Southern Oregon marijuana growers want to ban industrial hemp production from the region out of fear that hemp may pollinate their crops and render them worthless.
Some outdoor marijuana growers want industrial hemp cultivation to be limited to eastern Oregon – far from their lucrative marijuana crops. At the very least, they don’t want hemp in Josephine, Jackson and Douglas counties.
Compared to Oregon’s marijuana legalization movement, the effort to launch an industrial hemp industry in Oregon has been an understated one propelled by a small but passionate group of advocates. When one of them, Edgar Winters, of Eagle Point, got a permit this month to grow industrial hemp on 25 acres in the heart of the state’s outdoor marijuana growing region, his neighbors were alarmed.
Allowing industrial hemp in an area known for churning out high-grade marijuana could undermine the industry, growers argue.
"You don’t come into the middle of cannabis growing country and try to put up a hemp farm unless you don’t know about it, unless you really don’t know how far hemp pollen can travel," said Casey Branham, a Jackson County medical marijuana grower who supports industrial hemp but wants it grown elsewhere in the state.
"It basically makes the medicine worthless," he said.
Branham and his neighbors worry hemp pollen will find its way to their unpollinated female cannabis flowers, known as sensimilla, slowing their growth and leading to seeds. The result: weak, seedy marijuana.
"No one will buy seeded flowers, period," said Cedar Grey, a Williams medical marijuana grower. "The flower market is so competitive these days. You have to have world-class flowers. Anything that is seeded is reminiscent of the 1960s or pot from Mexico. No one is interested in that at all."
And it’s not just southern Oregon’s outdoor marijuana growers who are worried about hemp’s implications. Portland’s indoor marijuana growers worry about hemp pollen drifting into their warehouses through ventilation systems or being tracked into their operations on workers’ shoes.
Shane McKee, a medical marijuana grower who owns two Portland dispensaries, said the potential complications posed by industrial hemp have caught cannabis growers by surprise.
"Nobody really saw the repercussions," said McKee.
Hemp and marijuana are different types of the same species, Cannabis sativa. But hemp lacks marijuana’s most coveted component: THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol. In hemp’s case, the gene that fires up marijuana’s high THC production is essentially turned off. So while hemp’s sturdy stalks provide fiber for textiles and its seeds can be added to yogurt and smoothies, the plant is a lousy choice for people seeking marijuana’s high.
Anndrea Hermann, a hemp advocate who lives in Canada and teaches a course on the crop at Oregon State University, said marijuana growers’ concerns are legitimate.
"Is there a risk? Yes, there is a risk to the marijuana growers," said Hermann, who also serves as president of the Hemp Industries Association and owns a hemp products company. "And I will tell you it’s a hard pill to swallow."
Winters is the first to obtain a license to grow industrial hemp from the Oregon Department of Agriculture. Another three people have applied, said Ron Pence, operations manager for commodity inspection for the agency, which oversees the state’s new industrial hemp program.
Pence said the agency has authority to limit where some agricultural crops, such as rapeseed, are cultivated. But it does not have that authority when it comes to industrial hemp.
"It would need a legislative fix," he said.
Oregon lawmakers have taken note of marijuana growers’ objections. Rep. Peter Buckley, D-Ashland, said growers peppered his office with emails once Winters’ plans became public. He said lawmakers are exploring potential solutions to protect both crops.
"Nobody wants one crop to endanger another crop," he said.
Oregon’s robust outdoor marijuana growing culture sets it apart from places like Kentucky, which also has a state hemp program. Oregon’s outdoor growers are organized, have an attorney and even a lobbyist. While Kentucky’s agriculture officials are enthusiastic boosters of industrial hemp, marijuana remains illegal.
"Marijuana growers are not so vocal" in Kentucky, said Eric Steenstra, president of Vote Hemp, a national hemp advocacy group. "They are not in a position to be able to call up their legislators to ask for a bill protecting their crops."
Winters, for his part, doesn’t see a major problem cultivating hemp near marijuana crops. He said the growing cycle for hemp is shorter than the one for outdoor marijuana and that an earlier harvest means it would not pose a threat to cannabis.
"It’s been doable all over the world," said Winters, who’s also a medical marijuana grower. "People have misconceptions about industrial hemp."
He said marijuana growers need more "education and training and knowledge" about hemp and that he plans to meet with outdoor growers to address their concerns.
He said he’s received strong criticism from marijuana growers and even personal threats since word of his plan spread.
"It’s a viable crop," he said. "There is no way we are going to be forced out of the county. I can tell you that. We are here to stay."
— Noelle Crombie


A sprinkler head is one of the most common parts of your outdoor sprinkler system. If you have noticed a sprinkler that is not working properly, it may be time to look for a way to fix it. In this article, we will discuss some of the issues that can cause a sprinkler to malfunction, and how to solve them.
Damage to the sprinkler itself
If you have a sprinkler head that’s been damaged, it can cause water to flow in the wrong direction or at the wrong time. Not only can this damage your lawn, but the water may also spread unpleasant odors throughout your home.
There are several things that can cause a sprinkler head to malfunction, including overtightening the head. If you have a sprinkler system, you should schedule an inspection by a professional every year. A qualified professional can inspect the heads, repair them if necessary, and make sure they are in good working order.
The top reason for sprinkler head problems is mechanical damage. For example, a broken pipe can clog the sprinkler nozzle. This can lead to a puddle in your lawn, which can affect the growth of your landscape.
Other common causes of damaged heads include freezing weather. It’s important to keep your sprinkler heads covered during the winter months.
Another cause of broken heads is plant matter, especially if you have tall grass around the sprinklers. This can also cause debris to build up, such as dirt. If this occurs, you should be able to clear the nozzle by wiping it off. If this doesn’t work, it could be time to get a new sprinkler head.
Tilted or sunken sprinkler heads
If your sprinklers are tilted, there are some simple steps you can take to get them back in position. It may be that your heads need to be raised or redirected. If you are not sure what to do, it is a good idea to call a lawn irrigation expert for advice.
Tilted heads can be a result of the compaction of the soil. They also can be caused by the weight of landscaping equipment weighing on the wet soil.
Before raising or relocating your sprinklers, it’s important to remove the dirt that’s covering them. You can do this by using a stiff brush or a damp rag. Then, flush the sprinklers with running water.
If you’re working on your lawn’s water line, you need to wear old clothing. This will help to protect you from liability. You can also raise the heads by packing the soil around them.
Alternatively, you can simply replace them. You can find replacement pop-up sprinklers for as little as $10-20.
Clogged sprinkler heads
Clogged sprinkler heads are an annoying problem, but there are a few ways to clean them up and get your lawn back on track. The first step is to take a look at the system. Some problems with an irrigation system are caused by electrical wiring or water connection. The next step is to flush out the system to make sure there is no debris.
One of the easiest ways to clean a clogged head is to replace it with a new one. If you have the time and inclination, you can also clean the nozzles. Taking the time to do this will ensure that your sprinkler heads last as long as possible.
Putting the right pressure on the sprinkler head can help it work properly. This is especially important for brass heads. If you are not an expert in irrigation, you may want to consult a professional.
Using the appropriate tools is the best way to make sure you remove any debris from your sprinkler system. You can use a paper clip or a piece of stiff wire to clear a hole in the nozzle.
Replace faulty sprinkler heads
If your sprinkler heads are not functioning properly, they may need to be replaced. Whether you need to replace them for a lawn irrigation system or your personal property, there are a few steps you can take to repair your sprinkler heads.
The first step is to find a replacement head. A good place to start is your local home improvement store. The staff at these stores will be able to help you choose the best option for your needs.
When choosing a new head, you want to be sure it is the same type as your broken one. You also need to make sure it has the same delivery rate and throw distance. The spray pattern must be the same for your sprinkler heads to be effective.
After you have found the right head, you will need to remove the old one. You can do this by unscrewing it from its riser. Then you can twist the head anti-clockwise until it comes out.


we're running about a month early this year, as far as flowers blooming (my peonies are nearly DONE) and crops ready for harvest. I've already put in some golden beets for fall (never had luck growing my own beets - once again, fingers crossed!) and have pulled out the peas. I've been harvesting our first tomatoes and tons of lettuce and I have FAVA BEANS coming on. (Oh man, I had favas for the first time last year and wondered where they'd been all my life. LOVE them.)
This is the first batch of nasturtium capers, and I've got a bowl of nasturtium pods in the fridge getting ready for the next one. I want to wait a few days and pick over the nasturtiums again and get another big jar going.
I seriously love these. They may be "poor man's capers," but I love them way more than the real deal! Find my post from last year, and a link to the recipe, here.


