[{"id":2645,"date":"2026-03-20T18:44:10","date_gmt":"2026-03-20T18:44:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2645"},"modified":"2026-03-20T18:44:10","modified_gmt":"2026-03-20T18:44:10","slug":"nuts-about-production-pecan-meeting-report","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/nuts-about-production-pecan-meeting-report\/","title":{"rendered":"&#8220;Nuts About Production&#8221; Pecan Meeting Report"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Anna Sara Hill, Extension Horticulture Agent<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Anna Sara Hill and Brianna Naumuk hosted a statewide pecan production meeting entitled \u201cNuts About Production\u201d in Columbia, SC on February 25, 2026. The invited speakers were the UGA Pecan team, led by Lenny Wells (PhD), the leading pecan research specialist in the southeast. The team included Apurba Barman (PhD), an entomologist specializing in pecan and citrus insects, Clemons Olivera (PhD), specializing in pecan and peanut plant pathology and Andrew Sawyer, UGA extension specialist, who specializes in everything pecan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Topics included pecan nutrients, insect pest management, disease management and weed management. The speakers were a wealth of knowledge and provided the group with pertinent information. The audience was actively engaged and asked numerous questions throughout the session. There were 42 participants in attendance.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-default\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"510\" height=\"382\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Anna-Sara-Pecan-Pic.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2646\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Anna-Sara-Pecan-Pic.png 510w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Anna-Sara-Pecan-Pic-300x225.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 510px) 100vw, 510px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Lennie Wells\u202fpresenting at the SC\u202fpecan production meeting on February 25,\u202f2026 in Columbia,\u202fSC <br>(\ud83d\udcf7 Image Credit- Anna Sara Hill)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>The meal catered by Apple Spice, was sponsored by WP Law, Timac Agro, Corteva, Golden Kernal, and Orchard Machinery Company (OMC). The City of Columbia provided the venue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On behalf of Clemson Extension, we are grateful to the speakers, sponsors, and City of Columbia employees for making this event possible. We also thank the pecan growers who took the time and effort to travel and attend this meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.clemson.edu\/extension\/about\/employees\/civil-rights.html\">Civil Rights Statement<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Anna Sara Hill, Extension Horticulture Agent Anna Sara Hill and Brianna Naumuk hosted a statewide pecan production meeting entitled \u201cNuts About Production\u201d in Columbia, SC on February 25, 2026. The invited speakers were the UGA Pecan team, led by Lenny Wells (PhD), the leading pecan research specialist in the southeast. The team included Apurba Barman [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4032,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[15496,70041,70314,70572,70898,71196,72615,71463,114470,71749,905,72047,114917,72391],"tags":[72614,15606,72616],"coauthors":[114925],"class_list":["post-2645","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-aiken","category-allendale","category-bamberg","category-barnwell","category-beaufort","category-calhoun","category-clarendon","category-colleton","category-edgefield","category-hampton","category-horticulture","category-jasper","category-lexington","category-orangeburg","tag-berkeley","tag-charleston","tag-dorchester"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2645","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4032"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2645"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2645\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2645"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2645"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2645"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2645"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":2637,"date":"2026-03-16T15:03:47","date_gmt":"2026-03-16T15:03:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2637"},"modified":"2026-03-16T15:03:47","modified_gmt":"2026-03-16T15:03:47","slug":"4-h-clover-contact-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/4-h-clover-contact-2\/","title":{"rendered":"4-H Clover Contact"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dawn Stuckey, Senior Agent<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>By Dawn Stuckey, Senior Agent<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>4-H agents in neighboring counties are working hard to keep 4-H going in multiple counties as we fill vacant positions. We welcome Lina Prillaman to Berkeley County as the 4-H Youth Development agent. She is a life-long 4-H\u2019er and brings great ideas from her work in Virginia 4-H. Please continue to reach out to the Extension Office if you have any 4-H needs or questions. The county administrative assistant will have an agent return your call or provide an answer to your question.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"819\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Grow-What-Matters-819x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2638\" style=\"width:340px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Grow-What-Matters-819x1024.jpg 819w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Grow-What-Matters-240x300.jpg 240w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Grow-What-Matters-768x960.jpg 768w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Grow-What-Matters.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>The heavy dusting of pollen lets us know that Spring is here! The warmer temperatures and return of birds, pollinators, and forest friends have garden planning at the forefront of everyone\u2019s agenda. What a perfect time for youth to register for the 4-H Small Garden Project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The 4-H small garden project is an independent project that runs from May through August and teaches participants the benefits of soil monitoring, plant identification, pest management, fiscal responsibility, and goal setting, with the opportunity to put that learning into practice. When your garden is in full production, someone from Clemson Extension will visit your garden to assess the health and vigor of your plants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Youth may participate individually or with a group. The project is open to any 4-H member aged 5 to 18. There is a $25 project fee to cover the cost of materials included in the kits. The registration deadline is April 3, 2026; don\u2019t miss out on this fun project.&nbsp; Register for the SC 4-H Small Garden Project at <a href=\"https:\/\/nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fl.facebook.com%2Fl.php%3Fu%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252F2026SC4-HSmallGardenProject.eventbrite.com%252F%253Ffbclid%253DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExdkhkOEk4dmFDSGdQTXA1NHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4LUD1GqfcINVCL2YJvkn3_fDqM1rqIu48YHMHVBe0AxVSvdZJG7z9qP_BVwg_aem_Y_dxs9aGvVnQplMOmTt0lg%26h%3DAT60ow6lkxdN5E3DYgDiOdeT9i5tTTJ8_RcF6nVzJNmCStVVzlWFALqsMHpPYWYFwdT7atTJyM08l16-wkDWu1mXLxymt1QrMmZaCxLvAzHppmj80yzliDi8QvLVcVJatrfOG1wvRAHZsYDz-6hXPgnysvfRz-lo%26__tn__%3D-UK*F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cdstucke%40clemson.edu%7C410643d0ee4446a5af0f08de7944a7b4%7C0c9bf8f6ccad4b87818d49026938aa97%7C0%7C0%7C639081533723082708%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=sOIoIdo2UReXEDCbNfayVtrUozeGXoRaLWTNIcsd2%2Bo%3D&amp;reserved=0\">https:\/\/2026SC4-HSmallGardenProject.eventbrite.com.