Food & Farm News
» November 19, 2008 «
Specialty produce can liven up menus
Consumers looking for unique, California-grown produce will find several choices in good supply. Klamath Pearl potatoes grown in the region near the California-Oregon border are available for Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Bright yellow Buddha's Hand citrus is available from San Diego County. The feijoa, an egg-shaped fruit also known as pineapple guava, is another California-grown tropical fruit now available. In addition, supplies of Meyer lemons are increasing as more orchards come into production.
Monitoring leaf temperatures could improve irrigation technology
Scientists have developed a system that turns irrigation water off and on based on leaf temperature. Their discovery could aid farmers across the nation by providing water only when plants require it. The researchers are now seeking a manufacturing company to build the sensors and control system into their equipment. The device uses wireless infrared thermometers to determine leaf temperatures, as well as plant needs.
Out-of-state bees find a winter home in California 
California becomes home to millions of honeybees every winter as beekeepers from states where the weather is cold move their hives to warmer weather. They also are here in preparation for almond pollination in February. There have been a few reports of colony collapse disorder, mostly from Eastern beekeepers. Those in the bee sector are cautiously optimistic that the numbers of hives lost to the disorder will be much less than last year.
Both urban and rural residents bothered by wild turkeys
Wild turkeys are becoming a problem for farmers and urban residents in California. They were introduced into the state by the Department of Fish and Game in 1908 as a new species for hunting. Since then the birds have multiplied and now damage gardens and foul yards and walkways in cities. They also damage crops. University of California researchers are working to develop aversion strategies for use in vineyards.
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