Recent Posts
-
According to the USDA-ERS, in one year, approximately 133 billion pounds (31%) of the 430 billion pounds of available food supply at the retail and consumer levels, with an estimated retail value of $162 billion, was wasted. On top of that is the value of inputs, such as land, water, labor, and energy that were…
Posted in: FACS -
Spring green-up is right around the corner. Following these practices will help maximize turfgrass and minimize weeds. There are three primary methods of weed control: cultural, mechanical, and chemical. To manage weeds consistently, we need to use all three.
Posted in: ANR -
As our community experiences the at-home togetherness of telework, online school, and sheltering in place, warming temperatures tempt us outside to enjoy the beauty that spring in Georgia offers. This spring burst of plant growth also brings the necessity of yard work.
Posted in: ANR -
As they tower above us, trees create shade to keep us cool – and lower power bills. Tree leaves catch and filter airborne soot and dust, and they absorb harmful atmospheric gasses and convert them into energy for growth. Leaves also intercept raindrops, slowing the speed of their fall and lessening their erosive force when…
Posted in: ANR -
After our hot, dry fall, it may be hard to imagine dealing with winter storms this season. But the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasts a neutral winter for us, and that means more warm-to-cold-to warm temperature swings, according to UGA Agricultural Climatologist Pam Knox.
Posted in: ANR -
Fall is an ideal time to add perennial trees and shrubs to your landscape. Because the root systems of perennials continue to grow even when the rest of the plant is dormant, fall planting gives the root system the opportunity to establish in their new environment without having to undergo the heat and drought stress…
Posted in: ANR -
Elizabeth Andress and Judy Harrison, Family and Consumer Sciences, University of Georgia Harvest decorating is a sure sign that fall has arrived! Pumpkins can do double duty as harvest decorations and provide a powerhouse of good nutrition and savory flavor for meals and snacks. Use non-toxic paint or markers to decorate faces for Halloween, and…
Posted in: FACS -
Gardening is a healthy hobby. It gets us outside where, in addition to getting physical exercise, we can soak up the mental and physiological benefits of nature. Food gardeners also reap the nutritional benefits of just-picked produce and the satisfaction of self-sufficiency. We need to remember, however, that all-natural isn’t necessarily harmless.
Posted in: ANR -
Throughout the year, Forsyth County Extension gets calls from people with questions about maintaining healthy lawns. While we’re happy to answer those questions, it’s also important to talk about how to stay healthy while maintaining that lawn. Power equipment helps us complete lawn care tasks in less time and with less labor. Unfortunately, this convenience…
Posted in: ANR -
If your drinking water comes from a private well, UGA and CDC recommend annual testing to assure quality and safety. The recommended tests for wells throughout the state are the basic test (W-1) to determine pH and levels of dissolved minerals, a test for bacterial contamination (W-35), a test for total nitrates and nitrites (W-32),…
Posted in: ANR