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Registration is also open for the 4-H Rabbit Project. In this independent project, participants will care for their rabbits and prepare them for the show. Throughout the project, youth and their families will receive a project newsletter that provides valuable information to ensure success. Additional opportunities for participants include a presentation contest, a Quiz Bowl, and a rabbit knowledge test.&nbsp; As in all 4-H projects, participants will learn to set goals, participate in learning activities, and build record-keeping and financial management skills.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"608\" height=\"607\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rabbit-Project.png.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2639\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.0016444543964564;width:611px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rabbit-Project.png.jpg 608w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rabbit-Project.png-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rabbit-Project.png-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rabbit-Project.png-50x50.jpg 50w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 608px) 100vw, 608px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>The 4-H Rabbit project is open to youth ages 5-18. Youth will need to secure their own rabbit for the project.&nbsp; The project runs from May through October and has showmanship workshops during the summer. Registration for the 4-H Rabbit Project closes on April 3, 2026. There is a $25 fee to participate. To register for the project, visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/2026-sc-4-h-rabbit-project-tickets-1983083593411?aff=oddtdtcreator\">https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/2026-sc-4-h-rabbit-project-tickets-1983083593411?aff=oddtdtcreator<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The 4-H Laying Flock Project is open for registration until May 1, 2026. The Laying Flock Project is for youth who already have chickens. Youth will reflect on their work through the completion of a record book, where they will learn to set goals, manage finances, and gain valuable life lessons by caring and providing for their flock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"302\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Laying-Flock-Project.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2640\" style=\"width:820px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Laying-Flock-Project.jpg 600w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Laying-Flock-Project-300x151.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Throughout the project, youth and their families will receive a newsletter that provides valuable information, including show dates, deadlines, and poultry-related details. The project costs $10, and there is an option to add a sibling for an additional fee. The project is open to youth 5-18.&nbsp; This project runs from May to October, with showmanship clinics during the summer to prepare for Fall shows. To learn more or register, visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/2026-4-h-laying-flock-project-registration-1980468880735?aff=oddtdtcreator.\">https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/2026-4-h-laying-flock-project-registration-1980468880735?aff=oddtdtcreator.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"385\" height=\"323\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Heifer-Project.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2641\" style=\"width:448px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Heifer-Project.jpg 385w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Heifer-Project-300x252.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 385px) 100vw, 385px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>The 4-H Dairy Project is an independent or club project that engages youth ages 5-18 in learning life skills while working with dairy cows and replacement heifers. Participants will receive show dates, deadline reminders, and dairy-related information via the South Carolina 4-H Livestock Program and Clemson Spring Dairy Show Facebook pages. A variety of educational events will be held throughout the year, including dairy judging workshops and practice opportunities, fitting and showmanship clinics, junior breed organization events and various scholarships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Dairy Heifer Project provides opportunities for youth to learn about dairying and the dairy industry. The Dairy Heifer Project began in 1974 and was designed to provide boys and girls in South Carolina with an opportunity to raise a dairy heifer, experience the dairy industry, and sell their heifer at the South Carolina Dairy Bred Heifer Sale before she begins milking. The project is a long-term (approximately 20 months) project. Youth receive their heifers by random draw when they are 3-4 months old, care for and show, and then sell them as a bred heifer in the SC Youth Dairy Heifer Sale. In addition, the SC Dairy Bred Heifer Sale serves as an excellent source of herd replacements for South Carolina dairymen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Application deadline:<\/strong>&nbsp;March 20, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To learn more and to register, visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.clemson.edu\/extension\/4h\/program-areas\/agriculture-animals\/cattle\/dairy.html\">https:\/\/www.clemson.edu\/extension\/4h\/program-areas\/agriculture-animals\/cattle\/dairy.html<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"513\" height=\"513\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Horse-Project.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2642\" style=\"width:283px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Horse-Project.jpg 513w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Horse-Project-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Horse-Project-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Horse-Project-50x50.jpg 50w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 513px) 100vw, 513px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>The SC 4-H Horse program has several upcoming events for participants. To learn more about the opportunities, visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.clemson.edu\/extension\/4h\/program-areas\/agriculture-animals\/horse.html\">https:\/\/www.clemson.edu\/extension\/4h\/program-areas\/agriculture-animals\/horse.html.