One man’s landscape architectural legacy at Mississippi State University has allowed generations of home and professional gardeners to learn from industry-leading professionals about how to beautify their own spaces. This year marked the 68th Edward C. Martin Landscape Symposium hosted by MSU Extension Service, the MSU Department of Landscape Architecture and Garden Clubs of Mississippi Inc. Started in 1957, the event is named for Martin, who helped establish the MSU Department of Landscape Architecture and served 45 years at MSU.
Stafford Shurden’s weather station is ideal for monitoring conditions on his row crop farm, but he uses it even more during hunting season than growing season.
Stafford Shurden, Sunflower County producer
RAYMOND, Miss. -- Ocean Springs. Natchez. Vicksburg. These Mississippi cities are just a few of the state’s gems drawing praise from various publications for their tourist-friendly atmosphere. WorldAtlas highlighted these three cities along with Tupelo, Oxford, Woodville and Bay St. Louis for their “warm and inviting” main streets that offer “endless activities.” Forbes recommended the entire state of Mississippi as a travel destination, noting its “cutting-edge culinary scene to buzzing small towns to incredible natural beauty.” None of this is a surprise to Rachael Carter, tourism specialist with the Mississippi State University Extension Service. She knows how much thought and planning it takes to execute successful tourism programs. Carter and her colleagues in the Extension Center for Government and Community Development spend countless hours working with and providing support services to tourism professionals throughout the state.
I recently admired some gorgeous ornamental peppers that were still popping with color despite the state starting to get some cool weather. Did you know that you can grow ornamental peppers in spring, summer, fall and winter? They are a great way to add color and spice to your home or garden.
Fall is one of my favorite times of the year. I love having pumpkin carving parties with friends. Pair the night with apple cider and a bonfire, and it’s my ideal day!
Composting old jack-o-lanterns is a great way to dispose of old pumpkins. (Photo from Canva Pro)
Mississippi hay growers harvested at least 28 percent less hay this year than usual because of the drought that reached extreme levels in parts of the state. Brett Rushing, Mississippi State University Extension forage agronomist, said hay producers in the state typically get three cuttings a year, and often four if they manage well and the weather cooperates.
Advertising and selling horses are something most horse owners will have to do at some point. In this episode of TTR, Clay and Joel McQuagge of the University of Florida, discuss marketing strategies for horses going to sale. They also share insight into what has and hasn't worked for them in managing university sale programs. Even if you are not planning to sell your horse, this episode will give additional insight into what goes into selling horses in today's market of online and live auctions.
Closed captioning can be viewed on Taking the Reins-Mississippi State on YouTube.
Despite widespread populations of honeybees and the major implications of their health, there are few direct options for beekeepers to reduce viral disease transmission to queens. Two apiculturists with the Mississippi State University Extension Service are out to improve the health and quality of queen bees while collaborating with their breeders.
RAYMOND, Miss. -- Floral enthusiasts and business owners can learn to create home holiday decorations with evergreen cuttings and basic floral supplies in an online workshop. The Deck the Halls workshop will include step-by-step instruction for creating impressive velvet bows, a classical garland, a regal door swag and a long-lasting, elegant table centerpiece.
