(Video 12/27/10) Pansies are a popular choice for planting in cool-season flower beds, and now there’s a new pansy that spreads and grows more plentifully than all other pansies -- making it an economical choice. On this edition of Get It Growing, LSU horticulturist Dan Gill introduces you to the Plentifall pansy. (Runtime: 1:30)

(Video News 12/13/10) Holidays can be hard on anyone trying to maintain a healthy weight. Following a few tips from this LSU AgCenter nutrition program can help you get by and not be deprived. (Runtime: 1:47)

(Video 12/20/10) Both novice and veteran gardeners look forward to the 2011 season for growing beautiful plants, fruits and vegetables. On this edition of Get It Growing, LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill introduces you to a resource that can help you throughout the year. The proceeds from the Get It Growing Calendar also support horticultural research. (Runtime: 1:28)

(TV 12/20/10) Down in the southeastern tip of the state, the citrus industry continues -- despite hardships in the form of hurricanes and freezes. With the crop in season, LSU AgCenter correspondent Tobie Blanchard has this report. (Runtime: 1:44)

(Video News 12/06/10) Farmers planted Louisiana’s wheat crop last month, and they doubled the number of acres compared to what was planted across the state last year. LSU AgCenter correspondent Tobie Blanchard reports.(Runtime: 1:31)

(Video 12/13/10) A popular adage says eating cabbage on New Year’s Day will bring you prosperity. On this edition of Get It Growing, LSU horticulturist Dan Gill won’t promise any get-rich schemes from cabbage consumption, but he will give you some tips on growing and harvesting this nutritious vegetable -- so you can enjoy it throughout the new year.(Runtime: 1:50)

(TV News 12/27/10) Louisiana dairy farmers have had a difficult time in recent years, receiving low prices for their milk while paying high prices for the food, fuel and fertilizer needed to raise their animals. LSU AgCenter correspondent Tobie Blanchard reports that the financial situation is improving for farmers, and dairy researchers are working to make dairy operations more efficient. (Runtime: 1:26)

(Audio 12/13/10) Many gardeners save seeds. This is a good idea when you buy seeds and have some left over or when you want to save seeds from plants you have grown. Make sure you dry them and store them properly. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/13/10) If you want a green lawn during winter, you need to over-seed your lawn with ryegrass. It's hardy, takes freezes and grows beautifully through the winter. But you will need to care for it -- mowing regularly, watering and fertilizing. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 12/13/10) Deciduous trees in our landscapes have been dropping leaves. Get these leaves off the lawn and consider using them as mulch or compost. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/27/10) People often force amaryllis bulbs to bloom at Christmas time. This is easy to do. Then the bulb can be planted in your yard during spring. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/27/10) With the coming of the new year, it is popular to make resolutions. Gardeners can resolve to try something new in the garden, to keep up with weeding or to read a gardening book. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/27/10) Tulip and hyacinth bulbs need to chill in the vegetable bin of a refrigerator for about eight weeks before they can be planted into the ground. If you chilled bulbs earlier in the fall, you can plant them in late December or early January. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/20/10) The Christmas cactus is a great plant for the holidays and can be used year after year. After one finishes blooming, move it to a bright window and water it every few days. When the weather warms during spring, bring the plant outside. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(For Release On Or After 12/24/10) I often write columns on timely information about what needs to be done in the garden. I remember once meeting a gentleman who said that his wife read my columns faithfully. After reading about what to do in the garden, she would make a list of the tasks he needed to do that weekend.

(For Release On Or After 12/17/10) April through October is the best time for sodding in Louisiana, but dormant-season sodding can be successful. Planting dormant grass is simply a little riskier.

(Audio 12/20/10) Tropical plants are common in Louisiana landscapes. These plants can be damaged by winter freezes. Herbaceous tropical plants can be pruned within a week or so. For woody plants, wait until spring to see where the damage has occurred. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/20/10) Roses continue to bloom well into December in Louisiana. If there is going to be a hard freeze, cut any open flowers and enjoy them indoors. Also, cut faded flowers to keep the plants attractive. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/06/10) When freezes threaten, it's best to move tropical plants growing in containers into protected locations. For plants growing in your landscape, try mulching them, covering them or warming them with Christmas lights. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/27/10) Indoor plants add a lot to our home environment. Houseplants need proper care to thrive, including adequate sunlight and water. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/06/10) Louisiana's mild winter temperatures allow weeds to grow in our gardens throughout the season. The best thing to do for weed control is to keep a sharp eye out for them. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(For Release On Or After 12/10/10) Winter vegetable gardening is tremendously rewarding. Many of the vegetables we planted earlier in the fall are ready to harvest, and it is important to harvest them at their right stage for best results. Here are a few guidelines for some of the most commonly grown crops.

