Outreach

Hosseini, Fatino offer parasite management strategies

Scientists Pershang Hosseini and Matt Fatino discuss their research for controlling the parasitic plant Orobanche, commonly called broomrape. Strategies include drawing down the bank of seeds in the soil, adding herbicide to irrigation water and timing transplants going into infested fields.

Diagnosing herbicide problems takes detective work

The Diagnosing Herbicide Symptoms field day at UC Davis trained growers and researchers to identify crop damage causes, from herbicides to water stress. Experts emphasized detective work, careful application, and alternative explanations like pests or soil issues.

Weed doctors seek solutions for pesky plants

UC Davis weed scientists help identify invasive plants and offer advice at Picnic Day’s “Ask the Weed Doctor” booth. Their research supports agriculture, fire prevention, and ecosystem health statewide.

You can pop corn grown on campus lands

Each spring, the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences grows popping corn for its popular Picnic Day shelling exhibit. Visitors collect kernels to take home and pop, learning about popcorn's unique moisture-powered “pop” and the science behind this tasty treat.