<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To learn more about South Carolina 4-H and the opportunities available, please visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.clemson.edu\/extension\/4h\/index.html\">https:\/\/www.clemson.edu\/extension\/4h\/index.html<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.clemson.edu%2Fextension%2Fabout%2Flegal.html%3FURI%3D%2Fextension%2Fabout%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cgerij%40clemson.edu%7Cf5b67983983547ad924708de811ec1e4%7C0c9bf8f6ccad4b87818d49026938aa97%7C0%7C0%7C639090166637950191%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=VtSuUxOVV1yLliHcOI25Qdf0xVAhDpUMWILm7bimg9s%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><em>Civil Rights Statement<\/em><\/a><\/strong><br>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Dawn Stuckey, Senior Agent By Dawn Stuckey, Senior Agent 4-H agents in neighboring counties are working hard to keep 4-H going in multiple counties as we fill vacant positions. We welcome Lina Prillaman to Berkeley County as the 4-H Youth Development agent. She is a life-long 4-H\u2019er and brings great ideas from her work in [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3978,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[13303,71749],"tags":[],"coauthors":[114926],"class_list":["post-2637","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-4-h","category-hampton"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2637","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3978"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2637"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2637\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2637"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2637"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2637"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2637"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":2634,"date":"2026-03-02T20:12:43","date_gmt":"2026-03-02T20:12:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2634"},"modified":"2026-03-02T20:12:43","modified_gmt":"2026-03-02T20:12:43","slug":"equipping-growers-for-success-production-meetings-draw-strong-crowds","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/equipping-growers-for-success-production-meetings-draw-strong-crowds\/","title":{"rendered":"Equipping Growers for Success: Production Meetings Draw Strong Crowds"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Rogan Gibson, Extension Agronomy Agent<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Clemson Extension Allendale County office recently hosted three well-attended production meetings focused on Corn and Soybeans, Peanuts, and Crop Risk Management. More than 100 area producers participated across the three sessions, gathering to gain valuable insights and prepare for the upcoming growing season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Area Agronomy Agents Rogan Gibson and Joe Varn helped organize and conduct the meetings. In addition to coordinating the educational programs, they ensured growers had the opportunity to earn private pesticide credit hours by participating in the trainings\u2014an important benefit as producers work to maintain their certifications.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"574\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rogan-Pic2-1024x574.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2635\" style=\"width:510px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rogan-Pic2-1024x574.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rogan-Pic2-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rogan-Pic2-768x431.jpg 768w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rogan-Pic2-1536x861.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rogan-Pic2.jpg 1798w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>The Corn and Soybeans Production Meeting delivered the latest research updates, best management practices, and guidance on maximizing yields while managing input costs. Specialists shared timely recommendations on fertility programs, pest control strategies, and emerging production technologies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During the Peanut Production Meeting, growers received information tailored specifically to the region\u2019s peanut production challenges. Discussions included disease management, variety selection, and strategies to improve profitability in a competitive market environment.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"473\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rogan-Pic-1024x473.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2636\" style=\"aspect-ratio:2.1645126222973787;width:677px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rogan-Pic-1024x473.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rogan-Pic-300x139.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rogan-Pic-768x355.jpg 768w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rogan-Pic-1536x710.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rogan-Pic-2048x946.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>The Crop Risk Management Meeting addressed one of the most critical aspects of modern agriculture\u2014managing uncertainty. Producers learned about marketing strategies and financial planning tools designed to help safeguard their operations against high input prices and market fluctuations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The strong turnout reflects the commitment of local farmers to continuous improvement and sound decision-making. Through educational events like these, Clemson Extension continues to support the success and sustainability of agriculture across Allendale County and the surrounding region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.clemson.edu\/extension\/about\/employees\/civil-rights.html\">Civil Rights Statement<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Rogan Gibson, Extension Agronomy Agent The Clemson Extension Allendale County office recently hosted three well-attended production meetings focused on Corn and Soybeans, Peanuts, and Crop Risk Management. More than 100 area producers participated across the three sessions, gathering to gain valuable insights and prepare for the upcoming growing season. Area Agronomy Agents Rogan Gibson and [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4032,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[68635,70041,70314,71749],"tags":[],"coauthors":[114925],"class_list":["post-2634","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-agronomic-crops","category-allendale","category-bamberg","category-hampton"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2634","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4032"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2634"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2634\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2634"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2634"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2634"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2634"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":2628,"date":"2026-02-26T19:09:56","date_gmt":"2026-02-26T19:09:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2628"},"modified":"2026-02-26T19:30:35","modified_gmt":"2026-02-26T19:30:35","slug":"color-your-plate-eat-more-vegetables-and-fruits","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/color-your-plate-eat-more-vegetables-and-fruits\/","title":{"rendered":"Color Your Plate! Eat More Vegetables and Fruits"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Felicia C. Cunningham, 4-H Youth Development Agent, Jasper County<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"324\" height=\"432\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture1-FC-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2629\" style=\"width:400px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture1-FC-1.png 324w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture1-FC-1-225x300.png 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 324px) 100vw, 324px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Eating more vegetables and fruits may lower your risk for heart disease, stroke, and cancer, and help with weight control.&nbsp; Fill half your plate with vegetables and fruits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Youth attending the Agape Family Life Center in Hardeeville, SC, participated in a session on the importance of eating fruits and vegetables.&nbsp; After the brief conversation, the youth were engaged in creating a Colorful Black Bean Salad.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>                    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery aligncenter has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"335\" height=\"391\" data-id=\"2630\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture2-FC.