Curriculum and Instruction Commons^™

Ec89-723 Irrigation Scheduling Using Soil Moisture Blocks In Silty Soils, William L. Kranz, Dean E. Eisenhauer

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

Irrigation takes some risk out of crop production by providing a reliable source of water that allows the producer to manage soil water. Monitoring soil water is fundamental to determining how much irrigation water should be applied, and when the soil is able to store the amount of water to be applied.

This publication describes how to use soil mositure blocks to schedule irrigations in fine textured soils.

G89-919 Quality Laboratory Samples Necessary For Accurate Disease Diagnosis, Duane Rice, Douglas G. Rogers

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This NebGuide discusses the importance of submitting proper specimens to the veterinary diagnostic laboratory as an aid in diagnosing infectious diseases, feed imbalance, or animal poisoning.

To comprehend the reasons for failures in disease diagnosis at veterinary diagnostic laboratories, it is important to understand what disease is, what causes disease, how the animal resists disease (becomes immune), and what happens to the animal if disease develops and the animal does not become immune.

According to Stedmans Dictionary, disease is an interruption, cessation or disorder of body functions, systems or organs. Some diseases may be obvious to the untrained eye, …

Ec89-265 Ammonia Treatment Of Low Quality Forages, Richard J. Rasby, Ivan G. Rush, John Ward, Terry Klopfenstein

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

Increased costs of production have caused livestock producers to reduce feed costs whenever possible. Low quality crop residues, because of their availability, receive attention and offer considerable potential for reducing feed costs for cattle producers; however, because they are low in digestibility, intake by livestock is reduced. Treatment of low quality crop residues with anhydrous ammonia improves digestibility or total digestible nutrients (TDN) and increases consumption of these forages. The positive effects of ammonia treatment on digestibility and intake of low quality forages make them a viable possibility in feeding programs.

G89-915 Testing Livestock Feeds For Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle, Sheep And Horses, Rick Grant, Bruce Anderson, Richard J. Rasby, Terry L. Mader

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This NebGuide provides tips on how to determine feeds you should analyze and nutrients to measure. It tells how to interpret the results of feed analysis.

Why Test Feeds?

Nutrient concentration can vary considerably in feeds, especially forages. Protein in alfalfa hay can range from 10 to 25 percent or more of the dry matter; grass hay will contain between four and 18 percent protein.

Use feed tests to target specific feeds to different livestock. Feed high quality forage to the most productive livestock or when nutrient needs are highest. Feed lower quality forage to animals with lower nutrient needs. …

G89-953 Soybean Chlorosis Management, Edwin J. Penas, Richard A. Wiese

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

Four management ideas that make it possible to grow soybeans on alkaline soils are covered here.

Chlorosis (yellowing) in soybeans can be a problem wherever soybeans are grown on alkaline soils in Nebraska. Serious chlorosis is likely to occur when the pH of these alkaline soils is 7.5 or higher. Soybean chlorosis problems occur in the Platte and Elkhorn River Valleys and, to a lesser extent, in the Republican and Loup River Valleys, and on high lime soils in central and western Nebraska. Not all high pH soils cause chlorosis of soybeans even though they are alkaline.

Soil tests of …

G89-924 Fertilizing Proso Millet (Revised December 2002), Jurg M. Blumenthal, David D. Baltensperger

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

Soil testing and fertilization of proso millet with nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and other nutrients is discussed. Management practices that provide an adequate, but not excessive, supply of plant nutrients are essential for top yields of proso millet in the High Plains.

G89-917 How Much Vitamin A Are You Eating?, Harriet Kohn

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This NebGuide contains information to help you estimate the Vitamin A level of one day's food intake or menu. The content relates to people of all ages.

Vitamin A Helps:

Keep the lining of your mouth, nose, throat and digestive tract healthy

Fight germs

Keep your skin smooth

Young people grow

G89-942 Can You Afford To Use Bovine Somatrophin (Bovine Growth Hormone)?, Jeffrey F. Keown

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

Factors to consider before using Bovine Somatrophin in your dairy herd are covered here.

