The following publications cover topics related to Commercial Horticulture. For a complete list of MU Extension publications, visit the main Publications page.
Midwest Vegetable Production Guide for Commercial Growers
Revised
Check out this annual guide for a summary of currently suggested vegetable varieties, seeding rates, fertilizer rates, weed control, insect control, and disease control measures for commercial growers.
Sampling Plant Tissue and Soil for Analysis
Revised
Spectrographic analysis of plant tissue is a relatively new and accurate method for determining levels of major and minor elements in growing crops. However, good results make proper sampling of crops necessary. Keep the following points in mind when taking samples:
Soil Sample Information Form for Lawns and Gardens
Revised
Missouri homeowners and small-business owners can have the soil in their vegetable garden, flower garden or lawn analyzed by the MU Soil and Plant Testing Lab using this form. Be sure to mention specific crops being grown, if applicable.
Greenhouse/Green Roof Media Analysis Information Form
Revised
Testing greenhouse media provides an assessment of the material to adequately provide plant nutrients and provide a good rooting environment. Complete and submit this form along with your samples.
Manure Analysis Information Form
Revised
Manure testing is necessary to make optimum use of manure, which is a valuable source of nutrients for crops and improves soil productivity, while protecting water resources. Complete and submit this form along with your manure samples.
Soil Sample Information for Commercial Fruits, Vegetables and Turfs
Revised
Commercial fruit, vegetable and turf growers in Missouri can have their soil analyzed by the MU Extension Soil and Plant Testing Laboratory. Complete and submit this form along with your samples.
Compost Analysis Information Form
Revised
It is preferable to know the nutrient content of your compost material. Based on the compost analysis you can decrease the amount of fertilizer needed. Complete and submit this form along with your compost samples for analysis.
Frequently Asked Vegetable Questions
Reviewed
Are you wondering why your carrot seeds won’t germinate or when to harvest your zucchini? Find answers to these and many more vegetable questions in this guide.
Selected Ground Covers for Missouri
Reviewed
Ground covers are low-growing plants that spread quickly to form a dense cover. All the ground covers discussed in this guide are reliably cold hardy throughout Missouri.
Controlling Deer Damage in Missouri
Revised
Learn effective strategies for managing deer damage in Missouri, including population control, repellents, and fencing. Protect crops, landscapes, and safety.
Missouri Frost/Freeze Probabilities Guide
Reviewed
Where in Missouri you live can make a big difference on when to expect your first or last frost. See this guide for probabilities based on past years.
Pesticide Storage
Reviewed
Learn guidelines to ensure the safe and environmentally friendly storage of pesticides.
Missouri Weed Seeds
Reviewed
Positive identification of pests, including weeds, is the first step in a sound integrated pest management program. This publication can aid in identifying weeds by their seed characteristics.
Coping With Summer Heat
Reviewed
The heat of a Missouri summer not only can make for high utility bills, but also can be deadly. Here are some tips to help keep you comfortable, healthy and penny-wise.
Honey Bees as Pollinators, Their Habitats and Products
New
Learn about the honey bee, from its life cycle, to its various races, to its pest problems, the benefits it provides, and how we can aid its success in this University of Missouri Extension guide. Become a Master Pollinator Steward!
Tree Pests: Emerald Ash Borer
New
Emerald ash borer is an invasive, wood-boring insect that infests and kills ash trees. Learn the signs, symptoms and management and how to slow the spread.
Turfgrass Weed Control for Professionals (2020 Edition)
New
Editor's note
The following abstract describes a publication that is available for purchase from the Purdue Extension Education Store.
Tree Pests: Native Pests
New
There are many harmful native insects and diseases. We cannot eradicate them from our ecosystems, but we need to know how to control them to limit their damage.
Tree Pests: Gypsy Moth
New
Gypsy moth is a destructive, exotic forest pest found throughout the northeast and parts of the upper Midwest. Learn how to identify it and slow the spread.
Tree Pests: Thousand Cankers Disease
New
Thousand cankers disease is a disease of black walnut, caused by the walnut twig beetle and a fungus. Learn about signs and management to help slow the spread.
Tree Pests: Asian Longhorned Beetle
New
The invasive Asian longhorned beetle can destroy millions of acres of hardwoods. Learn how to stop the spread and why it is vital to keep it out of Missouri.
Autumn Colors
Reviewed
Discover the science behind vibrant autumn colors in Missouri, including factors influencing leaf pigmentation and the best scenic drives for fall foliage.
Tree Decline: What Is It?
Reviewed
Tree decline results from environmental stressors like improper planting, overcrowding, and pests, leading to reduced vigor and increased susceptibility to disease.