Publications

Authors: Brian Kalmbach - Gurpal Toor - David Ruppert

Miscanthus x giganteus (miscanthus) is an emerging bioenergy crop with growing interest in Maryland as an alternative poultry bedding material. This extension bulletin outlines the development of soil fertility recommendations based on the review of current literature for miscanthus production in Maryland. Author's: Brian Kalmbach, Gurpal Toor, and David Ruppert. Title: Soil Fertility Recommendations-Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium Requirements of Miscanthus (EB-443).

Authors: Eric Burnstein - Mimi Sanford - Priscila Alves - Higor Costa - Marccus Hendricks

This fact sheet introduces environmental justice and describes how vulnerable communities, including racial and ethnic minorities, are impacted by the introduction of new waste management technology across Maryland's Eastern Shore. Author's: Eric Burnstein, Mimi Sanford, Priscilla Alves, Higor Costa, and Marccus Hendricks; Title: Environmental Justice in Agricultural Waste Management (EBR-2023-0690).

Authors: Sankara Ganesh - Maria Cramer - Dr. Kelly Hamby

Strawberry sap beetles cause direct feeding damage to strawberry fruit, with diversified and pick-your-own operations at highest risk. Cultural controls that reduce accumulation of overripe fruit effectively reduce damage. Well-chosen insecticide applications also contribute to successful management. Authors: Sankara Ganesh, Maria Cramer, and Kelly Hamby; Title: Strawberry Sap Beetle Management in Maryland Strawberry Production (FS-2023-0656)

Authors: Talia Tracton - Macarena Farcuh

Bitter pit is a physiological disorder in apples that negatively impacts its marketability. It is linked to a calcium imbalance in fruit cells. A multifaceted approach—monitoring and balancing factors like plant nutrition, vigor, and chilling injury susceptibility—is key to avoiding the disorder. Authors: Talia Tracton and Macarena Farcuh; Title: Controlling Bitter Pit in Apples: Best Practices for Growers (FS-2023-0701).

Authors: Matthew Parker - Donald Webster - Rebecca Thur

The Maryland oyster aquaculture industry reported a record harvest of 94,257 bushels in 2022, an increase of 4.5% from the previous record in 2021. Bay scallop harvest also increased by 39.9% compared to 2021. (The number and value of bay scallops harvested is not reported to maintain business privacy since there are fewer than three growers in the state.) The average price of single oysters dropped slightly while the average price for oysters sold as bushels increased. The estimated dockside value of the oyster aquaculture industry in Maryland for 2022 was $7,296,543. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources received 17 new aquaculture lease applications and issued 18 new leases in 2022. Authors: Matthew Parker, Donald Webster, and Rebecca Thur; Title: Maryland Shellfish Aquaculture Industry-2022 at a Glance (FS-2023-0702).

Authors: Haley Sater

A comprehensive guide for cultivating thornless blackberries in the Mid-Atlantic region, covering site selection, soil conditions, trellising, planting, pruning, and recommended cultivars for optimal growth. Essential tips are provided for both home growers and farmers. Author: Haley Sater; Title: Start Growing Thornless Blackberries: How to Prepare and Select Cultivars for the Mid-Atlantic" (FS-2023-0660).

Authors: Taylor Kinniburgh - Neith Little

People with leadership roles in agricultural operations have the opportunity to benefit from good conflict management processes. When people are passionate about what they are doing, differing opinions on how to do something will arise, making conflict an inevitable part of any worthwhile endeavor (Bennett, 2023). While you probably can't eliminate all disagreements, developing your conflict management skills can increase efficiency and improve employee retention. This fact sheet will provide you with actionable skills to take back to your team. Authors: Taylor Kinniburgh and Neith Little; Leadership and Conflict on the Farm (FS-2023-0671)

Authors: Md Shipon Miah - Macarena Farcuh

Choosing the right apple cultivar is crucial when establishing an apple orchard; being well-informed and carefully selecting cultivars that align with your specific requirements and thrive in your environmental conditions are essential for your orchard's success. Authors: Md Shipon Miah and Macarena Farcuh; Title: Important Apple Cultivars in the Mid-Atlantic Region (EB-2023-0684).

Authors: Drew Schiavone

This publication explores some of the essential considerations for wiring a solar PV system, including important requirements for voltage, ampacity, voltage drop, and circuit length. Safely size wires and overcurrent protection devices for proper system design. Author: Drew Schiavone, Ph.D., Title: "Working on Solar Wiring and Fusing" (EB-2023-0676)

Authors: Angela Ferelli - Neith Little - Shauna Henley

This publication summarizes frequently asked questions and answers for the cottage food producers and on-farm home processors. It includes definitions of common terms as well as guidance and recommendations surrounding manufacturing, processing, packaging, labeling, and selling of foods or food products produced by the Maryland cottage food businesses and on-farm food processors. Authors: Angela Ferelli-Gruber, Neith Little, and Shauna Henley; Title: Frequently Asked Questions for Value-Added Producers (EBR-2022-0635)