Julie Wang

Biography

Julie Wang is a doctoral student at the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences at the University of Georgia, exploring the role of turfgrass weeds in enhancing pollinator habitats. With a Master of Science from the University of Toronto's Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, her thesis focused on improving extensive green roofs using invasion theory as a management tool, aiming to increase plant diversity in urban ecosystems. Prior to this, she completed her Honours Bachelor of Science at the University of Toronto and conducted undergraduate research on tropical forest fragmentation's effects on pollen flow in Heliconia tortuosa.

Research Interests

Julie’s research interest lies in investigating how management, such as mowing and fertility affect the growth and persistence of turfgrass weeds, as well as understanding homeowner perceptions of pollinator habitats in home lawns. Her interdisciplinary approach, spanning ecology and crop sciences, reflects her commitment to understanding and contributing to biodiversity conservation and sustainable landscape management.

Current Projects

Julie is currently engaged in several projects aimed at advancing our understanding of weed ecology and the promotion of pollinator habitats in turfgrass ecosystems. She is studying the effects of mowing on common lawn weeds, seeking to understand how this common cultural practice impacts weed growth, flowering, and persistence. Additionally, she is exploring the effects of fertility on common lawn weeds, particularly when grown in competition with warm-season turfgrass, aiming to unveil the influence of various fertility levels on weed flowering and proliferation. Furthermore, Julie is evaluating the response of common lawn weeds to different soil moisture levels, particularly when grown in competition with bermudagrass. Alongside these ecological studies, Julie is also exploring the perceptions and potential pushbacks associated with implementing pollinator habitats in home lawns, recognizing the importance of understanding people’s attitude and behavior in promoting ecological stewardship. Finally, she is working to determine the influence of various management practices and environmental factors on the distribution of common weeds in home lawns, aiming to promote pollinator friendly weed species in low maintenance turfgrass scenarios.

Favorite Quote

“Unagi is a state of total awareness.” – Ross Geller; Friends, Season 6: The One with Unagi