(TV News 05/04/09) Weather wasn’t cooperating as Louisiana farmers tried to plant soybeans in mid-April. But the state still is likely to have a large soybean crop this year. The LSU AgCenter's soybean specialist says he is expecting as much as 1.2 million acres. Mid- to late April is the optimum time to plant soybeans, but weather delayed some farmers this year. (Runtime: 1 minute, 39 seconds)

(Video 04/20/09) Trying to figure out what type of shrub you want to plant? On this edition of Get it Growing, LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill takes a look at a shrub that was popular, then later unpopular and now, thanks to a new variety, may become popular again. (Runtime: 1 minute, 42 seconds)

(Video 04/27/09) It’s a tall-growing vine with beautiful flowers and sweet scents. On this edition of Get it Growing, LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill introduces you to the fragrant Confederate jasmine, which is not a true jasmine at all. (Runtime: 1 minute, 40 seconds)

(Audio 04/20/09) Deadheading is an important but often neglected gardening technique. It refers to pruning off old, faded flowers from a plant after it blooms. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Distributed 04/27/09) One of the most popular warm-season annual bedding plants is vinca or periwinkle. It is well-known for its prolific and long blooming season.

(Distributed 04/20/09) Crape myrtles are one of the most widely used summer-flowering trees in Louisiana landscapes. Many of us are not familiar with the tremendous array of varieties and sizes available. One group of crape myrtles being used more because of its smaller size and excellent flowering performance is the semi-dwarf.

(Distributed 04/13/09) Environmental conditions matter when you select plants for your home landscape. Available space, sun or shade exposure, wet or dry locations and exposure to windy conditions are all important considerations. Choosing plants adaptable to the environment is a sustainable landscape practice.

(Distributed 04/03/09) Late March through early May is the prime time for planting our spring annuals in Louisiana. Warm-season bedding plants make a great addition to our home and commercial landscapes.

(TV News 04/27/09) More than 50,000 youngsters across Louisiana participated in Youth Wetlands Week. The LSU AgCenter sponsors the week using lessons and activities to highlight the importance of the state’s wetlands. LSU AgCenter correspondent Tobie Blanchard attended one of these activities. (Runtime: 1 minute, 23 seconds)

(TV News 04/20/09) Most of Louisiana’s corn crop is in the ground. LSU AgCenter correspondent Tobie Blanchard reports many acres that saw corn a couple of years ago will likely be planted with a different crop this year. (Runtime: 1 minute, 24 seconds)

(TV News 04/13/09) LSU AgCenter researchers have crossed state lines to monitor a pest that threatens Louisiana’s rice and sugarcane. LSU AgCenter correspondent Tobie Blanchard traveled to Beaumont, Texas, where entomologists are studying the Mexican rice borer. (Runtime: 1 minute, 51 seconds)

(TV News 04/06/09) The rice industry in southwestern Louisiana was struggling to recover from Hurricane Rita when Hurricane Ike hit last year. LSU AgCenter correspondent Tobie Blanchard says salt levels could mean some of the region's rice fields are left bare this year. (Runtime: 1 minute, 52 seconds)

(TV News 03/23/09) Farm policy could shape farmers' decisions about their 2009 crops. The LSU AgCenter's AgOutlook conference featured updates on new legislation affecting agriculture. LSU AgCenter correspondent Tobie Blanchard was there and provides information, including details on a new program known as ACRE. (Runtime: 1 minute, 40 seconds)