Much has been written recently about the effect of administering Bovine Somatrophin (BST) to dairy animals. The expected increase in income that could be generated by the use of BST catches producers' attention.

Before any producer uses BST, however, there are a few questions that should be addressed. The most crucial is, "Can BST administration be cash flowed in my dairy operation?"

The answer to this question is dependent on three crucial areas--your current herd average, herd management situation, and the costs involved in the application …

G89-952 Estrus (Heat) Detection Guidelines, Jeffrey F. Keown, Duane N. Rice

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

Ways to spot cows in heat are covered in this NebGuide.

Several factors are essential in maintaining a herd's reproductive health. Among the most important are: (1) maintaining accurate records, (2) knowing the visual signs of estrus (heat), (3) using proper heat detection aids, and (4) maintaining a herd health program.

By taking the four basic steps listed above, the expected calving interval for dairy animals will be close to the recommended 12 to 13 months. Beef producers need to strive for a 12-month calving interval to maintain a profitable enterprise.

This 12- to 13-month calving interval returns the most …

G89-989 How To Interpret The New Animal Model For Dairy Sire Evaluation, Jeffrey F. Keown

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

In question and answer format this NebGuide addresses changes in genetic evaluations of both dairy cows and sores.

Why is the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) changing the dairy sire and cow evaluation system?

The answer is simple. The Animal Model for genetic evaluations is more accurate than the old Modified Contemporary Comparison Method (M.C.C.). Previously the major limiting factors to implementing the Animal Model were computing costs and memory requirements. With the advent of new Super Computers, the computations are feasible on a national scale.

What is the Animal Model?

The Animal Model simultaneously evaluates cows and sires …

G88-876 Ridge Plant Systems: Equipment, Elbert C. Dickey, Paul J. Jasa, Robert N. Klein, Dean E. Eisenhauer, David P. Shelton, Bryn J. Dolesh, John A. Smith

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

Ridge plant systems, ridge cleaning equipment, planter stabilizing attachments, cultivation and ridge management are discussed here. Ridge plant systems are methods of planting crops into a ridge formed during cultivation of the previous crop. Such systems combine tillage and herbicides to control weeds. Weed seed and residue lying on the soil surface are pushed from the ridge to the area between the rows by row-cleaning devices on the planter. Crop seed is planted into the old row in a cleanly tilled strip at an elevation slightly higher than the row middles. A band application of herbicide behind the planter typically …

G88-889 How To Apply Fertilizer To Wheat, D.N. Sander

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

Application time, forms of fertilizer and methods of application must be considered when applying fertilizer to wheat.

Several different methods can be used to apply fertilizers to wheat, depending on the form of fertilizer material. Producers must consider application time and method as well as the most economical forms of fertilizer and the most efficient methods of application.

Fertilizers are sold in three forms -- liquid, dry and gas. The effectiveness of the forms is essentially the same as long as the same amount of available nutrient is properly applied. The form of fertilizer may dictate the method of application.

G88-874 Management Tips For Round Bale Hay Harvesting, Moving, And Storage, John A. Smith, Robert D. Grisso, Kenneth Von Bargen, Bruce Anderson

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This NebGuide discusses management of hay harvesting with a large round baler. Specific management practices are necessary to maintain hay quality and minimize hay loss during harvest, transportation and storage of large round bales.

Large round bale packaging systems allow one person to harvest, store and feed large quantities of hay for small as well as large acreages. Good management is required to maximize effectiveness. Losses in baling, transportation and storage of large round bales can far exceed the losses of rectangular bales unless the large round bale system is properly managed.

G88-890 Pythium Blight Of Turfgrass, John E. Watkins, Robert C. Shearman

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

Causes, symptoms and treatment for pythium blight are covered here.

Pythium blight, sometimes called "grease spot" or "cottony blight," is no longer a disease of golf courses; it also is a serious problem in home lawns and other turfs. Caused by several species of Pythium fungi, the two most commonly associated with Pythium blight are Pythium aphanidermatum and P. graminicola. These fungi are in a group known as "the water molds," a group that includes Phytophthora and other pathogenic genera. They are referred to as "water molds" because they function best under wet, saturated soil conditions.

