Ideas for Recycling Your Cut Christmas Tree

Weekly Newspaper Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY

"A Great Way to Spread Christmas Cheer..."  ...is to Recycle Your Tree for the Birds! (www.todayshomeowner.com)

I hope you and your family are enjoying a wonderful holiday week!  As we wind down the holidays, and if you have a live cut Christmas tree this year, the question may arise, "What should I do with my Christmas tree?"

Instead of pitching that tree in the trash, consider recycling the tree.

Once way to recycle the tree is to use it as a wildlife habitat and spread some holiday cheer to the birds.  Not only will the birds appreciate the gesture, but a tree in the yard covered with bird food ornaments brightens the winter landscape.

"...Mistletoe Hung Where You Can See..."

Weekly Newspaper Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY

Mistletoe (Clemson Cooperative Extension)

..."Every couple try to stop!"

With all the holiday music in the air, there is lots of mention about mistletoe, but do you know the background of this popular kissing plant?

Once autumn leaves have fallen, mistletoe becomes highly visible on large trees throughout Kentucky.  Phoradendron, the scientific name for this plant, means "tree thief."

We commonly find these small leafy plants on twigs and branches of many hardwood species in the southern two-thirds of the United States.  Mistletoes extract water, mineral elements and food from their host tree by way of a parasite nutrient-uptake organ; hence the name, tree thief.

'Tis the Season for the Poinsettia

Weekly Newspaper Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY

"It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas..."  (University of Kentucky, College of Agriculture)

'Tis the season for beautiful holiday flowers with gorgeous reds, greens, pinks, winter whites, and golds.  Poinsettias, the most popular and spectacular of holiday plants, can be seen all around town in these beautiful colors.

The poinsettia was named for Joel Robert Poinsett, an amateur botanist and the first United States ambassador to Mexico.  He became fascinated with these native plants and sent poinsettias home to Greenville, South Carolina in 1825.  Although Poinsett later was war secretary under President Martin Van Buren, he is better known for the plant named after him.

County Agricultural Cost-Share Program to Begin Sign-ups in December

Weekly Newspaper Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY

Applications will be available on Thursday, December 6 for the 2012 Carroll County Agricultural Investment Program (CAIP) at the Carroll County Extension Office, 500 Floyd Drive, Carrollton.

Applications must be returned to the Carroll County Extension Office between December 6 and December 20--we cannot accept applications before or after these dates.

A Farm Serial Number is required information for the application, and it is strongly recommended you contact the Farm Service Agency (FSA) at (502) 732-6931 to receive or confirm that number.  Only the FSA can provide your Farm Serial Number.

The CAIP is a cost-share program that originates from the 1998 Master Tobacco Settlement and provides funding for the following agricultural categories:

Local NRCS Working Group Meeting Scheduled to Discuss EQIP

Weekly Newspaper Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) administers the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), a federal program that provides technical and financial assistance to land users to address natural resource concerns.  NRCS is asking for local input for the fiscal year 2013 program.

For fiscal year 2013, EQIP will be administered in Kentucky using four ranking areas across the state.  The ranking areas consist of multiple counties that have been determined to have similar farming operations and resource concerns.  Applicants within each ranking area compete only with others in that ranking area.  NRCS has asked for local input from each of these areas.

A Local Working Group meeting consisting of Boone, Kenton, Campbell, Grant, Owen, Carroll, and Gallatin counties is scheduled for Thursday, November 29, 9:30 AM at the Walton Branch of the Boone County Public Library in Walton, Kentucky.

The Effect of Dry Weather Conditions on Fall Soil Test Samples

Weekly News Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY

(Photo Courtesy of Tom Schultz & Iowa State University Extension)

It is still not too late to get in your fall soil samples for next year's growing season, and the recent rains make it an excellent time to collect samples.

An interesting result of the dry weather conditions of the past summer is that we may see lower soil pH and potassium levels in fall soil samples.  Measuring the accurate levels of pH and potassium in soil after harvest will provide the proper amount of potassium fertilizer and lime needed in the spring to supplement the soil's nutrients to provide suitable growing conditions.

