News Release Distributed 09/01/10

The LSU AgCenter’s Hammond Research Station has announced an open house on Oct. 2 from 9 a.m. to noon.

The event will feature more than 400 varieties of blooming plants, according to Regina Bracy, resident coordinator at the station.

“We have the largest herbaceous – or non-woody – ornamental plant trial in Louisiana,” said Allen Owings, a horticulturist at the station.

Research at the station focuses on landscape horticulture, including plant selection, fertility, weed control and plant growth regulators in more than 15 acres of research beds. Plants on display for the open house include perennials and annuals that cover a wide array of growing conditions, including beds in full sun, part sun and shade.

“We want people to visit the station and see for themselves what we have to offer,” Owings said. “This will provide visitors an opportunity to identify plants they may want to plant in their own landscapes.”

The Hammond Research Station is located on Louisiana Highway 1067 approximately six miles east of Hammond. More information on research at the station is available online at www.lsuagcenter.com/hammond or by calling the station at 985-543-4125.

Rick Bogren