News

MS peanut crop looks good near harvest end

The majority of Mississippi’s peanut crop is out of the ground and looking good, with recent rain across the state in late October slowing harvest progress.

Brendan Zurweller, peanut specialist with the Mississippi State University Extension Service, said harvest was about 75% complete by the last week of October.

Fall blooming plants signal cooler weather

There are three plants in my landscape that never fail to signal the arrival of fall.

When I see the golden blooms of swamp sunflower, the soft blue clusters of blue mistflower, and the elegant white petals of white lycoris, I know fall has arrived. These plants add a distinct charm to the garden as the days grow shorter and the air takes on that unmistakable autumn crispness.

Extension specialist chosen for state tourism board

Rachael Carter was selected as an at-large member of the Mississippi Tourism Association Marketing Advisory Board Oct. 15 by Governor Tate Reeves. She will serve on the committee for the remainder of Reeves’ term.

A koi pond can create a peaceful garden retreat

There’s something special about having a koi pond in your garden.

The gentle sound of trickling water, the glimmer of colorful fish gliding beneath the surface and the lush, layered plantings around it combine to create a space that feels alive and restorative.

Arboretum offers early, free entry for walking challenge

PICAYUNE, Miss. -- Participants of the Walk Mississippi challenge can log some of their miles at the Mississippi State University Crosby Arboretum free of charge during the challenge.

Delta duck season declines: The case of missing mallards

More than two decades ago, waterfowl biologists were sounding the alarm over declining mid-winter mallard counts despite healthy breeding populations. The basic message remains, but our understanding has sharpened.

Smaller root size marks state’s sweet potato crop

As president of both the Mississippi and U.S. sweet potato councils, Caleb Englert knows the impact this year’s expected below average crop will have on the state’s growers.

“Just like any farmers out there, they’re feeling the pressure from the banks, the crops and the low prices,” Englert said. “Some growers are throwing Hail Marys hoping to live to fight another year."

Variegated jasmine foliage brings color

Few plants can brighten a container quite like variegated jasmines. These plants prove that in a Southern garden, foliage can be every bit as beautiful and showy as flowers.

MSU offers Oct 17-18 waterfowl workshop

A two-day event in mid-October will help those with waterfowl and wetland management responsibilities learn how to improve wetlands for waterfowl.

Hosted by the Mississippi State University Extension Service, the waterfowl weekend will be held Oct. 17-18 at Gumbo Flats Hunting Lodge in Lambert. The $100 registration fee covers all meals and educational aspects of the event.