Horticultural Sciences

October 11 2007
Worldwide Summit on Fruits, Vegetables Unite Medical, Agricultural Researchers 
HOUSTON -- The number of people across the globe who are underweight has declined to less than 1 billion in the last decade, while the world's overweight population grown to more than 1.1 billion, according to Dr. Thomas Lumpkin, with the World Vegetable Center in Taiwan.

October 10 2007
Worldwide Gathering Set in Houston to Consider Fruit, Vegetables and Human Health 
What: International Symposium on Human Health Effects of Fruit and Vegetables. The goal of the conference is to exchange information between the agricultural, nutrition and health sciences, and to advance the science related to foods for health.

October 03 2007
Rainwater Harvesting Seminar Will Tap into Natural Resource 
FORT WORTH – A day-long conference in Fort Worth will focus on harvesting rainwater for use in landscape, said a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist.

September 04 2007
Flower Power: Leading Horticulturist to Focus on Floriculture Future 
COLLEGE STATION – Anna Ball will address the future of the U.S. floriculture industry Oct. 10 in Room 102 of the Horticulture and Forest Sciences Building at Texas A&M University in College Station.

August 31 2007
Despite Usually Wet July, Some Texas Trees Parched 
OVERTON - - Homeowners across Texas are concerned their landscape trees may be diseased, but "don't panic," said a Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

August 31 2007
Brown County to Host Pecan Tour 
BROWNWOOD – Brown County will host a Texas Cooperative Extension multi-county pecan tour on Sept. 26.

August 24 2007
Fall Gardening Conference to Feature 'Tough Plants' and Antique Daffodils 
TYLER – An upcoming gardening conference will do more than offer speakers about Texas tough plants and antique daffodils.

August 14 2007
Texas A&M Horticulture Students Sprout Honors at National Meeting 
COLLEGE STATION – The Texas A&M University horticulture student club has been "awarded in spades," according to the group's advisor, Dr. Dan Lineberger, horticulture professor.

August 07 2007
Texas A&M Invitational to Tee Off on Sept. 10 
DALLAS -- Texas A&M University alumni are finalizing plans for the 10th annual Texas A&M Invitational golf tournament on Sept. 10.

August 03 2007
International Symposium on Fruit, Vegetables Headed for Houston 
HOUSTON – Fruits and vegetables – tasty and a vital part of daily nutrition. But researchers worldwide continue to seek better ways to use the healthful properties of these foods. Many of these scientists will meet in Houston Oct. 9-13 to share the latest findings.

July 19 2007
Can Artichokes Bring New Heart to Texas Agriculture? 
UVALDE – U.S. Department of Agriculture figures show that California produces almost all of the nation's commercial artichokes. But a team of agricultural researchers is working to change that, said Dr. Daniel Leskovar, a vegetable physiologist with Texas Agricultural Experiment Station.

July 03 2007
Texas Wine Industry Participants Have Plenty to Ponder 
COLLEGE STATION – The domestic demand for wine is so great that Texas could produce twice as many wine grapes as it does – and sell far more wine, said a Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association official.

June 21 2007
Fredericksburg Facility Will Address Top Wine Industry Threat 
FREDERICKSBURG – The newly opened Texas Pierce's Disease Research and Extension Program facility in Fredericksburg may yield solutions for mitigating the single-greatest threat to the Texas wine industry, experts said.

June 05 2007
Hundreds of Flowering Bedding Plants to be Showcased at Upcoming Hort Field Day 
OVERTON – On June 28, nursery growers, greenhouse managers and gardening enthusiasts can view field tests of flowering bedding plant varieties at the annual Overton Horticultural Field Day.

May 30, 2007
MEDIA ADVISORY/New Pierce’s Disease Research Facility Will Open in Fredericksburg June 14   Background: According to the Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association, the Texas wine industry has an economic impact of about $1 billion. There is an estimated 3,700 acres of family-owned vineyard land throughout the state, according to the association. Pierce's disease, caused by a bacterium and transmitted by insect vectors, is the single greatest threat to Texas wine-grape production.

May 25 2007
Pierce’s Disease Program Efforts Important to Texas Wine Industry 
MARBLE FALLS – A collaborative effort between a federal and state agency, several universities, and Texas and California grape producers is addressing the greatest threat to the Texas wine industry.

May 17, 2007
Hall Named Ellison International Floriculture Chairholder at Texas A&M 

COLLEGE STATION – Dr. Charlie Hall has been named holder of the Ellen and Jim Ellison Chair in International Floriculture at Texas A&M University's department of horticultural sciences. Hall, who for the past five years has been professor of agricultural economics at the University of Tennessee, previously was a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist.

April 13, 2007
Two Weslaco Scientists Win Top Honors 
WESLACO - Two agricultural research scientists in Weslaco have received the highest honor their professional peers could bestow upon them. Dr. Gene Lester and Dr. Yin-Tung Wang have been named Fellows by the American Society for Horticultural Science.

April 06, 2007
'PET' Project Could Reduce East Texas Cities' Water Woes 
OVERTON – The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's long range forecast is for below-average precipitation for East Texas in coming months.

April 04, 2007
New Extension Associate to Serve Growing Gulf Coast Wine Industry 
HOUSTON - During the last decade, the Texas wine industry quietly blossomed into the nation's fifth- largest producer of wine grapes, according to Fritz Westover, Gulf Coast regional viticulture extension associate for Texas Cooperative Extension.

March 26, 2007
Make Sure Your Citrus Tree is Certified 
WESLACO – If your landscaping plans include planting a citrus tree this spring, experts say to make sure it's certified to be disease-free. Not only will you have a healthier tree, you'll help the Texas citrus industry stay healthy, and it's the law.

March 09, 2007
Dallas Researchers to Explore Potential 'Green Roof' Technology 
DALLAS - North Texas researchers plan to determine whether a spongy material designed to contain jet fuel can be used as bedding for roof-top gardens.

March 06, 2007
Texas Citrus Survey Seeks Exotic Pests, Diseases 
WESLACO – For the past year, citrus researchers have fanned out across Texas looking for the proverbial needle in a haystack. They say that after much success, they're preparing to do it again to look for even more "needles."

March 02, 2007
Old is New Again in the Recently Named ‘EarthKind Rose of the Year’ 
DALLAS – When it comes to tough roses, "tried and true" can be better than "brand-spanking new." This year's EarthKind Rose of the Year is a case in point.

February 28, 2007
Master Gardeners Bring Passion for Plants to East Austin 
AUSTIN – Texas Cooperative Extension and the Travis County Master Gardeners will sponsor "A Passion for Plants" garden fair in East Austin.

February 22, 2007
Issues, Opportunities Outlined for 2007 Nursery Plant Industry 
COLLEGE STATION – Labor and environmental issues are among the greatest concerns for plant nursery operators, but niche marketing and alliances offer opportunities that could help businesses survive.

February 22, 2007
Live Oaks are a Texas Landscape Mainstay 
SAN ANGELO – The pecan may be the state tree of Texas, but if there's a runner-up, it's probably the live oak.

February 19, 2007
East Texas Spring Landscape and Garden Conference Draws 350 
TYLER – "The best one yet," said one of the nearly 350 attendees at the 2007 East Texas Spring Landscape and Garden Conference. The event was held Feb 10 in Tyler.

February 19, 2007
Rose Survived Katrina, Lends Cuttings to Restore Ravished Gardens 
NEW ORLEANS – This is the story of a rose. A nameless rose. A rose that had no thorns, not one.

February 01, 2007
Texas Nurseryman To Discuss Emerging Issues, Opportunities in the Green Industry 
COLLEGE STATION – Jim Prewitt of Coppell, Landmark Nurseries Inc. owner, will talk about issues facing the industry and project future trends Feb. 21 at Texas A&M University.

January 29, 2007
Extension Expands Statewide Viticulture Team 
LUBBOCK – Texas Cooperative Extension continues to expand its statewide viticulture program with the addition of four regional viticulture associates.

January 26, 2007
Horticultural Society Reaches Out to Students, Other Disciplines 
WESLACO - For the first time in its 61-year history, the annual meeting of the Rio Grande Valley Horticultural Society will be held outside Weslaco. Organizers say the event will be held Jan. 30 at the University of Texas-Pan American campus in Edinburg in an attempt to include more students and broaden its professional scope.

January 26, 2007
Texas Experience Pavilion Designed to Provide Enjoyable Experience for Whole Family 
SAN ANTONIO – For the third time, Texas Cooperative Extension for Bexar County and the Texas Department of Agriculture will co-present the Texas Experience pavilion at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo. The 20,000-square-foot pavilion is located near Freeman Coliseum on the west side of the event grounds.

January 24, 2007
Texas Cooperative Extension Offers Floral Design Workshop on Feb. 3 
SAN ANGELO – "From the Garden to the Table" floral design workshop will be presented from 10 a.m. to noon Feb. 3 at the Texas A&M University System Research and Extension Center at San Angelo. Texas Cooperative Extension will host the event.

January 19, 2007
Cold Weather Helping Valley Ag Producers 
WESLACO -- The recent cold blast responsible for so much chaos throughout the state may have helped agricultural producers in the Lower Rio Grande Valley.

January 18, 2007
East Texas Turfgrass Conference Set Feb. 1 
OVERTON – The average householder may overwater his or her lawn and landscape by 100 percent, said a Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

January 18, 2007
Cold Can Burn Landscape Plants 
SAN ANGELO – Ice and cold have gripped much of the state for several days, leaving many Texans to wonder about what's to become of their frozen landscapes.

January 11, 2007
Upcoming Spring Garden to Focus on Drought Challenges to Landscaping 
TYLER – Drought-stressed shade trees, water-challenged azaleas, rainwater harvesting – all these topics and more will be addressed at an upcoming conference in Tyler on Feb. 10.

January 05, 2007
South Texas Gardening Class Starts Jan. 13 
WESLACO -- Texas Cooperative Extension and the Deep South Texas Master Gardeners will be conducting one of the Lower Rio Grande Valley's most popular gardening classes beginning later this month in McAllen.

December 27, 2006
Workshop to Help Homeowners Create Oasis 
HOUSTON – Volunteers with Texas Cooperative Extension in Harris County will present a gardening workshop 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Feb. 27 in the Extension auditorium, 3033 Bear Creek Drive.

December 21, 2006
February Short Course Focuses on Texas Viticulture 
LUBBOCK – Anyone interested in commercial wine-grape production and vineyard management should make plans to attend the Texas viticulture short course. Texas Cooperative Extension and Texas Tech University's Division of Outreach and Distance Education will present the course Feb. 7-9, 2007 at Baron's Creek Conference Center in Fredericksburg.

December 18, 2006
2007 Master Gardener Class Set in Lubbock County 
LUBBOCK – Is your green thumb itching for the garden? Would you like to learn more about gardening, fruit and nut trees, water conservation and water gardening?

December 11, 2006
Cooler Weather Helps Texas Citrus Trees 
WESALCO – The arrival of cooler temperatures in the Lower Rio Grande Valley is a plus for the area's citrus industry, although harvest has gotten off to a slow start this year, said a Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

December 05, 2006
MEDIA ADVISORY: Extension to Offer Landscapers Pest Management Training 
HOUSTON — Texas Cooperative Extension's agriculture program in Harris County will offer the "Pest Management for Landscapers" workshop twice during December. Topics will focus on pest management for landscape contractors. After completion, participants will be eligible for five continuing education units applicable to licenses under the Texas Department of Agriculture and Structural Pest Control Board. Each session will be $25 for advance registration and $30 at the door. Pre-registration is recommended because these classes fill quickly. Contact Diana Todd, 281-855-5600,DGTodd@ag.tamu.edu

December 04, 2006
Retired Physician Thrives on Master Gardener Program 
WESLACO – When Harlingen physician Dr. Bob Hatcher was contemplating retirement and ways to fill his newfound leisure time, he came across Texas Cooperative Extension's Master Gardener program in the Lower Rio Grande Valley.

