http://phys.org/ en-us Phys.org internet news portal provides the latest news on science including: Physics, Nanotechnology, Life Sciences, Space Science, Earth Science, Environment, Health and Medicine. Ridge and furrow rainwater-harvesting (RFRH) systems with mulches were first researched in the flat, lowland, semiarid conditions of northwest China to improve water availability and to increase crop production. In RFRH systems, plastic-covered ridges serve as rainwater harvesting zones, and bare or mulched furrows serve as planting zones. The systems are becoming increasingly recognized and are being promoted in many parts of the world as a means to improve large-scale production operations. http://phys.org/news242996432.html Space & Earth Tue, 13 Dec 2011 11:00:44 EST news242996432 Just till and fill, and toil no more when planting tulip bulbs. A Cornell study shows that a much easier method of planting tulip bulbs is just as effective as digging the traditional 6 to 8 inch holes for each bulb. http://phys.org/news237712366.html Biology Thu, 13 Oct 2011 08:14:25 EST news237712366 Texas High Plains gardeners know that Mother Nature often doesn't play fair, but a Texas AgriLife Extension Service vegetable specialist at Lubbock is studying ways to even the odds. http://phys.org/news235212774.html Biology Wed, 14 Sep 2011 09:54:29 EST news235212774 In 1999, more than 30 million acres of agricultural land worldwide were covered with plastic mulch, and those numbers have been increasing significantly since then. With the recent trend toward "going green", researchers are seeking environmentally friendlier alternatives to conventional plastic mulch. http://phys.org/news154879533.html Biology Thu, 26 Feb 2009 14:06:02 EST news154879533