The Pythium species …

G88-884 Ecofarming: Selecting Corn And Grain Sorghum Hybrids, Planting Dates, And Planting Rates In A Winter Wheat--Row Crop--Fallow Rotation, Robert N. Klein, Gail A. Wicks, P. T. Nordquist

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This NebGuide discusses selecting corn and sorghum hybrids, factors that affect yield, plant populations, and more. Treating winter wheat stubble with herbicides after harvest, and then planting corn or grain sorghum in the untilled stubble the next spring, is a practice used for over 15 years in many parts of the Central Great Plains. The residue protects the soil from wind and water erosion. This method of farming is one of the most effective soil and water conservation practices adapted in this century.

Ec88-785 Traffic Emergencies ... Prepare For Them!, Rollin D. Schnieder

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

So you're taking a trip. How far? To town, to the fair or to a football game? Perhaps it's a vacation trip of hundreds of miles. Whatever the distance, prepareation is important.

This circular discusses the things that you should know and have for your trip. Your credentials and equipment should be up-to-date at all times so if you have to leave for a long trip on a moment's notice you will be ready.

Ec88-729 Irrigation Pumping Plant Alternatives, Richard T. Clark, Norman L. Klocke

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

Irrigation pumping costs depend on the requirements of the individual pumping plant. Energy use is the major component of pump operating costs. Pumping efficiency, pumping lift, water pressure and the amount of water delivered all influence the energy required to operate the pumping plant.

This extension circular contains information for irrigators on how to use a computerized spreadsheet developed in 1988 to calculate irrigation pumping costs and savings.

G88-881 Heating With Wood I. Species Characteristics And Volumes, Mike Kuhns, Tom Schmidt

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

Heat content, burning characteristics and overall quality of woods commonly burned in Nebraska, as well as information on buying firewood, are included here.

Wood is a source of heat currently used by many Nebraskans, and more firewood likely will be burned as the cost of other energy sources, such as gas and electricity, rises. In order to use firewood effectively, an understanding of species' characteristics and firewood volumes is needed.

Heg88-242 How Much Protein Are You Eating?, Harriet Kohn

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This NebGuide contains information to help you estimate the protein level of one day's food intake or menu. The content pertains to people throughout life.

Protein:

Helps build and repair tissues

Forms part of enzymes and hormones

Supplies some energy

G88-868 Forcing Flowering Branches, Debra Schwarze

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This guide explains the procedure for forcing flowering branches, discusses the use of flowering branches in decorating or display and provides a chart of plant type, color, cutting and forcing times.

Introduction

Branches from flowering trees and shrubs can be forced into bloom easily and inexpensively. Flowering branches can bring the outdoors inside and add color during a long winter. These branches also give the floral designer some unique and inexpensive alternatives.

Trees and shrubs which bloom early in the spring form flower buds the previous fall before dormancy. After at least 8 weeks of cold weather (under 40° F) …

G88-863 Annual Broadleaf Weed Control In Winter Wheat (Revised January 1990), Gail A. Wicks, Robert N. Klein, Alex Martin

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This NebGuide discusses preventive, cultural, and chemical weed control in winter wheat. Best weed control is obtained by using a combination of these three methods. Winter and summer annual broadleaf weeds are economically important pests of Nebraska winter wheat. They reduce grain yields by competing with winter wheat for water, light and nutrients. Weeds are estimated to reduce Nebraska winter wheat yields 10 percent each year.

G88-865 Fine Tuning A Sprayer Wih The "Ounce" Calibration Method, Robert Grisso, Robert N. Klein

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This NebGuide discusses guidelines to quickly evaluate the performance of a sprayer. Sprayer calibration, nozzle discharge and speed checks are evaluated with minimal calculations. Tractor-mounted, pull-type, pick-up mounted and self-propelled pesticide application equipment are available from numerous sources. pesticide costs, potential crop damage, unsatisfactory control and environmental concerns make correct application important. Proper calibration to ensure accurate application must be a primary management consideration for both farmers and custom applicators. Application equipment users also should know proper application methods, chemical effects on equipment and correct cleaning and storage procedures of liquid sprayers.

