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Ag Talk Tuesday - May 17th at 11:00 AM Mountain

All Crops    All Locations

Ag Talk Tuesdays

Posted on: May 16, 2022 by Juliet Marshall

May 17 — FSA programs and policies — Matt Gellings, Ben Thiel — Doug Finkelnburg (host)

» https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/news/ag-talk-tuesday

Grain production worldwide in dire straights

Small Grains    All Locations

Cereal Production 2022

Posted on: May 4, 2022 by Juliet Marshall

All - I usually do not send pest alerts out like this with scary titles as I do not believe in “saber rattling”. But there are several situations occurring worldwide that are concerning to me in regards to wheat production.

1) The war in Ukraine - beyond the obvious disruption to everyday activities associated with agricultural production, the destruction of port cities and export infrastructure in addition to targeted destruction of grain and shipping facilities in Ukraine, and shipping of grain stores to Russia will reduce worldwide supplies.  https://phys.org/news/2022-04-india-wheat-crop-snags-export.html

2) Heat wave in India - https://stories.app.goo.gl/6Gjk Temperatures above 110 degrees F in central India (46.5 degrees Celsius (114.08 Fahrenheit) have reduced grain production in some areas by as much as 50%.

3) Reduced production in China - https://www.reuters.com/business/china-ensure-agricultural-product-supplies-including-grains-2022-03-05/

BEIJING, March 5 (Reuters) - The condition of China's winter wheat crop could be the "worst in history", the agriculture minister said on Saturday, raising concerns about grain supplies in the world's biggest wheat consumer.

4) US production projections are for lower than average. From the Idaho Wheat Commission Newsletter on 4/29/22: Chicago wheat futures rebounded on Tuesday as the worst U.S. winter crop rating since 1989 put attention back on global supply already strained by the war in Ukraine.

Current conditions in Idaho and the PNW are favorable to winter wheat production with the greatest constraint associated with dry conditions. In fact, the extremely cool weather has delayed plant maturity, increasing the potential for heavy stooling of the wheat crop. Looking at data from the UI potato website, growing degree days are far behind previous years:

While data from Aberdeen is not available on Agrimet (https://www.usbr.gov/gp/agrimet/agrimet_station_list.html) comparing data from Kimberly and Parma show a rather surprising lag in GDD throughout southern Idaho.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR THIS YEAR’S GRAIN PRODUCTION IN IDAHO?

Heavy stooling increases yield potential for winter wheat and winter barley. While the weather is unpredictable, if the conditions stay favorable to grain growth, consider applications of plant growth hormones to reduce lodging. (If it is not too late in your area.)

Take advantage of the extra (and localized) rain events to increase subsoil moisture storage while irrigation is available. Yes, if you have irrigation, use it to increase soil storage capacity for later season moisture shortages, especially beneficial if prediction for hot and dry late spring and summer weather actually occurs.

Control yield-robbing weeds.

Scout for diseases. Stripe rust literally can annihilate wheat and barley production.  The Good news is that we usually have low barley stripe rust disease pressure and wheat stripe rust forecasts from Dr. Xianming Chen are for low to moderate disease pressure in the Washington and Palouse areas. "Recommendations for the eastern Pacific Northwest - As stripe rust has not been found and the disease is likely to have a late start, fungicide application is not recommended in the early growth season at the time of herbicide application for winter wheat, unless stripe rust is observed in the fields.” Dr. Chen, 3/7/22 email.

Due to enduring drought conditions throughout the west (including CA and NV, downwind of southern Idaho production), I expect low disease pressure from stripe rust. I also do not recommend fungicide application at herbicide timing for stripe rust control, even in susceptible varieties. Always scout, and if sound, report stripe rust infections to me ASAP so I can get the word out.

Even if planted early, spring grains has gotten a delayed start due to cool conditions and emergence has been slow. If expected hot dry conditions develop in May through July, yield potential can be reduced with heat at flowering. A lot depends on (obviously) the temperatures as the season progresses.

Pay close attention to conditions at flowering for scab (Fusarium head blight) and potential mycotoxin contamination from DON.

When crops are harvest ready, get them out of the field ASAP to reduce the likelihood of sprout damage from August rains.

