Plant Health

Researchers uncover strategies to boost zinc in crops

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have discovered new ways to improve zinc-enriched fertilizers, which could increase crop yields and enhance food nutrition worldwide. The study, conducted using the Canadian Light Source (CLS) at the... more »

MSU wins grant for biopesticide to battle invasive pest

Michigan State University (MSU) has received a $325,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture to develop a biopesticide to combat spotted wing drosophila (SWD), a pest harming berry... more »

Dramm hosts USDA deputy secretary, showcases fertilizer expansion

The Dramm Corp. recently hosted USDA deputy secretary Xochitl Torres Small and other USDA officials for a facility tour. The family-owned company is the recipient of a $776,000 USDA Fertilizer Production Expansion Program (FPEP) grant,... more »

Acadian, BASF partner on ag solutions

Acadian Plant Health and BASF Agricultural Solutions are collaborating to develop climate-resilient agricultural products aimed at enhancing crop yield and quality. BASF will integrate Acadian’s biostimulant technology into its existing portfolio to create sustainable farming... more »

MSU scientists awarded over $1M each to study PFAS impact on farms

Two Michigan State University scientists have received grants exceeding $1 million each to investigate the impact of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on agriculture. Hui Li, a professor in MSU’s Department of Plant, Soil and... more »

Oasis Grower Solutions hires new plant scientist

Oasis Grower Solutions, a division of Smithers-Oasis, has appointed Erin Yafuso as plant scientist, effective Oct. 1. In this newly created role, Yafuso will oversee global responsibilities and report directly to Vijay Rapaka, director of... more »

HRI redirects $250K for Phytophthora research

The Horticultural Research Institute (HRI) announced that $250,000 in federal funds have been reallocated to address the growing threat of Phytophthora austrocedri, a pathogen threatening key plant species in the horticulture industry. The funds, provided... more »

Editor’s letter: Growth regulators

The words “growth regulators” are often part of conversations about insects or plants. This month, we discuss both to help growers succeed in production and overcome challenges, too. Controlling plant growth with chemicals is a... more »

New insecticide from Syngenta offers expanded insect control

Mainspring Xtra insecticide from Syngenta is now available for use in greenhouses, nurseries and ornamental landscapes. Mainspring Xtra is powered by two modes of action, featuring the active ingredients cyantraniliprole, which delivers broad-spectrum, residual control of chewing... more »

Plant breeding and pest management considerations for growers

The production of horticultural crops through plant breeding is important so that new plant varieties or cultivars are available to consumers who demand new, improved and easy-to-grow plants. To satisfy demands, breeders evaluate seedlings or... more »