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 MoreDuring a winter freeze, we feed our cattle hay bales on row crop fields to improve areas that are prone to erosion.
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 MoreWhile Derek carefully inspects the equipment, keeps an attentive eye on the crops, and completes his long maintenance to-do list, I’m preparing myself for the inevitable results of our work. Whatever they may be.
Read MoreDuring planting season the highs and lows are never that far apart, and they always have more to do with our attitudes than our actual circumstances. There’s no doubt that our energy will be depleted, our patience stretched thin, and our motivation tested... but at the same time our days will be filled with the warmth of longer sunshine, sweeter moments, a million growing miracles, and hope that outlasts our exhaustion.
Read MoreI guess I could put it simply by saying the farm is teaching us more about responsibility, trust, patience, and purpose. Life on the farm is different from many, but at the same time it's still life. We face many of the same struggles and worries and challenges that everyone else does... but in a unique way the farm forces us to stay grounded.
Read MoreOn Earth Day it makes me happy to look back and see how much good will be done, not only for the soil, but for the rest of the Earth too this year. Our soil is literally alive with potential, the heifers that passed through are big and strong and making their new owners happy, and Derek and I are blessed with the opportunity to be a part of it all.
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