December 01, 2006
Onion, Garlic Topics for Seasoned Researchers 
COLLEGE STATION – Onion and garlic scientists from around the nation will convene Dec. 7-8 to rehash the year's research on these popular food crops.

November 29, 2006
2007 High Plains Vegetable Conference Slated for Jan. 25 
LUBBOCK – Vegetable growers, processors and gardeners can renew their production and marketing skills at the fifth annual High Plains Vegetable Conference in Canyon.

October 31, 2006
Citrus Insects Causing Fruit Drop Near South Padre Island 
WESLACO – Growers and homeowners with citrus trees are urged to be on the lookout for fruit drop caused by an insect with a sweet tooth that tends to gang up on a tree, a citrus expert said.

October 13, 2006
Colombian Floral Industry Executive: Americans, Please Buy More Flowers 
COLLEGE STATION – U.S. Consumers buy about 60 percent of all the flowers produced in Colombia, but a floral industry executive from that country this week pleaded, "Please buy more."

October 10, 2006
Colombian Flower Expert to Keynote Distinguished Floriculture Lecture 
COLLEGE STATION – The Colombian flower industry will be discussed Wednesday by Ernesto Velez Koppel in the Horticulture and Forest Sciences Building at Texas A&M University.

October 10, 2006
Respecting Predecessors, Teaching Students: Young Researcher Rejuvenates Old Lab Equipment 
COLLEGE STATION – Dr. Luis Cisneros had too many things to think about when he became assistant professor of food science at Texas A&M University. There were new projects to start, students to teach, a lab to run and a dossier to prepare for promotion.

October 06, 2006
New 'Dwarf' Winter Turf Grass Released 
OVERTON – The Texas Agricultural Experiment Station has released a new turf grass for winter lawns that promises to be "dwarfier" and with a darker green color than previous releases.

October 05, 2006
Galaxy Gardening More Than Hobby for Future Moon, Mars Residents 
COLLEGE STATION – Long periods of total darkness and poor soil needn't stop an avid gardener – at least not one who's willing to go out of this world to grow plants.

October 04, 2006
Vegetables, Like People, Urged to Live Up to Potential 
COLLEGE STATION – Carrots may be underachievers. Healthy and good for one's eyes, yes, but they could be so much more, researchers say.

October 03, 2006
Science of Healthy Foods Subject of Grant Aimed at University Students 
COLLEGE STATION – They've no doubt been told about healthful eating, but college students at three major universities now will get hands-on training to help them spread the word. A $500,000 U.S. Department of Agriculture grant will enable researchers at Texas A&M University, Iowa State University and Ohio University to develop a multi-discipline approach to undergraduate education on foods for health.

September 29, 2006
Sterling/Coke Counties set Landscape School 
ROBERT LEE – Texas Cooperative Extension in Sterling and Coke counties will conduct a basic landscape school in two consecutive locations on Oct. 11-12.

September 29, 2006
Experts Say E.Coli Concerns Will Not Affect Texas Spinach Industry 
UVALDE – Recent concerns about E. coli will not affect Wintergarden producers' plans for planting spinach in upcoming weeks, said a Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

September 29, 2006
Landscape Workshop for Professionals to Present ‘Water Smart’ Methods 
HOUSTON - The manicured landscapes that typify urban neighborhoods account for as much as 60 percent of urban water usage, according to Chris LaChance, project coordinator for the Watersmart Landscape Program of Texas Cooperative Extension and Sea Grant Program.

September 15, 2006
Texas Spinach Producers Working to Keep Product Safe from E. Coli 
UVALDE – Texas growers have begun producing more baby leaf spinach and have measures in place to ensure its quality and consumer safety, said an industry expert.

September 08, 2006
Xeriscape Class Offers Drought Relief 
WESLACO – Lower Rio Grande Valley homeowners tired of drought-wilted plants and high water bills have the opportunity to learn Xeriscaping from an expert in the field.

August 24, 2006
Texas A&M Invitational Set for Sept. 11 
DALLAS -- Texas A&M University alumni are finalizing plans for the ninth annual Texas A&M Invitational on Sept. 11 at Brookhaven Country Club.

August 24, 2006
Texas Mungbeans Have Sprout Potential 
LUBBOCK – Can Texas producers step up to the plate and grow a better mungbean, and hence a better sprout? J Pao & Company Limited, a British Oriental food firm, certainly hopes so.

August 23, 2006
Texas Horticulture Students Win Science Honors at National Meeting 
NEW ORLEANS – Two Texas A&M University horticulture students recently won top awards for scientific papers at the American Society for Horticultural Science annual meeting in New Orleans.

August 23, 2006
Drought Destroying Many South Central Texas Lawns and Gardens 
SAN ANTONIO – In addition to its impact on agriculture, the extended drought has caused serious problems with lawns and landscapes in South Central Texas and beyond, said a Texas Cooperative Extension expert in San Antonio.

August 08, 2006
Children’s Garden, Nature Books Receive National Award 
COLLEGE STATION – Five children's books have been selected for the Growing Good Kids Book Award, according to Randy Seagraves, Texas Cooperative Extension's Junior Master Gardener spokesperson.

August 07, 2006
Colombian Flower Industry Theme of Distinguished Lecture 
COLLEGE STATION – Ernesto Velez Koppel of Colombia will lecture on his country's flower industry Oct. 11 at Texas A&M University.

July 31, 2006
Texas Produce Convention Starts Aug. 10 in San Antonio 
WESLACO – Those attending this year's Texas Produce Convention in San Antonio will discuss issues important to most businesses: rising fuel costs, immigration reform and marketing to growing ethnic populations.

July 27, 2006
Texas A&M Horticulturists Win at National Meeting 
NEW ORLEANS – Two Texas A&M University horticulture students and the head of their department received high honors at the American Society for Horticultural Science annual meeting in New Orleans.

July 13, 2006
Summertime Can Mean Blues for Lawns and Gardens 
AUSTIN – The old song goes "It's summertime and the livin' is easy," but that usually isn't the case for those tending lawns and gardens, said Texas Cooperative Extension experts in Travis County.

June 30, 2006
Hort Field Day Big Hit with Professional, Amateur Gardeners 
OVERTON – "Oh look! Begonias in full sun," said Eileen Bartlett, a Wood County Master Gardener.

June 30, 2006
Hort Field Day Big Hit with Professional, Amateur Gardeners 
OVERTON – "Oh look! Begonias in full sun," said Eileen Bartlett, a Wood County Master Gardener.

June 22, 2006
South Texas Citrus Experts Supportive of Florida Citrus Quarantine 
WESLACO – Better safe than sorry: That's how Lower Rio Grande Valley citrus experts reacted to last week's quarantine of Florida citrus.

June 19, 2006
South Texas Citrus Experts Supportive of Florida Citrus Quarantine 
WESLACO – Better safe than sorry: That's how Lower Rio Grande Valley citrus experts reacted to last week's quarantine of Florida citrus.

June 05, 2006
Orange, Grapefruit Juice for Breakfast Builds Bones in Rats 
COLLEGE STATION – It may sound like Saturday cartoons: a strong-boned rat that can't be broken. But a couple of Texas researchers say the real hero is citrus juice.

June 05, 2006
Texas Maroon Carrot, 1015 Onion Breeder May Retire But Doesn’t Plan to Veg Out 
COLLEGE STATION – In late May 1958, Ish Stivers pulled his car up to the Pike home near rural Hot Springs, Ark. The high school agriculture teacher loaded his newly graduated student, Leonard Pike, and drove him to Southern State College in Magnolia.

May 26, 2006
MEDIA ADVISORY: Fruits, Vegetables Highlight Medical, Agricultural Research Meet 
What: Medical, nutrition and agriculture researchers will convene for "Partnering for a Healthy Tomorrow," a conference for sharing information to benefit studies on preventing or curing human diseases.

May 19, 2006
Annual Overton Horticulture Field Day Serves $250 million Industry 
OVERTON – On June 27, East Texas nursery growers, greenhouse managers and gardening enthusiasts can view field tests of more than 600 ornamental plant varieties at the annual Overton Horticultural Field Day

May 18, 2006
Healthy Fruits, Vegetables Highlight Joint Medical, Agricultural Research Meet in Texas 
COLLEGE STATION – Nutritionists, medical researchers and agricultural scientists will convene here June 6 for "Partnering for a Healthy Tomorrow," a conference for researchers who collaborate on studies aimed at preventing or curing human disease.

May 09, 2006
Teachers Invited to Summer Master Gardener Training 
WESLACO – Space should not be a problem this year in South Texas as Texas Cooperative Extension holds its summer Master Gardener and Junior Master Gardener training for school teachers June 5-10.

April 28, 2006
Turfgrass Specialists Offer Tips for Dealing with Drought Damaged Lawns 
DALLAS – ‘Tis the season for planting, fertilizing and watering lawns to get them as lush and green as possible, said Dr. Jim McAfee, an Extension turfgrass specialist.

April 27, 2006
Treat St. Augustine Lawns for Take-all Root Rot Now or Wait Until Fall 
OVERTON - Take-all root rot – a disease affecting St. Augustine lawns in particular – can be controlled, though it's an expensive proposition, said an expert with Texas Cooperative Extension.

April 27, 2006
Free Grow Green Guide Gives Gardeners the Goods on Weeds 
AUSTIN - There's a new gardening guide in town, and it's sprouting with information on weeds, said a Texas Cooperative Extension horticulturist.

April 11, 2006
Maturing U.S. Floriculture Industry Seeks Innovation to Avoid Going 'Out to Pasture' 
COLLEGE STATION - The multi-billion-dollar U.S. floriculture industry is maturing, and suppliers will have to be creative to retain a youthful growth pattern, according to Dr. Charles Hall, University of Tennessee Extension agricultural economist.

April 05, 2006
Weslaco High School Garden Project Wins State Award 
WESLACO - A successful gardening project at Weslaco High School has earned students and their teacher the 2006 Texas Environmental Excellence Award in the youth division.

March 30, 2006
Two New Texas Superstars Named for 2006 
DALLAS - Duranta and a variety of salvia named Henry Duelberg have been awarded Texas Superstar designations by Texas Cooperative Extension.

March 27, 2006
Rio Grande Valley’s Horticulture Journal Now Online 
WESLACO – Want to know the type of damage silverleaf whiteflies inflict on South Texas cantaloupes? How about the effects of citrus triztesa virus on Mexican limes? They may not be the hottest topics of discussion at the local Starbucks, but for those interested in such horticultural matters, getting that type information just got easier.

March 24, 2006
Two New EarthKind Roses Named along with 2006 EarthKind Rose of the Year 
DALLAS – Two well-known rose cultivars have earned the EarthKind Rose designation and a third has been named "EarthKind Rose of the Year for 2006." Horticulturists describe all three as easy to grow, great for creating focal points in the landscape and excellent choices for new rose gardeners. They also bloom throughout the spring, summer and fall.

March 20, 2006
Third Annual EarthKind Rose and Texas Superstar Plant Sale Slated for April 29 
DALLAS -- EarthKind roses, Texas Superstar plants and North Texas Winner's Circle Plants, along with other native and well-adapted plants for North Texas, such as crape myrtles, will go on sale April 29 at the Texas A&M University System Research and Extension Center at Dallas.

March 16, 2006
Nation’s Floriculture Industry Subject of Inaugural Lecture at Texas A&M 
COLLEGE STATION – Dr. Charles Hall, professor of agricultural economics at the University of Tennessee, will present the inaugural speech for the International Floriculture Distinguished Lecture Series here.

March 15, 2006
WANTED: Nursery, Landscape Grads to Grow Business 
COLLEGE STATION – Jack Weatherford remembers when, as a college student, he applied for a summer job at a plant nursery. The company's president interrupted the interview when a shipment arrived because it needed to be unloaded quickly.