(Radio News 04/06/09) The LSU AgCenter is partnering with the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources to sponsor Youth Wetlands Week, a program aimed at fourth- through 12th-graders that raises awareness about the need for wetland rehabilitation. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/06/09) The LSU AgCenter’s Master Horseman program was started after a survey of horse owners across Louisiana found that many lacked adequate horsemanship skills. LSU AgCenter horse specialist Dr. Clint Depew explains. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/06/09) With the weather warming and flowers blooming, honeybees are becoming active. LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Dale Pollet says if you find a swarm in your yard, you should leave it alone or leave it to a professional. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/06/09) A large number of crane flies are active this time of year. These giant flies and their larva can be a nuisance but aren't harmful, explains LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Dale Pollet. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/13/09) Hurricanes Gustav and Ike caused $91 million worth of damage to Louisiana’s 2008 rice crop, and some areas are still feeling the economic effects. LSU AgCenter economist Dr. Kurt Guidry says southwest Louisiana will continue to see losses because of salt contamination in rice fields. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/13/09) LSU AgCenter entomologists have crossed state lines to monitor a pest that threatens Louisiana’s rice and sugarcane industry. The Mexican rice borer has been in Texas for 30 years but recently was found in traps at Vinton, La. Entomology graduate student Julien Beuzelin is working in Texas to study this insect. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/13/09) Most of the state’s corn has been planted. Some growers were able to get their crops planted early, but heavy rains may have washed off fertilizer applications, according to LSU AgCenter corn specialist Rob Ferguson. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/13/09) Corn acreage reached record levels in Louisiana several years ago, but the acres dedicated to this feed grain will drop again this year. LSU AgCenter corn specialist Rob Ferguson predicts Louisiana corn growers will plant around 510,000 acres. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/13/09) Youngsters can take an interactive journey through Louisiana agriculture at AgMagic. The LSU AgCenter sponsors the event which is in its sixth year. LSU AgCenter poultry specialist and AgMagic tour guide Dr. Theresia Lavergne says the event includes exhibits on forestry, insects, fisheries, crops and livestock. Each exhibit includes something exciting for visitors. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/20/09) LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Gene Reagan has been studying the Mexican rice borer in Texas as it moved northeast toward Louisiana. He says estimates show it could have a significant effect on Louisiana’s sugarcane and rice crops. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/20/09) Students can learn about Louisiana agriculture before and after they visit the LSU AgCenter’s interactive exhibit AgMagic. LSU AgCenter poultry specialist and AgMagic tour guide Dr. Theresia Lavergne says teachers receive packets that include lessons they can use when they get back to their classroom. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/20/09) April is the ideal time to treat for fire ants. LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Dale Pollet says insecticides can give you immediate results, but growth regulators will give you longer-lasting results. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/20/09) Anyone whose been bitten by a fire ant knows the sting these little pests can inflict. A fire ant can bite several times within seconds. By quickly removing the ants from your body, you can avoid additional stings. LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Dale Pollet explains how to treat a bite. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/20/09) The Mexican rice borer has been a problem for rice and sugarcane growers in Texas for nearly three decades. LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Gene Reagan has worked with Texas A&M researchers to learn more about the pest. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/27/09) Dozens of youngsters gathered around a bin of baby chicks -- all eager to pet and maybe even hold one. These kindergarteners from Northwestern Elementary in Zachary were immersed in AgMagic, the LSU AgCenter’s interactive journey through Louisiana agriculture. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/27/09) Youth across the state participated in Youth Wetlands Week. The LSU AgCenter sponsored the week of lessons and activities to highlight the importance of the state’s wetlands. But the members of America’s Wetland Conservation Corps – a group of AmeriCorps members working thoughout Louisiana – dedicate a year to raising awareness of wetland conservation. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/27/09) Louisiana is likely to have a large soybean crop this year, according to experts. LSU AgCenter’s soybean specialist Dr Ronnie Levy is expecting as much as 1.2 million acres. Mid- to late April is the optimum time to plant soybeans, but weather delayed some farmers. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/27/09) Researchers at the LSU AgCenter’s Dean Lee Research Station have planted a sentinel plot of soybeans. The purpose of this plot and others like it across the state is to warn against diseases like Asian soybean rust that could affect the crop, says LSU AgCenter soybean specialist Dr. Ronnie Levy. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/27/09) The LSU and City Park lakes are popular destinations for recreation in the Baton Rouge area, but the lakes popularity can lead to litter problems. Youth Wetlands Week Coordinator Ashley Mullens kicked off the week of wetland awareness by holding a trash bash around the lakes. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Video (04/06/09) If you want to plant caladiums, you can either use pre-started plants or you can use tubers. On this edition of Get it Growing, LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill explains the different types of caladium tubers you can choose from. (Runtime: 1 minute, 49 seconds)