G.a HOMEFAVOR Stainless Steel Sprouting Jar Lids, Mesh Strainer Seed Germinator Lid Kit for Wide Mouth Mason Jars- Growing Sprouts at Home
- Brand:G.a HOMEFAVOR
- Product Code: KT114
- Availability: In Stock
DURABLE AND LONG-LASTING - Made of high-quality stainless steel, not easy to break, bend and rust. Food-grade and nontoxic seed sprouting lids are great for making organic and healthy sprouts. They fit wide mouth mason jars whose mouth has an outside dimension of 3 3/8"(about 8.5 cm) and an inner dimension of 3''(about 7.6 cm).
PRACTICAL AND MULTIFUNCTIONAL - 4-piece jar lids keep a constant supply of various seed sprouts, like mungbean sprouts, soya bean sprouts, broccoli sprouts, alfalfa, lentil sprouts and more. They are also great for straining tea or juice, sifting sugar, spices or powder.
MESH STRAINER DESIGN - The mesh screen of the seed accelerating sprouter is convenient for you to make easier water replacement. Well-ventilated design allows air to circulate and ensures seeds to breathe, which prevents mold from breeding.
EASY TO CLEAN - With removable mesh, there will not leave over any residual stains in the gap between the mesh screen and the ring. Both hand wash and dishwasher are safe.
IDEAL GIFT - These sprouting jar lids look elegant and retro, making the whole jar trendy and sophisticated. They are an ideal gift or recommendation to your friends, family, neighbours and colleagues who likes organically grown sprouts and healthy diet.
Suitable for Most Wide Mouth Jars
Perfect for sprouting, straining, or sifting. Suitable for Wide Mouth mason jars and canisters (3.3" in diameter) whose mouth has a screw thread on its outer perimeter.
Easy to Use
Fine mesh screen allows the water to flow out without the seeds coming out.
Come with 4 kits so that you can have an ongoing supply of sprouts.
You are able to grow sprouts without putting soil or other growing medium into the jar.
Versatile Sprouting Lids
Sprout beans, grains, nuts, alfalfa, broccoli, lentil. Strain water, juice, tea, kefir, broth. Soak almond milk, seeds, legumes. Dust cocoa, sugar, flour, spices, seasonings.
Durable and Rust Free
The sprouting lids are made of sturdy and robust stainless steel, not easy to deform, break or bend like plastic ones. Besides, they can work with hot or cold food.
Put the sprouting jar in a warm, dark and ventilated place can promote sprouts growth.
Material: stainless steel
Weight: 99 g
Product Dimensions: 3.3’’×3.3’’×0.6’’ (8.5×8.5×1.6 cm)
Package Includes: 4-pack sprouting jar lids


Goalpara Integrated Community Development Project (GICDP):
GICDP is one of NEICORD’s projects in partnership with Goalpara Boro Baptist Church Association (GBBCA), supported by Tear Australia. The project is working in the villages of Chirang District, which is in the western part of Assam. NEICORD initiated this project to help the poorer section, to have their dignity through “sustainable development”. There are 6 targeted villages and the 5 major components in the project are i) Community Capacity Building, ii) Reduction of common water borne diseases, iii) Increase in adult literacy, iv) Increase in agriculture production and v) Increase in family Income through IGP.
Khumolozung Integrated Community Development Project (KICDP):
Tseminyu, the Project area of NEICORD in Nagaland is located at a distance of about 50 kms from the state capital Kohima and about 400 kms from the NEICORD Head Office, Shillong. The majority of the population (95%) belongs to Rengma tribe. Their main source of livelihood is agriculture and the primitive method of jhum cultivation (slash and burn) is still in practice. The areas are predominantly Christians constituting the largest population. The project Khumolozung Integrated Community Development Project (KICDP) is funded by Tear Australia. The Project has been working in empowering the people and changing the long traditional mindset of the people especially in the agricultural activities by providing those alternative farming techniques for Jhum cultivation for the sustainability of the poor farmers. The Project concentrated on changing the cultivation pattern from ‘Jhum’ to Sloping Agricultural Land Technology (SALT)
Urban Community Development Project (UCDP):
The Urban Community Development project implemented in 2006 works in a slum in the Pynthorumkhrah area of Shillong, Meghalaya. This project was preceeded by Participatory Learning and Action (PLA) survey and has four program components: 1) Group formation & Community Leadership Development Program, 2)Economic Development, 3) Community Based Health Care Program and 4) Functional Literacy. Christian Reformed World Relief Committee (CRWRC) is our donor.
Patharkhamah Community Development Project (PCDP):
The Patharkhamah Community Development Project initiated in 2000 works in the Ri-Bhoi District, Meghalaya. This project covers 12 villages and serves the Khasi, Rabha and Garo people groups through four main programs: Group Formation and community leadership development, Functional Literacy, Primary Health care and Income Generating Program. Christian Reformed World Relief Committee (CRWRC) is our donor.


In his diverse career, Rob Murray has overseen everything from large scale operations in Hawaii farming bananas and stone fruit, to boutique vineyards for small growers on the Central Coast of California. Rob’s family is rooted in agriculture, and he began to work on their San Joaquin Valley farm at the age of five. He holds a degree in Agricultural Management from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and owns and manages ~1000 acres of Central Coast vineyard land. Rob's brands all reflect his attention to detail in the vineyard and strong passion for farming for quality.
After 10 years of managing restaurants, building wine lists, and developing his own palate, winemaker Robert Henson returned to school in 2002 to study Enology at Fresno State. While pursuing his Enology degree and distributing wine for Chambers and Chambers he had the opportunity to work with Michael Michaud from Michaud Vineyard, a 32 year veteran and the authoritative resource for grape growing in Monterey County. Upon completing his university studies, Robert continued to work as Michaud’s Assistant Wine Grower until 2007. He then took a position as Winemaker and Vineyard Manager of a small winery in the Santa Cruz Mountains, where he received numerous awards and accolades, before eventually making his way back home to the San Luis Obispo area. Henson Wines is his first independent endeavor.
Andrew holds a degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in Agricultural Business and a minor in Viticulture and Enology. He spent 3 years in cellar operations on the Central Coast – working at Edna Valley, Four Vines and the Firestone Walker Brewery. He then spent 4 years in Napa and Sonoma working in grower relations and vineyard operations for Diageo Chateau and Estate Wines buying grapes and managing vineyards for Sterling, BV, Provenance, Rosenblum and Acacia.
Bruce hails from a horticultural background. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Horticulture from California Polytechnic State University, Pomona, and spent 15 years working in wholesale nurseries and focusing on plant propagation. In 2007 Bruce moved to the Central Coast where he proceeded to earn his master’s degree in Crop Science with a focus on Viticulture. Bruce joined the Coastal Land Partners team in 2009 and oversees vineyard operations.


All participants from GB Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, may connect with their respective Hostel incharges for registration.
All other participants please fill in the below form for registration.
The Conference fee is to be submitted via Demand Draft in favour of International Youth Conference 2012 payable at State Bank of India, Pantnagar.
The draft must be sent on the following address before December 30, 2017:
Dr. S.K. Kashyap
Professor and Head
Department of Ag. Communication
College of Agriculture
G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology
Mobile: +91-9568953731, +91-8057233194


Have you ever seen wildlife in an artificial tree farm? Better yet, ever seen an artificial tree farm? Of course not. Our Real products are also excellent air fresheners, artificial trees and wreaths are not excellent air fresheners, in fact they emit toxic gases in some cases (certainly in case of a fire they do). Our real products produce a fantastic smell when burned, with adequate ventilation and safety precautions of course.
Environmental Benefits of REAL Christmas Trees
Real Christmas trees provide a plethora of benefits to the environment, and our farmers go the extra mile to ensure natural resources are preserved for future generations. Check out these facts on the environmental impact of real Christmas trees:
- While growing, real trees produce significant amounts of oxygen that is released into the environment, protect soil from erosion and provide refuge for wildlife.
- Each acre of Christmas trees produces the daily oxygen requirements for 18 people.
- Real Christmas trees are the best environmental option for consumers, according to former Greenpeace President Patrick Moore, Ph.D.
- Pacific Northwest Christmas trees are grown on sustainable farms in the U.S., just like produce, nuts and other crops, so they do not threaten natural forests.
- Real Christmas trees reduce carbon emissions by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen, which people, plants and the environment need to survive.
- Real Christmas trees are renewable, and growers plant one or more trees to replace every tree they harvest.
- Many times, Christmas trees are grown in soil that will not support other crops
Ever wonder where your natural Christmas tree comes from? If you buy a tree from the Pacific Northwest, it has gone through years of attentive care before it becomes a part of your home for the holidays.
- The majority of Christmas trees sold in California, New Mexico, Arizona and Nevada were grown in the Pacific Northwest.
- The Pacific Northwest is home to more than 1,000 individual Christmas-tree growers and farmers. Acreages range from more than 10,000 acres to four to five acres.
- The Pacific Northwest is the world’s largest producer of Douglas-Fir Christmas trees, but is also known for its Noble and Grand fir varieties. In fact, the Pacific Northwest is the only region in the world that produces Noble Firs.
- While the end product appears only briefly, growing the trees (planting, fertilizing, pruning, shearing, etc.) is a task that takes years before the trees ever reach your home. For instance, a Noble Fir can take up to nine years to reach six feet tall.
- Freshness is the key. Some wholesale growers use helicopters to lift fresh-cut trees from the fields. Purchasing from a farm, insures your tree is fresh and will last beyond a tree purchased on a tree lot.
- Our tree farm puts the utmost care and attention into raising real Christmas trees. Continuing to care for your real Christmas tree at home ensures it will remain the focal point of your holiday celebrations throughout the season.
- Christmas trees grown in the Pacific Northwest come in many varieties and sizes to match your holiday travel schedule and lifestyle. •Buying a real, farm-grown Christmas trees helps support U.S.-based growers and business.


