College of Agricultural Sciences

A report on research conducted to determine the susceptibility of the two primary direct insect pests of hazelnuts in Oregon to three species of entomopathogenic nematodes. Additionally, a small-scale replicated field trial was performed to determine the efficacy of the two most effective nematodes species in the laboratory against both insects in the field.

Studies were conducted to determine the efficacy of three species of entomopathogenic nematodes (Heterorhabditis marelatus, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, and Steinernema riobrave) applied in infected host cadavers or as aqueous applications for black vine weevil larval control.

Experiments were performed to determine if 1) O. sulcatus larval survival and development increased with a standard or improved diet and 2) whether O. sulcatus eggs could be stored for up to 4 weeks at 4 °C without significant reductions in larval survival and development.

In this study researchers evaluated the chicoric acid concentrations in dried and fresh basil (Ocimum basilicum) products available to consumers and how these concentrations compare to those from E. purpurea plant and products.

An examination of different intermittent mist system control devices used for plant propagation. The author discusses a variety of control devices including but not limited to program repeating timer, light operated timer control, and multizone mechanical controller.

The results of a study conduction on metal probe pH meters. The study was conducted to determine the accuracy of the pH meter for measuring growing media pH. The University of Maryland affiliated author provides a table of the results and also discusses the results of the study.

The author, Ray Larson a former president of the American Society of Horticultural Science, discusses biotechnology. He specifically addresses the shift in university funding priorities from agricultural science to biotechnology.

Report on experiments conducted on the use of ELISA for detection of Phytophthora. The University of California, Davis affiliated authors address the reliability of ELISA for the detection of Phytophthora and several other diseases. They also discuss the future of their research involving ELISA and disease detection.

A discussion about the computer program, Plant Cost Accounting, intended for use by greenhouse and nursery business or growers. The computer program allows the user to accurately calculate the costs involved in plant production and price the plants accordingly.

Report on the cancer risks of pesticide exposure and studies conducted to determine the effects of exposure to a variety of pesticides. The author discusses the results of the studies and their implication for the health of farmers and offers safety recommendations.