This year may be one of the most profitable years for grain production so PAY ATTENTION to the details.

Wishing everyone the best for the upcoming season!

Cheers,

Juliet

-- Juliet M. Marshall, Ph.D.

Plant Sciences Department Head, Endowed Research Professor, Cereals Pathology and Agronomy

Idaho Falls R&E Center

1776 Science Center Drive Suite 205

Idaho Falls, ID 83402

208-529-8376 office

http://www.uidaho.edu/extension/cereals/scseidaho/

“We shouldn’t be looking for certainty. Instead, we should be saying to ourselves ‘When do we have enough evidence to make good decisions.’” Cailin O’Connor UC Irvine

Growing Degree Days for Potatoes

Potato    All Locations

Posted on: April 28, 2022 by Nora Olsen and Mike Thornton

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%">Snow, hail,
rain, sunshine, and wind appear to be interchangeable this April. To focus on
the temperatures so far, calculating growing degree days (GDD) or heat units is
one method to look at the effect of temperature on the potato crop. Plant
growth and development is greatly influenced by temperature, and we use GDD to
get an idea of how the plant is developing throughout the season. It also gives
a great snapshot on how the current season compares to previous seasons. Daily
GDD is calculated by adding the maximum temperature and the minimum
temperature, dividing by 2 and subtracting a base temperature. The base
temperature is used to define the temperature at which potato growth is
diminished. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%">To quantify this
period of cold temperatures, we collated the cumulative GDDs for Parma,
Kimberly and Aberdeen. The source of the GDD was AgriMet (www.usbr.gov/pn/agrimet/wxdata.html)
weather stations located at the three sites. The AgriMet calculation of GDD
uses 50F as a minimum and 86F as a maximum. There are limitations to the use of
these minimum and maximums since potatoes will grow outside of this range, but
these calculations can still provide a reasonable prediction of the temperatures
impacting potato growth. The GDD these past weeks is quite a contrast to the
GDD from 2021 and the 11-year average.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p>



</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%">To help
provide a picture of the relationship between temperature and plant
development, we will continue to update the GDD graphs weekly for the three
locations and post at </span><a href="http://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/storage"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;
line-height:107%">www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/storage</span></a><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%">. Aberdeen GDD was not available at
this time but will be posted on the website when available.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

» http://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/storage

2022 Plant Diagnostic Clinics

General Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: April 28, 2022 by Nic Usabel

Many University of Idaho Extension office locations offer a free plant diagnostic clinic where certified Idaho Master Gardener volunteers help answer clientele questions. Here are the details that were shared with the PNW Pest Alert Network for those locations in the Treasure Valley.

UI Extension, Ada County (Boise, ID): The plant diagnostic clinic operates April through September and is staffed Monday and Wednesday from 10 AM to 3 PM. Ada County residents should contact 208-287-5900 or email adamg@uidaho.edu with landscape and garden questions. For additional details visit https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/county/ada/horticulture 

UI Extension, Canyon County (Caldwell, ID): The free plant diagnostic clinic operates May through September and is staffed Monday and Wednesday 1 PM to 4 PM and Friday 9 AM to 12 PM. Canyon County residents should contact 208-459-6003 or email ccmg@uidaho.edu with landscape and garden questions. For additional details visit https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/county/canyon/horticulture. 

UI Extension, Owyhee County (Marsing, ID): Landscape and garden questions for Owyhee County residents can be directed to UI Extension Canyon County at 208-459-6003 or ccmg@uidaho.edu. Contact information for Owyhee County is 208-896-4104 or owyhee@uidaho.edu. For additional details visit https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/county/owyhee.  

Don’t see your county listed? Visit https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/directory/counties to find contact information for your county office.

2022 Spring Plant Sales

General Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: April 27, 2022 by Nic Usabel

Spring Garden Plant Sale

UI Extension, Canyon County (Caldwell, ID): Searching for new plants to add to your garden or landscape? The University of Idaho Canyon County Master Gardener Spring Garden Plant Sale will be held on Saturday, April 30 from 9:00 AM to Noon, at Canyon County Extension Office, 501 Main Street, Caldwell. Preorders can be made at https://bit.ly/ccmgstore and are available for pick up Saturday, April 30 from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Additional inventory will be available that is not provided for preorder. Available plants include vegetables, herbs, houseplants, succulents, flowering perennials, native plants, and so much more. Join in the fun! For More information, call UI Extension, Canyon County at (208) 459-6003.