March 13, 2006
Students Plant Seed of Encouragement for Horticulture Professor 
COLLEGE STATIONS – Challenges from his students through the years provided Dr. Mike Arnold a golden lesson.

March 06, 2006
EarthKind Roses Featured at Dallas Home and Garden Show 
DALLAS -- EarthKind roses were a star attraction at the 27th annual Dallas Home and Garden show. The rose's benefits were touted by Master Gardeners and city officials who have incorporated them into public outdoor areas.

March 02, 2006
Drought Bringing Texas-size Thirst to Trees, Plants, Turf Statewide 
SAN ANTONIO – While much of the focus on the statewide drought has been about its effect on crops and livestock, its impact on trees, plants and turf grass should not be overlooked, said a Texas Cooperative Extension horticulture expert.

February 24, 2006
Don’t Sing the Blues for Texas Bluebonnets Just Yet 
DALLAS – "This year's spring wildflower season is shaping up to be pretty dismal," said Dr. Wayne Mackay, a horticulturist with the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station in Dallas.

February 20, 2006
Top English Herbalist to Highlight 2006 Herb Extravaganza 
WESLACO – After a four-year hiatus, the Cameron County Master Gardeners Association will be holding the 2006 Herb Extravaganza on Feb. 25 at the South Padre Island Convention Centre.

February 16, 2006
Honors Grow for Texas A&M Horticulture Students at Southern Competition 
COLLEGE STATION – The Texas A&M University Horticulture Club team placed first at the Southern Region American Society for Horticultural Science, according to Dr. Dan Lineberger, horticulture professor and club advisor.

February 15, 2006
Riley Lecture to Focus on Promoting Peace and Stabilizing Governments with Agriculture 
COLLEGE STATION - The inaugural Riley Memorial Lecture Series and Norman E. Borlaug Colloquium will be March 2-3 at the Annenberg Presidential Conference Center of the Bush Library Complex. It will be hosted by the Texas A&M University Office of International Agriculture and the Charles Valentine Riley Memorial Foundation with support from the National Agricultural Library.

February 10, 2006
MEDIA ADVISORY: Dr. Norman Borlaug to Receive Medal at White House Ceremony 
WHO: Dr. Norman Borlaug, 1970 Nobel Peace Prize recipient.

February 07, 2006
Master Gardener Class Taking Applications in Rio Grande Valley 
WESLACO – This year's window of opportunity to become a certified Master Gardener in the Lower Rio Grande Valley is quickly closing.

February 02, 2006
Organic Crops Require Extra Work for Extra Payoff 
CANYON – Growing organic is much more than not using chemicals to control weeds, several producers said recently at the annual High Plains Vegetable Conference here.

January 30, 2006
Winter Texans Scout for Diseased Citrus Trees 
WESLACO – A small army of Winter Texans has been deployed in the Lower Rio Grande Valley to watch for a possible invasion by a devastating citrus disease.

January 23, 2006
Rio Grande Valley Citrus Leader Wins Potts Award 
WESLACO – Longtime citrus educator Dr. Julian W. Sauls received the prestigious Arthur T. Potts Award at the recent 60th annual meeting of the Lower Rio Grande Valley Horticultural Society.

January 17, 2006
Valley Meetings to Address Pressing Agriculture Issues 
WESLACO – The Lower Rio Grande Valley's new agricultural year kicks off with two traditional gatherings here. Both will focus on a variety of issues facing the industry.

January 13, 2006
HOUSTON: Extension Horticulture Program Offers Free Monthly Gardening Lectures 
HOUSTON — Texas Cooperative Extension's horticulture program in Harris County will offer a series of free lectures on home gardening each month this year. The series will be offered in conjunction with Extension's Master Gardener Association through the "Green Thumb Gardening Series."

January 12, 2006
‘Green Thumb or Brown Thumb,’ This Conference is for You 
TYLER – Whatever your level of gardening expertise, the upcoming East Texas Spring Landscape and Garden Conference has something for you, said a Texas Cooperative Extension agent.

January 06, 2006
Bexar County ‘Transplant’ Becomes Extension Horticulture Agent 
SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio native David Rodriguez has been hired as horticulture agent at Texas Cooperative Extension in Bexar County. He began Jan. 2.

December 13, 2005
Anyway You Slice It, Tomatoes Cut Through Drought with New Gene 
COLLEGE STATION – New tomato research has its roots in yielding more food to feed more people, according to Dr. Kendal Hirschi about results announced today.

December 02, 2005
Gould Named Director of Weslaco Center 
WESLACO – Dr. Michael Gould has been appointed the new director of the Texas A&M University System Agricultural Research and Extension Center at Weslaco.

December 02, 2005
Addison Sets an EarthKind Example 
DALLAS - The Dallas suburb of Addison encompasses only 4.5 square miles and has only 14,000 residents, but it still manages to stand out from other cities. It has long been known for having the third-largest general aviation airport in the country. In August, Addison gained fame as the first citywide wireless city in Texas.

December 02, 2005
Sam Rayburn High School Students Enjoy Ecology Center 
PASADENA, Texas —In the heart of Pasadena's Sam Rayburn High School is a botanical oasis, formerly known as the atrium. Just a little more than a year ago, it was a series concrete sidewalks and dried dirt that served as a pass -through from one side of campus to the other.

December 01, 2005
Texas Viticulture Short Course Slated for Jan. 18-20 
LUBBOCK – Those interested in commercial wine-grape production and vineyard management should make plans now to attend a Texas viticulture short course. The course, presented by Texas Cooperative Extension and Texas Tech University's Extended Studies, is set for Jan. 18-20, 2006, at the Texas Tech University Center in Junction.

November 29, 2005
Texas Cooperative Extension Offers Continuing Education Course 
SAN ANGELO – Private pesticide users can earn five continuing education units at a right-of-way-management course scheduled to be held here Dec.6.

November 28, 2005
High Plains Vegetable Conference Slated for Jan. 24 in Canyon 
LUBBOCK – Vegetable growers, processors, market gardeners and master gardeners can renew production and marketing skills at the annual High Plains Vegetable Conference in Canyon. The conference on Jan. 24 will feature information on organics, crop rotations, fruit trees, sustainable vegetable production, and insect, disease and weed control.

November 23, 2005
Gift that Grows: ‘Literature in the Garden' Perfect for Reading, Science Teachers 
COLLEGE STATION – Skip the apple trinkets this year, if buying a gift for your favorite teacher. Go instead for earth clocks, cracked teacups and bent cake pans, to name a few.

November 21, 2005
Patil Receives India’s Karnataka State Rajyotsava Award 
COLLEGE STATION – Dr. Bhimangouda S. Patil has received the Karnataka State Rajyotsava Award for "outstanding contributions to the state and country." He is director of Texas A&M University's Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center.

November 08, 2005
Program Helps Growers Control Ornamental Plant 'Scourge' 
OVERTON – For the last two years, Dr. Scott Ludwig has been practicing war against some of the hardest-to-kill members of the insect world: scale insects.

October 27, 2005
Grapevine Dedicates EarthKind Rose Trial Garden 
DALLAS – When Grapevine residents drive down the newly completed Dove Loop Road they pass by a rose garden in full fall bloom. At nearly 800 feet alongside the road, the garden features 60 rose bushes.

October 14, 2005
East Texas Greenhouse/Nursery Conference to Discuss Hurricanes' Effect on Industry 
TYLER – It sounds harsh, but from a nationwide perspective, hurricanes Katrina and Rita might have been good for the greenhouse and nursery industry, said a University of Tennessee Extension agricultural economist.

October 06, 2005
New Web Site Fertile Ground for Horticultural Help 
AUSTIN – Now gardeners, landscapers, weekend lawn warriors and commercial horticulturists no longer need to spend hours rooting around the Internet for information.

October 05, 2005
EarthKind Rose Brigade Issues Call for New Recruits 
DALLAS – If you love roses, but don't love all of the spraying and pruning that goes along with growing them, participating in a Texas A&M University rose research project may be just the thing for you. The EarthKind Rose Brigade is issuing a call for new recruits to assist with testing roses for possible designation as EarthKind.

September 15, 2005
Habitat Landscaping Classes Offered 
EDINBURG - If you've ever dreamed of turning part of your property into a special paradise for birds and butterflies, here's an opportunity to learn how to do it yourself.

August 22, 2005
Urban Plant Detectives Seeking to Solve Mysteries 
DALLAS - Dr. Kevin Ong, Texas Cooperative Extension plant pathologist, has a passion for plants, especially sick ones. His mission is to identify what makes them sick and develop treatments to not only make them well, but prevent them from getting sick in the first place.

August 15, 2005
Annual Texas A&M Invitational Slated for Sept. 12 
DALLAS - Texas A&M University alumni are finalizing plans for the eighth annual Texas A&M Invitational here on Sept. 12, with promises this year's golf tournament will be the biggest and best yet. Tournament proceeds, which go to the Texas A&M Foundation, are earmarked for turfgrass research and scholarships.

August 12, 2005
Pike’s Career Applauded with Texas Vegetable Association President's Award 
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND – Dr. Leonard Pike was honored today with the President's Award from the Texas Vegetable Association.

August 05, 2005
Veg Out to Live Longer? International Meet Links Doctors, Horticulturists to Judge 
QUEBEC CITY – Doctors say it's true. Farmers want it to be. Scientists are finding it is.

August 04, 2005
Ways to Grow Good Kids Sprout from Children’s Literature 
COLLEGE STATION – Long before Jack cast some bean seeds and scaled the resulting stalk into the heavens, children's books have sprouted imagination while planting positive thoughts.

August 02, 2005
Relationship Between Lawns, Allergies and Asthma Studied 
DALLAS – "Have you ever driven down the road and seen someone mowing the lawn wearing a mask? This is an example of the relationship between allergies and mold spores in lawns." Dr. Phil Colbaugh, research plant pathologist at the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station in Dallas, cites a common image seen in Texas throughout the warm weather months.

July 29, 2005
Central American Trade Agreement Impact Small, But Has Potential 
COLLEGE STATION – The Central American Free Trade Agreement will mean an immediate boost – albeit small – to some U.S. agricultural commodities, said an expert with Texas Cooperative Extension.

July 29, 2005
Nutrition Marketing, Technology Key to Pecan Industry Growth 
UVALDE – Health-conscious consumers and advances in technology have put the Texas pecan industry in an enviable position, according to Texas Cooperative Extension experts.

July 28, 2005
Dallas Arboretum/Texas A&M Partnership Unique 
DALLAS – Not everyone knows that the Dallas Arboretum is more than just a pretty place to visit. It's also a hardworking testing site that serves Texas' multi-million dollar nursery and bedding plant industry.

July 22, 2005
Nursery/Greenhouse Startup a Risky, but Possibly Profitable Business 
OVERTON – So you say you want to get started in the greenhouse and nursery business?

July 22, 2005
Emily Mostly Beneficial for South Texas Agriculture 
WESLACO – Hurricane Emily's sideswipe appears to have been beneficial for South Texas agriculture. With landfall 75 miles south of Brownsville, the storm brought little more than badly needed rainfall to the area.

July 15, 2005
City of Addison/Texas A&M Partner on Rose Trials 
ADDISON - The term "Earthkind" holds special meaning in the North Texas town of Addison. The town is a partner with the Texas A&M Research and Extension Center in Dallas on two rose trial gardens aimed at determining which roses are best suited for Texas landscapes. The project will soon become a nationwide study.

July 07, 2005
Grafting May Help Battle Melon Vine Decline 
WESLACO – Vine decline has impacted South Texas melon crops for years. This disease strikes late in the growing season, at a time when most farmers are contemplating harvest. But just as the cantaloupes begin to ripen, plants and profits wither and die.

July 07, 2005
High Plains Vegetable Field Day and Farm Tour set for July 28 
LUBBOCK – Those interested in vegetable production should mark July 28 on their calendars. That's the date for the third annual High Plains Vegetable Field Day and Farm Tour at the Texas A&M University System Agricultural Research and Extension Center here.

