Farm and Dairy’s week in review: 11/1

Here are this week’s top stories from Farm and Dairy:

1. Pumpkin decorating ideas for Halloween

Halloween is National Carve a Pumpkin Day, and if you haven’t carved a pumpkin yet, consider creating a unique design. For a traditional pumpkin, there are plenty of websites that have free stencil downloads of Jack-o’-lanterns and other characters.

If you’re not in the mood to carve, painting and drilling designs are popular options this year. No matter which method you choose, your pumpkin is bound to be unique.

 2. Chronic wasting disease confirmed in Ohio captive deer

A buck on a Millersburg, Ohio, hunting preserve has tested positive for chronic wasting disease (CWD), a neurological condition that affects deer, elk and moose, can cause behavioral abnormalities and even death.

CWD has been monitored in Ohio since 2002. It was first discovered in a captive mule deer in Colorado in 1967.

3. Two superfoods to grow indoors during cool weather

Outdoor gardening and wrapped up for 2014, but growing vegetables indoors during the winter is possible. Two superfoods — microgreens and sprouts — are simple to start and maintain during cool weather, and they’re ready to harvest in just two to three weeks.

The best thing about superfoods? They are full of nutrients and promote immunity.

4. Blog: Giant pumpkins are a labor of love for the Moshers

Lauren and Andy Mosher can tell you that growing giant pumpkins is no easy task. The couple has been growing giant pumpkins for years, and spend an average of 1-3 hours a night caring for them.

So what does it take to grow a pumpkin that weighs hundreds of pounds or more? Careful planning, time, and maybe a bit of luck.

5. Harvest of Change: Oculus VR creates virtual reality farm experience

Farming meets the tech world in Oculus VR’s “Harvest of Change.” This isn’t some run-of-the-mill farming game. “Harvest of Change” invites you into the real farm of the Dammann family in Iowa.

you’ll need an Oculus Rift to view the 3D version of “Harvest of Change,” but if you don’t have one or don’t want to wait until it’s released to the public, there is a 2D version available for download.