UI Extension, Ada County (Boise, ID): Let’s get growing! The University of Idaho Annual Master Gardener Plant Sale will be held Saturday, May 7 from 9:00 AM to Noon, at the Ada County Extension Office, 5880 Glenwood Street, Boise. Offerings include houseplants, herbs, vegetables, and berries, flowering perennials, gardening books, and so much more. Cash or check only. Please no early birds. For more information, call the Master Gardeners at (208) 287-5900. Come join the fun!

There are several local groups and organizations that are hosting plant sales around the Treasure Valley. Check in with your local church groups, high schools, colleges/universities, and civic groups. Here are those we have been alerted to. 

• Idaho Botanical Garden Online Plant Sale, Boise, (member only April 22, public April 29)
• Vallivue High School, Caldwell, April 30
• Ridgevue High School, Nampa, April 30
• Marsing FFA Chapter, Marsing, May 4
• Canyon Springs Garden Outreach, Middleton, May 7
• Catholic Women’s League St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Nampa, May 7
• Middleton Boy Scout Troop, Middleton, May 7

2022 Extension Drought Resources

General Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: April 24, 2022 by Nic Usabel

If you are looking for ways to conserve water during this growing season here are a number or resources available from various Extension programs. 

• University of Idaho Extension Drought Resources
• Utah State University Extension Drought Resources
• Watering a Home Landscape During a Drought, Colorado State University
• Native Plant Landscaping: Curb Appeal and Low Water Use, University of Idaho
• Landscaping with Native Plants, University of Idaho
• Idaho Climate & Weather Resources, University of Idaho
• U.S. Drought Monitor for Idaho, National Drought Mitigation Center

For additional questions reach out to a local Extension office. Find a local University of Idaho Extension Office.

Ag Talk Tuesdays resume for 2022

All Crops    All Locations

General announcment

Posted on: April 19, 2022 by Kasia Duellman

We are excited to announce that the University of Idaho Extension's Ag Talk Tuesday sessions resume May 3 for the 2022 season. 

Each session starts at 11:00 AM (MDT) on the first and third Tuesdays, May through August.

These live events begin with crop updates where all participants are invited to contribute, followed by a featured presentation. You can find a schedule of featured topics and speakers (subject to change) and more information on our website:  

https://www.uidaho.edu/ag-talk 

Registration is required to attend. You only need to register once to attend all sessions. Once you register, information on how to attend via Zoom or by calling in by phone will be sent to you in a separate email. 

To register, click this link (or copy and paste the following into your web browser):  

https://uidaho.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElce6uqTwpH9CuQSsCTa_7B01HC8gfuGXn

Please join us starting May 3 at 11:00 AM (MDT) for these live, online sessions that focus on agriculture - current season issues related to pests, diseases, weeds, diagnostics, soil health, irrigation/water, agronomy & more along with featured topics and guest speakers.

For questions, please contact one of the organizers: 

Kasia Duellman (kduellman@uidaho.edu)

Doug Finkelnburg (dougf@uidaho.edu) 

Pam Hutchinson (phutch@uidaho.edu)

Juliet Marshall (jmarshall@uidaho.edu) 

Olga Walsh (owalsh@uidaho.edu) 

» https://www.uidaho.edu/ag-talk

Seeking help for a research project

Potato    All Locations

Posted on: April 7, 2022 by Jeff Miller

A research project funded by the tri-state (ID, WA, and OR) research consortium is looking for some help (see below). If you are able and interested, please contact David Wheeler (contact info below).

Good luck with planting!

