Gardeners have long made and used compost because of the way it improves garden soil. Today, home composting is a cornerstone of sustainable living. We transform yard debris and food scraps into a valuable soil amendment and close the recycling loop in our own backyard.
Dan M. Sullivan, Craig Crogger, Andy Bary |
Apr 2017 |
Online resource
Learn about the environmental factors that affect plant growth: light, temperature, water, humidity and nutrition. Either directly or indirectly, most plant problems are caused by environmental stress.
Although grain crops bring in less revenue than vegetables or fruit, they can become an important part of a farming enterprise. Grains are less labor-intensive and can be grown when fields need a rest.
Blueberries grow well in the Pacific Northwest. To get the most out of your bushes, it helps to understand the form and function of each part of the plant.
Plant hormones and growth regulators are chemicals that affect flowering, aging, root growth, distortion and killing of organs, prevention or promotion of stem elongation, color enhancement of fruit, prevention of leafing and/or leaf fall, and many other conditions.
Uneven grazing patterns on rangeland can lead to overuse of forage in some areas and no use or waste in areas not visited by cattle. Range improvements that promote more even grazing can increase pasture carrying capacity and...
Tansy ragwort, an invasive weed that can harm certain types of livestock, is making a comeback in western Oregon. Find out how to control it and protect your animals.
Shelby Filley, Andy Hulting, Gene Pirelli, Eric Coombs |
Aug 2011 |
Article
Aerated compost teas have no scientifically documented effect as pathogen suppressors. Overuse and runoff of compost teas could conceivably contribute to water pollution. There is no “silver bullet” for plant health problems caused by poor soil health and improper plant selection and management
Linda Chalker-Scott, Ph.D. |
Mar 2015 |
Online resource
Q: Hello, I am a home gardener that recently set up a simple three-sided compost bin made out of wood pallets. I have been putting in my leaf debris, grass clippings, chicken feathers, and home fruit/vegetable scraps. I was ...