(Distributed 07/22/10) Most people think of mid-summer as the “down time” in the landscape. Many of our warm-season bedding plants from earlier in the spring and summer have a tendency to not be performing as well by the time we get to late summer. We do, however, have a wonderful assortment of tropical plants that can be grown very successfully in south Louisiana.

(Distributed 07/20/10) Young athletes need adequate fuel, fluids and nutrients to perform their best. Eating right helps delay fatigue and allows them to push harder and recover faster, says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Beth Reames.

(Distributed 07/16/10) Summer is prime growing season for lawns in Louisiana. Lawns that are not performing their best can be made better through the fall. If you did not fertilize your lawn during the spring, you still have time to fertilize and get your lawn in good shape prior to fall

(Distributed 07/15/10) Proper hydration is essential for healthy physical activity. Drinking the right amount of fluids before, during and after every physical activity is vital to providing the fluids the body needs to perform properly, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Beth Reames.

(Distributed 07/14/10) Getting off to a good start with your child’s new teacher requires communication and respecting the role of a teacher, says LSU AgCenter youth development specialist Janet Fox. A strong connection between families and teachers is essential for building a positive environment for children.

(Distributed 07/14/10) A few weeks before elementary school begins, remind your child that school is starting and pay attention to your child’s reactions, says LSU AgCenter family and child development specialist Linda Robinson. Reactions may range from excitement to nervousness to disappointment.

(Distributed 7/14/10) A durable home that withstands natural hazards like hurricanes saves money, time, the ordeal of making repairs and, potentially, your health.

(Distributed 07/09/10) One of the most popular summer bedding plants in Louisiana is vinca, also called periwinkle. This annual plant is known for having a very long blooming season. It is also very heat- and drought-tolerant.

(Distributed 07/08/10) The high school years are usually a time of experimentation and testing limits. Recent studies, however, reveal that conflict between parents and adolescents is much less than popular culture leads us to believe, according to LSU AgCenter family and child development expert Linda Robinson.

(Distributed 07/08/10) After the more leisurely pace of summer, preparing and serving meals can be a challenge when juggling family members’ busy schedules of school, work, sports, homework, etc., says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Beth Reames.