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture2-FC.jpg 335w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture2-FC-257x300.jpg 257w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 335px) 100vw, 335px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"309\" height=\"311\" data-id=\"2631\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture3-FC-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2631\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture3-FC-1.jpg 309w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture3-FC-1-298x300.jpg 298w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture3-FC-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture3-FC-1-50x50.jpg 50w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 309px) 100vw, 309px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Suggestions for Families<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Include at least one vegetable or fruit at every meal and snack.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Serve dark green, red and orange vegetables, and beans like pinto and kidney \u2013 these are especially healthy!<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Let children try vegetables many times, but don\u2019t push, or they are more likely to say no.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep ready-to-eat veggies and fruits available where your kids can help themselves.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Eat lots of veggies yourself!\u00a0 It\u2019s the best way to get your kids to eat them, too.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.clemson.edu%2Fextension%2Fabout%2Flegal.html&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cgerij%40clemson.edu%7Cd287d72a51cb41bdb57b08de75534070%7C0c9bf8f6ccad4b87818d49026938aa97%7C0%7C0%7C639077198008093934%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=yEc8tTLn1k%2BSg5YphlxiHDfulcfxJSnZwg4LmxHtRUA%3D&amp;reserved=0\">Civil Rights Statement<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Felicia C. Cunningham, 4-H Youth Development Agent, Jasper County Eating more vegetables and fruits may lower your risk for heart disease, stroke, and cancer, and help with weight control.&nbsp; Fill half your plate with vegetables and fruits. Youth attending the Agape Family Life Center in Hardeeville, SC, participated in a session on the importance of [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3978,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[13303,72047],"tags":[],"coauthors":[114926],"class_list":["post-2628","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-4-h","category-jasper"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2628","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3978"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2628"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2628\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2628"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2628"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2628"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2628"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":2626,"date":"2026-02-09T21:11:47","date_gmt":"2026-02-09T21:11:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2626"},"modified":"2026-02-09T21:11:47","modified_gmt":"2026-02-09T21:11:47","slug":"cucurbit-production-meeting-post-meeting-report","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/cucurbit-production-meeting-post-meeting-report\/","title":{"rendered":"Cucurbit Production Meeting- Post Meeting Report"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Anna Sara Hill, Extension Horticulture Agent<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Clemson Cooperative Extension held a cucurbit production meeting at the Edisto Research and Education Center on February 5, 2026 in partnership with the SC Watermelon Association. The meeting was entitled \u201cCultivating Solutions for SC Cucurbit Growers\u201d and covered topics including management of manganese toxicity in cucurbits, weed control in cucurbits, management of anthracnose in watermelon, and insect ID.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The presenters were Rob Last, Matt Cutulle, Ph.D., Anthony Keinath, Ph.D., and Anna Sara Hill, respectively. The program included a guest speaker from UGA Extension, John Bennett. He discussed his research on the effectiveness of Smurfit WestRock Paper Mulch in Georgia Watermelon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An interactive insect identification quiz and a general quiz on covered topics encouraged attendee interaction. The quiz winners were presented with a jug of Roundup, donated by Meherrin Ag of Ridge Springs, and a socket wrench set, compliments of Napa Auto Parts in Barnwell. The delicious meal was catered by Buzzy Bunch and sponsored by AgSouth Farm Credit, Carolina Eastern, Enza Zaden, Helena, Nurtien Ag Solutions, Sakata, Simplot, Seedway, TriEst Ag Group and UPL.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Anna-Sara-Pic-1024x768.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2627\" style=\"width:649px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Anna-Sara-Pic-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Anna-Sara-Pic-300x225.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Anna-Sara-Pic-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Anna-Sara-Pic-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Anna-Sara-Pic-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>A total of 45 people attended, with the overwhelming majority being area growers. Preliminary feedback indicates that some growers are already planning to implement some of the information they gathered from the meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lastly, I would like to extend sincere thanks to the Watermelon Association, Sponsors, Blaz-N-Buzz Catering, speakers, and my fellow co-workers who helped to make this meeting a success. I am also extremely grateful to all the growers who took time out of their busy schedules to attend the meeting and support Clemson Extension. On behalf of Clemson Extension and myself, I appreciate your ongoing support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.clemson.edu\/extension\/about\/employees\/civil-rights.html\">Civil Rights Statement<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Anna Sara Hill, Extension Horticulture Agent The Clemson Cooperative Extension held a cucurbit production meeting at the Edisto Research and Education Center on February 5, 2026 in partnership with the SC Watermelon Association. The meeting was entitled \u201cCultivating Solutions for SC Cucurbit Growers\u201d and covered topics including management of manganese toxicity in cucurbits, weed control [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4032,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[70041,70314,70572,71463,71749,905,114917],"tags":[],"coauthors":[114925],"class_list":["post-2626","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-allendale","category-bamberg","category-barnwell","category-colleton","category-hampton","category-horticulture","category-lexington"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2626","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4032"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2626"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2626\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2626"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2626"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2626"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2626"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":2623,"date":"2026-02-09T21:01:02","date_gmt":"2026-02-09T21:01:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2623"},"modified":"2026-02-09T21:01:49","modified_gmt":"2026-02-09T21:01:49","slug":"is-it-best-to-direct-seed-or-transplant-a-garden","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/is-it-best-to-direct-seed-or-transplant-a-garden\/","title":{"rendered":"Is It Best to Direct\u00a0Seed or Transplant a Garden?