a free telenutrition service to help Americans shop for, prepare and enjoy healthy fresh and non-perishable foods during the COVID-19 crisis. The free telenutrition service offers a complimentary virtual consultation with a registered dietitian via video chat; personalized support and plans for individuals and families; and management of food-related health concerns, including weight maintenance or loss, eating disorders, nutrition plans and more.

Blain’s Farm & Fleet Providing Free Face Mass to Rewards Members

Blain’s Farm & Fleet has partnered with American Footwear company Keen to supply 10,000 free face masks for Blain’s Rewards Members. Keen has transformed several of its shoe assembly lines into strictly producing face masks during the coronavirus pandemic. Blain’s is offering a maximum of two masks per household to Rewards Members who must show the email address or phone number associated with their account at the customer service desk in order to get the masks.