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Landscape sustainability checkup

Is your yard ready to be an "Oregon Sustainable Landscape"?

May 2018 | Article

Grass tetany: Fast-growing grass can mean problems

Mature cattle grazing in pastures with rapidly growing grass are sometimes afflicted with a disease called grass tetany. The cause is a lack of magnesium in the grass. Here's what to look for and how to treat it.

Shelby Filley | May 2015 | Article Peer reviewed (Gray level)

How to remove poison oak plants and treat a rash

Poison oak plants contain a chemical that causes a severe rash. Learn how to spot a plant, safely remove, and clean your clothes, gear and skin afterward to prevent a rash.

Jun 2010 | Article

Disposal of animal mortality and byproducts

For many Oregon livestock owners struggling with the disposal of animal mortality and byproducts, rendering is not a viable option. Alternatives include natural disposal, burying, landfills, incineration, and composting. Learn the ...

Michael Gamroth | Sep 2006 | Article

The Myth of Compost Tea as a Disease Suppressor

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

Walnut leaves: Safe for composting?

Q: We have a large walnut tree and would like to compost the leaves for our vegetable garden. I have read conflicting reports about the ability of composting to break down the toxin juglone. Is it safe to compost these leaves?

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Composting - should I turn, cover or both?

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 ...

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Grass clippings too toxic to compost?

Q: Once or twice a summer I treat my lawn with weed & feed and spray on weed killer for lawns. Is it safe to use compost made from the lawn clippings? How long should I reasonably wait to use clippings for compost, and is it safe to use the compost in my veggie garden the following summer?

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Recycling 101- Composting

A short video introduction to composting.

Jul 2012 | Video

Can I put barbecue ash in my compost or worm bin?

Q: I barbecue a lot, and wind up having to dispose of ash leftover from hardwood charcoal (no “briquettes”). Can I put it in my compost and or worm bin? How about on my vegetable garden or flowerbeds?

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