\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Anna Sara Hill, Extension Horticulture Agent<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Have you ever planted seeds in your garden and had them germinate slowly, unevenly, or not at all? What about when a heavy rain comes a few days after direct seeding and the seeds float? These incidents can be frustrating after all that time and effort you put into planting the perfect garden. Many factors can affect seed germination, and sometimes it is difficult to pinpoint the exact reason. A good alternative method to direct seeding is transplanting, but it is not foolproof. Is it worthwhile to go the extra mile to germinate seeds in containers and transplant healthy seedlings into the garden? This article will explore the pros and cons of both methods and offer tips to improve the probability of success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Factors that affect seed germination include genetic, morphological, physiological, chemical, biological, and environmental factors. Not all seeds are created equal, and some plant species require special treatment. Seeds with hard seed coats require scarification for good germination. Most vegetables do not require scarification, but many flowers do. Pre-soaking can soften the seedcoat and enhance absorption, thereby improving germination and breaking dormancy. An example of a seed that needs to be pre-soaked is corn. Some seeds, such as leafy greens, require cold stratification to break dormancy. Other seeds will readily germinate without any special treatment. It is important to know the specific seed requirements of each plant. This information can be found on the seed packet or on educational and government-affiliated websites (enter site.edu or site.gov after the search criteria to obtain reliable research-based information).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All seeds have an optimal planting depth. A good rule of thumb for vegetable seeds is to plant them at a depth of \u00bc to \u00bd inch. Seeds planted too deeply can take a long time to germinate, will not be uniform, are generally weak and can result in a poor stand. Shallow seeds germinate quickly but are more susceptible to poor root systems and to drying and withering. Sowing seeds at an incorrect depth increases their susceptibility to frost burn, temperature fluctuations, and pests. After planting, seeds need to be watered well, but if a heavy or extended rainfall event occurs within several days of planting, the seeds may float.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"495\" height=\"581\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Anna-Sara-Pic3.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2624\" style=\"width:379px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Anna-Sara-Pic3.png 495w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Anna-Sara-Pic3-256x300.png 256w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 495px) 100vw, 495px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Transplants may seem like a lot of effort to plant and maintain, but they are generally more robust and often yield better than plants started from direct seed. Spring transplants grown in a greenhouse or indoors can be planted in the garden after the last frost date and will grow and mature before the summer heat affects them. Healthy seedlings exhibit greater pest tolerance than seeds and can outcompete weeds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Adequate moisture is key to uniform germination and growth. Seedling trays can get wet and dry very quickly. Water well after planting. After the seeds have germinated, water the plants when the leaves start to droop (also known as flagging). Stop watering as soon as water starts running out of the bottom of the tray. The goal is for the soil to stay moist, but not saturated.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Anna-Sara-Pic4-768x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2625\" style=\"aspect-ratio:0.750005538202521;width:346px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Anna-Sara-Pic4-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Anna-Sara-Pic4-225x300.jpeg 225w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Anna-Sara-Pic4.jpeg 915w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Transplants grown with proper light creates stocky, healthy plants.<br>Zack Snipes, \u00a92020, Clemson Extension<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Some drawbacks of transplants are that they require temperate conditions with plenty of light. Grow lights and heaters can be used to create optimally controlled environments for plant growth. Light placement is very important. Light within 2-4 inches of the plant will produce sturdy, uniform plants, as the light is close and evenly distributed. Poor lighting or lights farther away will cause the plants to reach, making them lanky, leggy, and weak. The same effect is seen when growing in a sunny window. If trying to germinate and grow plants in a sunny windowsill, rotate them daily, so that each side gets the same amount of light. Another problem with indoor plants is hardening off. This can be corrected by using a fan at the 2 true leaf stage. When plants are around three inches tall, they are ready to transfer. Gradually move them outdoors to acclimate them. Start by moving them to a porch or protected area during the day and bringing them in at night. Progressively move them to direct sun and leave them out for longer periods over a few weeks. It is best to transplant when cloudy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most vegetables are easy to transplant and do well once transplanted, but there are a few exceptions. Cucurbits and celery can be successfully transplanted with extra TLC. Other plants, such as carrots, corn, beans, and peas, are unsuitable for transplanting due to their growth habits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When deciding whether to direct seed or transplant, consider factors such as the size of the garden you want to plant and how many plants you will need. Also consider how much time and effort you want to put into gardening. When planting a small garden, it may be easier and more economical to purchase transplants. When purchasing seeds or transplants, always look for the healthiest plants and for resistant varieties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For additional information on transplanting, please see the following HGIC fact sheets:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/hgic.clemson.edu\/factsheet\/starting-seeds-indoors\/\">Starting Seeds Indoors<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/hgic.clemson.edu\/faqs-about-starting-vegetable-seeds-indoors\/\">FAQs About Starting Vegetable Seeds Indoors<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.clemson.edu\/extension\/about\/employees\/civil-rights.html\">Civil Rights Statement<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Anna Sara Hill, Extension Horticulture Agent Have you ever planted seeds in your garden and had them germinate slowly, unevenly, or not at all? What about when a heavy rain comes a few days after direct seeding and the seeds float? These incidents can be frustrating after all that time and effort you put into [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4032,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[70041,70314,70572,71749,905],"tags":[],"coauthors":[114925],"class_list":["post-2623","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-allendale","category-bamberg","category-barnwell","category-hampton","category-horticulture"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2623","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4032"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2623"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2623\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2623"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2623"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2623"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2623"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":2619,"date":"2026-02-04T20:15:40","date_gmt":"2026-02-04T20:15:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2619"},"modified":"2026-02-04T20:15:40","modified_gmt":"2026-02-04T20:15:40","slug":"lend-a-helping-hand-to-bluebirds","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/lend-a-helping-hand-to-bluebirds\/","title":{"rendered":"Lend a Helping Hand to Bluebirds"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Marion Barnes, Senior County Extension Agent Clemson University<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"457\" height=\"370\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Bluebird-photo-1.pdf.