Fruits/Vegetables: The emergence of plum curculio began in central Alabama almost two weeks ago, but dry soils seem to be affecting emergence as the rate and number of insects is less than normal at this time. Alabama farmers and ranchers continued to experience one of the most severe droughts in the United States this year as another week of scattered rainfall did little to alleviate the persistent dry soil conditions across the state. The portion of the crop that has been planted but has...

As you know, this is a very, very important bill, and I would venture to say, the last chance and the best chance we have to fix a problem which is getting increasingly difficult for all sectors of the economy, and is also posing a real challenge to our social fabric. As you know, this is a very, very important bill, and I would venture to say, the last chance and the best chance we have to fix a problem which is getting increasingly difficult for all sectors of the economy, and is also...

A 2004-05 Independent Crop Consultants survey revealed that consultants who predominately used insecticide treatments instead of an at-plant Temik application sprayed twice as many acres for aphids. With cotton losses from nematodes at an all-time high, growers should consider every management option available to ensure the highest return on investment. Take care not to delay applications, which could result in mechanical damage such as root pruning. Young says Temik side-dress...

Long known for their liberal politics, many Europeans are getting increasingly conservative when it comes to agriculture. Under the change, farmers can also qualify for other subsidies, receiving payments for making environmental improvements to their land or growing more competitive niche crops. But he's ready to rely on the free market and says farmers in the United States shouldn't receive a guaranteed income, either. He said the European Union's agricultural policy has "been stretched...

When the plant feels it needs some moisture, data from the leaves will be sent wirelessly over the Internet to computers linked to irrigation equipment. This should save millions of dollars per year in Colorado only, and it will also be eco-friendly by reducing the amounts of water used for irrigation. Basically, this is a device that will allow plants to talk to humans and communicate their needs, like when to water and apply fertilizer. Less than one-tenth the size of a postage stamp,...