(Audio 12/20/10) Leafy vegetables are great in the winter garden. With some leafy greens such as heading and semi-heading lettuce, the entire plant is harvested. With others, only the oldest outer leaves are harvested. This allows for an extended harvest. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/06/10) It is common to hear about wind chill during the winter. The important thing for gardeners to remember is wind chill does not affect plants. Look at the actual temperature when deciding whether or not to protect plants from freezes. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/20/10) It's common for leaves on deciduous trees to change color and drop from the trees. Evergreen plants also may change color this time of year, although they will hold onto their leaves. This isn't cause for concern, and the leaves will green up once spring arrives. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/06/10) December is a good time to plant hardy fruit and nut trees in your landscape. We use plenty of pecans in holiday cooking, and if you want a tree of your own, consider planting one soon. Try these tips for planting and growing pecan trees. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/13/10) Gardeners use a wide variety of chemicals, such as fertilizers and pesticides, to care for their landscapes. These products must be stored safely. If they are water-based and stored outdoors, they could freeze during cold spells. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 12/13/10) Camellias bloom beautifully throughout the winter months. If Louisiana has a dry spell during winter, you may want to irrigate your camellias. Freezes can damage open blooms but generally won't hurt buds. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/06/10) Many of the tools we use for gardening are retired for the winter. Put away tools safely, making sure gas is burned from equipment, and have broken items serviced. Clean and sharpen tools, so they are ready for use when spring arrives. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/27/10) Garden catalogs arrive in mailboxes during December and January. They contain beautiful pictures that tempt gardeners to try new plants. Be sure and purchase plants suited for Louisiana's climate. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(For Release On Or After 12/03/10) It’s a pity what generally happens to leaves that fall from deciduous trees this time of the year. Most people rake them up, put them in bags and then place the bags on the curb to be picked up with the trash. What a shame.

(For Release On Or After 12/31/10) The next few weeks are an important time for planting tulips, hyacinths and other bulbs that have been previously stored in your refrigerator. (Won’t it be great to get that space back?)

(Distributed 12/13/10) BILOXI, Miss. – The Kellogg Company of Battle Creek, Mich., recently announced a partnership with the LSU AgCenter to develop a sustainability program for Louisiana rice producers who grow rice that is earmarked for Kellogg’s products.

(Distributed 12/08/10) A seminar for anyone who wants to learn more about gardening will be presented by the Northeast Louisiana Master Gardeners at the West Monroe Convention Center on Saturday, Jan. 15, from 7:30 a.m. to noon.

(Distributed 12/09/2010) The LSU AgCenter’s Get It Growing Lawn and Garden Calendar can be a great holiday gift for gardeners, aspiring gardeners or even those who just like beautiful photos of plants, flowers and garden scenes. The 2011 edition of the calendar is on sale now and provides a variety of helpful information tailored to Louisiana gardeners who want to have the latest tips for success.

(Distributed 12/06/10) The LSU AgCenter has received a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to screen its citrus variety collection for several potentially destructive diseases.

(Distributed 12/09/10) New Orleans – An almost-steady chill in the air doesn’t mean you have to let your landscape lose its beauty, LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill, told a Lunch and Learn audience at New Orleans City Hall on Dec. 3.

(Distributed 12/14/10) An LSU AgCenter 4-H program has been chosen for a national award by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

(Distributed 12/14/10) The Mexican rice borer, a threat to sugarcane and rice, has moved eastward from Texas extending farther into Louisiana. The insect was first found in Louisiana in December 2008 north of Vinton.

(Distributed 12/08/10) The Weyerhaeuser Company Foundation recently donated $10,000 to the LSU AgCenter Grant Walker 4-H Educational Center in Pollock to fund a multi-purpose building.

(Distributed 12/20/10) As the season winds down, Louisiana sugarcane growers are hurrying to harvest their crop before the sugar deteriorates in the stalk. “It’s a race to the end,” said LSU AgCenter sugarcane specialist Kenneth Gravois.

(Distributed 12/17/10) WEST MONROE, La. – Ag Alley, a combination of several "alleys" filled with information about different Louisiana agricultural products and commodities, will again be featured at the 29th annual Ag Expo in January.

(Distributed 12/14/10) FRANKLINTON, La. – Students from the Pine View Middle School Junior National Beta Club participated in a wetland restoration and activity day on Dec. 8 at Bogue Chitto State Park in Franklinton.

