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HRI Announces Projects Receiving Funding in 201802-23-18 | Education

HRI Announces Projects Receiving Funding in 2018
More Than $200,000 Will Be Put Into Research

The Horticultural Research Institute, the research extension of AmericanHort, has announced the 10 projects receiving funding in 2018. The portfolios will present solutions for various issues, including: horticultural production, pest management, environmental stewardship, and business and marketing.

The Horticultural Research Institute revealed what research projects will be receiving funding in 2018.

The 10 projects receiving aid aim to uncover investigative solutions for issues facing the green industry and bridge the gap between businesses and consumers to advance the industry.

Some of the 2018 funded projects include:

• Off the sales floor and into the cart: Analyzing the path to plant purchases: By analyzing buying decisions, this project by Dr. Behe of Michigan State University will use technology to investigate visual cues and use the results to help retailers improve shopping experiences.

• Boxwood Blight Management in the Landscape: Recent invasions of Boxwood Blight have affected the United States. This project by Dr. J. LaMondia will focus on management of boxwood blight in landscapes with various fungicides.

• A sustainable approach to Phytophthora-infested landscape beds: the search for tolerant or resistant annuals and herbaceous perennials. Dr. I Meadows will explore and identify suitable landscape plants to be used in crop rotation.

"Making smart decisions on funding is part of HRI's strategy to advance the industry," stated Jennifer DeJager, HRI president. "The projects selected for 2018 funding represent the work HRI feels will produce the most valuable information for horticulture businesses. After careful reviews by industry professionals and scientists, the most relevant projects were selected for funding."