The most fundamental step in pecan production is the selection of varieties or cultivars to be planted in the orchard. Planting the wrong pecan variety can be a costly mistake, resulting in considerable expense. This publication includes descriptions and photos of pecan varieties suitable for planting in Georgia orchards.

Nozzle selection is one of the most important decisions to be made related to pesticide applications. The type of nozzle affects not only the amount of spray applied to a particular area, but also the uniformity of the applied spray, the coverage obtained on the sprayed surfaces, and the amount of drift that can occur. Each nozzle type has specific characteristics and capabilities and is designed for use under certain application conditions. This publication describes the types that are commonly used for ground application of agricultural chemicals, including flat-fan, even flat-fan and cone nozzle.

A well-planned, organized orchard will be more efficient, require less input and offer larger potential returns. Select the orchard location based on its soil type, drainage, water table and land topography. Straight rows in planted orchards make maintenance, irrigation and harvest easier. Tree growth and spacing requirements can also be anticipated for the early planting and subsequent orchard thinnings.

This publication discusses ways to identify and control Virginia buttonweed, a troublesome broadleaf weed in turfgrasses throughout the Southeast.

Fertilizer injectors are devices used to apply water-soluble fertilizers, pesticides, plant growth regulators, wetting agents and mineral acids during crop production. They are a vital part of modern greenhouse or nursery operations. Despite the advantages, many growers have had at least one experience with a compromised, damaged or even ruined crop where the cause was traced to a malfunctioning injector. Just like other mechanical devices, proper and frequent maintenance and calibration are crucial steps to ensure optimal injector performance and, thus, healthy crops.

Aflatoxin is a naturally occurring toxin produced by the fungus Aspergillus flavus. The fungus can be recognized by a gray-green or yellow-green mold growing on corn kernels in the field or in storage. Plant stress due to drought, heat or insect damage during fungus growth usually increases aflatoxin levels. Aflatoxin contamination will reduce feeding value and hinder sales. Because it is extremely poisonous to warm-blooded animals even at relatively low levels, grain handling facilities often check for the presence of the toxin before purchasing corn.

Causal agent, susceptible turfgrasses, conditions promoting disease, symptoms and control of brown patch, dollar spot, Pythium, Helminthosporium leaf spot, fading out, gray leaf spot, fairy ring, take-all root rot, rust, slime mold and nematodes.