Lack of rainfall causes the soil to retain salt, which leads to the lower levels of soil pH results.  There is approximately one-half of a pH unit difference between fall and spring soil samples.  Rainfall is the only way for soil to leach trapped salts.  Soil samples collected during dry conditions can produce lower than normal results.  Inaccuracy of pH measurements can cause miscalculations of the proper amount of lime needed  for the next planting season.

Debunking Some Common Fruit & Vegetable Crop Myths

Weekly Newspaper Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY

There are many myths and old wives tales concerning fruit and vegetable crops that have become part of Kentucky lore.  Several myths that still exist today involved grape coloration and fall frosts.

A number of grape growers believe it is necessary to pick the leaves off the vine to expose the grape clusters to the sun so the grapes will color.  This myth probably originated from growers removing leaves to improve air-circulation and reduce fruit rot.

The truth is grapes--with the exception of the seedless Reliance variety--do not need sunlight to color.  In fact, the fruit will color just fine when covered.  Home grape growers can staple a bag over each cluster which keeps off birds, insects, and diseases and reduces their spray program.

Frost has a tendency to concern many producers, especially cattle producers.  While specific grasses like johnsongrass can definitely be of concern to graze directly after a frost, some people believe edible greens for humans become poisonous after a frost as well.

The Legend of the Jack O' Lantern

Weekly Newspaper Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY





Happy Halloween!

Tonight is an especially spook-tacular evening full of ghosts, goblins, princesses, and other creative creatures walking the streets in Carroll County.

In the spirit of Halloween, this week's article focuses on a spooky origin of a well-known season staple.

Jack O' Lanterns are a popular item to see keeping watch on door steps.  We see them everywhere and even have pumpkin carving parties, but do you know the legend behind the Jack O' Lantern?

Calculating Winter Hay Supply

Weekly News Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY

(Photo by Stephen Patton, University of Kentucky)

October is an important time for livestock producers to assess their winter hay supplies.  With the majority of this year's hay made, now is the time to determine whether you have enough to get your animals through the winter.

Determining this amount is a rather straightforward task.  Here is how to get a fairly accurate estimate:

1. Estimate the number of days you will feed hay this winter.  In a normal year, Kentucky producers average 120 days (from December 1 to March 31) of feeding hay.  This will vary depending upon your situation.
2. Determine the amount of feed your animals will consume each day.  Cattle and horses consume an average of 2.5 percent of their body weight every day.  To determine this amount, multiply the average animal's weight times 0.025 (2.5 percent).  Multiply that answer by the number of animals you plan to feed.
3. Multiply the products of #1 and #2 together.  This will give you a good idea of the approximate pounds of hay you will need for the winter.
4. Take three or four hay bales to a facility with a scale, such as the local feed store, if possible.  Take the bales' average weight and multiply that by the number of bales you have.  Compare this number to the amount you need.
5. You also need to allow for storage and feeding loss, and adjust your hay supplies to cover these losses.  If you store your hay outside, your losses may be more than 50 percent.  A 50 percent loss would mean that you need to double the amount of hay you calculated, in order to feed your animals.

4-H & FFA Livestock Clinic A Success!

On Saturday, October 13, Carroll County 4-H and the Carroll County FFA Chapter hosted a Livestock Clinic at the 4-H Livestock Barn on the Carroll County Fairgrounds.

Led by our new 4-H Agent, Joyce Doyle, the clinic was conducted to create interest in showing livestock and building a livestock club in the community.

Mallory Pennick, a senior at the University of Kentucky and member of the UK Livestock Judging Team, was the primary instructor for the clinic.  She did an EXCELLENT job, speaking on parts of the animal, considerations for buying a new animal, general animal care, showmanship, etc.

Planting Spring-Flowering Bulbs in the Fall

Weekly Newspaper Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY

After last week's article on mulching and composting yard waste during the fall season, I suspect that your lawns and flower beds are clean as a whistle, and ready for planting, right?

(...Right, Christin.  Sure...I'm getting there....)

No worries!  Mulching and composting that yard waste will be an ongoing process during the fall, especially after the high winds we experienced this past weekend in the area.  The downed leaves will certainly give you plenty of mulching and composting practice.

Daffodil (North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension)

Mulching and Composting Yard Waste in the Fall

Weekly Newspaper Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY

(Oregon State University Extension)

Autumn is a beautiful time in Kentucky.  As you drive around Carroll County, take notice of the changing colors of the trees that are beginning to show.