June 28, 2005
Crape Myrtle Conference: a Blooming Boon for Texas 
McKINNEY -- Crape myrtle experts from around the country shared their knowledge recently with growers, landscapers and the general public at the 2005 Crape Myrtle Conference.

June 13, 2005
National Crape Myrtle Conference Set June 25 
DALLAS – Experts from around the nation will be gathering in McKinney on June 25 for a national Crape Myrtle Conference.

May 27, 2005
Annual Overton Horticulture Field Day Largest One Yet 
OVERTON – On June 28, East Texas nursery growers, greenhouse managers, East Texas gardening enthusiasts and homeowners will have the chance to see in-field tests of hundreds of ornamental plant varieties here.

May 20, 2005
Scientist Pleased by Growing Orchid Sales 
WESLACO – Like a best-selling author who chuckles at old rejection slips, Dr. Yin-Tung Wang recalls rejection letters he received from the nursery industry 13 years ago when he proposed researching potted orchids.

May 16, 2005
Technology Can Simplify Grape Irrigation 
LUBBOCK – How much water is enough for my grapes? That's a common question posed to Dr. Ed Hellman, Texas Cooperative Extension viticulture specialist based at Lubbock.

May 13, 2005
Teachers Offered Summer Gardening Classes 
WESLACO – Teachers who mix gardening with their lesson plans tell success stories that sound too good to be true. But Barbara Storz, who teaches teachers how to use gardens to motivate students, believes every story because she sees them first-hand.

April 19, 2005
EarthKind Rose Symposium Set May 21 in Amarillo 
AMARILLO - A rose may be a rose by any other name, but if the name happens to be EarthKind, it's not just any ol' rose.

April 08, 2005
Growers Anxious For New Weapon Against Pesky Citrus Pest 
WESLACO – The citrus rust mite is so small that it can't be seen by the naked eye. But for Rio Grande Valley citrus growers, the tiny critter is a savage monster that gobbles up untold millions in lost profits.

April 04, 2005
Beloved Texas Wildflowers Topic of April 12 Garden Lecture at Texas A&M 
COLLEGE STATION – Texas wildflowers will be discussed by Stephen Brueggerhoff April 12 at the Texas A&M University Horticultural Garden. Brueggerhoff, a Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center representative, says the plants are "one of our state's most loved and valued natural resources."

March 29, 2005
Homeowners Left Vulnerable to Leafcutter Ant Excavations 
DALLAS – And you thought fire ants were bad. Fireants are cruel pests, but at least they can be controlled and don't pose a risk to your home.

March 28, 2005
Carrots of Color: Pallette of Phytochemicals Provided Through Texas Research 
COLLEGE STATION – In the late 1980s, Dr. Leonard Pike stood at a roadside vegetable market in Russia and watched a produce man chop, chop, chop much like a butcher slicing deli meat. When he was finished, the thin, yellow medallions under his knife were gathered up like poker chips, weighed in a bag, and handed to the customer.

March 28, 2005
Turf Management and Irrigation Monitoring Seminar Planned for April 12 
AMARILLO -- A turfgrass management workshop will be held for sports field and turf maintenance personnel on April 12.

March 21, 2005
April 12 San Antonio Turfgrass Seminar Will Give Lowdown on Lawn Care 
SAN ANTONIO – Now that spring has sprung, can the smell of freshly mowed lawns be far behind? Maybe not. Each year, disease, lawn stress and other problems keep many Bexar County residents from having the plush, green lawns they desire.

March 17, 2005
East Texas Gardening Extravaganza Set April 2 
LUFKIN – There are as many varieties of gardeners as there are petunias: perfectionists, casual, retired and, yes, even lazy ones, said Cary Sims, Texas Cooperative Extension agent in Angelina County.

March 17, 2005
How Much Water Do Xeriscape Plants Really Need? 
UVALDE – Most Texans have heard of the water-saving benefits of xeriscape landscaping, the practice of using plants adapted to a specific area.

March 16, 2005
Volunteers Use Plants and Flowers That Are Just What the Doctor Ordered 
HOUSTON – "Pick two daisies and call me in the morning!"

March 11, 2005
Sip Not Gulp: Landscaping Workshop Presents Techniques that Survive Texas Gulf Coast Droughts, Floods and Bugs 
PASADENA – The tisk-tisk-tisk sound of sprinklers during warm summer months is also the sound of landscapes gulping as much as 60 percent of urban water usage.

March 10, 2005
Central Texas Pecan Short Course Slated for March 29 
GOLDTHWAITE – Texas Cooperative Extension's annual Central Texas Pecan Short Course is set for March 29 in Goldthwaite's Mills County Civic Center.

March 03, 2005
Mutabilis Rose Named ‘EarthKind Rose of the Year’ 
DALLAS – The Mutabilis Rose – first introduced in 1894 – has been named "EarthKind Rose of the Year" by Texas Cooperative Extension's EarthKind team.

February 18, 2005
Rainwater Collection Conference Slated 
WESLACO – It's not a new idea, but the latest trend among home gardeners is to collect rainwater from rooftops to irrigate their landscapes. A southern Texas horticulturist thinks it's such a great idea, she's organized a conference to bring in experts to help get the word out.

February 08, 2005
March 8 Conference Promises Increased Agricultural Income On Small Acreages 
PALESTINE – Interested in realizing additional income on your small acreage? If so, Texas Cooperative Extension's Spring Conference, set for 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 8 at Elmwood Gardens here, is for you, said Truman Lamb, Extension agent in Anderson County.

February 04, 2005
“thinking Dirty” Near Valentine’s Day Can Help Lawn, Garden 
AUSTIN – What are Travis County residents going to get their lawn or garden for Valentine's Day? With spring just around the corner, now is an ideal time to "send your lawn or garden a valentine" by having your soil tested, said Skip Richter, agent for horticulture at Texas Cooperative Extension in Travis County.

January 31, 2005
Give The Valentine Gift That Keeps On Growing 
TYLER – For Valentine's Day, nothing says, "I'll love you forever," like red roses.

January 26, 2005
Extension Agent Takes The Mystery Out Of Growing Orchids 
TYLER – Contrary to popular perception, orchids can be easily grown at home by the amateur gardener.

December 17, 2004
Holiday Indoor Plants Take Special Care To Last 
COLLEGE STATION - A white Christmas may be dreamy, but those who love plants want to keep it green, at least indoors, during the winter season.

December 06, 2004
SEMINAR UNCORKS ESSENTIALS OF HOME, COMMERCIAL WINE-MAKING  
SAN ANTONIO -- People interested in home or commercial wine making can now get a taste of both in one evening. Texas Cooperative Extension for Bexar County will host "Grape Growing and Wine Making in the Texas Hill Country" from 6-9 p.m on Dec. 16.

December 03, 2004
Patil To Head Vegetable, Fruit Improvement Center 
WESLACO – Dr. Bhimu Patil has been named the new director of Texas A&M University's Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center in College Station.

December 01, 2004
Popular Valley Farm Tours Revamped 
WESLACO -- Messing with success is a risky proposition, but Barbara Storz thinks she's made improvements to her popular annual farm tours.

November 26, 2004
High Plains Vegetable Conference Slated For Jan. 11 In Canyon 
LUBBOCK - Vegetable growers, processors, market gardeners and master gardeners can renew their production and marketing skills and gain new insight on biotechnology, africanized bees, retail marketing and other topics at the Jan. 11 High Plains Vegetable Conference in Canyon.

November 24, 2004
Annual East Texas Nursery And Greenhouse Conference Set Dec. 1 
TYLER - Nursery and greenhouse producers will learn the latest pest management techniques and earn five continuing education units at the upcoming third annual East Texas Nursery and Greenhouse Conference.

November 17, 2004
Three-Day Wine Grape Short Course Offered In Junction Jan. 12-14 
LUBBOCK – Those interested in commercial wine grape production and vineyard management should make plans now to attend a three-day Texas viticulture short course slated in January, 2005, courtesy of Texas Cooperative Extension and Texas Tech University's Extended Studies.

November 12, 2004
Two December Pesticide Applicator Training Programs Scheduled At Overton 
OVERTON – "How many 'glugs' from the jug do I use?"

November 10, 2004
MASTER GARDENERS TO SPRING UP EVERYWHERE AT FALL GARDEN FAIR  
SAN ANTONIO -- More than 70 gardeners from Texas Cooperative Extension's Master Gardeners program in Bexar County, will be sprouting up all over at the Fall Garden Fair at San Antonio Botanical Garden on Nov. 13. They will serve as instructors, coordinate hands-on art projects, demonstrate gardening techniques and assist with a variety of other fair activities.

November 09, 2004
Sneak Preview Of New Poinsettias Set For Nov. 19 In Brenham 
BRENHAM – Long before the halls are decked, the dirt is hauled. Planting poinsettias for a splash of reds, pinks, whites and like-mottled leaves is a process that begins months in advance of their Christmas appearance.

November 04, 2004
Hiler Named Ellison International Floriculture Chair 
COLLEGE STATION – Dr. Ed Hiler has been named the first holder of the Ellen and Jim Ellison Chair in International Floriculture at Texas A&M University's department of horticultural sciences.

October 15, 2004
The Earthkind Brigade Wants You! 
DALLAS -- Love roses, but hate the hassle?

October 11, 2004
From El Paso To Texarkana: New Texas Superstar Oak Shines In Adaptability 
COLLEGE STATION – In trials across the state, chinkapin oak has proven to be one of the best adapted, drought hardy species of shade tree available, said a Texas A&M University horticulturist.

October 04, 2004
International Horticulture Sprouts With German Partners 
COLLEGE STATION – Plants and trees have formed an international bridge for students at Texas A&M University and the University of Applied Sciences in Wiesbaden, Germany.

September 24, 2004
Moth Orchids Destined For Global Internet Sales 
WESLACO – The next time you watch a celebrity interview on television, a potted moth orchid will likely be somewhere in the setting. The plants have become so popular that growers in Taiwan, the world's largest producer, are teaming up with a scientist in South Texas to market the plants to wholesalers via the Internet.

September 17, 2004
Weslaco Scientist Zeros In On Important Citrus Gene 
WESLACO – After years of high-tech lab work, a scientist in South Texas is inching closer to a gene in the DNA of a citrus relative that will change the way citrus is produced.

September 10, 2004
Tree, Turf Health To Be Topic Sept. 22 At Texas A&M Gardens 
COLLEGE STATION – Trees and turf health will be the topic Sept. 22 at 7 p.m. for the Texas A&M University Horticultural Gardens monthly lecture.

September 07, 2004
Soaring Obesity Rates Could Be Costly 
SAN ANTONIO -- One called it a perfect storm. Another said it was a train wreck. Rising obesity rates will push Texas and the nation to physical and financial disaster unless people change their behaviors, according to speakers at the recent Texas Produce Convention in San Antonio.

August 19, 2004
Three Ag Experts Honored At Texas Produce Convention 
SAN ANTONIO – Two Texas A&M University System scientists and a prominent vegetable producer from Uvalde were honored at the 2004 Texas Produce Convention held here recently.

August 13, 2004
Entomologist Says Bark Lice Web Sight No Cause For Worry 
SAN ANTONIO – Does your tree have its own web sight? Recently, many Texas homeowners and landowners, especially in central and eastern parts of the state, have seen an unusual sight in their hardwood trees – large, silky webs covering trunks and limbs.

August 12, 2004
Texas Plant Breeder Develops Mild Habanero Pepper 
WESLACO -- Texas pepper breeders have done it again -- they've created a mild version of a pepper infamous for its heat. First came the mild Jalapeño; now comes a mild version of the habanero, considered by many to be the hottest pepper in the world.