The facility will take corn stover — the stalks, leaves and cobs left in a field after harvest — and turn it into a clean fuel that offers a 90 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions as compared to gasoline.
Most of this fuel will be used in California to fulfill the state’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard, which requires producers of petroleum-based fuels to reduce the carbon intensity of their products.
“Cellulosic ethanol will further diversify the transportation fuel mix just as wind and solar are expanding the renewable options for power generation,” the company said.
DuPont also hopes that the facility — the world’s largest cellulosic ethanol plant — will serve as a commercial-scale demonstration of its cellulosic technology, showing that non-food feedstocks from agriculture can help meet future energy demands.
The company recently announced a licensing agreement with New Tianlong Industry to build China’s largest cellulosic ethanol plant, and a year ago a Memorandum of Understanding was announced between DuPont, Ethanol Europe and the government of Macedonia to develop a second-generation biorefinery project. The company is also working with Procter & Gamble to use cellulosic ethanol in its North American laundry detergents.
Almost 500 local farmers will supply the biorefinery with 375,000 dry tons of stover each year, providing a new revenue stream for growers while also creating 85 full-time jobs at the plant and more than 150 seasonal local jobs in Iowa.


As the holiday season approaches, the activity around King's Farm Market turns to
making holiday wreaths and fresh garland. After September 15th, fall wreaths are available.
And after Thanksgiving, Christmas wreaths and garland are available.
The Fall wreaths are made from pine and dried leaves, grains, grasses, and flowers. The Christmas wreaths are made with a variety of materials including magnolia, Fraser fir, Leland cypress, holly, popcorn berries and pine. Also available are sprays, garland, and table arrangements. King's is also a great place to purchase your fresh Christmas tree.
King's Farm Market consists of 100 acres of prime farmland that has scaled down to about 14 acres of sweet corn and 3 acres of flowers, okra, squash, cucumbers peppers and sunflowers. The sunflowers are sold as cut flowers and what is not sold is left for the birds. Many of the items that Bonnie and Rett King sell are grown right there on the farm. They have reduced the acreage to the point where it is profitable to produce enough for the roadside stand. Rett is a sixth generation farmer at Edisto.
King's Farm Market is open from March to December and sells what is in season at the time. From sweet corn in June and July to Christmas trees and wreaths in December. There is always something to add to your visit on Edisto.
The roadside stand concept started with son Jamie selling extra vegetables by the road on Little Britton Road just off of State Highway 174. He started it with an old crock pot that had been a butter churn for a cash register and an "Honest Pot" when he wasn't around. The table had vegetables and fruits with a hand written sheet with prices on it. Passers by would stop and take what they wanted and leave the money in the jar. It was the true honor system. When he was 16, he moved to the "Big" highway on 174. And from there the small vegetable market took off.


The Williams coffee story
Williams signature coffee is a blend of premium beans from Kenya, Guatemala, Brazil and Columbia. These countries are widely recognized for producing some of the world’s best coffee. Each region feaures its own particular characteristics: Kenya is famous for its brightness and acidity. Coffee from Guatemala, more specifically the Antigua region, is known for its unique combination of fruitiness and smokiness. Brazil is considered a staple for quality blends with its full body and overall balance and Columbia is likely the most recognized coffee growing region in the world due to its soil and climate conditions which result in above average body and good acidity. Williams has brought the best of these four growing regions together to make our signature blend. It is a medium roast coffee with a smooth and balanced flavour, body and aroma.
Did you know?
A single coffee bean is not actually a bean at all but half of the pit of a coffee cherry
A perfectly ripe coffee cherry is bright red in colour
Coffee is second only to oil as the most heavily traded commodity in the world
Coffee is very much like wine in that growing regions, soil condition, temperature and precipitation all play a critical role in the quality and flavour of the final product.
The best coffees are grown at higher altitudes providing the necessary hot sun in the daytime and cool moist evenings while minimizing many plant diseases and insect damage common at lower altitudes
Espresso has less caffeine than regular brewed coffee
The darker the roast, the less caffeine in the brew
It’s not unusual to pay upwards of twenty dollars a glass for some the world’s best wines, while a cup of the world’s best Joe can still be had for under two bucks. Did you know that?


Garden Buddies is a project where people of all ages come together to share activities such as gardening, playing games or just chatting.
What we're doing
Garden Buddies began as an ‘offshoot’ of Borders Food Buddies.
The project came about in a very natural, organic way when we met people living with dementia who were attending a local day centre. Behind this day centre was a lovely community garden and we started some modest gardening activities for the older people. Towards the end of the year the project developed an intergenerational element, involving school pupils who were working in the garden too.
The impact it's having so far
The Garden Buddies project visited different community gardens to learn about accessibility. We created 2 how-to guides to help community groups and individuals continue enjoying gardening while getting older.


In an effort to boost agricultural mechanization and ensure food security, a non-governmental organization, Syngneta Foundation Nigeria, has facilitated the process of helping farmers to access machinery through reputable companies. – Hello Tractors in partnership with Heifer International.
The tractors were recently handed over to farmers at an event organized by Hello Tractors in conjunction with Heifer International at Efugo Farm, Kuje Abuja.
The theme of the event was financing tractors to increase agricultural productivity and incomes for smallholder farmers.
This gesture by the Foundation comes at a time when access to mechanization is essential to accelerate the country’s agricultural productivity.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Syngenta Foundation Country Director Isaiah Gabriel said the tractor fundraising midwifery undertaken by the foundation was in line with the organization’s mandate to improve access from small farmers to machines.
“The Syngneta Foundation has a responsibility to improve the lives of smallholder farmers, through productivity and access to finance. Also, if you look at our mission statement, we have different strands – Agric service, Seed2Seed and insurance.
“In the Agric service component, we have a component called mechanization, which improves small farmers’ access to machinery. It is based on this element that the foundation contacted Hello Tractors to see how our Hub managers will have access to the tractors,” said Isaiah.
He added: “We have made the link and the connection, while the Hub Managers, who are the beneficiaries, become the super booking agent who goes down the machine to the other smallholders. Two of our hub managers are the beneficiaries and we are confident that they will use the machine for the benefit of society. »
Isaiah further said that a pilot study on tractor linkages was done in 2020 by the foundation.
“The study revealed that the appetite of smallholder farmers is very high in terms of mechanization. The use of crude instruments in the modern era is becoming obsolete due to the quest for food to cure the hunger that is ravaging the African continent. The availability of tractors to plow acres of land is a divine step in the right direction.
Speaking about the challenges, Isaiah cited poor equipment as the reason Hello Tractors contacted financial institutions who gave the tractors to farmers as a soft loan repayable within three to five years.
Also speaking, the head of SFN-Agric-Service, Timothy Azakere, hinted that the foundation was an indirect guarantor in the ties, as it was the organization that led the entire process leading to the selection of the officers. from the hub.
“We are indirect guarantors, in the sense that we are the ones who put the hub managers in contact with Hello Tractors.”
Commenting on the trust placed in the selected beneficiaries, he said that the hub managers who benefited from the program had worked with the Syngneta Foundation for some time now, therefore, “they are reliable, credible and trustworthy”.
He assured that more hub managers will be connected in the upcoming September edition.
The highlight of the event was the signing of a 20-page agreement document by the beneficiaries titled: Lease-to-Purchase Agreement.
The agreement stated that the recipients “would have to pay a monthly rental fee to Hello Tractors along with any other applicable payments.” He further revealed that the tractors will come with a one-year maintenance contract offered by the manufacturer.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Roseline Omoroka, from Abuja, praised the foundation for facilitating the tractor concessional loan financing scheme.
She said: “I learned about Hello Tractor through the Syngenta Foundation, which involved me in their greenhouse program and activities.
She appreciated the foundation for the great help and assistance, promising not to betray SYN’s trust in her.
Also taking the floor, another beneficiary, Mrs. Latifat Ajegbe, from Kano, said; “I want to say a big thank you to the Syngneta Foundation for a job well done. I am the happiest woman on earth. It is my dream, to acquire a tractor. The dream has come true thanks to the Syngenta Foundation. They were a great help to us, especially in Kano. They really touch the lives of small farmers.
Earlier, the Country Manager of Hello Tractor, Nneka Enwonwu said Pay As You Go (PAYG) tractor financing is an innovation to support smallholder mechanization, food security and rural entrepreneurship in the country.
She noted that through technology, the company has connected tractor owners to smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa “through a farm equipment sharing app that bridges the gap between traditional farming and more technological advances”.
She further urged farmers not to cut corners but rather to make good use of tractors.
In his goodwill message, Heifer International representatives, Olaranwaju Oniyitan, explained that the tractor financing model was an innovation to support smallholder mechanization, food security and rural entrepreneurship in Nigeria.
He therefore called on the beneficiaries to seize the opportunity to get out of poverty by taking advantage of the program to earn a living.


