Anthony LeBude

Anthony LeBude is an Associate Professor and Nursery Extension Specialist at North Carolina State University. He focuses on developing practical solutions for nursery growers, including automation strategies, best management practices, and pest management systems. His work bridges research and extension through collaborative programs with industry stakeholders.

Education:

• PhD in Rooting and Physiology of Stem Cuttings of Loblolly Pine (NC State University, 2005)
• MS in Agricultural Education (NC State University, 1998)
• BS in Horticulture (Virginia Tech, 1990)

Research Interests:

• Automation technologies in nursery production
• Integrated pest management (IPM) adoption
• Water and nutrient management systems
• Microbiome dynamics in ornamental crops
• Propagation techniques for woody ornamentals

His work emphasizes translating scientific findings into actionable tools for growers, such as mobile apps (e.g., IPMPro) and standardized best practice guides.

Advocacy and Grants:

• Collaborated on multi-state pest management strategic plans
• Received grants for automation research and extension workshops
• Promoted experiential learning through hands-on IPM workshops

Lab/Team: Works closely with the NC State Extension network and industry partners like the Southern Nursery Association to address real-world production challenges.