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2620\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Bluebird-photo-1.pdf.jpg 457w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Bluebird-photo-1.pdf-300x243.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 457px) 100vw, 457px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>With all the winter weather conditions of late, it is not too early to be thinking of spring! The Eastern Bluebird is one of South Carolina&#8217;s most colorful year-round feathered residents and is often referred to as a harbinger of spring. Early settlers called them the \u201cblue robin\u201d. These birds get their name from the male with its reddish or rust colored throat and chest, white underbelly and brilliant blue plumage on its back. The females are a grayish blue with a duller, rust-colored breast. Many birding enthusiasts admire bluebirds for their colorful appearance, gentle disposition, devotion to family, and soft, low-pitched call.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Eastern Bluebird habitat consists of a mix of open pastures, fields and park-like meadows with scattered trees, open woodlands and forest edges with hollow tree cavities for nesting. Eastern bluebirds can also be found in urban areas with large open lawns, good nesting sites and abundant insect populations for food. Considered secondary cavity nesters, unable to excavate their own cavities, they seek out abandoned woodpecker cavities and other natural openings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From the mid 1920\u2019s to the 1970\u2019s the Eastern Bluebird species began to decline due to a number of factors including loss of nesting sites attributed to increased urbanization, changing forestry and agricultural farming practices, competition for nesting cavities from introduced exotic species such as the European House Sparrow and European Starling and severe winter and spring ice storms in the Eastern U.S. Bluebird populations declined over 90% during this time and were listed as an endangered species in the 1970\u2019s. Eastern Bluebird populations have stabilized thanks to efforts by homeowners and conservation groups to provide nest boxes and improve habitat suitable for these birds to thrive.&nbsp; &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Year-round residents in the low country of South Carolina, bluebirds\u2019 nesting season typically runs from February through September, with peak mating activity in April. Male bluebirds locate a suitable nesting site, establish a territory and sing to attract a female and warn other male bluebirds to stay away. Females build the nest, a neat, cup-shaped structure made of fine grass and pine straw. After mating, the female lays a total of 1 to 6 eggs and immediately begins incubation, which lasts about two weeks. Chicks usually remain in the nest for another two to three weeks before fledging. Bluebirds can raise two to three broods a year in South Carolina.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bluebirds are primarily insectivores, feeding mainly on insects, which make up approximately 2\/3rds of their diets; the remainder consists of wild fruits and berries, especially during winter, when insects are less common. Listed in a 1915 USDA Farmers\u2019 Bulletin 630 titled, <em>\u201cSome Common Birds Useful to the Farmer\u201d, <\/em>bluebirds are praised for the amount of harmful insects they consume, especially grasshoppers and caterpillars that damage crops. &nbsp;<em>&nbsp;<\/em>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the biggest challenges the Eastern Bluebird faces today is finding suitable nesting sites. What can we do to help? Fortunately, bluebirds regularly use nest boxes provided by homeowners and landowners. Providing nest boxes can be a rewarding hobby for individuals, clubs, and classes. Nest boxes are usually erected in February, but due to multiple broods, they can be placed at any time of the year. Nest boxes are easy to build and maintain, and numerous plans and designs have proven successful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When considering the construction of bluebird nest boxes, here are a few things to keep in mind:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Make boxes the correct size &amp; use a design that is easy to clean and inspect<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use rough cut cedar or cypress lumber \u00be to 1 inch thick (insulation &amp; resists decay)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid the use of treated wood for box construction<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Entry holes should not be larger than 1.5 inches to deter predators, including the European Starling\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide drain and ventilation holes (to keep young birds dry and to prevent overheating)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not add perches since they attract house sparrows<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mount on a smooth, round pole, such as a metal electrical conduit, that helps deter intruders\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide predator protection by installing a baffle or other type of predator guard<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Place nest boxes at least 5 feet in height, keeping in mind that higher placement makes monitoring difficult<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Place nest boxes in good bluebird habitat, open areas such as around open fields and pastures, gardens, and large lawns where insects are plentiful.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid areas with heavy insecticide use, as these areas can reduce insect populations and may unintentionally harm bluebirds.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Place nest boxes at least 100 yards apart (if possible) since male bluebirds are very territorial.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Locate nest boxes at least 50 feet from wooded areas to avoid competition from birds like house wrens, chickadees, nuthatches and titmice who will use the nest boxes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Face nest boxes away from prevailing winds and within 25 to 100 feet of perches, such as fences, utility wires, small trees, and shrubs. These structures are used by bluebirds for feeding and by young birds for perches during their first flights.