August 06, 2004
Hundreds Expected At Global Pepper Conference 
WESLACO -- Dr. Ben Villalon is amazed at the long list of scientists and chile aficionados from 35 countries expected to attend the 17th Biennial International Pepper Conference in Florida later this year, he said.

August 04, 2004
Seed For Major Award Planted By Horticulture Department 
SAN ANTONIO – Each year, millions of people visit the San Antonio River Walk, enjoying its restaurants, bars, hotels and shops. With so much going on, visitors can miss the trees in a forest of entertaining distractions.

July 30, 2004
Valley Citrus Trees Could Soon Sport New Paint Jobs 
WESLACO -- Citrus trees in the Lower Rio Grande Valley could soon be sporting painted tree trunks, not for decorative purposes but to protect them against insect pests.

July 30, 2004
Seed For Major Award Planted By Horticulture Department 
SAN ANTONIO – Each year, millions of people visit the San Antonio River Walk, enjoying its restaurants, bars, hotels and shops. With so much going on, visitors can miss the trees in a forest of entertaining distractions.

June 28, 2004
'Trap' Crop Saves Cross Timbers Melon Production 
STEPHENVILLE -- Mark Allison, Comanche County farmer, first noticed a few yellow vines in his watermelon crop in the late 1990s but didn't think much of it.

June 24, 2004
Nearly 100 Gardening Professionals, 'Enthusiasts' Attend Horticulture Field Day 
OVERTON) --"Beautiful."

June 17, 2004
New Electronic Newsletter Helps Valley’s Produce Industry 
WESLACO – How strong are watermelon shipments from Mexico this year? What have recent heavy rains meant for the Lower Rio Grande Valley's cantaloupe crop? What do the new country of origin rules mean for Valley produce? What's the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture's acreage estimate for Georgia onions?

June 16, 2004
NATURAL, MAN-MADE MIX PROMISES BIGGEST LANDSCAPE PLANT GROWTH  
COLLEGE STATION -- At warehouse-sized stores this season, consumers scan pallet-laden shelves for just the right concoction. Various formulas promise new vigor, add iron or correct a myriad of deficiencies. Fast-acting or slow-release, organic or not, everything promises to get bigger and last longer.

June 10, 2004
International Symposium To Study Benefits Of Citrus 
WESLACO -- A scientist in the Lower Rio Grande Valley is calling on colleagues from throughout the world to gather this summer to help unlock the secrets of citrus and its benefits to human health.

June 04, 2004
'Cadillac' Of Horticultural Field Days Set June 23 
DALLAS – Gardeners will have the chance to see how hundreds of ornamental varieties – from ageratum to impatiens to zinnias – perform under optimum conditions on June 23 at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.

May 24, 2004
New Pink Knockout Rose Featured At Overton Hort Field Day 
OVERTON – On June 24, East Texas nursery growers, greenhouse managers, Master Gardeners and homeowners will have the chance to see field trials of hundreds of ornamental plant varieties, including more than 100 varieties of New Guinea impatiens.

May 24, 2004
Proper Care Keeps Roses Beautiful And Disease Free 
EL PASO – When you think of roses, you probably think of beautiful healthy flowers, not discolored petals, black spots, or leaves with whitish patches. However, home gardeners are sometimes faced with the latter image when growing roses.

May 20, 2004
Researchers Target Deficit Irrigation For Wine Grapes 
LUBBOCK – Research recently conducted on the Texas South Plains may help wine grape growers conserve irrigation water without reducing grape yield or quality.

May 10, 2004
Custom Phytochemical, Pungency Analysis Available For Fruit, Vegetables 
COLLEGE STATION – Texas A&M University's Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center offers custom analysis services for pungency and phytochemicals, according to Dr. Leonard Pike, director.

May 10, 2004
Custom Phytochemical, Pungency Analysis Available For Fruit, Vegetables 
COLLEGE STATION – Texas A&M University's Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center offers custom analysis services for pungency and phytochemicals, according to Dr. Leonard Pike, director.

May 06, 2004
Vegetable, Fruit Research Teams With Children'S Health Scientists 
HOUSTON -- "Foods for Health" will be the theme for Texas A&M University's Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center's meeting here June 6-8. The meeting will focus on research aimed at improving the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables through partnerships between plant breeders and medical researchers.

April 06, 2004
"Knock Out" Rose Receives Texas Superstar And Earthkind Designation 
DALLAS -- It has been called the perfect landscape shrub. Virtually disease-free, Knock Out rose has received the Texas Superstar and EarthKind designations by horticultural experts at Texas A&M University.

April 05, 2004
Wilkerson Given Arp Award From Texas Nursery, Landscape Group 
COLLEGE STATION – Dr. Don Wilkerson, Texas Cooperative Extension horticulturist, was given the Arp Award recently by the Texas Nursery and Landscape Association.

March 12, 2004
More Studies Needed In Drug, Grapefruit Juice Interaction 
WESLACO - Is it safe to take prescription drugs with a glass of grapefruit juice? The bottom line, according to a citrus scientist in South Texas, is that much more research needs to be done before that question can be answered.

March 09, 2004
Tomato 444 Named Latest Texas Superstar 
SAN ANTONIO - In springtime vegetable gardeners start dreaming about tomatoes. And this year Texas tomato gardeners might want to consider Tomato 444. It's the latest plant to be designated as a Texas Superstar.

March 08, 2004
Water-Saving Landscapes Are More Than Just Rocks 
EL PASO -- With water bills going up every year, should I replace my lawn to save money? How can I fix my landscape? What options do I have?

March 03, 2004
Plant Tissue Sampling Valuable Tool Sometimes, But Not Always 
TYLER – The Texas Cooperative Extension Soil, Water and Forage Testing Laboratory does thousands of plant analyses a year at $15 each, and many are unnecessary, said the Extension soil chemist and director of the lab.

March 01, 2004
Texas A&M Leader Receives Major Horticultural Award 
DALLAS - Dr. Tim Davis, resident director at the Texas A&M University System Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Dallas and department head of horticultural sciences at Texas A&M University in College Station, recently received a top award from the American Society for Horticultural Science, Southern Region.

February 19, 2004
Peach Growers Advised To Be Vigilant 
TYLER -- Growers should be wary of possible increased pest problems this season, said an entomologist with Texas Cooperative Extension.

February 06, 2004
Basic Blackberry Production Part Of E.t. Fruit And Vegetable Conference 
OVERTON – Blackberries, particularly the thornless varieties, have come a long way in the past few years, promising profits for growers – and not just those with u-pick operations.

January 22, 2004
Black-Eyed Pea Pests Bear Watching 
CANYON – Commercial growers of black-eyed peas must be vigilant against an array of insects which can significantly reduce crop quality rather than yield, according to a Texas Cooperative Extension integrated pest management (IPM) agent.

January 21, 2004
Horticulturist: World Wide Web Can Be An Effective Marketing Tool 
CANYON – Is the World Wide Web a good way to promote a fruit and vegetable operation? Yes, if growers have a marketing plant and goals in place before they go online, according to a Texas A&M University horticulturist.

January 19, 2004
Good Agricultural Practices Can Help Fruit-Vegetable Growers Ensure Food Safety 
CANYON – Food safety is a serious issue for both consumers and fruit-vegetable growers. Fortunately, growers can address this concern and help ensure the quality and safety of their produce by following a few simple "common sense" agricultural practices, according to a Texas Cooperative Extension vegetable specialist.

January 13, 2004
‘Celebration Of Herbs’ Focus Of B.I.G. Family Forum 
WACO – Whether a novice or a long-time lover of herbs, participants will learn the potential of these plants during the annual Texas Family Forum scheduled Jan. 20.

December 23, 2003
Weslaco Student Keeps Poinsettias Pretty 
WESLACO -- Almost daily from September to mid-December, 16-year old Amy McDaniel slipped quietly into an ornamental greenhouse at the Texas A&M agriculture research facilities in the Lower Rio Grande Valley. While most of her classmates at Weslaco High School were still dressing for class, McDaniel would go in, do her thing, then quietly slip out again.

December 22, 2003
Steel Tariff Repeal Good News For Valley Citrus Industry 
WESLACO -- The Lower Rio Grande Valley citrus industry breathed a collective sigh of relief when word came from the White House recently that President Bush had scrapped a 20-month old steel tariff. Local industry leaders feared the steep tariffs would have started a trade war with Europe and devastated the south Texas citrus industry.

December 08, 2003
Texas High Plains Vegetable Conference Slated For Jan. 13 In Canyon 
LUBBOCK - Vegetable growers, processors, market gardeners and master gardeners can renew their production and marketing skills and gain new insight on a variety of topics at the Jan. 13 High Plains Vegetable Conference at West Texas A&M University in Canyon.

November 27, 2003
Poinsettias: Would You Have Any Color But Red? 
COLLEGE STATION * Salmon and chartreuse are not exactly the colors one thinks of for Christmas. Pink and pea green aren't it either.

October 28, 2003
Poinsettia Preparation Presented 
BRENHAM – They're beautiful. They've adorned Christmas decorations in the United States since 1825. But there's a lot more to be learned about poinsettias and how several million of the potted plants go from seed to scenery in the United States each year, Texas Cooperative Extension entomologist Dr. Carlos Bogran said.

October 17, 2003
Driven To Garden: New License Supports Horticulture Students 
COLLEGE STATION – Those whose vehicles regularly stop at plant sales, who pull over-sized wagons between rows of greenery at nurseries and who think 12 growing months a year would be great – now you can advertize your passion for gardening.

October 09, 2003
Miller Recognized By Potato Association 
COLLEGE STATION -- Dr. Creighton Miller, plant breeder and professor in the horticultural sciences department at Texas A&M University, recently was recognized as an Honorary Life Member of the Potato Association of America – the highest honor bestowed by that organization.

September 17, 2003
'Marie Daly Rose' The Latest Rose To Be Named A Texas Superstar 
DALLAS -- An easy-to-care-for polyantha rose, 'Marie Daly' is the latest rose to be named a Texas Superstar.

September 15, 2003
Woodson Wins Seven Awards For Work With North Texas Gardens 
FORT WORTH - Dotty Woodson, Texas Cooperative Extension agent for horticulture in Tarrant County, recently received seven awards for her dedication to horticulture in North Texas.

August 26, 2003
Food Crops Symposium Set For Texas Growers, Related Industry 
COLLEGE STATION – Food in Texas. People connected to any phase of that industry - from growers to shippers to processors - are encouraged to attend the third annual Advanced Horticulture Food Crops Symposium here.

July 30, 2003
Coping: Plant Adaptability To Stress Discovered 
COLLEGE STATION – Most people who get too hot and thirsty this summer can quickly grab a cool drink.

July 02, 2003
Kids’ Gardens Grow Interest In Science, Nutrition 
COLLEGE STATION – Ah, it's summer. A perfect time to belly up to some Fragaria ananassa shortcake, hold a Citrullus lanatus seed spitting contest, or have some homemade Prunus persica ice cream.

June 03, 2003
New Guinea Impatiens Featured At Overton Horticultural Field Day June 25 
OVERTON -- East Texas nursery growers, greenhouse managers, Master Gardeners and home gardeners will have the chance on June 25 to see horticultural field trials of hundreds of ornamental varieties, including 65 varieties of New Guinea impatiens.

May 29, 2003
Infrared Aerial Photography Has Its Eyes On Cabbage Test 
WESLACO – Every morning for about a week now, Dr. T-X Liu has looked out at the weather, waiting for a cloudless day that's not too windy. Once he gets a day like that, a U.S. Department of Agriculture airplane will fly over his small cabbage patch in the Lower Rio Grande Valley and shoot infrared photos of it.

May 28, 2003
Endowed Chair In Floriculture, Greenhouse Crops Rooted In Industry Inspiration 
COLLEGE STATION -- In the competitive world of business, it's no big corporate secret that companies live and die by their ability to identify and satisfy needs in society.