Our gardens and lawns can also be very attractive during this time, but they can also be messy with piles of leaves from our trees and spent shoots from our flower beds.

The way we address this yard waste can have a significant impact on our gardens and the environment.

When Should I Take Down My Hummingbird Feeder?

Weekly Newspaper Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY

Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey

Hummingbirds are a great joy to see during the summer months of the year.  These small birds have very interesting characteristics including their tiny size, brilliant color, dazzling acrobatics, swift flight, and unique personality.

Generally, the ruby-throated hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is the type of hummingbird we see in Kentucky.

Proper Pumpkin Handling

Weekly Newspaper Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY

Happy Fall!

The Autumnal Equinox--the moment when the sun appears to cross the celestial equator--occurred this past Saturday, September 22.

The change in the seasons is the beginning of many things to come:  crop harvest, cooler temperatures, layers of clothing, shorter days, rich fall colors, and frost.

During the Monday morning hours, our area was under a frost advisory.  A frost advisory indicates that frost is likely, and sensitive plants left outdoors could be damaged.  According to the local Kentucky Mesonet station, temperatures dipped to 37 degrees Fahrenheit.

Now is the time of the year to be mindful of the dropping temperatures and protect sensitive plants.

Be on the Lookout for Late-Season Insect Pests

Weekly Newspaper Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY

Despite the mild winter experienced through much of the nation, insect pest populations have been mostly below average in Kentucky.  However, as the summer season continued, weather patterns made it favorable for insets to begin migration, especially in southern states.

There have been reports of increasing numbers in the corn earworm, fall armyworm, and yellow-striped armyworm populations in various crops across the state.

Corn Earworm (University of Kentucky)

 While the corn earworm can be a pest of field corn and soybeans, this insect is also a serious pest of sweet corn and tomatoes.  The corn earworm has other names including soybean podworm, tomato fruitworm, and the cotton bollworm.  Earworms are variable in color, but they have a brown head without markings and numerous microscopic spines covering the body.  The larvae are moderately hairy and can vary from yellow, green, red, and brownish black.  Even with low numbers through much of the summer, growers need to monitor soybeans and vegetables for this pest.

Christin's Corner

Today, September 12, is a day worth celebrating for it marks an important milestone in my life and career.  It's my one year anniversary as the Extension Agent for Agriculture in Carroll County!

One whole year.  Wow.

It's hard to believe how fast time passes.  As a kid, I remember hearing that the older you get, the faster the years go by.  Of course, at the time, I thought this concept was crazy--school days seemed to never end.  However, today, I find that these words couldn't be more true.  In fact, it's a treat when I am able to sit down, attempt to slow time, and reflect on what is occurring around me.

As I look back on the past year, I see how much I have grown as an Extension Agent, and as a person.  Carroll County has been absolutely wonderful to me.  The people here have responded to me so well, and I am honored to work with some exceptional individuals and groups through Extension.  It's the relationships I've developed with these great people that make my job so rewarding.

Dealing With Fruit Flies in the Kitchen

Weekly Newspaper Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY

Have you been seeing small flies or gnats in your kitchen lately?

Shoo Fly.  Don't Bother Me.  (UNL Extension)

These pesky little insects are fruit flies and while they can be a problem year around, they are especially common during the late summer and fall.

Fruit flies are attracted to ripened or fermenting fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, melons, squash, grapes, bananas, potatoes, and onions, among other perishable items.

Conservation District Field Day - September 20th

The Carroll County Conservation District is hosting a field day on Thursday, September 20 at 5:30 PM.  The field day, located at the 4 Mile Creek Outdoor Classroom in Carroll County, will focus on Wildlife Habitat.

Guest speakers for the event include:

Zak Danks
Farm Bill Biologist
Fish and Wildlife

Ben Lyle
Forester
Kentucky Division of Forestry

Kim Jett
Fourth Grade Teacher at Cartmell Elementary in Carrollton
Current Teacher of the Year for the Kentucky Division of Conservation

Christin Herbst
Extension Agent for Agriculture & Natural Resources
Carroll County Cooperative Extension Service

Tobacco Disease Management - Start Planning Now for the Next Growing Season

Weekly Newspaper Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY

Photo by Stephen Patton, University of Kentucky, College of Agriculture

With the 2012 tobacco growing season wrapping up, growers are working hard to get their crops into the barns.