The North Carolina Fruit & Vegetable Shipper Web-Based Directory is intended for use by produce directors, category managers and buyers in the food industry. Brought to you by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services Marketing Division , it is a comprehensive database of grower/shipper information.
This Directory is one component of our NC Fresh Link campaign that promotes fresh, locally grown, fruits and vegetables. Our www.ncfreshlink.com website contains this same database and is updated regularly. In addition, the NC Fresh Link monthly newsletter previews upcoming crops and new items available for buyers.
The NC Fresh Link campaign is an essential part of the state's Got to be NC - Goodness Grows in North Carolina (GGINC) program. This is the official marketing program that promotes and sells North Carolina products across the world. Over 1300 growers, processors and food companies are members.
North Carolina's favorable growing climate and soil conditions help provide a variety of top quality produce for buyers all along the East Coast. This directory is your "link" to all of them.
For additional information, contact any of the markting division offices.
This directory was compiled by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The North Carolina Growers/Packers/Shippers listed are capable of filling wholesale orders. The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services does not guarantee the accuracy nor endorse any of the companies listed. No company was intentionally omitted. If a company should desire to be included in future editions of this directory, please contact Kevin Hardison, NCDA&CS Headquarters, Division of Marketing, at 919.707.3123.


Often characterized as being old-fashioned and living off the land, Amish farmers in upstate New York stepped out of their comfort zones to learn new farming technology from the Cornell Cooperative Extension. The Amish have been program participants for the past five or six years.
Last week, 14 Amish were touring Finger Lakes Farms when their van was struck after a car tried passing a slow-moving tractor in Benton. Six of the Amish have died. Steven Eidridge, 42, the driver of the car has been charged with criminally negligent homicide and driving while intoxicated.
The group of Amish were studying ways to extend the growing season of fresh fruits and vegetables in Yates County when the accident occurred. Despite this setback, they plan to continue learning new technologies. One farmer, who is hospitalized for his injuries, indicated that the Amish community is already looking beyond the past and looking forward to continuing to learn new farming techniques from the Extension. They say their faith keeps them moving forward, and that they have no control over what happened. The Amish say it is part of a bigger plan and they have to accept that.
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On Thursday, Iraq’s Agriculture Ministry Undersecretary Mithaq Abdul-Hussein said his country plans to increase agricultural production of the wheat crop for the next season using modern technologies, and switch to smart agriculture using modern sprinklers to cope with water scarcity and climate change.
During his participation in the launch of the rural families project in southern Iraq, he pointed out that in cooperation with Canada and the World Food Program (FAO), “the last agricultural campaign has registered great successes, reaching about 4,500 tons of wheat, which are excellent rates.”
He continued, “Iraq has no choice but to move towards smart agriculture and use modern technologies to develop the agricultural sector to cope with climate change and lack of water flows. water in the Tigris and Euphrates rivers”.
Former adviser to the Iraqi Parliament’s Committee on Agriculture and Irrigation, Adel Al-Mukhtar, paints a picture for “Sky News Arabia” of the reflection of water and climatic conditions on agriculture in his country:
Water scarcity and climate change have greatly affected strategic crops in Iraq, as well as other crops, and poultry and livestock are in serious decline. Fishing has also been strongly affected by water scarcity. Thus, Iraq’s meat and fish needs are also threatened.
Regarding the government’s plan to compensate for this shortage and deal with climate impacts, Al-Mukhtar says:
Iraq needs an integrated plan and an agricultural revolution led by a team of experts to deal with the severe droughts that are expected to hit the country in the coming years, in addition to being affected by the Turkish dam of Al-Jazra, which causes the waters of the Tigris to dry up. The use of modern technologies or smart agriculture is a big job that requires time and great capacities, and the current crisis requires quick solutions to meet the urgent needs of Iraqis. Therefore, it should be accompanied by prompt measures to increase the productivity of the wheat crop.
Water reserves are threatened
Last March, the Iraqi Ministry of Water Resources warned that the water situation is the most critical since the 1930s, as stated in press releases by the director of the General Authority for Dams and ministry tanks, Ali Radi Thamer.
In detail, water storage is in a very critical situation, and the current total storage oscillates between 7 and 7.5 billion cubic meters, while it oscillated between 55 and 60 billion cubic meters at the end of 2019, which is a very big difference.
One of the reasons for this decline is the succession of rare rainy seasons, and this year Iraq passed the fourth rare season, in addition to the lack of water income from Turkey, in addition to high temperatures .
Read the Latest World News Today on The Eastern Herald.
Source : https://www.easternherald.com/2023/06/09/smart-farming-a-hope-that-iraq-clings-to-before-crops-disappear/


Selected reviews by the BEWIT team
„Ranní kaši bez Carobu už si nevařím, protože něco mi v ní pak chybí. 🙂 Chutná mi víc jako karamelová cukrová vata než jako kakao (jak se často zmiňuje). Možná vůní je trochu podobný, ale jinak není vůbec hořký a je hodně sladký. Má svoji dobrou chuť. Navíc se mi líbí pocit, že zároveň dodává tělu výživu pro kosti (Ca) , pleť (A, B), cévy (Fe) a podporuje centrální nervovou soustavu (B, Mg). Také zlepšuje díky vláknině trávení. Neznám zdravější "cukřík" s příchutí. Je moc dobrý společně se skořicí. Dětem ho dávám na lívance, do kaše nebo perníku jako náhradu za bílý cukr. Jsem ráda, že i jim můžu osladit jídlo bez výčitek. “
100% pure and natural
All ingredients contained in the product are 100% pure and natural and non-synthetic.
BIO RAW carob powder
BIO, RAW carob powder has a mild and delicious sweet taste. It can be used as a substitute for refined sugars and other sweeteners. Besides, it is a natural source of high fibre, which establishes a feeling of satiety. Carob is also a source of vitamins, minerals and other beneficial substances for the body.
Carob powder or carob bread
Carob is an ancient cultivated plant whose origins are traced to the Mediterranean and Arabian Peninsula regions. Even then, its fruits were a common part of the diet. Due to its popularity and use, the carob tree was spread throughout the Mediterranean, the coast of North Africa and subsequently to other areas characterised by similar climates. Carob powder is obtained from the ripe fruit of this evergreen tree. According to one legend, the fruits of the carob tree were a favourite delicacy of Saint John the Baptist, who ate them along with other dry foods on his journey through the desert. Depending on this legend, carob powder earned the name carob bread, by which it is often referred to.
Cultivation and production
Harvesting at full maturity
The special feature of carob is that it flowers mainly in autumn. Due to its climatic conditions, India is an ideal region for growing carob trees. Mainly due to the warm climate and low rainfall. The fruits of carob are pods that are harvested when fully ripe.
Very gentle production process
Immediately after harvesting, the pods are stripped of their inner parts and seeds. The remaining pulp is then processed into the final powder in a very gentle process where no temperature above 42 °C is exceeded at any stage.
RAW quality is guaranteed with our carob powder.
Ingredients and product properties
Natural source of high fibre
BIO, RAW carob powder has a distinctive sweet taste. It can be used as a substitute for refined sugars and other sweeteners. Karob is also a natural source of high fibre which builds up saturation. Adequate fibre intake has a particular effect on proper bowel function. In addition, carob is a source of vitamins, minerals and other substances beneficial to the body. Depending on the naturally occurring carbohydrates, carob powder has a typical sweet taste. The fat content is lower when compared to cocoa.
Instructions for use
The taste of carob powder is pleasant and sweet. Due to its typical aroma, it also serves as a cocoa substitute.
- Cocoa substitute
- Rich source of fibre
- Source of protein
- Low in salt
- Super food
Country of origin
KUMAZAWA, Shigenori et al., 2002. Antioxidant Activity of Polyphenols in Carob Pods. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 50, 373–377.
STAVROU, J., Ioannis, Atalanti CHRISTOU, and Constantina P. KAPNISSI-CHRISTODOULOU, 2018. Polyphenols in carobs: A review on their composition, antioxidant capacity and cytotoxic effects, and health impact. Food Chemistry. 15, 355–374.
YDJEDD, Siham et al. 2017, Effect of in Vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion on Encapsulated and Nonencapsulated Phenolic Compounds of Carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) Pulp Extracts and Their Antioxidant Capacity. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 65(4), 827–835.
JOSÉ CORREIA, Pedro et al. 2018. Biologically active compounds available in Ceratonia siliqua L. grown in contrasting soils under Mediterranean climate. Scientia Horticulturae. 228–234.
CANTALEJO, M. J., 1997. Effects of Roasting Temperature on the Aroma Components of Carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.). Journal of Agricultural Food and Chemistry. 45(4), 1345–1350.
LOULLIS, Andreas and Eftychia PINAKOULAKI, 2018. carob as cocoa substitute: a review on composition, health benefits and food applications. european Food Research and Technology. 959–977.


