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Fueling the Future: Elephant Grass as Potential Biofuel Material (And More)

Department of Horticultural Science

Group of adults gathered outside of greenhouses listening to a speaker

May 16, 2019

10,000 Square Feet Of Sweet (Potato) Promise: Four New Greenhouses Dedicated

The 10,000 square feet of new growing space are allotted for the annual production of certified elite sweetpotato plants. Starting with certified disease-free plants has enormous benefits for growers: increased yields, better quality and reduced pesticide use. 
Men on a motorized harvest aid in a strawberry field

May 9, 2019

From ‘Liz’ and ‘Rocco’ to The Glean Machine: Strawberry Science at NC State

Research and Extension programs at NC State make a difference for growers – and consumers – of fresh market strawberries. 
man squatting in strawberry research plot, holding a large strawberry

May 1, 2019

Ready for New Strawberry Choices? Meet ‘Liz’ And ‘Rocco’

NC State’s strawberry breeding team is developing new varieties suited for our state’s climate and growing conditions. One is named for CALS alumnus and long-time research specialist Rocco Schiavone. 
Man standing in a greenhouse filled with pink, purple, and blue hydrangeas

Apr 24, 2019

Non-Traditional: Full-Time Student, Full-Time Worker

Hunter Landis is pursuing a master's degree in horticultural science – while working full-time as an agronomist at the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, where he advises plant growers on ways to improve crop production. 
Front gate of JC Raulston Arboretum

Apr 17, 2019

Arboretum’s Annual Garden Party, Rare Plant Auction Set for May 5​​​​​​

Make plans now to attend the JC Raulston Arboretum's annual spring garden party and plant auction on May 5. 
Three cows grazing, with mountains in the background

Apr 5, 2019

New Project to Strengthen Local Food Systems in Western NC

The Appalachian Regional Commission has awarded the Center for Environmental Farming Systems $1.1 million to work on sustainable food systems in seven mountain counties in North Carolina. 
Horticulture's Sarah Hassan in front of a brick wall, smiling, at CALS.

Mar 27, 2019

Hassan’s Hopeful Horticulture

A fateful tour of Kilgore Hall rerouted Sarah Hassan's career path from medicine to horticulture. 
Man standing by pink hydrangea bush

Mar 19, 2019

NC State Plant Breeder Wins Prestigious Scott Medal

Tom Ranney and his colleagues in Mills River have developed more than 50 ornamental cultivars – trees, shrubs and flowers that have been a boon for gardeners and for North Carolina’s green industry. 
Women near a shed holding onto a vermicompost container

Mar 4, 2019

Writing the Book on Vermicomposting

NC State’s Rhonda Sherman has authored the first how-to guide for mid- to large-scale vermicompost producers. 
Two scientists in a laboratory

Feb 12, 2019

Fueling the Future: Elephant Grass as Potential Biofuel Material (And More)

A common perennial grass may hold uncommon promise for research, agriculture and industry – and it may even fuel the future. A team of NC State scientists are exploring the potential of miscanthus.