Planting

Tractor accidents are the leading cause of farm fatalities, with most occurring in the event of a rollover. Hence, pasture managers should be incredibly cautious when reseeding and interseeding pastures on slopes.

The concept of the rule of thumb appears to have its origins in a variety of locations. Some stories cannot be substantiated or documented, while others seem to make good sense.

“Green grass at last! These first beautiful days of spring; deep blue skies, white puffy clouds, a delicious warmth in the sunshine. And look at that grass! Emerald green, 3 inches high, like those legendary green hills of Ireland.

Many forage growers have recently had “sticker shock” at their ag-supplier’s counter. The best varieties are considerably more expensive than what most growers have grown accustomed to paying. Consequently, some forage growers have been tempted to either use inferior varieties or substantially reduce seeding rates in the superior varieties to save on seed costs during establishment. But, there is a difference between cutting costs and cutting corners.

Seventeen is not only the number of years Tom Cotter has experimented with cover crops on his southern Minnesota farm; it’s also the number of species he uses in his mix.

Picture this: a tall, green field of corn growing like glory but struggling with what looks like a serious weed problem. Hang on a minute – those aren’t weeds, they’re alfalfa seedlings. Come again?