Dec 1st 2010
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Open house 9am-2pm
Farm tour at 10:30am
@ Massachusetts Avenue Project, 271 Grant Street, Buffalo, NY
A temporary installation in the Massachusetts Avenue Project’s new aquaponics greenhouse — a multi-channel sound piece exploring the hidden sonic ecologies of MAP’s innovative and sustainable aquaponics system.
Aquaponics is a mostly closed system of sustainable food production where fish wastes are used to fertilize plants and feed worms, and plants and worms are used to feed fish. MAP’s existing greenhouse contains some 5,000 tilapia, and will support 50,000 when completed.
Sep 16th 2010
OPENING: Sunday, September 19, 4-8pm
Scajaquada. The oldest word in use on the Niagara Frontier, and both source for and subject of an exhibition celebrating ecosystem, neighborhood, history, and place through innovative work from regional artists, activists, historians, performers, and practitioners.
TOUR: Tuesday, September 21, 4pm.
Leaves from 464 Amherst Street
LECTURE: Tuesday, September 21, 6pm.
By Franklin LaVoie at Polish Cadets Hall.
PERFORMANCE: Thursday, September 23, 10am.
By Jessica Thompson starting at Forest Lawn Cemetery and moving through Buffalo’s East Side.
For more information, please visit: http://scajaquada.org/.


Ndugu farmers wants to create more insights out of collected data on all levels of the organization to be able to steer and adapt more accurately and specifically.
Additionally, Ndugu farmers wants to diversify the business, since it is now only focused on the coffee chain, and introduce new services and products, considering that the transportation processes and relationships are already established.
QUESTIONS FOR HOUSE OF PERFORMANCE
Within the data track of this project, we conducted interviews to identify the specific data-related challenges, wants and needs within Ndugu. Based on the results, we constructed sample dashboards, based on which the local dashboarding team was able to build their own. Through workshops on ‘how to improve data quality’ and ‘how to steer based on data via a performance dialogue’ we taught & developed skills of the local team to improve their way of working with data. We applied the “demonstrate, participate, and self-engage principle” throughout the process.
Within the business development track of this project, we created a toolbox with essential elements required to navigate the process of identifying new business opportunities. In co-creation with Ndugu we refined the toolbox to ensure that it fits within the Ndugu context and that Ndugu feels comfortable using it. We enhanced the start of the process by facilitating the first session to kickstart their exploration on new business opportunities.


Brett’s Outback Tasting Adventures from Cairns and Northern Beaches
A Foodie tour from Cairns you will thoroughly enjoy and remember.
This boutique food and wine experience from Cairns will be tasting some of the best food and wine that the Atherton Tablelands has to offer. They will take you through a variety of contrasting landscapes, from lush rainforest to stunning ochre Savannah plains. The rich volcanic soil allows farmers to grow many and diverse crops from Bananas, coffee, sugar cane, avocados, mangoes, macadamia nuts, citrus and more which you will learn about as they taste their way around the regions ‘Food Bowl.’


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About the Product:
Aquarium plants require certain essential nutrients for vibrant growth. Root tabs are formulated to supply key nutrients, including iron and potassium to help new aquatic plants get off to a vigorous start and to keep established plants flourishing.
Directions: Add 1 tablet for every 30 square inches of gravel surface. Push midway into the gravel bed. Add new tablets monthly for optimum plant growth.
Ingredients: Nitrogen, Phosphate, Soluble Potash, Iron.
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An arctic blast reached into North Carolina this week, but the chickens up on their roost inside the coop survived the freezing nights. Right now the temperature is hovering above 32, and there’s a cold rain falling. The growing season is finished.
I wanted to spend more time in the garden this summer. Even so, Erin and I were able to keep it watered, and it had plenty of sun, so the tomatoes did well, and I gathered enough cayenne and habanero chiles to make a couple of batches of hot sauce. The roselle grew tall and I made syrup, which the family enjoyed mixed with soda water. The herbs spread out in their box, and I’ll have thyme and parsley and sage to put into next week’s stuffing. The watermelon vine snaked around and flowered all summer but gave no fruit. A bean grew up the wire wall.
Soon I’ll start to plan for the spring, sketching out the boxes to arrange the plants differently and ordering seeds from Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds.
© Zuiker Chronicles Publishing, LLC


By Dr Chris Burwell, Senior Curator of Insects at Queensland Museum
Queensland Museum entomologist Dr Chris Burwell delves into the nocturnal raiders that are infiltrating gardens in south-east Queensland right now – fruit piercing moths.
My fellow curator Patrick Couper recently photographed some nocturnal raiders feeding on his carambola fruit. They weren’t the usual fruit bats or possums. They were moths, fruit piercing moths.
Most adult moths have a tightly coiled proboscis beneath their heads which acts like a drinking straw. They can uncoil this proboscis and use it to suck up liquids, usually nectar from flowers. The tip of the proboscis of a fruit-piercing moths is different that of other moths; it is hardened, has a sharp point and is armed with teeth. Fruit-piercing moths thrust the tip of the proboscis through the skin of ripe or ripening fruit and suck up the juices. A wide variety of fruits are on the menu including carambola, fig, guava, kiwifruit, mango, stonefruit, persimmon and ripening papaya. They can even tap the juices of fruit with thick skins like bananas, lychees and citrus fruits.
The most common fruit-piercing moths are species of Eudocima. They are large, stout moths with camouflage-brown forewings and brightly coloured orange hindwings. Despite their attractive appearance they are pests of the fruit industry. The flesh can become bruised or dry where the moths have been feeding. Microorganisms can enter though the moths’ puncture wounds causing the fruit to rot. Other moth species are attracted to the handiwork of fruit-piercing moths. They take advantage of the access holes drilled by the fruit-piercers to feed on juices or the fermenting fruit.
If you have fruiting trees in your garden try venturing out at night with a strong torch and you might catch a fruit-piercing moth in the act.
Two fruit-piercing moths (Eudocima fullonia) sucking the juice of a carambola fruit.
Other moths, like this Serrodes campana on the left, take advantage of the handiwork of fruit-piercing moths like Eudocima fullonia on the right, feeding at their puncture wounds.
Another free-loader, a specimen of Ophiusa disjungens feeding at the puncture wound made by a fruit-piercing moth.
Ask an expert
To find out more visit our website here or if you have a specific question about ants or any other wildlife around your home submit it via ‘Ask an Expert.’ #DiscoveryQM
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They will survive in low-light and don’t need a lot of watering. If you’re one of them, you might wanna try BEBE. As potted plants and cut flowers, Hippeastrum are particularly popular during Advent and Christmas. 4. If you're one of them, you might wanna try BEBE. Charlie Nardozzi has worked for more than 20 years bringing expert gardening information to home gardeners through the printed page, the Internet, radio, and television. Watering Control 207 results for Watering Control. Keep an eye out for mold, spots, disease, or fungus and carefully remove any damaged leaves. ... Ruibal’s Plants of Texas / ... With lots of light and regular watering and feeding, they are a great larger plant. A piece of chili, a keyboard’s spacebar, and a Zoomer inspired this retro-futuristic electric scooter design! Infinitely customizable keyboard comes with e-ink keys, letting you design your own layout and shortcuts! If you have large containers, switch to watering every two days. You do this with excessive watering for two to three days. Water your plant and add more soil when the water makes the soil in the pot settle. If they shift to a yellow hue, your plant may be not be getting enough water. In any case, the method of watering plants is important for water to penetrate the roots. Water is wasted through evaporation as it’s sitting in the furrow. When watering, you’ll want to do so with a certain method. concentrate the water on the soil not the plant itself to avoid rotting. He is currently a radio show host and a guest expert on many nationally syndicated radio shows such as Martha Stewart Living Radio. For lawns, a little brown in the hottest season can be fine and normal, which does not mean that the lawn needs water. It’s a… What if your AirPods were built right into your glasses? Water plants deeply and thoroughly; then allow them to dry out a bit before watering again. But many people’s green thumb gets a big thumbs down! It may increase to 4 times a week if there is intense heat. Be sure your plant is kept at a comfortable temperature: 70-85° F (20-30°C) is ideal. Growers can make several clones from a single plant which allows them to get the most out of their harvest with little effort. This book shows that you have options and tools available to help you take steps to ensure good quality drinking water for you and your family. Differentiating between direct, indirect, and low light Watering needs Rules of fertilizing Temperature and growing cycles Houseplants For Dummies is packed with houseplant growingtechniques, tips, tricks, and even goes the extra mile with achapter devoted to the various ways you can display houseplants ifyou?re looking for some bragging rights! In their native habitats across the Southern US, Mexico, Central and South America, air plants get … Drip irrigation is the most effective and efficient way to water vegetables because water drips right to the roots of the plants and little water is wasted. It’s a smart plant-watering system that helps water your plants regularly without you having to water them daily. Watering Plants for Dummies. If the water concentration outside of the plant roots is greater than that of the water concentration in the roots osmosis … The amaryllis should stay outdoors for two to three months until you can begin growing it indoors again. Meet the CLMBR, it’s a combination of an elliptical trainer, a bench-press, a stationary cycle, and…, I’m a firm believer in the fact that sci-fi movies help mold culture, and that in turn helps define innovation. If you’re one of them, you might wanna try BEBE. Houseplants For Dummies introduces dozens of different foliage plants, flowering plants, cacti, and exotic varieties. How to Care For Amaryllis Plants – Watering and Post Care Instructions. And they make watering plants a cinch because all you have to do is keep the water reservoir full. Drip irrigation is best for those gardeners who are into technology, who don’t have lots of time to water, and who live in water-restricted areas. Now that the trichomes [resin glands] on the plant has turned about 70% amber, you can start the harvesting process. Perhaps, I told myself, this was the solution to my gardening woes. With a soaker hose, water leaks out of the hose and onto the soil, leaving foliage dry and reducing evaporation. But only water when the soil starts to dry out. The amaryllis should stay outdoors for two to three months until you can begin growing it indoors again. Red and blue colored light are the wavelengths of light most widely used in … When the transition is complete, the soil in the new pot should be at a level of about 1/2" to 1" (1.3 to 2.5 cm) below the rim of the pot. The Quadra is a marriage between the classic use of…, Known to provide one of the most simple yet sublime experiences, the multiple award-winning Kosmos pen comes back in its latest avatar, with a brand new…, If you want to fully understand laundry woes, live the bachelor life. Ann is the author of Trees and Shrubs For Dummies (Wiley Publishing, Inc.) as well as How-To Landscaping Basics and Water Gardens: Simple Steps to Adding the Beauty of Water to Your Garden, both published by Time Life. If you’re one of them, you might wanna try BEBE. Sprinklers: A sprinkler is effective for watering vegetables planted in sandy soil that absorbs water quickly. 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Welcome to the Farm Update Section where we share the pictures and videos discussed on the Sow Edible Podcast. This weeks update is from Episode #4, where we began the work on the new sawmill structure, brewing Kombucha, growing and harvesting Purple Hull Peas, and the weeds we feed our pigs.
The Sawmill Structure is up! We decided that rather than building an enclosed structure for the sawmill, what we really needed was simply a cement pad for the sawmill to sit on and a roof for shade and protection from the rain. Since we use metal roofs on all our structures on the farm, it was actually more budget friendly to purchase a car port awning rather than build our own. The bonus of this was we also saved time by having free installation of the awning. Nice! We set up the sawmill and ran several logs thru in order to get an idea of how much working space we would need in order to work comfortably with these huge logs. This was a lot of work because the sawmill is heavy and has lots of pieces to assemble/disassemble but definitely worth the effort for the long run. Another thing we did was instead of filling the entire overhang area with a concrete pad, we decided that we really only needed the area that the sawmill sat on to have concrete, along with enough walking space to operate it. This was not only extremely budget friendly, but also allowed us to pour the concrete for the solar kiln. So it was a win-win in my book. Here is what we have so far.
On a quest to boost our Immune System for the winter, we are starting to try a variety of fermented food. The first on our list is this probiotic powerhouse; Kombucha Tea. We just got our Scoby (aka “the Mother”) which is that jellyfish looking thing floating at the top of the jar. We are excited to try this out and please say a prayer that I can convince my children to drink it! I’ll let you know how that goes.
Purple Hull Peas
We planted this as a nitrogen fixing ground cover because not only is it suppose to grow fast and furious in our climate, but it is also an edible that both humans and pigs love. The beans are ready for harvest and we have been picking away. The beans and the peas inside the pod are both edible and we read where people loved them for the peas. I can tell you that while the peas taste good, they take FOREVER to hull by hand. Mom and I only got a small bowl full after an hour or picking. Which is not enough to fill my 2 year old during a meal. So, learn from our experience and instead go for the tender young green beans. You have to pick them early before they begin to form the peas and before they turn purple. The young green beans are delicious and not stringy. If you wait past this point they become way too stringy to enjoy. So our plan in the future is to plant for ground cover, harvest the young green beans, and throw some to the pigs for treats. We will also be planting this inside the pig paddocks.
Everything has a purpose- it is just a matter of figuring out what it can be used for. Once again I am amazed at how much I don’t know. The Morning Glory is a perfect example of this. They are common weeds in our area, in fact they grow everywhere. They have really pretty flowers and make great Chop and Drop. As an added bonus, the pigs eat them like candy! The picture below shows you one of our pig paddocks that we have planted with corn, purple hull peas, and then let the “weeds” take over. When we move the pigs into it, they will have a smorgasbord!
Be sure to check back next week for more updates! You can also join us on Facebook, Pinterest, or enter your email above to stay connected!


