It is incredibly important to understand carbon to nitrogen (C:N) ratios before planting corn into high biomass cover crop. On this farm, we planted corn directly into cereal rye, so we streamed 50 gallons of 28-0-0-5, with humic acid and a nitrogen stabilizer, over the corn about 20 days after planting.
Read MoreCould ultra high density grazing have a positive impact on row crop fields? Today, we are trying to answer that question with a grazing experiment on one of our farms. Our goal is to determine if ultra high density grazing is any more beneficial than the rotational grazing we normally do.
Read MoreToday, we are evaluating the success of our efforts to prevent erosion, planting corn directly into the living cover crop, and following the planter with a roller crimper. Even though the rye is close to maturity, the roller crimper by itself will not kill it. In the next few days, we will chemically terminate the cover crop to ensure there is no competition for the emerging corn plants.
Read MoreThe cover crop is as tall as the calves now! It doesn't seem to bother them or their mothers as they enjoy strip grazing this mix together.
Read MoreThe days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer, and the cover crops are taking off. This is the perfect time to experiment with strip grazing to help our cattle and future row crops get the most out of our winter cover crop.
Read MoreThere is a growing movement within our industry that focuses on creating healthier soils by working with nature, rather than trying to control it. Farmers and ranchers all over the world are improving their soils by embracing soil health principles that mimic nature and promote soil biology.
Read MoreThere have been times I would have called our summer cover crop experiment a failure also. There are places where nothing came up and places where it is thick and tall. I’ve noticed that the summer annuals came up best where the existing grass stand was poor. Of course, this makes sense and encourages me, because this is exactly the areas that will most benefit from the increased biomass and diversity.
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