Publications

Authors: Amro Hassanein - Stephanie Lansing - Danielle Delp

Composting is an aerobic biological process that transforms organic materials, such as manure, food waste, and yard waste, into a nutrient-rich soil conditioner called “compost.” This Factsheet is part of the “Animal Waste Technology” series. Authors: Amro Hassanein, Stephanie Lansing, and Danielle Delp; Title: Composting (FS-2023-0687).

Authors: Amro Hassanein - Stephanie Lansing - Danielle Delp

Thermochemical processing technologies can be used to reduce the volume of low moisture waste and produce heat, syngas for renewable energy production, biochar, or bio-oil, depending on the temperature and oxygen conditions used in processing. This Factsheet is part of the “Animal Waste Technology” series. Authors: Amro Hassanein, Stephanie Lansing, and Danielle Delp; Title: Using Thermochemical Processes to Handle Agricultural Waste (FS-2023-0688).

Authors: Sarah Hirsh

Cover crops are crops planted for a primary purpose other than harvest. They are often grown during the time when the primary or harvested crop is not growing. Cover crops can be grown for a variety of agronomic and environmental purposes. However, the effect of cover crops on subsequent cash crops and the environment will vary depending on how intentionally and effectively they are managed to achieve those purposes. Cover crop species and mixtures, timing and growth window, termination, and the effect of cover crops on subsequent crops should all be considered when planning and implementing cover crop systems. Author: Sarah M. Hirsh; Title: Introduction to Growing Cover Crops in the Mid-Atlantic (FS-2023-0692).

Authors: Amro Hassanein - Stephanie Lansing - Danielle Delp

Anerobic digestion uses natural microorganisms to produce renewable energy in the form of electricity, heating, or vehicle fuel. Anaerobic digestion occurs inside a sealed reactor called a digester and reduces odors and greenhouse gas emissions. This Fact Sheet is part of the ‘Animal Waste Technology’ series. Authors: Amro Hassanein, Stephanie Lansing, and Danielle Delp; Title: Anaerobic Digestion (EBR-2023-0686).

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).