May has been warm and dry so far in New York, which is great for planting. But take a look at current drought conditions, organized by county, as reported by the National Drought Mitigation Center. This might be useful for planning purposes in coming weeks after seed and transplants are in the ground. For a…Continue Reading After planting: status of current drought conditions in NY
Drought worsens in Northern New York
Severe drought has developed in northern New York along the St. Lawrence Seaway as of 21 July, according to the National Drought Mitigation Center. Conditions throughout the northeast and New England have generally become drier in recent weeks but an extended pattern of particularly low rainfall along the northern New York border is cause for…Continue Reading Drought worsens in Northern New York
Climate, Weather, Data: Change Is the Name of the Game
Nearly two years ago, NYS IPM convened “Climate, Weather, Data,” a statewide conference focused on pests and our changing climate. Because it’s here. It’s real. So … what will a shifting climate mean for our farms and forests, our parks and gardens? We brought together researchers, crop consultants, farmers, and more from New York and…Continue Reading Climate, Weather, Data: Change Is the Name of the Game
Lawn IPM – the February Edition
I love any excuse to come to New York — when it’s not February. — K. A. Applegate Ahh, February. The Monday of months. Yet even with a foot of snow on the ground over most of New York, you can take steps now for a healthy lawn. First, be grateful for the snow —…Continue Reading Lawn IPM – the February Edition
Trees and Drought Make for Less Colorful Fall (and the IPM Connection)
Many thanks to Paul Hetzler, CCE St. Lawrence County, for permission to use this piece. It turns out that, in terms of fall foliage, the color of too dry is officially known as “blah.” This would undoubtedly be the least popular color selection if it was included in a jumbo pack of Crayolas. Basically, it…Continue Reading Trees and Drought Make for Less Colorful Fall (and the IPM Connection)
Lawn IPM – Reducing Stress
“It’s so dry the trees are bribing the dogs.” ― Charles Martin, Chasing Fireflies While drought stress might not seem like an IPM issue, it can definitely impact how your grass will respond to pests, both current and future. As Pat Vittum, Turf Entomologist at UMass, tells her students, “Turf can take one or two…Continue Reading Lawn IPM – Reducing Stress