Jeff

2022 Dry Spring Conditions

General Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: March 25, 2022 by Nic Usabel

Much of Idaho has experienced below average precipitation this past winter and it continues into early spring. The Treasure Valley is no different. During periods with low water resources, it is important to prioritize watering needs. While some lawn conditions appear dry it is not yet time to begin the watering of residential lawns. Consider the following as a prioritization to follow during times of low water resources:

• Young or newly transplanted trees which have a limited root system. Ensure to proper application of water and water deeply and infrequently based on soil texture.
• Established trees and shrubs should also be given consideration to priority watering as established plants are high value and take many years to replace. When applying water to trees and shrubs apply at an appropriate rate that allows water to soak into the soil to a depth of 12 inches. Frequency of water depends on soil texture and if water restrictions are in place. General guides are as follows: April once per month, May through September up to twice per month.
• Fruit gardens, vegetables gardens, and flowers are generally next on the list of prioritizations. Consider using a wood mulch or organic matter around trees, small fruits, and plants to reduce water evaporation from the soil. Avoid direct stem to mulch contact. Fruit trees and small berries may benefit from an early water now if soil conditions are dry. Early spring bulbs may also benefit from an early water if dry conditions are present. 
• Lawns finish out the priority list. If watering the lawn, ensure that sprinklers are operating correctly and applying water to desired location. Make water applications so that water is applied deeply and infrequently. Increase the mowing height of the grass and consider mulching the clippings versus bag removal. 

Resources:

• Watering a Home Landscape During Drought, Colorado State University Extension
• Watering Home Lawns and Landscapes, University of Idaho Extension 
• Watering Home Lawns: How Much and How Often, University of Idaho Extension

» Idaho SNOTEL Current Snow Water Equivalent

2022 Rose & Grapevine Pruning

General Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: March 25, 2022 by Nic Usabel

Across the Treasure Valley it’s time to prune grapevines and roses. See below for more resources for pruning these landscape & garden plants.

ROSES:

Rose pruning should occur when the buds are starting to swell in early spring. Below are a few resources that can be read or viewed for rose pruning.

• How to Prune Roses, Utah State University Extension video
• Early Spring Pruning of Roses, University of Maryland Extension video
• Guide to Pruning Roses, University of Maryland Extension
• Pruning Roses, Colorado State University

GRAPEVINES:

The University of Idaho Research & Extension Center in Parma recommends pruning grapevines in the Treasure Valley no sooner than mid-March to ensure that low temperatures do not kill buds after pruning. Grapevines can “bleed”, movement of sap from the cut, heavily when pruned in spring. This does not harm the vines. Below are a few resources that can be read or viewed for grape pruning.

• Grape Pruning Four Cane System, Utah State University Extension video
• Grape Pruning, USU Garden Guys & Gal video
• Pruning Grapevines, University of Nebraska Lincoln Extension video
• Yard and Garden: How to Prune Grapevines, Iowa State University 
  
• Grape Vine Management, Utah State University Extension
• Grape Trellising and Training Basics, Utah State University Extension

2022 Spring Lawn Fertilization & Care

General Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: March 22, 2022 by Nic Usabel

Spring lawn fertilization for cool season grasses recommend that fertilization be made while energy is being directed to root growth, which is followed by leaf growth. This timeframe for cool season turf in the Treasure Valley traditionally March thru early May. If mulching is a practice in your lawn maintenance plan, nitrogen can be reduced by ½ pound annually. 

The proper rate of fertilizer application is best achieved when using a soil test result to identify the fertilizer needs of the soil. UI Extension publication Using Soil Test Results for Garden Fertilization will help guide the steps.  Applications should be split between spring and fall. Application rates should not exceed 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet in any one application, access Southern Idaho Lawns Fertilizer Guide to identify additional time(s) for application if rate would exceed the 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet limit with only and spring and fall application. Always follow label directions.

For more information on how to obtain a soil sample to a soil test submission contact your local University of Idaho Extension office. 

Another method of identifying application rate is based on the level of turf maintenance from low to high traffic. Application rates should not exceed 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet in any fertilizer application and always follow label directions. Review descriptions, timing, and rate of application below.

1. Light use: Classified as occasional foot traffic or little to no play from children. Annual turfgrass recommendation is 0-1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. Split the application between a spring and fall application. 
2. Moderate Use: Typical children’s play and occasional garden parties. Annual turfgrass recommendation is 2-3 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. Split the application equally between a spring, early fall (late September) and late fall (Mid October to Late November) 
3. Heavy Use: Frequently used sports field play, heavy traffic and/or frequent garden parties. Annual turfgrass recommendation is 4-6 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. Apply 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet in spring, 0.5 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet late May/early June, 0.5 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet late June/early July, 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet early fall (late September) and 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet late fall (Mid October to Late November).