(Video 04/13/09) Roses are beautiful in the landscape. But which ones are right for you? On this edition of Get it Growing, LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill takes a look at the shade-tolerant and relatively disease-resistant, Knock Out rose and its different variations. (Runtime: 1 minute, 41 seconds)

(Audio 04/06/09) Tomato plants have a tendency to sprawl on the ground if they are not properly supprted. Supporting the plants will help keep the fruit healthy and disease-free. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audion 04/06/09) By the time we get into April, we can plant tomatoes. We could have some late freezes, so be prepared to cover them if this happens. Planting tomatoes early will lead to an early harvest and fewer insect and disease problems on your plants. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 04/06/09) Louisiana gardeners grow a wide vartiety of herbs in their herb gardens, and many of these grow well during the cooler season. These cool-season herbs should be ready for harvest soon. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 04/06/09) In April, you can look around and see flower beds full of cool-season bedding plants. It is really too late to plant these flowers into your landscapes. Concentrate on getting warm-season plants into your beds later this month. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 04/06/09) Easter lilies are always available around Easter even though the date moves around. Growers can manipulate the growing conditions. You can keep your potted Easter lily and plant it into your garden after the holiday. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 04/13/09) Many Louisiana gardeners primarily use annuals to provide color in their flower beds. We also can use perennials to provide color, and those will supply it while growing in your garden year after year. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 04/13/09) In Louisiana we generally apply the first fertilizer of the season to our lawns in early April. It is important to allow the lawn to green up and establish a good root system before applying fertilizer. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 04/13/09) Our permanent lawn grasses all grow during the warm season. Now is the best time to plant these. LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill says the best way to plant a lawn is using sod. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 04/13/09) Louisiana has its share of pest problems. These problems will worsen as the weather warms. If you notice you are having a weed, insect or disease problem in your lawn or garden, it is important to correctly identify the culprit to effectively control it. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 04/13/09) Caladiums are easy to grow and reliable in shady areas. Some varieties can tolerate sun, but most caladiums prefer shady locations. You can plant caladium tubers this time of the year. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 04/20/09) As we move through April, lawn growth increases. Here are some helpful tips for getting started with your spring lawn care. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 04/20/09) The month of April typically ushers in warmer weather. This month is a great time to plant warm-season bedding plants. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 04/20/09) Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery material on the leaves of plants. The disease favors warm, humid, dry weather. It attacks the new growth on crape myrtles, and it also affects dogwoods, Gerber daisies and roses. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 04/20/09) We often want to add container plants to our outdoor decks and porches. LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill offers a few things you should keep in mind when fertilizing container plants. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 04/27/09) Louisiana gardeners use a variety of spring-flowering bulbs in their landscapes. LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill talks about a few things gardeners shoud do after these bulbs bloom. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 04/27/09) Vines are wonderful plants for Louisiana landscapes. Vines can decorate walls, soften fences and create privacy. For vines to be effective in your landscape, however, they must be trained properly. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 04/27/09) Ever wonder why crape myrtles seem to always mist on your head? Well, it’s not water. The moisture actually is coming from aphids. In this week’s Get It Growing segment, LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill shows you how to control aphids on your crape myrtles. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 04/27/09) Among favorite spring wildflowers are the amazingly beautiful native Louisiana irises. In gardens and landscapes, hybrids of our native species bloom in a rainbow of colors with large, showy flowers on tall stems. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Distributed 04/02/09) Although dyed Easter eggs may look like decorations, they are a food, and they are perishable. In fact, hard-cooked eggs spoil faster than fresh eggs because their protective coating is washed away in the cooking process, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed 04/09/09) Want to know why bugs rule or help kids learn where their food actually comes from? Or how about exploring the inside of the brain? All that and more are possible during AgMagic, the LSU AgCenter’s fun, interactive and educational journey through Louisiana agriculture and much more April 20-26 at Parker Coliseum on the LSU campus in Baton Rouge.

