It takes more than a little hocus-pocus to make Halloween happen! From the pumpkins on your porch to the chocolate in your candy bowl, land-grant university research supports your favorite Halloween traditions. Agricultural scientists help growers improve pumpkin yields and protect crops from pests, while food researchers study ways to make chocolate more sustainable and flavorful. Through Cooperative Extension, experts share important safety tips to help families enjoy trick-or-treating responsibly.
Scientific secrets to the perfect pumpkin
Purdue University College of Agriculture
Pumpkins gain national spotlight every October. And, every year, Indiana pumpkin pickers trudge through muddy, browning fields searching for the perfect pumpkin to take home. The secret to the perfect fall fruit and a high yield? Good weather, low disease rates, and managed pests.
Read more.
Researchers brew up stronger, disease-resistant cacao
Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences
In a development that could help protect one of the world’s most beloved agricultural commodities, a research team at Penn State has successfully created disease-resistant cacao plants using gene-editing technology. This novel approach could revolutionize sustainable chocolate production.
Read more.
A Spooktacularly Safe Halloween
NC State Extension
Halloween is a favorite holiday, full of costumes, treats, and festive decorations. To ensure your celebration is safe, not scary, here are some essential tips for fire prevention, pedestrian safety, and safe trick-or-treating.
Read more.
Share this Post