Kiwifruit genomes for collaborations and crowdsourcing
This SciNet site provides kiwifruit genome information to the scientific community:
Through this site, Plant & Food Research is providing open access to some of our Actinidia resources. We want to support international researchers in academia, government, and industry and we want to encourage the community to work with us.
Science collaborations and crowdsourcing
Kiwifruit is under severe threat from Pseudomonas syringae pv actinidiae (Psa) around the world. You can find information on the bacterium on our public website.
This website hosts genome sequences of Actinidia chinensis and of the Psa bacterium.
By making the latest information on the genome of a commercially important plant and its most significant disease-causing bacterium available together, we hope the combined expertise of the entire science community can join to tackle this challenge.
Crowdsourced science can quickly generate new ideas for research and identify new opportunities for formal collaboration.
Work with us
Plant & Food Research has leading capabilities in
- kiwifruit breeding
- plant physiology
- pest and disease management
- land and water management
- sensory science
- postharvest science, and more.
and we have organized our research to tackle the problem. If you would like to explore opportunities to work with us to solve a very serious problem for kiwifruit growers worldwide, please contact us.
The centre of evolution of the genus Actinidia is in Southern China and the Yangzi River Valley, with 50 to 60 species recognised in China and a few in neighbouring countries. Actinidia taxa are morphologically variable and many species are polyphyletic through hybridization. The closely-related A. chinensis and A. deliciosa belong to a grouping found mainly in the Yangzi valley. The initial domestication occurred in New Zealand with an A. deliciosa green cultivar - the cultivar ‘Hayward’ later became dominant, followed in international trade about 40 years later with an A. chinensis cultivar ‘Hort16A’ and now 'SunGold'.
Actinidia have a basic chromosome number of n=29. However, there has been duplication during evolution of the genus as A. chinensis is diploid or tetraploid, A. deliciosa hexaploid, and A. arguta diploid to hexaploid. Gender is determined by XnX/XnY type with the male heterogametic with two genes involved, one suppressing pistil development in staminate flowers, the other pollen development in pistillate flowers. Evolution of dioecy must have occurred early in Actinidia before polyploidization and speciation and helps explain the heterozygosity of the species in the genus.
BioView is PFR's Sequence Analysis and Annotation System. BioView has been used annotate gene predictions from Actinidia chinensis genomes.
See SciNet's BioView Wiki for more information.
About Plant & Food Research
See our website


Which is why the alleged owner chose to start bulldozing the farm this morning. He might get to keep the land, he might not, but either way, all the crops and plants will be destroyed. However, at present, some folks are engaged in civil disobedience, trying to stop the destruction from taking place.
For now, the farmers don’t have many options. They have this legal appeal, and they are attempting to pressure their city council representative Jan Perry and put economic pressure on the landowner Ralph Horowitz. However both of these people are extremely hostile to the farmers, and it’s even been alleged that Perry presuaded Horowitz to not sell the land to the farmers by offering him a sweet deal on another plot of land nearby. The farmers have allies who are researching the situation and trying to bring the truth to light.
In the meantime, the farmers maintain nightly vigils outside the farm, weekly farmers’ markets and benefit concerts on Sundays, protest marches around the city on Saturdays, and trying to pressure the city council at their meetings on Fridays. And this weekend, from July 7-10, are South Central Farm International Solidarity Days, which allegedly will have solidarity actions taking place around the country and world, although sadly, I can’t find a listing of said events.
I’ll keep you updated as I get info.
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C-WIN's Carolee Krieger opinion piece in Chronicle:
Why almonds cover California
Published 5:13 pm, Tuesday, July 29, 2014
California produces more than 80 percent of the world's almonds, accounting for an export gross of more than $2.5 billion. Almonds, in short, are a profitable crop. But there's a big problem with these new plantings in the San Joaquin Valley. Almonds are thirsty.
California's almond orchards use almost 9 percent of the state's agricultural water supply, or about 3.5 million acre feet. That's enough water to supply the domestic needs of the Los Angeles Basin and metropolitan San Diego combined - about 75 percent of the state's population.
Most of the almond acreage north of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta is irrigated by farmers holding senior water rights and contracts using groundwater. But San Joaquin Valley almond growers uniformly hold junior surface water contracts. Until the early 1990s, they never would have planted such a water-intensive crop as almonds because they knew their water could be curtailed during droughts so Southern California cities would have enough.
But a 1994 behind-closed-doors deal between the state Department of Water Resourcesand large water contractors changed all that. The so-called Monterey Plus Amendments killed the "urban preference," the clause in state water law that prioritized the needs of cities over agriculture during droughts. The agreement also allowed private interests to own the Kern Water Bank, a rechargeable aquifer originally designated as urban drought insurance and formerly held as a public resource.
Thus, corporate agriculture gained control over the state's public water, conveniently ignoring the junior status of their water contracts and the fact that all water rights claims extant in California exceed the amount of available water by a factor of five.
Further, some of the water Big Ag obtained from the Monterey Plus scheme is delivered by the State Water Project at greatly discounted rates. The Monterey Plus Amendments thus freed corporate growers of all reasonable constraint, and they embarked on a large-scale orchard-planting spree. California's almond crop has tripled since the mid-1990s.
We are now in the grips of a devastating drought, and the response from the San Joaquin Valley orchard owners is predictable: They are demanding more water so their plantings won't die. Certainly, no one wishes them hardship. But they usurped public water with no concern for ratepayers. Millions of Californians should not suffer to maintain the profit margins of the very few, wealthy and politically connected.
Indeed, now is the time to overturn the Monterey Plus Amendments and reinstate the urban preference. This drought has thrown us into a state of crisis. But water shortages, due to both climate change and the unrelenting demands of corporate agriculture and a growing population, could well become the norm. We need equitable policies that accommodate ratepayers, the environment and sustainable agriculture. It must be noted that industrial almond production is not sustainable in the arid San Joaquin Valley.
We, the public, can reclaim our water, but we must break the unholy alliance between Sacramento and the San Joaquin agribusiness cabal. It may be 2014, but our water policies remain rooted in the 19th century. It is high time we brought them up to date.
Carolee Krieger is the president and executive director of the California Water Impact Network. www.c-win.org. To comment, submit your letter to the editor via our online form at www.sfgate.com/submissions/#1


