With the production of dairy and beef, cows play a critical role in feeding the nation. But could this bovine backbone of the food pyramid assist in protecting the country, too? With recent wildfires raging in states like California, Colorado, and Oregon, and ravaging millions of acres—in some cases decimating entire towns, climate change and […]
How Do I Start a Farmstead? 3 Things to Know
If you’re interested in starting your own farming operation here are a few things to keep in mind as you embark upon your new venture. Be Clear About Your Farming Needs You should map out the amount of acres you’ll need to meet your specific farming goals. For instance, you might need 30 to 35 […]
4 Practical Tips From a Cattle Handling Expert
Purdue University’s Ron Lemenager is an animal scientist and a cattle handling expert. His tips, from very practical advice to more nuanced insights about the behavior of cattle, can help you more safely and easily manage cattle on your farming operation. Reduce Shadows and Noise Shadows may confuse cattle, said Lemenager, according to Successful Farming […]
3 Key Things Every Farmer Needs to Know About Soil Health
3 Key Things Every Farmer Needs to Know About Soil Health Exactly what defines soil health? According to the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) soil health is “the continued capacity of soil to function as a vital living ecosystem that sustains plants, animals, and humans.” Whatever the nature of your farming operation may […]
What Effects Can Trace Mineral Deficiencies Have on Your Cow Herd?
Without an appropriate mineral balance your herd may not perform up to expectations or could display negative effects, so mineral nutrition is critically important. You should take a very close look at your mineral program to see if changes need to be made to enhance the health and performance of your cattle. There are six […]
More Advice on Cover Crops: Mistakes to Avoid
Planting cover crops requires an investment of time and money, and some farmers may be hesitant to plant them out of concern that mistakes will thwart their desired outcome and result in wasted money and effort. However, cover crops—which you typically grow between the harvest and the planting season of your cash crop, provide lots […]
3 Cover Crop Mistakes to Avoid
Some farmers may be hesitant to plant cover crops out of a concern that mistakes will thwart their desired outcome, and with the time and money investment required, being risk-averse is understandable. However, cover crops—which you typically grow between the harvest and the planting season of your cash crop, provide lots of benefits that far […]
Cover Crops: Managing Weeds and Disease Since the Dawn of Time
Cover crops are off-season crops that are grown between the harvest and the planting season of your cash crop. They offer many benefits, including preventing soil erosion, managing soil fertility, managing soil quality and water retention, and suppressing weeds, pests and diseases in your fields. They can also create forage for your livestock. If you’re […]
What You Need to Know About Managing Soil Quality and Water Retention on Your Farm
Cover crops are off-season crops that you grow between the harvest and the planting season of your cash crop. They offer a great many benefits, including preventing soil erosion, managing soil fertility, managing soil quality and water retention, and suppressing weeds, pests and diseases in your fields. They can also create forage for your livestock. […]
Preventing Erosion and Managing Fertility on Your North Florida Farm
Cover crops are off-season crops that you grow between the harvest and the planting season of your cash crop. They offer a great many benefits, including preventing soil erosion, managing soil fertility, quality, and water, and suppressing weeds, pests and diseases in your fields. They also create forage for your livestock. If you’re leery of […]
