Feds want to modify employer crackdown
Homeland Security Dept. is making unspecified changes to its plan to pressure employers to fire more than 8 million workers with Social Security number discrepancies, the Washington Post reported. U.S. Justice Dept. is seeking a delay from U.S. District Judge Charles R. Breyer to hear a lawsuit brought by labor, business and farm organizations until a new strategy is finalized. The Justice Dept. asked that the case be delayed until March 24 or until a new program is ready. On Oct. 10, Breyer stopped the government from mailing Social Security no-match letters to 140,000 employers. The judge cited concerns about legal issues related to requiring companies to resolve questions about their employees' identities, fire them within 90 days or else face fines and criminal prosecution.

Ralstonia could be threat to plants in cooler areas
Researchers recently conducted studies to compare the cold tolerance of different Ralstonia solanacearum strains. This bacterium has a wide host range and is responsible for many plant diseases, including southern bacterial wilt of geraniums. Results indicate that Ralstonia strains, when tested in water, vary in their ability to survive exposure to 39°F. Research showed that some race 1 strains from the southern U.S. were more cold tolerant than exotic R3B2 strains. The latter strains were formerly believed to be more cold tolerant than other strains. In another study, results suggested that some Ralstonia strains from the U.S. (i.e., race 1) may possess an ability similar to R3B2 in terms of causing plant death in colder areas of the world. These recent studies, although limited in size, suggest that other strain groups already in N. America may threaten host crops in cooler areas.

Go green with biological controls
Natural enemies to control pests are best used preventively, early in the cropping cycle, when plants are small, pest numbers are low and pest damage has not yet occurred. Univ. of Conn. greenhouse IPM specialist Leanne Pundt said the advantages to using biological controls include: less worker exposure to pesticide residues, less chance of phytotoxicity damage and no re-entry intervals. However, biological controls require extra effort. Commitment, patience (natural enemies don't work as quickly as pesticides) and a desire to learn about lifecycles and environmental requirements of pests and their natural enemies are needed. Start in a small, isolated area or greenhouse. As you gain experience, expand the program.

Sakata presents primula comparison trial in Denmark
Sakata will present a full comparison primula trial at its Marslev, Denmark, location, Dec. 12-Jan. 25. Primula vulgaris (acaulis), Primula veris (polyanthus) and Primula malacoides series will be on display with plants from 11 breeders for comparison. The trial provides an opportunity to evaluate earliness, plant uniformity and overall plant habit and color availability.

Worth a visit
The nursery business deserves its own action/adventure serial, "The Great Nursery Adventure: A Year in the Life of Greene Family Nursery." This month, the family decides whether to keep or fold the business. Only on GreenBeam.com.

• Goldsmith Seeds
• Walters Gardens
• New England Grows
• Dramm

Spring favorites! 'Penny' Violas offer great performance on the bench and in the garden. Strong plants are covered with large, uniquely-colored flowers all season long.

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