By Norman Winter
MSU Horticulturist
Central Mississippi Research & Extension Center
The lilac chaste tree, or vitex, was chosen as a Mississippi Medallion award winner in 2002, spurring a revival of this great, old-fashioned plant, which some consider a small tree and others describe as a large shrub.
Known botanically as Vitex agnus-castus, the lilac chaste tree is a marvel with its small structure and large, marijuana-looking leaves. Its fragrant, blue blooms are rare among trees.
MISSISSIPPI STATE -- A dangerous kind of criminal is taking advantage of people's money and good names without those people even knowing they are victims.
The Federal Trade Commission online says identity theft occurs “when someone uses your personally identifying information, like your name, Social Security number or credit card number, without your permission, to commit fraud or other crimes.”
MISSISSIPPI STATE -- People who find themselves victims of identity fraud can clear their names and credit if they act quickly to stop the fraud.
Bobbie Shaffett, family resource management specialist with the Mississippi State University Extension Service, said identity theft is when one person steals the personal information of another and uses it for financial gain.
By Patti Drapala
MSU Ag Communications
MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Sixteen projects were completed across three counties in less than 72 hours when Mississippi Master Gardeners set Operation Swarm in motion last October.
Most of the public landscapes in Hancock, Harrison and Jackson counties were damaged or destroyed after the onslaught of the waves and winds of hurricanes Katrina and Rita. This time, however, the weather cooperated for positive change on the Gulf Coast.
By Norman Winter
MSU Horticulturist
Central Mississippi Research & Extension Center
When spring arrives and gardeners start trying to jazz up the landscape with color, many will look for long-lasting color so they won't have to change out plant material a couple of times before fall. If that is your goal, too, I would like to heartily recommend the Astoria and Intensia series of phlox.
HATTIESBURG -- More than 80 growers from all areas of the state gathered in Hattiesburg Jan. 22 for the second annual Mississippi Peanut Growers Association meeting and short course.
The number of producers attending the 2008 meeting doubled from 2007, said association president Clayton Lawrence of George County.
“The newness of this industry in Mississippi means there is a lot we still have to learn,” he said. “This meeting is an opportunity for our growers to learn from some of the best peanut researchers in the industry.”
MISSISSIPPI STATE -- A concerted effort is under way to improve the health of marriages across Mississippi.
Organizers of Healthy Marriage Week, Feb. 7-14, are planning activities in Jackson and towns across the state to draw attention to the benefits of two-parent homes and strong marriages.
Tabitha Staier, family education and policy specialist with Mississippi State University’s Extension Service, said taking care of the marriage relationship is a key to better communities.
By Norman Winter
MSU Horticulturist
Central Mississippi Research & Extension Center
The Mexican petunia, or ruellia, is getting more popular with each growing season, and I give a hearty “amen.” One thing that surprised me is how it has crossed from home to commercial landscapes. Most of the time, commercial landscape plants create a frenzy with homeowners.
As you pace the aisles of your garden center this spring, wondering what to plant for color and what to choose as a partner, think about the iridescent blue from the Mexican petunia.
MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Financial problems and infidelity often get blamed for divorces, but lack of preparation before and minimal commitment after the wedding may be at the heart of most failed marriages.
Karen Benson is an area child and family development agent with Mississippi State University's Extension Service in Neshoba County. She said it is common for couples to live together without marrying, and young couples marrying today are at a high risk for divorce.
MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Few events are more beautiful or memorable than an outdoor wedding in an idyllic setting, but actually making one happen takes a lot of planning and some fortunate timing.
Bob Brzuszek, an assistant professor of landscape architecture with the Mississippi State University Extension Service, suggested those hosting an outdoor wedding or reception start planning a year in advance.