When we bought our house it had a big garden attached. I mean much bigger than I can cope with!
I am terrified of it, the previous owners had kept it beautifully and everywhere we have lived has had a tiny garden or no garden at all. I tell a lie, the very first house we had had one and we killed everything in it.
So why buy a house with a decent garden? Well it seemed a good idea at the time.
We have been here two years. Last year I just ‘maintained’ the garden the best I could – OK OK a few things have died, that red leafy plant, and worse the pear tree was very poorly last year, I am just waiting to see what happens with it this year, it has leaves on it so that seems like good news.
We have 2 beds of Raspberries, and a rhubarb patch (they sort of take care of themselves).
We also have a herb garden which I have replanted (herbs are cheapish). So last year was a success. ish.
I cannot count the vegetables that the previous owners planted (that would be cheating). So I have planted a few things these year. On the packets it said they were ‘easy’ things so fingers crossed.
I have planted outside
Radish (apparently the easiest things to grow)
They are all outside now and growing slowly.
In the greenhouse are:
More radish – they grow really fast
and a few more things yet to sprout.
This challenge was to eat some of my own homegrown vegetables – done – I have 100s of radishes! a few everyday. They really are easy. Does anyone want any 🙂
But I learn today that radishes are bad for my thyroid – CAN NOT WIN.


The global demand for food is rising fast. According to scientists, by 2050 the total demand has increased by 59% -98%. In order to keep up with this growth in demand, the way we produce our food changed. One of these changes was Vertical Farming; a technology that stacks the food production. MechaTronix Co. Ltd. implemented the Mymesh module in their CoolGrow VF (vertical farming) to always deliver the best light conditions.


Passionate about organic agriculture, sustainable production and collective partnerships, our products are only sourced from smallholder farms and estates in the rural villages of the coconut triangle of Sri Lanka. Every Kokonati product is made in a dedicated mill that produces only that type of product, so the quality is the best it can be, with generations of expertise guiding every step of the process. We believe that Ceylon is blessed with an abundance of healthy and exotic fruits, nuts, herbs and spices that as Lankans, we use daily. It should rightly be shared with the rest of the
world. So we started sharing what we know best.
Coconuts, spices and fruits.
Supporting and building on traditional livelihoods.
How it all began….like a message in a bottle floating across vast oceans, the ancient coconut, drifted along, a great traveler riding the waves that carried it ashore to lush tropical lands in Southeast Asia, Polynesia, India, Sri Lanka, the Pacific Islands, Hawaii, South America, and Florida.
Hardy self-contained little souls, many coconuts actually sprouted during their long ocean voyage and when washed ashore to the fertile tropical soils, took root and began to grow!
In 1519 Antonio Pigafetta, a nobleman from Venice wrote, “Coconuts are the fruit of the palm trees. And as we have bread, wine, oil, and vinegar, so they get all these things from the said trees. . . With two of these palm trees a whole family of ten can sustain itself. . . They last for a hundred years.”.
Early Sanskrit writings reveal the coconut as a kalpa vriksha, which translates as a “tree that gives all that is necessary for living.”
As trade and businesses developed across the globe and sugar was becoming plentiful on the continents, the candy and pastry business blossomed. All sorts of fruits and nuts were incorporated into confections, making coconut meat a desirable product.
Soon tea and spice traders from Ceylon were shipping whole coconuts to London, an operation that proved impractical and expensive as the coconuts sprouted on their journey at sea!
A French company, J.H. Vavasseur and Company, set up operations in Ceylon with a unique solution for shipping coconuts to Europe.
They shredded the coconut meat and dried it thoroughly, making it easier to pack without spoilage. By the early 1890’s they were shipping six thousand tons of desiccated coconut, a figure that multiplied by ten in 1900.
Today, coconut plantations in Ceylon, Indonesia, Malaysia, India and the Philippines provide export income to these regions. Considered the most useful tree in the world, the coconut palm provides food, drink, clothing, shelter, heirloom history, and financial security. Hardly an inch of the coconut palm goes to waste, many Ceylonese rely on the coconut palm for survival and refer to it as the “tree of life”.
Tropical people always relied on natural plants for their medicine. Young coconut juice has been used in folk healing for a number of ailments: relieving fevers, headaches, stomach upsets, diarrhea and dysentery. The juice is also given to strengthen the heart and restore energy to the ill.
Water from a young coconut not only provided a refreshing drink in the steamy equatorial countries, but in times of medical emergency it was used as a substitute for glucose. During World War II young coconut water became the emergency room glucose supply when there was no other sterile glucose available. Within a clean self-contained vessel, the coconut water is free of impurities and contains about two tablespoons of sugar.
Coconuts and their edible products, such as coconut oil and coconut milk, have suffered from the repeated misinformation because of a study conducted in the 1950’s that used hydrogenated coconut oil. Recent research has found that in its unrefined, virgin state, it is actually beneficial, largely because of its high content of lauric acid, almost 50 percent and is actually good cholesterol.
Because lauric acid has potent anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties, recent studies have considered coconut oil as a possible method of lowering viral levels in HIV-AIDS patients. The lauric acid may also be effective in fighting yeast, fungi, and other viruses such as measles, Herpes simplex, influenza and cytomegalovirus.
There are as many uses for the coconut as there are days in the year so the humble Coconut came to be known as the Soul Food of the Tropics.
Living on an island we have always taken our coconuts seriously and we are glad the rest of the world has started doing the same now!


Old Clemson Greenhouse
(Photos Uploaded By Alan Cutts)
Today’s photos are of the old Clemson greenhouse, which no longer exists in the original location.
Both of these photos are from the late 1920’s or early 1930’s. The above greenhouse was located about where Brackett Hall is today.
Here's another photo of one of the greenhouses taken close to Sikes Hall.
Today, the Clemson University Greenhouse Complex is a support facility for basic and applied plant research housed in the Biosystems Research Complex.
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Welcome to the latest NGA newsletter and a snapshot of our planned trials for Summer 2013/14.
Our winter program is well advanced with most trials in good condition despite the difficult weather conditions in recent months. The summer program is heavily focused on weed management but with a continuation of the root-lesion nematode ‘resistance evaluation’ in summer crop varieties, that commenced in 2012/13.
We have recently closed our 2013 survey on the topic of Fallow Management of Summer Grass Weeds. We had over 90 surveys submitted with responses from nearly 60% of the target audience - a fantastic response. A brief article at the bottom of this newsletter features the results from the question exploring glyphosate resistance levels in awnless barnyard grass.
Once again, if you have any feedback (positive or negative) we would be glad to hear from you.
Summer 2013/14 Trial Snapshots
Project 1. Residual Herbicides in the Summer Fallow
A major focus of our program this summer with a total of fifteen trials evaluating residual control of key summer grass weeds. Six trials target the control of awnless barnyard grass (ABYG), five trials evaluating feathertop Rhodes grass (FTR) management with two trials each against windmill grass and liverseed grass.
Project 2. Knockdown Trials on Summer Grasses
Four trials are planned to evaluate a range of management options for glyphosate resistant ABYG with three trials on FTR. Treatments will be compared with or without a double-knock treatment of paraquat.
Project 3. Root-lesion Nematode Resistance
Collaborative work with seed companies and breeders to evaluate the impact of summer crop varieties on root-lesion nematode populations. Potential trials in sorghum, dryland cotton, corn, sunflower and mungbeans.
Project 4. Fleabane Control
Evaluation of herbicide options for controlling large fleabane in the summer fallow. Six trials evaluating phenoxy and non-phenoxy options with or without double-knock.
Project 5. Common Sowthistle Control
Three trials planned on large flowering sowthistle, particularly in response to issues from the Liverpool Plains. Treatments include glyphosate with a range of mixing partners together with double-knock approaches.
Project 6. Mungbean Herbicide Screen
Three trials examining the crop safety of herbicides with potential for registration in mungbeans. Trials include a refined list of herbicides that were screened in 2011/12 or 2012/13.
Project 7. Gp A Plantbacks
NGA trials will focus on winter cereal safety with application of five herbicides at three intervals prior to planting. Intention is to plant trials with commercial disc planters to maximise the crop safety risk. Additional detailed trials are being planned by the Northern Weeds team for 2014/15.
Project 8. Volunteer Canola Control
Three trials comparing a wide range of glyphosate mixing partners. Particularly focussed at non-phenoxy herbicide options.
Project 9. Scurvy Weed Control
Three trials comparing a range of residual herbicide options for scurvy weed management benchmarked against the most consistent knockdown approaches.
Project 10. Cotton Cut-stump
Three trials planned as a follow up to screening in 2012/13. Treatment list will be heavily dependent on final results from trials established in autumn 2013.
SURVEY: Glyphosate Resistant Awnless Barnyard Grass - A Rapidly Escalating Regional Threat
One of the questions in our recent survey aimed to determine the extent of suspected or confirmed glyphosate resistance in awnless barnyard grass. The graph below shows the responses from 82 growers and advisers when asked to:
"Please estimate the % of your FALLOW PADDOCKS with awnless barnyard grass in the following three categories"
41 of the 82 growers and advisers surveyed, indicated that they had ABYG with suspected glyphosate resistance in more than 10% of their fallow paddocks
Awnless barnyard grass management must change from relying on glyphosate dominant approaches or we risk losing this herbicide completely.