(Distributed 12/21/10) A damp and cold spring and hot and dry summer shaped Louisiana agriculture in 2010. But despite the contrast in weather, Louisiana farmers, overall, had a fairly successful year, said LSU AgCenter economist Kurt Guidry. Prices were strong, yields were high, and the harvest for most crops was good.

(Distributed 12/7/10) Each year poinsettia lovers make their way to the LSU AgCenter’s Burden Research Center to get their supply of the official Christmas flower.

(Distributed 12/14/10) A Trees and Trails Fun Hike has been scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 22, from 9 a.m to noon to celebrate Arbor Day at Burden Center. The event at the LSU AgCenter Burden Center in Baton Rouge will support and promote educational programs conducted by the LSU AgCenter, the Burden Horticulture Society and the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry, according to organizers.

(Distributed 12/03/10) BATON ROUGE – The LSU AgCenter recognized six individuals, two teams of faculty members and two staff members for outstanding service and research during ceremonies here Friday (Dec. 3).

(Distributed 12/22/10) A series of rice clinics being held by the LSU AgCenter in January will help farmers prepare for the upcoming growing season.

(Distributed 12/03/10) Solving the whodunit mystery of insect damage in a rice crop will be easier with a new online program developed by the LSU AgCenter.

(Distributes 12/15/10) The LSU AgCenter recently received a $115,000 grant from the Walton Family Foundation to facilitate efforts to make the northeast Louisiana parishes bordering the Mississippi River a premiere nature tourism destination based on unexploited natural resources.

(Distributed 12/09/10) Presentations on diversifying efforts needed to protect and maintain economic interests while sustaining forest productivity will be featured at the 2011 Ag Expo forestry forum presented by the LSU AgCenter.

(Distributed 12/17/10) Winter is here, and many questions always arise this time of year about protecting landscape plants during the cold months of December, January and February.

(Distributed 12/03/10) The holiday season is a special time for giving – especially to those in need. The economic downturn has created a surge in needy individuals and the charities that aspire to assist them. But scam artist can masquerade as charities with an aim to defraud people of their money, warns LSU AgCenter family economist Jeanette Tucker.

(Distributed 12/06/10) The East Baton Rouge Master Gardeners will conduct a three-week Basic Gardening Series at the Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library in Baton Rouge from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Thursday evenings beginning January 20, 2011.

(Distributed 12/15/10) Although spring marks the height of the season, Louisiana strawberries will be available from now to early May.

(Distributed 12/03/10) It’s time for cool-season bedding plants, and one of the flowers in this group gaining considerable popularity the past ten years has been dianthus. Pansies have long been the most popular cool-season bedding plant, but many new dianthus varieties are making this great, under-used cool-season flower better known to home gardeners.

(Distributed 12/06/10) Fried turkey is not as unhealthful as it sounds - if you don't eat the skin of the bird, according to Beth Reames, a nutritionist with the LSU AgCenter. In fact, experts recommend not eating the skin no matter how a turkey is prepared.

(Distributed 12/21/10) Make sure your holiday treats such as eggnog, cream pies and other dishes containing eggs are safe to eat, says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Beth Reames. Eating raw or undercooked eggs is a risk for foodborne illness. The same is true for lightly cooked eggs and egg dishes.

(Distributed 12/02/10) The smell of a live Christmas tree has a way of making the season bright, but there are a few things you need to know before you make your choice, according to LSU AgCenter forestry specialist Don Reed.

(Distributed 12/01/10) Americans will spend a projected $23 billion on gift cards this holiday season. Consumers gained new gift card protections when most provisions of the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009 took effect. But legislation known as the ECO-Gift CARD Act delayed one part of the law.

(Distributed 12/10/10) The late fall through late winter months are the bleak time of the year for most lawns in Louisiana. Warm-season lawns across much of the state will go into some state of dormancy by early December, and re-growth will not commence until late March or early April.

(Distributed 12/17/10) Physical activity is important all year round, but it can be especially helpful during the holidays when you may be eating more than usual, says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Beth Reames. In addition to burning calories, physical activity helps build muscle. The more muscle you have, the more calories you burn.

