Home > Lawn & Garden > Commercial Horticulture > Diseases of Southern Turfgrasses (PDF) [Image: Gray leaf spot on St. Augustine] This is the presentation given at the LTA Conference in Baton Rouge on January 6, 2011, which covers the identification and management of common diseases affecting warm-season southern turfgrasses in Louisiana. Field-grown Cut Flowers for Louisiana [Image: Variety of cut flowers] Species and variety recommendation for field grown specialty cut flowers in the South. Caladium landscape performance in sun and shade (2011) [Image: Caladiums in shade garden] Caladiums are wonderful foliage ornamentals to provide season-long color to Louisiana landscapes. Many new "strap leaf" varieties have been introduced over the past several years that are more sun tolerant than the "fancy leaf" varieties. Results presented here are average sun tolerance ratings over June, July, and August 2011 from full-sun landscape evaluations at the Hammond Research Station. Greenhouse Tomato Production Manual [Image: Tomatoes] This manual is intended to help small greenhouse tomato growers in Louisiana and elsewhere grow a successful crop using perlite or pine bark medium. Small growers can produce vine-ripened, high-quality fruit that can be delivered to the local market on the same day of harvest.  more articles... Ironing Your Turfgrass Although the earth’s crust is about 5% iron (Fe), we still see iron deficiency in plants. This may be because of a problem with the plant roots, soil and/or environment. This publication includes tips on how to care for your turfgrass. (PDF Format Only) Calculating Fertilizer Application Rates The analysis or "formula" listed on the fertilizer bags tells you what is inside. This information lets you apply the proper amount of fertilizer. Louisiana Sod Farms in 2008 [Image: sod] Louisiana sod farm situation for 2008. Tune up Landscape Irrigation [Image: irrigate] A properly designed and operated irrigation system will ensure that the critical factor of soil moisture will be there to sustain healthy plant growth. Cut Flower Production Basics [Image: Specialty cut flowers] Cut flowers can be a profitable crop in the Southern U.S. This manual provides basic information on the production of specialty cut flowers. Scouting and Biological Control of Two-spotted Spider Mite [Image: TSM adult and eggs] In recent years, IPM programs are becoming more attractive to ornamental growers. Scouting is a key component of any IPM and helps you to (1) detect when pests are first present, (2) make proper control decisions and (3) monitor whether your control practices are effective. Here are some tips on how to scout and practice IPM for the control of one of the top greenhouse pests - twospotted spider mite. How To Choose a Lawn/Garden Tractor - Engines [Image: vertical shaft engine] One of the factors that most affects both the capability of a lawn/garden tractor, and the price, is the engine. Top 10 Hostas from Hammond Research Station 2010 Shade Garden Trials [Image: Guacamole] Fifty-six hostas, including many new varieties, have been evaluated for landscape performance since spring 2010 at the Hammond Research Station in the Shade Garden. Presented here are the top 10 performers based on monthly ratings from June to August 2010. CSAs: Alternative Marketing for Growers [Image: Peas at a CSA near Shreveport] Community Supported Agriculture is an alternative marketing method for commercial vegetable growers. Growers sell a share of their anticipated harvest directly to consumers and deliver an agreed-upon portion of their crops to subscribers throughout the season. Safe Operation of Riding Mowers and Lawn/Garden Tractors [Image: mower discharge chute] Riding mowers, lawn tractors, lawn and garden tractors, and garden tractors are large and powerful. They can be dangerous if not used safely. Click for more information...