Ongoing research

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smog

Volatile Organic Compounds

June 28, 2013
By Ben A Faber
Its that time of year again when hot weather fuels the creation of ozone, or smog. Some pesticides emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to ozone formation. Using pesticides that release VOCs may be restricted in certain California locations between May 1 and October 31.
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Dothiorella branch dieback

The state of Dothiorella canker on avocado in California

June 28, 2013
By Ben A Faber
Branch and trunk canker on avocado was formerly attributed to Dothiorella gregaria, hence the name Dothiorella canker. So far Botryopshaeria dothidea (anamorph: Fusicoccum aesculi) is the only known species causing Dothiorella canker on avocado in California.
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Mud dauber wasp, Sceliphron caementarium. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)
Bug Squad: Article

Now That's a Wasp Waist!

June 27, 2013
By Kathy Keatley Garvey
You've heard the expression, "wasp waist," in reference to someone's tiny waist? Well, all you need do is look at the waist of the mud dauber wasp, Sceliphron caementarium, and you'll see where that expression originated.
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California state DAR regent Debbie Jamison addresses the crowd. (UC Davis photo by Chris Akins)
Bug Squad: Article

What a Wonderful Gift!

June 26, 2013
By Kathy Keatley Garvey
What a wonderful gift! Bee research at the Harry H. Laidlaw Jr.
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UC Weed Science (weed control, management, ecology, and minutia): Article

2010 Almond Threespike Goosegrass Weed Control Trial

June 26, 2013
By Gale Perez
Threespike goosegrass is a warm season perennial grass which is a problem weed in some almond orchards around Orland, California. It is easily identified by its distinctive (see photo) seed heads (spikes). It is usually a problem during the first years of an orchard.
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Oregano is a favorite of honey bees. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)

Wings of Life

June 24, 2013
By Kathy Keatley Garvey
The buzz around UC Davis is about "The Wings of Life." The Disneynature film, narrated by Meryl Streep, will be part of the "Evening of Inspiration" on Wednesday, July 24 at the UC Davis Conference Center, 550 Alumni Lane. Sponsoring the event, to be held from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
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avocado irrigation

Microirrigation, Fertilizers and Clogging

June 21, 2013
By Ben A Faber
Microirrigation (drip, microsprinkler, fan jet) applies water through small openings and can easily be prone to clogging. For this reason, filtration is used to avoid introducing sediments into the system and all fertilizers are injected before the filters to avoid their clogging the system.
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