May 23, 2003
Eldorado Lawn And Garden Workshop Slated For May 28 
ELDORADO – Texas Cooperative Extension is hosting a four-county Lawn and Garden Workshop for homeowners beginning at 8:30 a.m. May 28 in Eldorado's Memorial Building. Sponsoring counties are Menard, Schleicher, Irion and Sutton.

May 19, 2003
Colored Plastic Mulch May Help Valley Vegetable Farmers 
WESLACO -- For years, Lower Rio Grande Valley farmers have been laying row after row of plastic sheets in their vegetable fields.

May 15, 2003
Summer Master Gardener Training For Teachers Slated In June 
WESLACO -- Teachers and other school personnel who may have missed out last year are urged to register now for a special summer Master Gardener/Junior Master Gardener training session to be held June 9-14 in the Lower Rio Grande Valley.

May 14, 2003
Mercer Arboretum Topic Of Horticultural Garden’s May Lecture 
COLLEGE STATION – Gardening at the Mercer Arboretum in Houston will be the topic May 21 at the Texas A&M University Horticultural Gardens.

May 01, 2003
Horticulture Summer Camp Offered At Texas A&M University 
COLLEGE STATION – High school students who are considering a career in horticulture – in fruits, vegetables or flowers – may want to explore the possibilities at a three-day summer camp hosted by the horticultural sciences department at Texas A&M University.

April 17, 2003
IPM In Greenhouse Means Cost Savings, Less Environmental Impact 
OVERTON – A recent integrated pest management trial done with cooperation from a Cherokee County plant farm demonstrated that IPM methods can not only reduce pesticide usage and still control insect pests, they can save greenhouse managers money.

April 16, 2003
New Plant Introductions Topic At Horticultural Garden’s April Lecture 
COLLEGE STATION – New plant introductions will be discussed by Garry McDonald April 23 at the Texas A&M University Horticultural Garden.

April 16, 2003
Texas Crop, Weather Report 
COLLEGE STATION – What was a promising spring for the state's fruit growers turned to disaster after freezing temperatures, with a nearly 100 percent loss of the peach crop in the Hill Country, reports Texas Cooperative Extension.

April 09, 2003
Newsom Vineyard Grape Day Set For April 18 
LUBBOCK – Those who are interested in grape and wine production on the South Plains should make plans now to attend the 2nd Annual Vineyard Grape Day at Newsom Vineyard on April 18 in Plains.

April 04, 2003
In War Times, Growing Gardens May Yield Relaxing, Useful Benefits 
COLLEGE STATION – Not that the produce shelves at grocery stores are depleted, but consumers may be growing more of their own vegetables and fruits this season as the war in Iraq continues.

April 01, 2003
Dig It: Spring Plant Sale Features Hard-To-Find, Well Adapted Varieties 
COLLEGE STATION - Gardeners looking for something different to plant this year in the Brazos Valley might try the annual spring plant sale April 12 at Texas A&M University's Horticultural Gardens on Hensel Road between Texas and South College avenues.

March 28, 2003
“Living Jewelry” Less Showy But Meaningful For Wartime Easter 
COLLEGE STATION – Adorning one's surroundings with flowers this Easter, in the midst of war and economic woes, may seem overindulgent.

March 12, 2003
Benny Simpson's Texas Native Shrubs Web Site Now Online  
DALLAS - Texas A&M Dallas has launched the Benny Simpson's Texas Native Shrubs Web site located at http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/ornamentals/nativeshrubs/

March 10, 2003
Enduring, Endearing Flowers: Book Tells All For Designers 
COLLEGE STATION – Enduring, it could be said of a book that has flowed off the presses for 50 years in seven editions and 11 printings.

March 07, 2003
Antique Roses Topic For March Lecture At Horticultural Garden 
COLLEGE STATION – Growing antique roses in the Brazos Valley will be the theme at the upcoming Texas A&M University Horticultural Gardens Spring Lecture Series March 19.

March 07, 2003
Extension Horticulture Efforts Blossom On Prison Grounds 
COLLEGE STATION -- It looks like an oasis -- a lush, green, tree- and flower-covered oasis in the middle of a residential neighborhood in Bryan.

March 03, 2003
Focus On New Researcher: Japanese Agriculturist 
COLLEGE STATION – Mutants from a lowly weed. That's where many solutions to maladies – from salt stress in plants to HIV in humans – may lie in wait for scientists to discover.

February 26, 2003
Garden Offers Respite In Busy University, City Setting 
COLLEGE STATION – Not long ago, when Dr. Don Wilkerson returned to his office in the evening to retrieve some paperwork, he found a couple sitting on a blanket nearby with twinkling candles nestled around a sumptuous meal.

February 26, 2003
Texas Horticulturist Creighton Miller Receives Teaching Award 
COLLEGE STATION – Dr. Creighton Miller, Texas A&M University professor of horticulture and genetics, received the prestigious L.M. Ware Distinguished Teacher Award from the Southern Region, American Society for Horticultural Science at its recent annual meeting in Mobile, Ala.

February 21, 2003
Landscaping Under Drought Is Focus Of Feb. 27 Conference 
WESLACO -- The lingering South Texas drought continues to take a merciless toll on lawns, gardens and other landscaped areas.

February 12, 2003
Establishing Home Vineyard Theme Of Spring Lecture 
COLLEGE STATION – Establishing a home vineyard will be the theme at the upcoming Texas A&M University Horticultural Gardens Spring Lecture Series Feb. 19.

February 12, 2003
Davis Named Head Of Horticultural Sciences At Texas A&M 
DALLAS -- Dr. Tim Davis of Plano has been named the head of the department of horticultural sciences at Texas A&M University, effective Feb. 1.

January 31, 2003
Phalaenopsis Orchid Named Texas Superstar In Time For Valentine's Day 
DALLAS – Celebrate your love with an orchid this Valentine's Day ... and celebrate Texas by giving the first orchid designated a Texas Superstar.

January 29, 2003
East Texas Fruit, Vegetable Conference Feb. 18 At Tyler Rose Garden 
TYLER – Don't count your peaches before the peach tree blooms, says a horticulturist with Texas Cooperative Extension.

January 22, 2003
Wildflower Expert Featured At Jan. 25 Gardening Conference 
OVERTON – The what, when, where and how of successfully growing wildflowers will be one of the subjects covered at the upcoming East Texas Spring Landscape and Garden Conference, set Jan. 25 at the Tyler Rose Garden Center in Tyler.

January 15, 2003
2003 Master Gardener Class Set In Lubbock County 
LUBBOCK – Is your green thumb itching to get back in the garden? Are you doting just a little too much over those favorite houseplants?

January 06, 2003
SIP Program Brings Smart Watering To San Antonio 
SAN ANTONIO - Texas Cooperative Extension in San Antonio, in partnership with San Antonio Water System and the Bexar County Master Gardeners, is on a mission. Extension wants San Antonians to conserve water by watering their lawns based on the water the turf needs.

December 26, 2002
Earth-Kind Environmental Soil Testing And Consultation Program Being Offered Around Texas 
DALLAS -- Home gardeners plagued by soils that are very difficult to manage could find answers to many of their questions through the new EarthKind Environmental Soil Testing and Consultation Program offered for a limited time in January by the Texas A&M University Agriculture Program.

December 17, 2002
High Plains Vegetable Conference Debuts Jan. 14 
LUBBOCK - A perennial favorite of vegetable growers in West Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Colorado will return with new vigor Jan. 14. That's the date for the High Plains Vegetable Conference at West Texas A&M University in Canyon.

December 16, 2002
Saucy Entrepreneurs Add Spice To Food Technologist's Job 
COLLEGE STATION - Like a mail-order house at Christmas, boxes and cartons cover a table, filled with condiments of every conceivable ingredient.

December 16, 2002
Saucy Entrepreneurs Add Spice To Food Technologist'S Job 
COLLEGE STATION – Like a mail-order house at Christmas, boxes and cartons cover a table, filled with condiments of every conceivable ingredient.

November 25, 2002
Pesticide Applicator Recertification Programs Set Dec. 3 And 10 
OVERTON -- Producers will learn how to apply pesticides safely, accurately and economically at either of two recertification courses held in December at the Texas A&M University Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Overton.

November 25, 2002
Chemistry Has Lovely Bouquet In This College Class 
COLLEGE STATION – Acid was the topic that had students in this Texas A&M University class eagerly holding paper cups toward beakers of clear liquid.

November 15, 2002
East Texas Nursery And Greenhouse Conference Dec. 4 
OVERTON – Loss of alternative pesticides and the potential for insects to develop resistance to the remaining chemical controls makes it more important than ever that nursery and greenhouse operators practice Integrated Pest Management (IPM), says an expert with Texas Cooperative Extension.

October 28, 2002
Lacey Oak Designated As A Texas Superstar 
DALLAS -- After more than 7 years of state-wide testing, the Texas A&M University Agriculture Program has designated the lacey oak tree as the newest Texas Superstar.

September 27, 2002
Texas Producers, Communities Eligible For $15,000 SARE Grants 
OVERTON – Texas farmers and ranchers may not know it, but they are eligible for grants of up to $15,000 from USDA's Sustainable Agriculture and Research Education (SARE).

September 19, 2002
Reed Named National Undergraduate Educator In Horticulture 
COLLEGE STATION - Dr. David W. Reed, professor and interim head of horticultural sciences at Texas A&M University, has been named 2002 Outstanding Undergraduate Educator by the American Society for Horticultural Sciences.

September 05, 2002
Now Is The Time For Winter Weed Control In Home Lawns 
DALLAS - Now is the best time to apply pre-emergent herbicides for controlling annual grassy and broadleaf weeds in lawns and landscapes, say experts from Texas Cooperative Extension. In the northern parts of Texas, these winter weeds start germinating in early September; in southern areas of the state, in mid- to late-September.

August 29, 2002
Master Gardeners Create Xeric Garden In San Antonio's Hemisfair Park 
SAN ANTONIO - Among the many stellar activities of the Bexar County Master Gardeners is the garden creation and upkeep at the Shultze House, a quaint Victorian cottage on the grounds of Hemisfair Plaza in downtown San Antonio.

August 23, 2002
Classroom Gardens Touch 15,000 Bexar County Kids A Year 
SAN ANTONIO - Horticulture knowledge is blooming in San Antonio with the Bexar County Master Gardeners Classroom Gardens Project, which is active in 240 schools and touches 15,000 kids every school year, officials said.

August 01, 2002
Lubbock Center To Host Watermelon Field Day Aug. 7 
LUBBOCK – Nothing beats a slice of fresh watermelon on a hot summer's day. That's what is on tap Tuesday during the annual watermelon variety field day at Texas A&M's Agricultural Research and Extension Center here.

June 26, 2002
John Fanick And Victoria Summer Phlox Named Texas Superstars 
DALLAS -- To attract butterflies to a summer garden, try planting summer phlox, Phlox paniculata. These flowers -- John Fanick and Victoria summer phlox -- have just been named Texas Superstars by Texas A&M University, which means they will be top performers in the garden.

June 24, 2002
Guava Trees Thriving At Weslaco Ag Research Center 
WESLACO -- A Weslaco scientist best known for his pioneering work in the production of orchids is conducting research into the possibility of commercially producing guava in the Lower Rio Grande Valley.

June 19, 2002
Healthy Dessert: "Peaches And Phytochemicals" 
COLLEGE STATION – Peach cobbler. Peaches and cream. Peaches and antioxidants?

June 12, 2002
Rain Won't Help South Texas Cotton Crop 
WESLACO -- Sporadic rains the past few weeks have done little to improve the outlook for the Lower Rio Grande Valley's 2002 cotton crop.

June 11, 2002
Rose Breeding Blooms From Backyard To Genetics Lab 
COLLEGE STATION – The backyard garden of a mathematician has rejuvenated Texas rose research in a way that could lead to improvements not only for the flowering bush but for some berry crops. The late Dr. Robert Basye's estate re-established a breeding program that had withered away at the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station and added the goal of examining roses at the genetic level.