On one hand, the dry conditions of this past summer have kept leaf diseases, like frogeye and target spot, in check and we have not seen any blue mold across the state.  On the other hand, we saw more black shank and Fusarium wilt across the state than we have for the past three to four years.

Looking forward to the next growing season, it is hard to say what will be the big disease issue.  So much depends on the climate when we are dealing with diseases like blue mold, target spot, and frogeye.  However, we do know that some problems will show up again and again once certain pathogens get established in float beds or the field.

2013 Beef IRM Redbooks Now Available

The 2013 Beef Integrated Resource Management (IRM) calendars are now available at the Carroll County Extension Office!

Beef IRM calendars, or "Redbooks" as they are commonly called, are an excellent tool for cattle producers to use in their day-to-day operations.  Not only does this small, 4.5" x 3" booklet include a twelve-month calendar, but it also offers charts to keep the following records:

Protect Those Lungs! - Respiratory Protection Equipment

Weekly Newspaper Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY

The harvest season will reach Carroll County before we know it, and there are some key safety considerations to keep in mind as we are working out in the fields.

Use respiratory protection to safeguard your lungs against dusts as you harvest crops, clean out grain bins, open silos, strip tobacco, and participate in other seasonal farming activities. 

A disposable toxic dust respirator will filter out fine dust particles that can deeply penetrate the lungs.  It is needed for protection from potentially harmful dusts like grain dust and mold from grain, hay or silage.  Agricultural workers should use a toxic dust respirator anytime they will be exposed to dusty operations or activities. 

Using an approved toxic dust respirator can prevent the respiratory symptoms commonly associated with working in confinement facilities as well as the onset of the flu-like illness that occurs four to six hours after exposure to big amounts of moldy materials.

N95 Respirator (University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service)

An N95 is the most common respirator for agricultural uses.  The N indicates that it is intended for oil-free dust and that the filter is 95 percent efficient in removing irrespirable or fine dust that can penetrate deep into the lungs.  An N100 type that is 99.9 percent efficient also is available.

Kentucky Master Stocker Program Beginning in September

The area-wide Kentucky Master Stocker Program is set to begin on September 18, and registration is now open for participants.

The Master Stocker Program is a Kentucky Beef Network Program, funded by the Kentucky Agriculture Development Board, that is developed and delivered by the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture.

The program consists of eight (8) 2 1/2 hour sessions focusing on background and stocker operations in Kentucky.  These sessions are designed to enhance the profitability and equip producers with vital information provided by University of Kentucky specialists and agents.

Blossom End Rot in Tomatoes

Weekly Newspaper Article for The News-Democrat, Carrollton, KY
 

Photo Courtesy of Tim Coolong, UK Horticulture Specialist

Normally, a hot dry year would favor vegetable production as long as growers have adequate irrigation.  However, when daytime temperatures inch up over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, like we have seen several days this year, we begin to see problems with many vegetable crops.

Pollen begins to die when temperatures reach 100 degrees.  That affects fruit set and several disorders become apparent.

One thing growers might see is blossom end rot, which is simply a rot at the blossom end of a fruit.  Tomatoes usually suffer most, but eggplant, cucurbits and peppers can all succumb to the problem.  It is technically caused by a calcium deficiency in the plant or the fruit.  In many cases, it is not a lack of calcium in the soil, but rather an environmental factor that stops the plant from taking up calcium.

Christin's Corner

Welcome to my blog, Extension to the 3rd Degree!

Extension to the 3rd Degree?  Now, what does that mean?

I'll get to explaining the title in a moment, but first, I want to touch on why I have decided to start this Extension blog...

During the third week of July, I traveled to Charleston, South Carolina to attend my first National Association of County Agriculture Agents convention.  What an experience to meet and learn from Ag Agents across the United States!  The first presentation I listened to was given by Tonya Ashworth, Extension Agent with the University of Tennessee Cooperative Extension Service.  She spoke about the ease and benefits of creating a blog to use in our Extension programming (visit her blog, Tonya By Extension).  Very quickly, I was hooked.  Thank you, Tonya!