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For more information on attracting Eastern Bluebirds to your property, contact your local county Extension agent. You can also view a copy of HGIC Factsheet HGIC 2908 <em>Providing for Bluebirds:<\/em> <em>Guidance for Bluebird Nest Box Establishment in South Carolina<\/em> or &nbsp;<em>Eastern Bluebirds<\/em> from the Alabama Cooperative Extension System for additional information on bluebirds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Information for this article was taken in part from Clemson University HGIC Factsheet 2908, <em>Providing <\/em>for <em>Bluebirds: Guidance for Bluebird Nest Box Establishment in South Carolina<\/em> and&nbsp; <em>Eastern Bluebirds, Alabama Cooperative Extension System. <\/em>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.clemson.edu%2Fextension%2Fabout%2Flegal.html&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cgerij%40clemson.edu%7C9907d2fa0a404208d7dd08de641ad5d3%7C0c9bf8f6ccad4b87818d49026938aa97%7C0%7C0%7C639058263582630211%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=dWcom1%2FM%2B7kOjA7oJCADnaRG6mjvWeYBMYG0lrm3DDM%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><em>Civil Rights Statement<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Marion Barnes, Senior County Extension Agent Clemson University With all the winter weather conditions of late, it is not too early to be thinking of spring! The Eastern Bluebird is one of South Carolina&#8217;s most colorful year-round feathered residents and is often referred to as a harbinger of spring. Early settlers called them the \u201cblue [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3978,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[13303,68635,70041,70314,70572,70898,71463,71749,72047],"tags":[72614,15606,72616],"coauthors":[114926],"class_list":["post-2619","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-4-h","category-agronomic-crops","category-allendale","category-bamberg","category-barnwell","category-beaufort","category-colleton","category-hampton","category-jasper","tag-berkeley","tag-charleston","tag-dorchester"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2619","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3978"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2619"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2619\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2619"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2619"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2619"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2619"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":2616,"date":"2026-02-04T19:02:59","date_gmt":"2026-02-04T19:02:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2616"},"modified":"2026-02-04T19:02:59","modified_gmt":"2026-02-04T19:02:59","slug":"caring-for-your-poinsettia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/caring-for-your-poinsettia\/","title":{"rendered":"Caring for your Poinsettia"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Glen Payne, Urban Horticulture Agent for Beaufort County and Felicia C. Cunningham, Jasper County 4-H Agent <\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/image000000.pdf-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2617\" style=\"width:317px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/image000000.pdf-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/image000000.pdf-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/image000000.pdf-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/image000000.pdf.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Mr. Glen Payne, Urban Horticulture Agent, presented information to the Beaufort Family and Community Leaders (FCL) group on caring for your Poinsettia on November 14, 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Mr. Payne also highlighted how to water them, the different colors they can bloom into, and how to care for them after Christmas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The poinsettia (<em>Euphorbia pulcherrima<\/em>) is the most popular flowering plant sold in the United States, with more than 70 million sold nationwide each year. When South Carolinian Joel R. Poinsett (1779 \u2013 1851), the first U.S. ambassador to Mexico, collected and introduced the poinsettia to the Bartram Botanical Garden in Philadelphia in 1828, it\u2019s doubtful he had any idea how popular this plant would become. Robert Buist, a Philadelphia nurseryman and florist, saw the potential of the newly introduced poinsettia and named it after Joel Poinsett.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"921\" height=\"777\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture3-FC.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2618\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.1853245191220756;width:677px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture3-FC.jpg 921w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture3-FC-300x253.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture3-FC-768x648.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 921px) 100vw, 921px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>FCL Advisor, Felicia C. Cunningham for Jasper County<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.clemson.edu%2Fextension%2Fabout%2Flegal.html&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cgerij%40clemson.edu%7C9907d2fa0a404208d7dd08de641ad5d3%7C0c9bf8f6ccad4b87818d49026938aa97%7C0%7C0%7C639058263582630211%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=dWcom1%2FM%2B7kOjA7oJCADnaRG6mjvWeYBMYG0lrm3DDM%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><em>Civil Rights Statement<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Glen Payne, Urban Horticulture Agent for Beaufort County and Felicia C. Cunningham, Jasper County 4-H Agent Mr. Glen Payne, Urban Horticulture Agent, presented information to the Beaufort Family and Community Leaders (FCL) group on caring for your Poinsettia on November 14, 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Mr. Payne also highlighted how to water them, the different colors they can [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3978,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[13303,72047],"tags":[],"coauthors":[114926],"class_list":["post-2616","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-4-h","category-jasper"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2616","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3978"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2616"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2616\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2616"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2616"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2616"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2616"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":2613,"date":"2026-02-04T18:03:46","date_gmt":"2026-02-04T18:03:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2613"},"modified":"2026-02-04T18:33:25","modified_gmt":"2026-02-04T18:33:25","slug":"the-kicking-machine-challenge","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/the-kicking-machine-challenge\/","title":{"rendered":"The Kicking Machine Challenge"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Felicia C. Cunningham, Jasper County, 4-H Youth Development Agent<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"261\" height=\"348\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture1-FC.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2614\" style=\"width:387px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture1-FC.png 261w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture1-FC-225x300.png 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 261px) 100vw, 261px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Jayla and Aaron Ager participated in the Kicking Machine challenge at the Coastal Carolina Fair in Ladson, SC, on November 9, 2025.&nbsp; Students were tasked with designing a machine that uses a pendulum, a rubber band, or a combination of the two to kick a ping-pong ball into a cup lying on its side 12 inches away.