(Distributed 04/30/09) NEW IBERIA, La. – Ag Awareness in Iberia Parish will give third-graders the chance to learn about farming and the source of their food May 6-7 at the SugArena.

(Distributed 04/28/09) The Friday before Mother's Day each year honors child care providers, teachers and other educators of young children.

(Distributed 04/29/09) OIL CITY, La. – Wearing nametags featuring their “personalitree,” 135 Oil City Elementary Magnet School fourth-, fifth- and sixth-graders learned about forestry at Jeems Bayou Hunting and Fishing Club on Caddo Lake on Earth Day, April 22.

(Distributed 04/29/09) SHREVEPORT, La. – About 600 4-H’ers from 18 elementary schools learned how to stay safe at the 2009 Caddo 4-H Extravaganza April 24 at the Bill Cockrell Community Center.

(Distributed 04/27/09) Unfavorable weather and increased costs didn’t stop Louisiana agriculture from contributing billions to the state’s economy in 2008. Commodities in the animal, forestry, fisheries, plant and wildlife industries racked up more than $5.3 billion at the farm gate and “value added” in excess of $4.1 billion – for a total economic contribution of nearly $9.5 billion in 2008.

(Distributed 04/27/09) You can’t get swine flu from eating pork or pork products, says an LSU AgCenter extension nutritionist. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is no evidence that a person can get swine flu from touching raw pork or from eating pork that has been properly prepared, says Beth Reames.

(Distributed 04/24/09) BATON ROUGE – The LSU AgCenter’s dairy farm was the site of a special day camp for military kids and their families on April 17.

(Distributed 04/24/09) The LSU AgCenter announced the appointment of Dr. Mark LeBlanc as head of the Department of Agricultural Chemistry effective April 1, 2009.

(Distributed 04/22/09) Louisiana will likely have a large soybean crop this year, according to experts with the LSU AgCenter.

(Distributed 04/22/09) MONROE, La. – 4-H’ers learned that staying within a budget, reading the label and comfort are the most important considerations of deciding what clothes to purchase.

(Distributed 04/21/09) Agricultural organizations across the United States are intently watching developments in a federal court case that could add more regulation to pesticide applications.

(Distributed 04/21/09) What does it take to become a more effective leader for agriculture? Many of the answers to that question are part of the LSU AgCenter’s Agricultural Leadership Development Program. Applications for potential participants in the program are available for its 12th class, which will begin the two-year program of study in January 2010.

(Distributed 04/21/09) WINNSBORO, La. – Louisiana farmers planted less wheat than last year, but early herbicide applications and disease control can aid producers, LSU AgCenter experts said at the annual wheat and oat field day at the Macon Ridge Research Station April 15.

(Distributed 04/17/09) NEW ORLEANS – Area youth learned the importance of Louisiana’s wetlands at a crawfishing clinic recently held at the Bonné Carre Spillway.

(Distributed 04/14/09) Schools can be a haven for mice, roaches and a host of other creepy-crawlers. They can take refuge in nooks and crannies behind cubby holes and desks while subsisting on the crumbs kids leave behind. Three schools in Ascension Parish are taking a new approach to pest management with the help of LSU AgCenter entomologist Dale Pollet.

(Distributed 04/14/09) This is one of a series of four articles in observance of the national 38th annual Week of the Young Child, April 19-25.

(Distributed 04/14/09) This is one in a series of four articles in observance of the national 38th annual Week of the Young Child, April 19-25.

