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USDA releases horticulture census
Overall, total sales of horticultural crops between 1998 and 2009 increased by 10 percent to $11.7 billion, according to the USDA’s Census of Horticultural Specialties.
Here’s how some of the numbers stacked up:
- Nursery stock: Sales of $3.9 billion in 2009, up 24.3 percent from 1998.
- Herbaceous perennial plants: Sales of $844 million in 2009, up 34.5 percent from 1998.
- Propagative materials: Sales of $602 million in 2009, up 22 percent from 1998.
Fabric softener repels fungus gnats
Kansas State University researchers found Bounce dryer sheets repel fungus gnat adults by up to 30 percent in lab tests.
One of the major volatile compounds detected in the sheets was linalool, which is toxic to mites and insects.
Growers blame pecan deaths on pollution
Growers in the Texas Pecan Alliance have requested compensation for losses from pollution from the Lower Colorado River Authority and City of Austin’s Fayette Power Project coal plant.
“Over two dozen orchards and the livelihoods of my family and many of our neighbors have been seriously impacted by the pollution from Fayette coal plant,” said Harvey Hayek of Hayek Farm. “In 1980, the year after the coal plant went on line, we saw the abundant production out here drop and then in the Nineties, the trees began to die.”
Pantone gives Honeysuckle a nod
The 2011 Pantone Color of the Year is “Honeysuckle.” It’s a reddish-pink hue that color experts say is “dynamic and uplifting.”
Since gardening trends often follow fashion trends, this may be a good choice in flower color.
If you’re keeping score, last year’s color was turquoise.
Equity fund acquires nursery group
Insight Equity II LP, a Dallas-based private equity fund, purchased nearly all of the operating assets of The Berry Family of Nurseries (BFN), including Tri-B, Zelenka, Judkins and Zelenka West nurseries.
“We believe this transaction positions BFN to succeed and grow while maintaining a commitment to delivering excellent customer service and superior quality,” said Bob Berry, CEO of BFN in a statement.
Carolina Nurseries ceases operation
December marked a sad month in the industry when Carolina Nurseries was sold at auction. The buyer, ZZ Acquisitions LLC, has no interest in getting into the plant business.
Tornado relief fund established
The Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center has established a relief fund to assist graduate students affected by the Sept. 16 tornado that hit its Wooster campus, and to help with landscaping and other beautification projects.
Give online at www.giveto.osu.edu.
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