May 23, 2002
Overton Field Day June 26 To Feature 400 Ornamentals, Melon Trials 
OVERTON -- In late June, East Texas nursery growers, greenhouse managers and home gardeners will have the chance to see horticultural field trials of ornamentals and commercial, edible field crops on the same day.

May 22, 2002
Problems Strike St. Augustine Lawns All Over The South 
DALLAS - All over the South, St. Augustine grass lawns are turning yellow and thinning. While the problem has been occurring for several years, it seems to be worse this year.

May 21, 2002
Dwarf Mexican Petunia Named A Texas Superstar™ 
DALLAS - The widely adaptable dwarf Mexican petunia (Ruellia brittoniana) has been named a Texas Superstar™ by Texas A&M University.

April 26, 2002
History, Mystery Of Orchids Topic Of San Antonio Meeting 
SAN ANTONIO - Dotty Woodson, an international lecturer and orchid hybridizer, will present "The History and Mystery of Orchids" at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the San Antonio Garden Center, 3310 N. New Braunfels.

April 15, 2002
Valley School Teachers Invited To Become Master Gardeners 
WESLACO -- A special Master Gardener training session will be offered this summer to Rio Grande Valley school teachers who can't attend regularly scheduled classes.

April 10, 2002
'Belinda's Dream' Becomes The First Rose To Be Named A Texas Superstar™ 
DALLAS - A near perfect landscape rose, Belinda's Dream, is the first rose to be named a Texas Superstar and also receive the prestigious EarthKind designation from Texas A&M University.

March 29, 2002
Valley Onion Pests Showing Resistance To Insecticides 
WESLACO -- Scientists are collecting insects from onion fields throughout the Rio Grande Valley to determine the extent of resistance that pests are developing to synthetic pyrethroids, a class of widely used insecticides.

March 19, 2002
Valley Onion Harvest Off To A Profitable Start 
WESLACO -- The Rio Grande Valley's onion harvest has begun with an abundant, healthy and early crop that is so far bringing in good money for growers.

March 08, 2002
Tarrant County Has Declared March Texas Smartscape Month 
FORT WORTH - To help North Central Texans conserve water while maintaining appealing home landscapes, the Tarrant County Commissioners Court has declared March as Texas SmartScape Month.

March 05, 2002
Central Texas Pecan Short Course Set For March 27 
GOLDTHWAITE -- A day chock-full of the latest in pecan culture and new products awaits participants to this year's edition of the Central Texas Pecan Short Course.

February 28, 2002
Plant Disease Expert Digs Dirt For Clues 
WESLACO -- David Peterson, president of Starr Produce in Rio Grande City, relates a story about Dr. Marvin Miller that is typical of professionals who love their work.

February 28, 2002
"Texas Superstars" Chosen As Theme For Quilting Contest 
DALLAS – Wanted: top-notch quilters with an eye for design and a passion for Texas.

February 18, 2002
Extension Presents Landscape Strategies That Are Water Smart 
HOUSTON -- Texas Cooperative Extension, working with several partners, is hosting the third annual WaterSmart Landscaping Workshop on Saturday, March 2, at the University of Houston-Clear Lake Bayou Building. For registration information, call Chris LaChance at (281) 333-2386.

February 13, 2002
Black Fly Infestation Causing Some Problems In Rio Grande Valley 
COLLEGE STATION –- Although Texas' citrus crop yields have been average so far this year, a recent black fly infestation is causing some problems for producers in the Rio Grande Valley, Texas Cooperative Extension reports.

February 08, 2002
Urban Weekend Migration Good News For Farmers Markets, U-Pick Operations 
OVERTON –- There's one urban trend that spells opportunity for rural fruit and vegetable growers –- weekend migration, according to an agricultural economist with Texas Cooperative Extension.

February 08, 2002
Southern Living Editor Featured Speaker At Feb. 16 Gardening Conference 
EAST TEXAS – "Crape Murder." That's what Steve Bender with Southern Living magazine says happens when Southern gardeners have too much time on their hands in the winter.

January 25, 2002
Master Gardeners Looking For A Few, Good Volunteers 
WESLACO -- Applications are being accepted for the next Master Gardener classes in two counties in the Lower Rio Grande Valley, but don't bother applying if you're not ready to serve your community, said Dr. Enrique Perez, who teaches the classes in Cameron County.

January 24, 2002
Vegetable And Fruit Improvement Center's Annual Meeting Set 
COLLEGE STATION - The Texas A&M University Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center is having its annual meeting and 10th anniversary celebration on Feb. 21-23 at the Hilton Hotel and Conference Center here.

January 23, 2002
SAWS, Extension Partner To Help Folks In San Antonio Conserve Water 
SAN ANTONIO -- Water, or the lack of it, has been a major issue in San Antonio for years, a situation underscored most recently by the droughts of 1996 and 1998.

January 15, 2002
Austin's Grow Green Program Helps Reach Gardeners With Good Advice 
AUSTIN -- As in other rapidly urbanizing areas, too many fertilizers and pesticides are running off lawns in Austin, putting groundwater supplies at risk.

January 08, 2002
Research Could Lead Valley Into Cut Flower Business 
WESLACO -- The area's strong winds have always kept Lower Rio Grande Valley nursery growers out of the lucrative cut flower business. But scientific research and the Bird of Paradise, a common landscape plant that thrives in South Texas, could change that scenario.

December 28, 2001
West Texas Regional Pecan Show Reflects Growing Conditions 
SAN ANGELO - This year's annual West Texas Regional Pecan Show sponsored by Texas Cooperative Extension was reflective of the western half of Texas' pecan crop, according to show superintendent John Begnaud, Texas Cooperative Extension horticulturist in Tom Green County. The show, featuring 185 entries gleaned from smaller area competitions, was held at the Texas A&M University Research and Extension Center earlier this month.

December 26, 2001
Popular Horticulturist Retires From Harris County Extension 
HOUSTON -- Co-workers compliment his creative genius. Volunteers say they enjoy his quick wit and ability to make work fun.

December 21, 2001
Producers Report Above-Average Yields In Spinach 
COLLEGE STATION - Popeye would be proud. Above-average yields are expected for this year's spinach crop due to favorable weather, Texas Cooperative Extension reports.

November 29, 2001
Research Yields Colorful, Healthful Produce 
COLLEGE STATION - If recent research by Texas A&M University graduate student Bolivar Cevallos yields the fruit he is hoping for, look for supermarket produce sections to be much more colorful in the future – and more healthful.

November 26, 2001
Weslaco Scientist Lands $1.4 Million In National Grants 
WESLACO - A citrus researcher in the Lower Rio Grande Valley has received two USDA grants totaling $1.4 million. One will fund research into how citrus helps prevent cancer; the other will establish programs to encourage minority youth to study agriculture and food science.

November 02, 2001
Horticulture Virtual School To Begin At Texas A&M 
COLLEGE STATION - One of the main problems facing the Texas floriculture and ornamental horticulture industry today is a lack of qualified growers within the industry. However, Texas A&M, in response to the request of the state's growers, is planning to take the first step to correct this problem by using the funds from the Endowed Chair in Floriculture/Greenhouse Crops to set up a Web-based program, which will train current horticulture industry employees for leadership positions.

October 16, 2001
Shantung Maple Tree Designated As A Texas Superstar 
DALLAS -- After nearly 12 years of state-wide testing, the Texas A&M Agriculture Program has designated the shantung maple tree as the newest Texas Superstar™.

September 19, 2001
Overton Specialist Named New Sustainable Ag State Coordinator 
EAST TEXAS – Texas Cooperative Extension has named Marty Baker as the new state coordinator for the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program, Southern Region.

September 06, 2001
New Horticulturist Joins Bexar County Extension Staff 
SAN ANTONIO -- Lynn Rawe, a five-year Texas Cooperative Extension veteran with 25 years of experience in horticulture, is the new county Extension agent for horticulture in Bexar County.

August 24, 2001
2001 Turfgrass America Texas A&M Invitational Slated For Sept. 17 In Euless  
EULESS – The 2001 Turfgrass America Texas A&M Invitational is set for Sept. 17 at the Texas Star Golf Course in Euless.

August 20, 2001
Rio Grande Valley A Leader In Orchid Production, Research  
WESLACO — National sales of potted, blooming orchids are going through the roof, and the scientist largely responsible for the new phenomenon is working overtime to keep up with the demand for his expertise.

August 01, 2001
Texas A&M Horticulture Students, Faculty Bloom Nationally  
COLLEGE STATION -- Students and faculty from Texas A&M University's department of horticultural sciences swept key leadership positions at the annual meeting of the American Society for Horticultural Science recently in Sacramento, Calif.

July 26, 2001
Maroon Carrots May Juice Up The Healthy Beverage Market  
COLLEGE STATION – Colorful maroon and tasty sweet beverages - big attractants for thirsty people – may be headed for grocery stores, via a carrot that also slips good nutrition into the mix.

July 12, 2001
Weather Conditions Benefit Texas Peach Crop  
COLLEGE STATION — Ideal seasonal conditions have produced an extraordinary peach crop, the Texas Agricultural Extension Service reports.

June 25, 2001
Crape Myrtle Society Of America To Hold Formation Meeting At Texas A&M Dallas On June 28  
DALLAS -- The Crape Myrtle Society of America will hold its formation meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday (June 28) at the Texas A&M Research and Extension Center in Dallas.

June 20, 2001
New Watermelon Varieties Performance On View At Upcoming Grower Field Day  
OVERTON – Watermelon growers from across East and Central Texas may want to mark July 11 on their calendars to attend the New Watermelon Variety Field Day.

June 18, 2001
Vegetable Breeder Developing Mild Habanero  
WESLACO — Relief is on the way for pepper aficionados who love the flavor and aroma of the habanero, but can't stand the heat. The same research center in South Texas that tamed the jalapeño pepper in the 1970s hopes to have a milder version of the fiery, orange pepper in about two years.

June 06, 2001
Overton Field Day June 27 To Feature 400 Ornamentals, Melon Trials  
OVERTON -- In late June, East Texas nursery growers, greenhouse managers and home gardeners will have the chance to see horticultural field trials of ornamentals and commercial field crops on the same day.

May 29, 2001
Houston Master Gardeners Dedicate Millennium Garden  
HOUSTON — At 4 p.m. Tuesday, Diane Ballentine, a Harris County Master Gardener and project coordinator of sorts, was a nervous wreck.

May 21, 2001
Fresh Produce Food Safety Training May Become Essential For Growers  
OVERTON – Unless growers become proactive in preventing food-borne pathogens in the field, current food safety guidelines could quickly become law, says a Texas A&M University professor of horticulture.

May 12, 2001
Research: Pecan-Rich Diet As Effective As Lower-Fat AHA Diet  
COLLEGE STATION – Consumers who find that a low-fat diet may not be for them might be interested in new research from Texas A&M University. Researchers recently discovered a heart-healthy diet containing pecans can help control cholesterol levels and other biomarkers of heart disease risk as effectively as the American Heart Association's (AHA) Step I diet.

May 03, 2001
Vegetable, Fruit Improvement Center Annual Meet Set June 21-23 
COLLEGE STATION – The Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center's annual meeting will be held June 21-23 at Texas A&M University. Highlights will be tours, presentations and workshops to bring participants up to date on research, graduate education and center activities.

March 26, 2001
March Landscape Conferences Slated at Amarillo, Lubbock 
LUBBOCK – West Texans can learn how to keep their landscape plantings healthy and long-lived at a conference slated in March at two locations, said a Texas Agricultural Extension Service plant pathologist.

March 21, 2001
Extension Helps "Dream Garden" Come True 
TEMPLE -- An outdoor Science lab is what retired Temple ISD school teacher, Marlene Lostovica always dreamed of. Now, thanks to the hard work of many community volulnteers, her vision has come true. Jennifer Regar has the story.