(Distributed 04/14/09) This one in a series of four articles in observance of the national 38th annual Week of the Young Child, April 19-25.

(Distributed 04/14/09) This is one in a series of four articles in observance of the national 38th annual Week of the Young Child, April 19-25.

(Distributed 04/13/09) NEW ORLEANS – For the first time in more than 20 years, every parish in the state is helping support LSU AgCenter programs.

(Distributed 04/09/09) Volunteer leaders from across the state will gather for the 20th Louisiana Community Economic Development Seminar May 13-14 at the Louisiana Emerging Technology Center on the LSU campus in Baton Rouge.

(Distributed 04/08/09) NATCHITOCHES, La. – Natchitoches Parish Tax Assessor Rick Hargis proposed a three-quarter mill property tax to support the LSU AgCenter at a meeting here on April 7. About 55 people attended, including school board members, police jurors and 4-H volunteers. Dr. Paul Coreil, LSU AgCenter vice chancellor for extension, explained the dire consequences on educational services if the proposed budget cuts to the AgCenter are implemented

(Distributed 04/07/09) JEANERETTE, La. – Sugarcane farmers got a look at LSU AgCenter statewide wheat variety trials and nearby demonstration strips on April 6 to see what varieties are best suited as a rotational crop in the south Louisiana soils.

(Distributed 04/07/09) Dairy producers from Mississippi joined Louisiana producers at the LSU AgCenter’s Southeast Research Station in Franklinton March 31 to discuss strategies for surviving the current economic situation.

(Distributed 04/06/09) CROWLEY, La. – The 2009 USA Rice Leadership class toured the LSU AgCenter Rice Research Station on April 2 during a two-day swing through Louisiana.

(Distributed 04/03/09) RAYVILLE, La. – Organizing symposiums and identifying best practices in four areas that affect poverty are part of an action plan the Louisiana Delta Initiative presented to community and governmental leaders here April 2.

(Distributed 04/03/09) Corn acreage reached record levels in Louisiana several years ago, but the acres dedicated to this feed grain will drop again this year, an LSU AgCenter specialist predicts.

(Distributed 04/03/09) Saltwater effects on rice-growing fields may keep farmers from planting as much as 14 percent of the acres they normally devote to rice production in southwest Louisiana, according to an LSU AgCenter report.

(Distributed 04/02/09) Two LSU AgCenter nutrition educators have been named the state’s outstanding paraprofessionals in their respective nutrition programs.

(Distributed 04/02/09) Helping inmates make the smooth transition back into society is the goal of a partnership involving the LSU AgCenter, the Louisiana Department of Corrections and nonprofit organizations in Ascension and East Baton Rouge parishes.

(Distributed 04/01/09) Recent wet weather has caused fairly heavy losses for strawberry growers in south Louisiana.

(Distributed 04/01/09) When you go on a Web site, you need to be a detective and do a background check before shopping.

(Distributed 04/01/09) BATON ROUGE, La. – The lingering effects of years of hurricane damage and the current economic downturn are dampening Louisiana agriculture, a group of industry observers told an Agribusiness Leadership Summit Forum recently.

(For Release On Or After 04/24/09) Vines are an amazing group of plants with enough diversity to boggle the mind of any gardener. What binds these wonderful plants together is their universal lack of strong stems.

(For Release On Or After 04/17/09) Mulching is an easy-to-do, labor-saving gardening technique that all gardeners should take advantage of. A mulch is a material, usually organic but sometimes inorganic, that we use to cover the soil surface around plants. Mulching beds is an important part of sustainable landscaping.

(For Release On Or After 04/10/09) Some the most popular vegetables planted in Louisiana home vegetable gardens belong to the cucumber family, or Cucurbitaceae.

(For Release On Or After 04/03/09) Among my favorite spring wildflowers are the amazingly beautiful native Louisiana irises. In gardens and landscapes, hybrids of our native species bloom in a rainbow of colors with large, showy flowers on tall stems.