If your lawn is suffering from soil compaction or development of a thick thatch layer core aeration can be completed in the spring but is preferred in fall while weed pressure will be reduced. For more information visit UI Extension publication Core Aeration of Lawns-Benefits & Procedures.

Spring provides the opportunity to seed new turfgrass areas or to over-seed areas that may have been damaged over the winter. Cool temperatures will promote germination and growth of cool season turf species, tall and fine fescues, perennial ryegrass, and Kentucky bluegrass. Weed pressure can be higher during the spring as compared to the fall when seeding or over-seeding.

If there are additional questions on lawn care or weed management reach out to a local University of Idaho Extension office.

2022 Delayed-Dormant Oil Application

General Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: February 27, 2022 by Nic Usabel

In the coming weeks areas across the Treasure Valley could reach temperatures desirable for applying a delayed-dormant oil spray. The use of horticultural oil as a delayed-dormant spray can target many insect pests at a time when beneficial insects are not yet active. Use of the term “delayed-dormant” indicates that the oil should be applied after bud swell. This timeframe coincides with the increasing activity of the overwintering insect stages, such as aphid eggs, scale nymphs, and peach twig borer larvae.

The two factors of temperature and bud stage must correspond before application of horticultural oil is made.

TEMPERATURE: 

Only apply oil if temperatures remain above freezing (ideal is above 40°F) for 24 hours after application and on a clear, non-windy day in the 50 to 70°F temperature range. 

BUD STAGE: 

The window of application extends from bud swell to when the leaves just start emerging. The last point you can safely apply oil based on fruit tree crop are:

• Apple: Half-inch green, but ideal application at green tip stage. 
• Pear: Cluster bud. 
• Cherry: White bud. 
• Peach/nectarine: pre-bloom. 

Refer to the Critical Temperatures for Frost Damage on Fruit Trees by Utah State University to view images of each bud stage mentioned.

Oil should be applied at a rate of 2% (5 Tbs in 1 gallon water) and thoroughly cover all cracks and crevices. 

If aphids and scale have been a serious problem in previous years an insecticide could be added, see Chemical Control of Landscape Pests for chemical products available by pest. Read and follow label instructions for preparation and application.

If fire blight was an issue in the previous year add in a copper product for fire blight. 

If you have additional questions, contact your localUniversity of Idaho Extension office. 

Additional Resource:

• Insect Control: Horticultural Oils, Colorado State University

Potato soil health survey - your help is requested!

Potato    All Locations

Posted on: February 18, 2022 by Jeff Miller

Researchers from the University of Idaho, Montana State University, and the University of Minnesota would like your feedback on potato production and soil health. The results of this survey will influence the important research done by these teams. They'll ask questions about crop rotations, soil health management practices, and fumigation in this brief survey. As a token of their appreciation, you'll be eligible to enter into a drawing for a $100 Cabela's (or equivalent) gift card after you've completed the survey.  If you have any questions, please contact Alex Maas at alexmaas@uidaho.edu.

Click Here to Begin Survey

» https://uidaho.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8bQye9iBZ5UHI0K

UI Extension Pesticide Safety Education Program

All Crops    All Locations

Posted on: February 2, 2022 by Jerry Neufeld

The UI Extension Pesticide Safety Education Program will be offering pre-license trainings ONLINE, via Zoom. This 4-day class is designed to be both with live instructors and work on your own, at your own pace. Students are required to have a computer or smart tablet with internet access. You will learn core pesticide safety practices and prepare for the following Idaho State Department of Agriculture pesticide exams; Private Applicator, Professional Applicator: Law and Safety; Agricultural Herbicide; Agricultural Insecticide; Ornamental Herbicide; Ornamental Insecticide; General Pest; Right of Way; and Chemigation.

Classes meet twice daily Monday through Thursday. Choose one of the following weeklong sessions: 

1. March 14-17, 2022, from 9-11:30 am (MST) and 1:30-4 pm (MST). Registration closes, March 9, 2022.

2. March 28-31, 2022, from 9-11:30 am (MST) and 1:30-4 pm (MST). Registration closes, March 23, 2022.

Click on the pdf below for more information.