(Radio News 12/20/10) A poinsettia can bring a touch of Christmas to any area. If you are decorating with poinsettias this holiday season, remember to take care of the plants throughout the holidays. LSU AgCenter horticulturist Jeff Kuehny explains. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 12/20/10) The LSU AgCenter recently showed off new varieties of poinsettias at an annual poinsettia open house. On display were plants such as Solstice Red, Tapestry and Ruby Frost, which has contrasting red and white bracts. LSU AgCenter horticulturist Jeff Kuehny says breeders are developing varieties with more traditional leaf shapes. (Runtime: 1:15)

(Radio News 12/27/10) To make dairy production more efficient, LSU AgCenter researchers are looking at forage management. Mike McCormick, research coordinator of the LSU AgCenter's Southeast Research Station, says research focuses on practices dairy farmers can implement to save money and help their cows produce more milk. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 12/06/10) The LSU AgCenter’s Smart Portions program offers eight weekly classes designed to help individuals learn good lifestyle habits to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. The program uses no fads and no gimmicks and instead relies on research-based information. But can this research-based information stand up to a buffet table loaded with holiday desserts? Past participants in the program are planning their strategies for handling holiday eating healthfully. (Runtine: 1:35)

(Radio News 12/06/10) Problems with wheat crops in other parts of the world affected the amount of wheat Louisiana farmers planted this year. Drought devastated crops in Russia and Eastern Europe. LSU AgCenter wheat specialist Ed Twidwell explains. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 12/13/10) 4-H is known for its livestock shows, but 4-H’ers in Vermilion Parish put on a show that involved pugs, poodles, spaniels, gerbils and a variety of other pets. LSU AgCenter 4-H agent Shannan Waits explains. (Runtime :60)

(Radio News 12/13/10) Americans will spend a projected $23 billion on gift cards this holiday season. Consumers gained new gift card protection from the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009, but the ECO-gift card act delayed the effective date of the on-the-card disclosures, says LSU AgCenter family economist Jeanette Tucker. (Runtime: 1:20)

(Radio News 12/13/10) 4-H junior leaders in Vermilion Parish participated in a year-long service-learning project aimed at working with and helping special needs youth in their area. LSU AgCenter 4-H agents Hilton and Shannan Waits helped the parish's Junior Leader Club conceptualize and carry out the project. (Runtime: 1:20)

(Radio News 12/20/10) Holidays can be a stressful and sad time for some individuals. LSU AgCenter child and family life expert Linda Robinson says having a high expectation of the holidays can lead to disappointment. (Runtime: 1:20)

(Radio News 12/15/10) An LSU AgCenter nutritionist suggests sneaking in ways to move more this holiday season. Beth Reames says adding exercise to your schedule can keep you from gaining holiday weight. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 12/06/10) Louisiana farmers have planted about 300,000 acres of wheat – double what was planted last year. Increased demand for wheat seed caught suppliers off guard, and seed supplies already were lower than normal, according to LSU AgCenter wheat specialist Ed Twidwell. (Runtime: 1:05)

(Radio News 12/20/10) Louisiana citrus is in season, and while the quality of the year’s crop is high, the quantity is low. Joseph Ranatza has 50 acres of satsuma and navel trees in Plaquemines Parish. Hard freezes late last year and earlier this year affected his trees. (Runtime: 1:10)

(Radio News 12/06/10) Purchases of gifts, food and decorations for this holiday season are expected to average around $700 per household, according to LSU AgCenter family economist Jeanette Tucker. If you intend to buy on credit, Tucker says not to spread out the spending over several credit cards. (Runtime: 1:20)

(Radio News 12/13/10) Holidays are an exciting time with a new baby, but the festivities can be stressful for infants and toddlers. LSU AgCenter child and family life expert Linda Robinson says parents should be aware of their baby’s temperament. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 12/15/10) You can create a holiday budget, but you may leave out costs of the season that can add up. LSU AgCenter child and family life expert Linda Robinson says families need to be aware of the hidden costs of Christmas.(Runtime: 1:15)

(Radio News 12/06/10) LSU AgCenter family economist Jeanette Tucker says the economy may make you say "bah humbug," so an important thing to do is make a realistic holiday budget and stick to it. (Runtime: 1:15)

(Radio News 12/13/10) More than half of the adults in Louisiana are either overweight or obese. LSU AgCenter nutritionist Beth Reames and nutrition agents across the state are combating this statistic with their Smart Portions program. (Runtime: 1:15)

(Radio News 12/20/10) Citrus is a popular backyard fruit tree in Louisiana. Homeowners can avoid damage this winter if hard freezes occur by protecting their trees, says LSU AgCenter county agent Alan Vaughn. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 12/27/10) Louisiana dairy farmers are feeling a little more optimistic this year. High costs of feed, fuel and fertilizer and the low prices farmers were getting for their milk had been cutting deeply into farmers’ profits, but things have improved recently, says Mike McCormick, LSU AgCenter dairy researcher and research coordinator of its Southeast Research Station. (Runtime: 1:05)

(Radio News 12/15/10) The holiday season is a special time for giving – especially to those in need, says LSU AgCenter family economist Jeanette Tucker. Giving to charities is a generous way to spend money during the holidays, but Tucker warns of frauds and advises that you give to recognized charities with a history. (Runtime: 1:10)