Topic: U.S. Department of Agriculture

Rajiv Shah: The man Obama wants to revitalize USAID

USAID has been without an administrator since Obama took office. Rajiv Shah could bring innovative thinking to USAID, but he probably will not have the gravitas to make USAID more of a force in Washington.

Onions of great flavor and questionable character

Shade-loving Japanese peony casts a spell

Japanese peony is a delight in a shady woodland garden.

Growing fruit trees - tales of pilfered pears and frozen apples

When you grow Asian pear and apple trees, sometimes there are tales to tell.

Peegee hydrangeas are spectacular in fall

Putting the vegetable garden to bed

It's time for the final garden chores of the season. Here's what you need to do.

Radishes, a natural way to aerate heavy soil

Farmers use radishes to soften and fertilize fields.

How to overwinter tropical fruits and other tender plants

Bring your banana trees and tropical plants indoors for winter instead of letting them be killed by frost.

Paris rooftops abuzz with beekeeping

On storied rooftops and public gardens in the urban jungle of Paris, the bee business is thriving.

How to pick an apple

A fall garden? It may not be too late.

Fall is a wonderful time to enjoy fresh vegetables.

Urban agriculture – a hobby grows into a cause

Interest in growing local food isn't new but it's taking on a new dimension this time.

What trade war? China plays nice in tire and chicken dispute.

In response to US tariffs imposed last Friday, Beijing threatened to investigate alleged US dumping of auto and chicken parts. But both categories would only allow limited retaliation.

Afghanistan's 'civilian surge' fizzles

War effort requires farmers, engineers, lawyers to share expertise.

Job hunting? This week's most intriguing offers.

Tommacio, an experiment with tomato raisins

Difference Maker People making a difference: Dara O'Rourke

This consumer advocate teams up with analysts and rates products to make shoppers smarter.

From junkyard to community garden

A former San Francisco dumping ground becomes a plentiful four-acre urban farm.

The Edible Explorer: ancient All-Blue potatoes

Argentina: Farming crisis batters world food provider

The worst drought in 50 years, combined with a drop in soybean prices and unpopular tax policies, imperils a traditional beef exporter.

The Rose Whisperer: More brilliant jewels in the summer garden

Opinion: Got milk farmers?

Unless Congress acts to ensure that dairy farmers get a fair price, many of them will go out of business.

The Edible Explorer: Plant now for autumn salads

Drifting Leaves: Can you smell the muffins?

Shrubs: An inexpensive landscaping option

Flowers may lose their luster at summer's end, but shrubs, which require little attention, deliver multi-season interest.