» 2022-PreLicense_OnlineTraining_POSTER.pdf

2022 Miller Research Potato Pest Management Meeting Final Notice

Potato    All Locations

Posted on: January 31, 2022 by Jeff Miller

Miller Research will be holding its annual Potato Pest Management Meeting in person on February 10, 2022, at the Historic Wilson Theater in Rupert, ID. The meeting will run from 8:30 am to 12:00 pm with a 30-minute break at 10:00 am. Three credits have been awarded for CCA (integrated pest management), Idaho, Oregon, and Washington pesticide recertification.

For those not able to attend in person, a virtual option will be available. If you want to participate by Zoom, contact Cheryn Suarez (cheryn@millerresearch.com) after registration and she will send you the link to attend. Virtual attendees will need to answer questions on Zoom to verify participation. Thus, each person desiring credits needs to be logged in. Contact us if you need to make other arrangements.

Registration is $20 to cover the cost of the meeting. After covering meeting costs, additional proceeds will be donated to the 4-H program.

Meeting agenda:

8:00 am – 8:30 am: Registration

8:30 am – 9:00 am: Seed treatments for Fusarium dry rot management

9:00 am – 9:30 am: The impact of anastomosis group on Rhizoctonia canker management

9:30 am – 10:00 am: Verticillium wilt control

10:00 am – 10:30 am: Break

10:30 am – 11:00 am: Control options for powdery scab and potato mop-top virus

11:00 am – 11:30 am: PVY and Seed Health (Dr. Jonathan Whitworth, USDA)

11:30 am – 12:00 pm: Managing pesticide resistance

» https://millerresearch.com/event/2022-miller-research-potato-pest-management-meeting/

» 2022_Seminar_Announcement.pdf

2022 Pruning Deciduous Trees & Shrubs

General Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: January 25, 2022 by Nic Usabel

The dormant season is a great time to prune deciduous trees (landscape & fruit) and shrubs. It is not recommended to prune grapevines at this time.  As a general guide remove no more than one-third of the tree when pruning. Below are a few resources on how to prune. 

• Training Young Shade Trees, University of Idaho
• Pruning Deciduous Shade Trees, University of Arizona
• Pruning Deciduous Trees, University of New Hampshire
• Deciduous Fruit Tree Pruning Videos, University of Arizona
• How to Prune Trees Video, Colorado State University

Prune shrub species which grow on the current season’s growth during the dormant period, usually late winter early spring. A few examples of flowering shrubs in this grouping including butterfly bush, heather, heavenly bamboo, hydrangea, shrubby roses and rose of sharon. Reference the third link for more information. 

For shrub species which form buds on last season’s growth prune these species within about two months after the flowers fade. On these species, flower buds form in late summer and early fall. Winter pruning decreases the number of flowers the following spring as branches containing flower buds are removed. A few examples of flowering shrubs in this grouping include azaleas, lilac, magnolia, mockorange, serviceberry, and witchhazel. Reference Pruning Ornamental Trees & Shrubs, from Purdue University. 

For most areas of Idaho, plants that bloom before June 1 formed the flowers the previous year on old wood. Those that bloom after June 1 form flowers on new growth. Keep in mind that this is rough guideline.

The City of Nampa Parks & Forestry Department will offer tree pruning classes. See the attached file Horticulture Workshops for more details. 

If you have additional questions, contact your local UI Extension office. To search by county visit https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/directory/counties

» Horticulture Workshops

Treasure Valley Virtual IPM Meeting

All Crops    All Locations

Posted on: January 25, 2022 by Jerry Neufeld

The Treasure Valley Virtual IPM Meeting is being held on Tuesday February 8th at 9 am.  After registering (only requires name and email) you will receive information about joining the meeting. The meeting is free to attend and two ISDA credits, two ODA (core) credits and two CCA IPM Credits are available.  Click on the pdf below for the registration link and more program information.

» Treasure_Valley_IPM_flyer.pdf

Idaho Potato Conference

Potato    All Locations

Posted on: January 13, 2022 by Nora Olsen and Mike Thornton

Early
registration ends tomorrow Friday January 14^th. Register Now!

