Immigrants in U.S. top 37 million
U.S. Census Bureau's 2006 American Community Survey estimates that the number of foreign-born people in the U.S. exceeds 37 million, an all-time high. Over half of the 37.5 million immigrants were from Latin America, and more than a quarter were from Asia. Population Reference Bureau reports there are wide demographic and socioeconomic differences between these 2 groups. Those from Latin America tend to have less education, fewer skills and lower incomes. They are filling jobs in construction, manufacturing and the service sector. Immigrants from Asia have higher incomes, on average, and are more likely to be enrolled in college or working in professional or managerial positions.

Consider renewable energy choices
Renewable energy can be a viable option for ag. operations, including greenhouses. Choices include wind, solar, biomass and geothermal. UMass Ext. Floriculture and Vegetable Programs has created a Web site that provides resources related to: energy options; cost-effectiveness of becoming energy-efficient; contractors who provide renewable energy services or products; state, local, utility and federal incentives that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency; and ag. operations in Massachusetts that are using renewable energy.

Deer prefer some plants over others
A Maryland cut flower grower has learned deer can be as picky as humans when it comes to which plants they prefer to eat. With hydrangeas, 'Endless Summer' and 'Limelight' are the varieties of choice rather than 'PeeGee.' Deer at the same location also fed on Hydrangea arborescens, Eryngium 'Blue Glitter' and Ilex verticillata 'Winter Red.' Other deer delectables include ornamental cabbage and kale and lilies. When it comes to pansies, yellow- and white-flowered plants are eaten before other colors.

Minimize effects of growth regulator overdose
Heading into fall with lower temperatures and reduced light levels, there is chance that growers may encounter a plant growth regulator overdose. Univ. of Conn. ext. specialist Rich McAvoy said if an overdose spray of Cycocel or B-Nine (or a generic equivalent) is applied and the mistake is discovered before the spray dries, the material can be washed off with water and damage avoided. Diluting the chemical is not an option with products like Bonzi, Sumagic, Topflor or A-Rest. If the overdose is modestly high (25-50% too high a rate), environmental conditions that minimize stress may be enough to allow the plant to recover. Adequate light levels, increased temperatures, increased fertilization and reduced water stress favor rapid growth, enabling plants to outgrow the overdose effects. In situations where the dose is too high to correct in this way, a gibberellic acid treatment can be used to reverse the effect of the growth regulator.

Worth a visit
The 12-month Solutions Source series provides solutions to the challenges growers face today. This month: weather-related problems. Only on GreenBeam.com.

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