G88-866 Christmas Tree Selection And Care, Mike Kuhns, Rollin Schnieder

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This guide discusses types of trees, tree species, cut tree care, offers tips on decorating trees, considers tree disposal and laws governing the display of Christmas trees, and suggests a proper type of tree stand.

Introduction

Christmas trees have been a tradition in the United States since the Revolutionary War, when homesick Hessian soldiers decorated fir trees as was their custom in Germany. Since then the custom has spread. It is now difficult for many people to imagine Christmas without the Christmas tree tradition.

To insure a safe and happy holiday, you need to know a few things about selecting …

G88-875 Weed Control In Soybeans, Russell S. Moomaw, Robert N. Stougaard, Alex Martin, Fred Roeth, David Mortensen

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This NebGuide provides information on mechanical and chemical weed control methods, including herbicides to use for preplant incorporated, preemergence and postemergence. Soybeans are a relatively easy crop to grow. Limited insect and disease problems presently are associated with their production in Nebraska. Weeds, however, are a major production problem. Each 100 pounds of weed growth results in a one bushel loss in soybean yield. Weeds that emerge with the crop and remain in the row are the strongest competitors. Those that emerge later than six weeks after planting have little effect on yield, so it is important to focus on …

Heg88-231 Carpet Selection: General, Shirley Niemeyer

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

Carpet cost, installation and measuring are discussed here, along with labels and special considerations for carpet buyers.

Carpet can be one of the largest furnishing expenses you have, so carefully examine the possibilities before making a purchasing decision. Considerations in purchasing carpet include cost, installation, measurements, labeling, color, traffic or activity level, acoustics and energy.

G88-869 Daylilies, Debra Schwarze

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This guide offers hints on growing daylilies, discusses site selection, varieties, propagation and planting and plant culture.

Daylilies, members of the Liliaceae (lily family), are some of the most tolerant and popular of the garden perennials. Their range in size, color, and use means that there is a daylily for almost everyone.

Like their name Hemerocallis, "beauty for a day", the individual daylily flower lasts only one day. However, a single plant may produce over 50 flowers. This large number of flowers can extend the blooming period of a plant for several weeks. With over 10,000 cultivars available and with …

G88-867 Forcing Spring Flowering Bulbs, Debra Schwarze

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This guide discusses the various aspects of forcing spring flowering bulbs, including planting, cold treatment, forcing, care, and forcing in water.

Introduction

Spring flowers can be a bright addition to any home. With just a little effort, many types of spring flowering bulbs can fill your home with flowers throughout the winter. Tulips, narcissus (daffodils), hyacinths, crocus, grape-hyacinths, scillas and other bulbs can be forced into midwinter bloom.

The term forcing can be a bit misleading. There is little force involved, but rather the bulbs receive their cold treatment early and are allowed to bloom out of season. The term …

G88-873 Growing Shrubs From Seed, Richard J. Lodes, Mike Kuhns

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This NebGuide is about gathering and growing seeds for shrubs.

Growing shrubs from seed is educational and fun. Many shrub species are not available commercially, so gathering seed and growing your own plants may be the only way to get them. Interesting or unusual shrubs from a neighbor's yard or from the wild can be propagated from seed. Shrubs started from seed also may be less expensive than commercially produced seedlings.

G88-886 Growing Sprouts, Debra Schwarze

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

Ways to grow different sprouts are discussed in this NebGuide.

Sprouts are tasty and delicious, and growing them is a simple process, although it does require a few minutes of your time each day to get quality sprouts.

They can be grown year-round, and provide an opportunity for simple gardening projects for limited spaces and for children. Seeds often used for sprouting include mung bean, soybean, lentil and alfalfa.

When purchasing seeds for sprouting, be sure to get seeds that have not been treated with a fungicide, insecticide or any other material. This type of seed is available at health …

G88-877 Zoysiagrass Lawn Calendar (Revised April 1999), Robert C. Shearman, Roch E. Gaussoin

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

This NebGuide is a calendar containing information on mowing, fertilizing, watering, herbicides, insects and disease, thatch removal, aerification, and plugging of your Zoysiagass Lawn.