The 54^th
annual Idaho Potato Conference and Eastern Idaho Ag Expo presented by the
University of Idaho and Spectra Productions will be live and in-person in 2022.
Set your calendars to attend the 2022 Idaho Potato Conference January 19 and 20
in Pocatello, ID. Attend your choice of educational presentations and workshops
from three concurrent sessions over the one and half-day conference and take
some time to visit the adjoining trade show that features over 70 booths and
displays highlighting agricultural products and services.

2022 highlights of the Idaho Potato
Conference:

·   There
will be several seminars and workshops on the impact of the 2021 season
including heat impact on potatoes, soil health, storage losses, and irrigation
efficiency.

·   Invited
speaker Dr. Carrie Wohleb from Washington State University will present on the Impacts
of Wildfire Smoke on Potatoes.

·      Current
outlooks on water, economics, labor and sustainability from industry leaders
will bring us up to date on major topics for the potato industry.

·      Special
guests from the National Potato Council, Potatoes USA, Idaho Potato Commission
will provide industry updates.

·      Multiple
pest protection presentations and workshops including tank mixing
considerations, rotational crops and herbicide carryover issues, pollinators
and potatoes, Fusarium dry rot aggressiveness, managing Rhizoctonia, diagnosing
crop injury, pesticide resistance management, alternatives to fumigation,
rotation and potato cyst nematode control, and comprehensive disease and weed
management workshops.

·      Economists
will present a workshop on the profitability implications of fertilizer cost
increases in addition to a discussion on the seasonality of retail rejections.
The latter discussion will dovetail with a one-hour workshop on the impact of
bruise on quality.

·      A
workshop dedicated to ‘Everything you wanted to know about potato viruses, but
were afraid to ask.’ Come with questions to ask a panel of experts on the topic
of tuber necrotic diseases.

·      Seminars
and workshops in Spanish will be held both days and include a wide variety of
topics from beneficial insect identification to farm safety discussions.

·      Earn
CCA (CEU) and pesticide recertification credits at seminars and workshops
throughout the in-person conference.

·      Select
theater presentations will be recorded and available at the conference website
after the conference. Registration for the conference will be required to gain
access to the recorded presentations.

·     
Cost for
pre-registration is $40 per person. Pre-registration will close at 5 pm MT on
January 14. After that time, please plan to register in-person at the
conference (cost increase to $50). We strongly encourage everyone to
pre-register and avoid the lines at the conference. Additional details
regarding the agenda, topics, and registration can be found at https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/news/idaho-potato-conference.

» https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/news/idaho-potato-conference.

2022 Idaho Potato Conference

Potato    All Locations

Posted on: January 6, 2022 by Nora Olsen and Mike Thornton

Register
Now!

The 54^th
annual Idaho Potato Conference and Eastern Idaho Ag Expo presented by the
University of Idaho and Spectra Productions will be live and in-person in 2022.
Set your calendars to attend the 2022 Idaho Potato Conference January 19 and 20
in Pocatello, ID.  Attend your choice of educational presentations and workshops
from three concurrent sessions over the one and half-day conference and take
some time to visit the adjoining trade show that features over 70 booths and
displays highlighting agricultural products and services.

2022 highlights of the Idaho Potato
Conference:

·   There
will be several seminars and workshops on the impact of the 2021 season
including effect of the weather on soil fertility, heat impact on potatoes,
soil health, storage losses, and irrigation efficiency.

·   Invited
speaker Dr. Carrie Wohleb from Washington State University will present on the Impacts
of Wildfire Smoke on Potatoes.

·      Current
outlooks on water, economics, labor and sustainability from industry leaders
will bring us up to date on major topics for the potato industry.

·      Special
guests from the National Potato Council, Potatoes USA, Idaho Potato Commission
will provide industry updates.

·      Multiple
pest protection presentations and workshops including tank mixing
considerations, rotational crops and herbicide carryover issues, pollinators
and potatoes, Fusarium dry rot aggressiveness, managing Rhizoctonia, diagnosing
crop injury, pesticide resistance management, alternatives to fumigation, rotation
and potato cyst nematode control, and comprehensive disease and weed management
workshops.

·        
Economists will present a workshop on
the profitability implications of fertilizer cost increases in addition to a
discussion on the seasonality of retail rejections. The latter discussion will
dovetail with a one-hour workshop on the impact of bruise on quality.