Erosion issues are starting at the land that was supposed to be the marina project. We have people in our community who need assistance when it comes to food and even the Department of Agriculture realizes the importance of urban agriculture. WTOL’s Bob Chirdon feels that Councilmen Joe McNamara and Mike Craig’s idea to see if someone in our community is interested in doing something with the vacant land that might benefit our community more than it just sitting there and eroding into the Maumee River is a idea worth mocking. It makes me wonder if Chirdon actually read what was proposed:
We realize that the tight credit market makes redeveloping the Marina District a challenge. However, we are very optimistic about the future of this project. This beautiful vista will one day be redeveloped into an amazing new neighborhood in the heart of Toledo. We believe that waiting for the right proposal to present itself is the responsible course for this asset.
Until we find the right development deal, it is important that the site be maintained in a sustainable fashion. We think the City should explore short-term urban agriculture uses in the Marina District.
We see four major benefits to the Marina District from urban agriculture:
a productive use of City property;
erosion prevention; and
beautification of riverfront property.
The RFQ process could provide us with a partner who could accomplish these benefits to the city at low or no cost. Additionally, certain types of plantings (phytoremediation) could actually mitigate environmental issues and improve the soil quality. Increasing the soil quality increases the value of the land and creates new potential uses for redevelopment.
We respectfully request your Administration to issue an RFQ, so that we can explore the possibilities together.
There are lots of things that could be grown, like mushrooms — or we could sit back, say nothing and then wonder why there’s this hesitation to even suggest people think outside the box, if you think urban agriculture is outside the box. Maybe no one would be interested in this project — but maybe someone would —
The first part of the suggested RFQ:
The City of Toledo is seeking the services of qualified organizations to utilize Urban Agricultural Practices at the Marina District in Toledo, Ohio for purposes of improving soil quality, stabilizing the soil and beautifying the site.
The City of Toledo owns and operates the 128-acre property known as the Marina District, which is located adjacent to the Maumee River and can be generally identified by the address 1401 Front St., Toledo, Ohio 43605. The City is interested in using agricultural practices at the site as an interim use prior to development. The City intends to contract with a qualified organization to use urban agricultural practices to improve soil quality, stabilize the soil and beautify the site. The City may also seek to leverage additional funds for the implementation of agricultural practices.
II. Scope of Work
The City of Toledo invites the submittal of statements of qualifications from firms, non-profit agencies, educational entities and any relevant organization interested in growing vegetation at the site. The City is seeking qualified RFQs to have a detailed plan to start growing at the site, schedule of plantings both short-term and long-term, and types of planting that would occur at the site if your organization is selected.
This Request for Qualifications (RFQ) is intended to assist the City of Toledo in identifying qualified organizations that are interested in formal and informal Request for Proposals (RFPs) where the City would select an organization to perform work identified in the RFP. All work performed under this agreement is expected to be completed in compliance with the property specific Covenant Not to Sue (CNS) issued by the Ohio EPA for the site. The City is willing to negotiate terms of the agreement that establish a schedule for the project, or for specific areas of the site.


By Nicki Bourlioufas
New research reveals that the dominance of French wine grapes varieties has grown dramatically across the globe while Italian and Spanish varietals have become less popular. The extent of varietal diversity both nationally and globally has shrunk, despite the hype about ‘alternative’ varieties.
Between 1990 and 2016, the share of plantings of French prime varieties nearly doubled, rising to 39% from 21%, while the shares of Italian and Spanish varieties in the global vineyard each fell by roughly one-third, according to Which Winegrape Varieties are Grown Where? A Global Empirical Picture (2nd Ed) by Kym Anderson and Signe Nelgen.
The research provides snapshots from 1990 to 2016 of the world’s vineyard bearing areas of more than 1700 prime grape varieties in over 700 wine regions. The popularity has grown especially rapidly for Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay and Syrah/Shiraz.
“The data show that while plantings have become much more international over the past three decades, the extent of varietal diversity both nationally and globally has shrunk. That is, notwithstanding the hype about ‘alternative’ varieties, half the world’s plantings were accounted for by 21 prime varieties in 2000 but, by 2016, it required only 16 varieties,” according to a statement from Wine Australia.
“For winemakers interested in looking to establish a unique proposition with one of the rarer grapes, there is plenty of opportunity to do so,” said co-author Professor Emeritus Kym Anderson, Executive Director of the University of Adelaide’s Wine Economics Research Centre.
“This is so because national wine markets are so much more open now than three decades ago. As a result, wine consumers have never had such a wide range to choose from, even if the range of varieties from local producers has narrowed.”
Accounting for climate change
The book is an update and expansion of a 2013 edition. Presented for the first time are data on the climatic conditions of each region. This will allow grape growers to benchmark their varietal mix against those in regions with a climate similar to the predictions for their region’s future, helping winemakers to future-proof their vineyards and business practices.
“Climate change brings unpredictability. A region’s growing conditions – access to water and regional temperatures – are likely to change as the globe’s climate systems alter. Selecting grapes that will be able to withstand these challenges, and still thrive in the market many years’ from vineyard replanting is difficult,” Professor Anderson said.
Wine producers are increasingly aware also of the impact climate changes (higher temperatures, more extreme weather events) are having on their winegrape quality and vineyard yields. Adaptation strategies include switching to warmer-climate or more-resilient grape varieties, and re-locating to a region at a higher latitude or elevation to retain the current mix of grape varieties.
In addition, different grapes are being grown – and that has introduced more grape variety in Bordeaux, as reported here by World Wine Watch.
Bordeaux red wines are generally made from a blend of permitted grapes Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Bordeaux wineries can now use four new red grapes to combat temperature increases in Bordeaux. In June 2019, the Union of Bordeaux AOC and Bordeaux Supérieur winemakers approved a list of new grape varieties ‘of interest for adapting’ to climate change and rising temperatures, which may adversely affect early-ripening varieties such as Merlot. The four new Bordeaux red varieties are Arinarnoa, Castets, Marselan, Touriga Nacional and the three white varieties are Alvarinho, Lilorila, Petit Manseng.
Which Winegrape Varieties are Grown Where? A Global Empirical Picture (2nd Ed) by Kym Anderson and Signe Nelgen is freely available from the University of Adelaide Press website. The database is online via the University of Adelaide’s Wine Economics Research Centre. The publication has been supported by Wine Australia.


Grow-Up | A Game About Life
Once upon a time there was a kitchen garden where vegetables flourished in the good weather. Look after your garden and take
Once upon a time there was a kitchen garden where vegetables flourished in the good weather. Look after your garden and take decisions at the right moment to harvest as many ripe vegetables as possible.
Grow Up a Game About Life is a family game that:
· encourages players to create strategies,
· fosters decision-making skills,
· requires them to plan and anticipate their moves, and
· provides horticultural knowledge.
A game of strategy and collaboration in which we look after a vegetable garden: plant seeds and nurture the vegetables and herbs.
Grow Up a Game About Life measures 9.5" L x 9.5" W x 3.25" H
Safety & Care
- Recommended for ages 8+
- CHOKING HAZARD: Small parts, not suitable for children under 3 years old
- Grow Up a Game About Life is made of FSC paper and recycled cardboard.
- Manufactured and designed in Barcelona, Spain