Chile Peppers Look Promising on South Plains 
- March 02 2001 -

Flower Beds Should Rise to the Occasion 
- February 16 2001 -

Show on Vegetable, Fruit Improvement Wins TV Award 
- February 08 2001 -

"Painting with Azaleas" Featured at Feb. 17 Landscape & Garden Conference
- January 23 2001 -

Wild Companion: Wheel Identifies Texas Wildflowers
- January 22 2001 -

Fifth Graders' Curriculum Teaches Others About Plant Water
- December 19 2000 -

New Citrus Center Proposed for Texas
- December 18 2000 -

Record Yields Could Become Common with Dna Diagnostics
- October 17 2000 -

Agriculture, Medical Researchers Developing HORTthier Produce
- September 11 2000 -

Welsh Named Texas Community Gardening Coordinator
- September 07 2000 -

Roberts, Begnaud Receive Tcaaa Distinguished Service Awards
- July 26 2000 -

Huck Finn Competes with Gem Dandy at Overton Wateremelon Field Day
- July 17 2000 -

Watermelons Should be in Good Supply for July 4
- June 29 2000 -

New Orchid Should be Ready Soon for Nurseries
- June 20 2000 -

History, Nature Converge on Campus to Create Holistic Garden
- June 19 2000 -

Pepper Research Hot for Biotech in Texas
- June 05 2000 -

Vegetable Center to Cultivate Friends for Research
- May 25 2000 -

Research Horticulturist Receives Bet Award for Outstanding Leadership
- May 18 2000 -

Extension Service Launches Grow Green Program
- May 11 2000 -

Experiments Proving Fruitful for Popular Moth Orchids
- April 28 2000 -

Water Smart Home Landscapes Are Simple, Easy
- March 23 2000 -

Weslaco Scientist Presents Research in Israel
- March 22 2000 -

Water Smart Lawns Will Make an Easier Summer for Home Gardeners
- March 22 2000 -

2000 Central Texas Pecan Short Course Set for March 28
- March 16 2000 -

Tree HORTth Conferences Slated in March
- March 07 2000 -

School Kids Treated to Rare Types of Citrus
- March 01 2000 -

Irradiation Studies Conducted on Grapefruit
- February 29 2000 -

New Gardener Handbook Published for Children, Grades 3-5
- February 23 2000 -

Management Practices Help Growers Combat Potato Late Blight
- February 18 2000 -

Retail Consolidation in Vegetable Industry Feared, But Inevitable
- February 16 2000 -

Flexibilty Key to Grower Success with Large Retail Chains
- February 16 2000 -

Simple Steps Can Help Ensure Good Vegetable Stands
- February 09 2000 -

Experts to Address First Annual Herb Extravaganza
- February 03 2000 -

Valley Crops, Harvests Remain HORTthy
- January 14 2000 -

West Texas Vegetable Conference Set for Jan. 18 in Hereford
- January 03 2000 -

Texas Native Trees Web Site a Tribute to A&M Researcher
- November 26 1999 -

Valley Melon Research Plans Detailed for 2000
- October 25 1999 -

Cashion Family Donates Funds and Garden to Texas A&M
- October 22 1999 -

Citrus De-Greening Studies Look Promising
- October 20 1999 -

Valley Onion Research Funded for 2000
- October 06 1999 -

Researcher Gets to Root of Situation with ‘Good' Fungi
- August 16 1999 -

International Master Gardener Conference Set for Aug. 19-22
- August 03 1999 -

Spinach Research to Show Its Muscle in Texas, Arkansas
- July 22 1999 -

Red, White And Baker: America's Beloved Potato Perfect July 4 Food
- June 29 1999 -

Melon Harvest Continues, Diseases Take Their Toll
- June 07 1999 -

Open House June 16 for Ornamental Plant Trials at Overton
- June 03 1999 -

Master Gardeners Receive Resolution From Texas Legislature
- May 19 1999 -

Davies Wins Guggenheim, Senior Fulbright Fellowships
- May 19 1999 -

El Paso Pecan Management Workshop Set May 20-21
- May 14 1999 -

Final Lecture Series Set for Tuesday
- April 23 1999 -

Valley Crops Maturing Early; Melon Field Days Set
- April 16 1999 -

Extension Horticulturist Predicts Scanty Peach Crop
- April 14 1999 -

Fire Blight on Pears Unusually Severe This Spring
- April 08 1999 -

Vegetable Improvement Theme of Annual Meeting in Weslaco
- March 05 1999 -

Alternative Crops Recommended at West Texas Vegetable Conference
- February 23 1999 -

Fruit, Vegetable Studies, Education May Improve Texans' HORTth
- February 23 1999 -

Beautiful Ground Cover Deceives; New Weed Invading Houston
- February 18 1999 -

Drip Irrigation Systems Require Careful Planning
- February 16 1999 -

West Texas Vegetable Growers Briefed on Marketing, Research
- February 16 1999 -

Potato Yield, Quality Hinges on Proper Seed Handling
- February 10 1999 -

East Texas Fruit & Vegetable Conference Feb. 16 in Tyler
- February 05 1999 -

Lubbock Horticulturist Earns Special Award for Career Work with Texas Vegetable Industry
- February 01 1999 -

Vegetable Shortcourse Focuses on Marketing
- January 18 1999 -

Horticulture Sessions at B.i.g. Conference Focus on Wise Water Use
- December 18 1998 -

Jan. 19 Vegatable Conference Offers Wealth of Information
- December 14 1998 -

Poinsettias Are a South Plains Crop, Too
- December 11 1998 -

Cherokee County Growers to Ship 1 Million Poinsettias
- December 11 1998 -

HORTthy Foods Class to Include U.S., Canadian Researchers
- December 10 1998 -

Rio Star, Ruby Sweet Online for Holiday Gift Giving
- December 09 1998 -

Ultraviolet Light Improves Bedding Plants, Vegetable Transplants Quality
- November 27 1998 -

Computerized Grapefruit "Talks" to Scientists
- October 30 1998 -

Horticulture Class Gets Concrete Information, Firm Foundation
- October 27 1998 -

End of Marketing Season Means Pumpkins Turn Into Pumpkins
- October 23 1998 -

Greenhouse Growers to Meet Nov. 10-12 in College Station
- October 20 1998 -

Chile Heads to Gather in San Antonio Oct. 13-15
- October 02, 1998 -

Tomato Ripe for $7.8 Million National Science Foundation Grant
- September 30, 1998 -

Texas Pecan Growers to Shell Out $75,000 in New Self-help Effort
- September 23, 1998 -

New Drought Numbers to be Released Today; Teleconference at 11 Am
- August 19, 1998 -

Texas Herb Growers, Marketers Set September Meeting
- August 17, 1998 -

Rice Field Days Set at Beaumont, Eagle Lake
- July 03, 1998 -

More Than 150 Gardening Enthusiasts Attend Field Day
- June 26, 1998 -

Improved Exports And Fruit Quality Mark 1997-98 Citrus
- June 19, 1998 -

Drought Strategies Offered on Pastures, Ponds, Fruits
- June 05, 1998 -

Subirrigation Systems Save Water, Reduce Runoff
- June 04, 1998 -

Growers Turn to Plasticulture to Save Water
- June 02, 1998 -

Predicted Smoke Not Expected to Affect Cotton, Cane
- May 22, 1998 -

Vegetable Improvement Center Schedules Open House
- April 22, 1998 -

Hydroponic Organic Vegetables Considered at Texas A&M
- April 20, 1998 -

Heirloom Gardening: "Living Antiques" Find Places Around Homes
- April 13, 1998 -

Ethnic Influence From Settlers Seen in Modern Texas Gardens
- April 13, 1998 -

How Easter Lilies Bloom on Same Day, Different Date Annually
- March 30, 1998 -

Vegetable Improvement Center Meeting Set at M.D. Anderson
- March 02, 1998 -

Melon Producers Urged to Develop Market Identity, Demand
- February 20, 1998 -

Vegetable Growers Urged to Market, Not Just Sell Crop
- February 09, 1998 -

Watermelon Production Short Course Scheduled
- February 06, 1998 -

Betasweet Maroon Carrot to Hit Grocery Stores
- January 23, 1998 -

New, Safer Pesticides to be Discussed at East Texas Fruit, Vegetable Conference
- January 21, 1998 -

Learn How to Create Butterfly Gardens at Spring Landscape, Garden Conference
- January 20, 1998 -

Vegetable Conference to Address Financial Disease'
- January 12, 1998 -

Dairy Compost May Enrich Stephenville Lawns
- January 06, 1998 -

West Texas Regional Pecan Show Winners Named
- December 18, 1997 -

Poinsettias: Production Turns to Classy Enterprise
- December 01, 1997 -

Public Hearing Scheduled for Fruit, Vegetable Food Safety
- November 25, 1997 -

Sweet Results: Cloning Yields Hope for Texas Sweet Potato Crop
- November 5, 1997 -

Texas A&M's Vegetable Improvement on Web
- October 3, 1997 -

Farmers Carve a Niche Market for Texas Pumpkins
- September 26, 1997 -

Bluebonnet Researcher Appointed to Texas A&M-Dallas
- September 8, 1997 -

Texas Long-Stemmed Bluebonnet Displayed in Patent Office Fete
- August 26, 1997 -

Horticulturists: Human/Plant Interactions Improve Life Quality
- August 22, 1997 -

Extension Conducting Nation's First Tests on Post Office Compost
- July 3, 1997 -

'Merced' Spring Tomato Tops in Texas Variety Trials
- March 31, 1997 -

Master Gardener Volunteers Blossom in Harris County
- February 12, 1997 -

Memorial Service Scheduled for Native Plant Pioneer, Benny J. Simpson
- January 25, 1997 -

Squirmy Worm to the Rescue
- January 25, 1997 -

Native Plant Expert Benny Simpson Dead of Complications After Heart Surgery
- December 28, 1996 -

Water Key Issue at High Plains Vegetable Conference
- December 16, 1996 -

Consumers Look at Poinsettias, See Red
- November 19, 1996 -

Christmas Cactus Stick Out as Easy-Growing Plant Gifts
- November 19, 1996 -

Texas Forest Service East Texas Nursery Offers Seedlings
- November 4, 1996 -

Long-Stem Bluebonnet Seed Licenses Available
- September 3, 1996 -

Bacterial Diseases Threatening Texas Wine Grape Industry
- Aug. 12, 1996 -

Drought-Tolerant Texas Turfgrass "Goes for Border" with Out-of-State Licences
- June 3, 1996 -

Maroon Carrot Seeks Identity
- November 20, 1995 -

Texas A&M, French Ag Research Institute Discuss Partnerships
- October 9, 1995 -

How Does Your Garden Grow? Kids Find Out Electronically
- September 28, 1995 -

World's Most Important Grains Linked to Common Ancestor
- September 21, 1995 -

Modern Melon: Small in Size, Short on Seed
- September 5, 1995 -

Peanut Growers Have New Tool to Fight Southern Blight
- Aug. 4, 1995 -

Potatoes Rival Broccoli in Cancer-Fighting Antioxidants
- June 9, 1995 -

Cotner Named Horticulture Department Head
- May 18, 1995 -

Salsa/Picante World Championship Set
- May 4, 1995 -

Wildflower Sightseeing This Year May be Better on Info Highway
- April 4, 1995 -

Maroon Carrots Nearing Market Readiness
- March 30, 1995 -

Maroon Carrot Tagged 'Beta Sweet' in National Contest
- March 5, 1995 -

Vegetable Improvement Center Slices Into New Ventures
- September 16, 1994 -

Long-stemmed Bluebonnets Beckon Bud Vases
- March 14, 1994 -

Pike Named Southwest Man of Year in Agriculture
- February 1, 1994 -

Overton Center Bedding Plant Trials Serve $2.2 Billion Yearly Texas Industry

Computer Network Weaves Online Web for Gardeners