·        
A workshop dedicated to ‘Everything
you wanted to know about potato viruses, but were afraid to ask.’ Come with
questions to ask a panel of experts on the topic of tuber necrotic diseases.

·        
Seminars and workshops in Spanish will
be held both days and include a wide variety of topics from beneficial insect
identification to farm safety discussions.

Earn CCA (CEU) and pesticide
recertification credits at seminars and workshops throughout the in-person
conference.

Select presentations will be recorded
and available at the conference website after the conference. Registration for the
conference will be required to gain access to the recorded presentations.

Cost for pre-registration is $40 per person ($50 at the
door). We strongly encourage everyone to pre-register and avoid the lines at
the conference. Additional details regarding the agenda, topics, and
registration can be found at https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/news/idaho-potato-conference.

» https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/news/idaho-potato-conference

Chloryrifos (Lorsban) Uses

All Crops    Northern Idaho

Posted on: December 22, 2021 by Stuart Reitz

We are working to survey additional minor crop uses of
chlorpyrifos (Lorsban) in Oregon, and working to systematically make sure that we have
information on all commodities in Oregon which have a chlorpyrifos label. 

A very quick 3-question survey is available here: https://beav.es/U6w

Currently, we have no responses at all on sweet potato, carrot seed or beet seed, and very
few for sugar beet. Responses from growers with those crops would be especially appreciated.

 Thanks for your help!

» https://beav.es/U6w

2022 Pre-License Training for Ornamental Pesticide Applicators

All Crops    All Locations

Posted on: December 20, 2021 by Nic Usabel & Kimberly Tate

The UI Extension Pesticide Safety Education Program will be offering pre-license training during the 2022 Idaho Horticulture Expo in Boise. This training will be in-person with a two-day agenda. Focus will be on the following categories: Ornamental Insecticide (OI), Ornamental Herbicide (OH), General Pest (GP), and Core (CO). 

Registration includes access to eLearning modules and study materials housed on the National Extension Foundation website. These materials prepare students for the 2-day class and the statewide exams. ALL materials will be available to each registered student with continued access until three weeks after the training. January 20 – 21, 2022, daily at 9am – 4pm MST (limit 45 students) Boise Centre, 850 W Front St., Boise 83702

This educational training is funded through an ISDA grant. There will be no cost to the student.  COVID-19 restrictions will be determined by the instructors. Registered students will be notified of the current guidelines. To register, visit our website https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/ipm

For questions contact:

• Ronda Hirnyck | rhirnyck@uidaho.edu | 208-364-4046
• Kimberly Tate | ktate@uidaho.edu | 208-364-4581

» 2021-PreLicense_URBAN-Training_POSTER.pdf

2022 Miller Research Potato Pest Management Meeting

Potato    All Locations

Posted on: December 17, 2021 by Jeff Miller

After meeting virtually in 2021, Miller Research will be
holding its annual Potato Pest Management Meeting in person on February 10,
2022, at the Historic Wilson Theater in Rupert, ID. The meeting will run from
8:30 am to 12:00 pm with a 30-minute break at 10:00 am. Three CCA (integrated
pest management) credits and three ISDA pesticide recertification credits have
been awarded for the meeting. Oregon and Washington credits have been requested.

We are working on making a virtual option available. If this
works, virtual attendees will still need to pay the registration fee and answer
questions during the presentation as proof of attendance.

Registration is $20 to cover the cost of the meeting.
Additional proceeds will be donated to the 4-H program.

Meeting agenda:

8:00 am – 8:30 am: Registration

8:30 am – 9:00 am: Seed treatments for Fusarium dry rot
management

9:00 am – 9:30 am: The impact of anastomosis group on
Rhizoctonia canker management

9:30 am – 10:00 am: Verticillium wilt control

10:00 am – 10:30 am: Break

10:30 am – 11:00 am: Control options for powdery scab and
potato mop-top virus

11:00 am – 11:30 am: PVY and Seed Health (Dr. Jonathan
Whitworth, USDA)

11:30 am – 12:00 pm: Managing pesticide resistance

» https://millerresearch.com/event/2022-miller-research-potato-pest-management-meeting/

» 2022_MR_Seminar_Announcement.pdf