California farmers spend over $900M annually on weed control. At UC Davis Weed Day 2024, researchers shared updates on herbicide drift, native plants for weed control, irrigation impacts, and new weed-zapping technology for organic orchards.
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.
UC Davis’ Postharvest Research and Extension Center is expanding industry partnerships, launching new courses, enhancing research, and offering free online resources. The goal is to support produce quality, safety, and innovation worldwide.
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.
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.
Graduate student Paige Kouba shared her climate-focused forest research with lawmakers at the state Capitol, part of a program training scientists to inform California policy through clear, nonpartisan science communication.
The Western IPM Center (Integrated Pest Management) received $1M in USDA funding to support sustainable pest control across 14 western states and U.S. territories. It connects researchers and stakeholders to tackle pests, improve food security, and share solutions.
Farmers can use a DIY test—requiring scissors and a garlic press—to check nitrogen levels in crops. This simple method helps boost yields and reduce fertilizer costs and pollution linked to nitrogen overuse.
UC Davis scientist Eduardo Blumwald partnered with Science Journal for Kids and Teens to adapt his rice-bacteria research for high school classrooms, helping boost science literacy. His paper is now reaching students and teachers nationwide.
UC Davis researchers presented their rice studies at the 39th Rice Technical Working Group conference in Arkansas. Topics included herbicide programs, weedy rice responses, and the behavior of rice under different treatments, highlighting California's rice research.
