In the first of a four article series highlighting the use of pine wood chips as alternative aggregates to perlite in greenhouse substrates, researchers from North Carolina State University discuss the processing and physical properties of pine wood chips.

Electrical conductivity (EC) and pH, as well as water alkalinity, have the biggest effects on nutrient availability. Learn how to keep track of them through three common methods for better monitoring in the greenhouse.

AXXE Broad Spectrum Herbicide is a newly formulated organic weed control for use in greenhouses and nurseries. AXXE provides a rapid burn down of weeds within hours of application and then biodegrades quickly, leaving no harmful residue behind.

Damp conditions can lead to both rust and edema in geranium. Here’s some advice on scouting and treating each.

Four Star Greenhouse’s Dennis Crum shares his thoughts on how ornamental greenhouse production fits into the debate on neonicotinoids and pollinators.

The Dümmen Group has released a statement to clarify growers’ options regarding regulations the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) placed on petunia cuttings sourced from Dümmen’s Las Mercedes, El Salvador farm during weeks 51 through 7.

BioSafe Systems has a solution for greenhouse growers looking for a solid food safety plan as they increase edible production.

Despite efforts to thwart downy mildew, growers, researchers and landscape experts are predicting a continued impact on Impatiens walleriana supply issues for the 2014 season.

Hydroponic growers, like greenhouse growers, battle many pests during the growing season. Media channels can grow algae and bacteria that can alter the pH of the water, the humidity causes more molds and fungi to grow, and of course, there are root diseases that can plague crops.

Greenhouse Grower talked to the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Plant Protection and Weed Control Program Manager Jeff Vogel to learn about the Kansas Pest Freedom Standards and how the state is regulating tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) on petunias this season.

The wholesale grower will eliminate all foliar treatments made with the three named neonicotinoid insecticides – Dinotefuran, Imidacloprid and Thiamethoxam.

Plant Health Manager Jean-Marc Versolato, who has been involved in industry-wide discussions regarding this issue, reviewed related research shares background information on neonicotinoid insecticides.

The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) has ordered growers and retailers to destroy all petunias received from the Dümmen Group’s Las Mercedes, El Salvador farm.