&nbsp; Both Jayla and Aaron came in 2<sup>nd<\/sup> place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.clemson.edu%2Fextension%2Fabout%2Flegal.html&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cgerij%40clemson.edu%7Cda757dd1d9d3423d825108de640718f4%7C0c9bf8f6ccad4b87818d49026938aa97%7C0%7C0%7C639058179085486086%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=Jp9cJ8MiG0Lrb1n9j%2F%2BMDdcqV8HoZU7AoClFQbcCah0%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><em>Civil Rights Statement<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Felicia C. Cunningham, Jasper County, 4-H Youth Development Agent Jayla and Aaron Ager participated in the Kicking Machine challenge at the Coastal Carolina Fair in Ladson, SC, on November 9, 2025.&nbsp; Students were tasked with designing a machine that uses a pendulum, a rubber band, or a combination of the two to kick a ping-pong [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3978,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[13303,72047],"tags":[],"coauthors":[114926],"class_list":["post-2613","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-4-h","category-jasper"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2613","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3978"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2613"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2613\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2613"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2613"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2613"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2613"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":2611,"date":"2026-02-02T19:04:22","date_gmt":"2026-02-02T19:04:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2611"},"modified":"2026-02-02T19:04:22","modified_gmt":"2026-02-02T19:04:22","slug":"ready-set-grow-healthy-habits-that-start-with-your-plate","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/ready-set-grow-healthy-habits-that-start-with-your-plate\/","title":{"rendered":"Ready. Set. Grow: Healthy Habits That Start with Your Plate"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Roxane Cummings, Rural Health &amp; Nutrition Agent<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Spring is a season of fresh starts. Gardens are planted, days grow longer, and many of us feel ready to reset routines that may have drifted during the winter months. When it comes to nutrition, spring is the perfect time to focus more on small habits that can grow into lasting change and big results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Get Ready!<\/strong><br>Getting ready doesn\u2019t mean changing everything at once. Getting ready means setting yourself up for success by preparing for healthier choices. Start by evaluating current habits. Are vegetables showing up regularly on your plate? Are meals rushed or skipped? Are sugary drinks or convenience foods sneaking in more often than you\u2019d like? Awareness is the first step. Simple ways to get ready include:<br>\u2022 Restocking your kitchen with easy-to-use staples like frozen vegetables, beans, whole grains, eggs, and yogurt<br>\u2022 Keeping fruit washed and visible for quick snacks<br>\u2022 Planning just one or two meals for the week instead of trying to plan everything.<br>Being intentional and preparing for healthier choices makes those choices feel easier and more automatic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br><strong>Get Set!<\/strong><br>Once you\u2019re ready, it\u2019s time to set a few small goals.\u00a0 The key word here is small. Research consistently shows that sustainable habits grow from realistic changes, not perfection.<br>Try one of these spring-friendly nutrition goals:<br>\u2022 Add one vegetable to lunch or dinner each day<br>\u2022 Drink water with every meal<br>\u2022 Aim for half your plate to come from fruits and vegetables<br>\u2022 Include a protein source at breakfast to support energy and fullness<br>These habits don\u2019t require special foods or strict rules. They are flexible, adaptable, and can be designed to fit your lifestyle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Grow!<\/strong><br>Whether in a garden or in our daily routines, growth doesn\u2019t happen overnight. However, small nutrition habits, practiced consistently, can lead to meaningful health benefits over time.<br>As healthy habits grow, people often notice the following improvements:<br>\u2022 Improved energy throughout the day<br>\u2022 Better digestion from increased fiber intake<br>\u2022 More stable blood sugar levels<br>\u2022 Greater confidence in food choices<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The goal isn\u2019t a perfect diet. It\u2019s progress\u2014one meal, one snack, one choice at a time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ad2f72ca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Spring also brings a variety of fresh, colorful foods that make healthy eating feel more natural and more enjoyable. Strawberries, squash, cucumbers, and herbs can brighten meals and add important nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.<br>Adding these seasonal foods doesn\u2019t have to be complicated:<br>\u2022 Toss greens into soups, wraps, or scrambled eggs<br>\u2022 Add berries to yogurt or oatmeal<br>\u2022 Roast spring vegetables with olive oil and simple seasoning.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Roxane-Pic-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2612\" style=\"aspect-ratio:0.5625019618511504;width:361px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Roxane-Pic-576x1024.jpg 576w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Roxane-Pic-169x300.jpg 169w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Roxane-Pic-768x1365.jpg 768w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Roxane-Pic-864x1536.jpg 864w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Roxane-Pic-1152x2048.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Roxane-Pic.jpg 1242w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Let the seasonal produce inspire you and your plate and consider trying a new vegetable or recipe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As spring unfolds, remember that healthy choices are not about restriction- they are about nourishment. When we focus on building habits that we can maintain, we can experience growth that lasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This spring, get ready with intention, set goals that feel doable, and grow healthier habits\u2014starting right on your plate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.clemson.edu\/extension\/about\/employees\/civil-rights.html\">Civil Rights Statement<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Roxane Cummings, Rural Health &amp; Nutrition Agent Spring is a season of fresh starts. Gardens are planted, days grow longer, and many of us feel ready to reset routines that may have drifted during the winter months. When it comes to nutrition, spring is the perfect time to focus more on small habits that can [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4032,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[70314,72391,69305],"tags":[],"coauthors":[114925],"class_list":["post-2611","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-bamberg","category-orangeburg","category-rural-health"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2611","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4032"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2611"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2611\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2611"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2611"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2611"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2611"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}]