Category: Midwest
Weather expert: apple blossoms at risk during upcoming cold stretch
A brief warm-up is advancing apple bloom just as subfreezing temperatures approach. Growers should prepare for potential frost impacts through early next week.
Survey: U.S. fertilizer situation messy as low availability, high prices deliver big blow to farmer pockets
Nearly six in 10 farmers report worsening finances, reflecting rising fertilizer and fuel costs during spring planting. See the latest data.
Agrivoltaics in action: Iowa State research uncovers best crops for solar
New data shows yield gains for select vegetable crops grown in solar installations. Learn more about this cutting-edge production system.
Dicamba is back: What specialty crop growers need to do now
Dicamba drift is once again a concern for Midwest fruit and specialty crop growers. Find out how to protect your operation this season.
Registration open for MSU Extension’s Agritourism Summit, Tour
The 2026 event brings farmers, business owners, community leaders and tourism professionals together. See the agenda and get registered.
USDA: 2026 fruit, tree nut outlook signals cautious optimism for growers
A new USDA outlook points to steady consumer demand but rising costs and increasing import competition. Here’s how it impacts your farm.
Penn State: Early warmth, spring rains heighten apple scab risk
A warm start to March followed by rain is increasing the risk of apple scab and powdery mildew. Growers must act now to stay protected.
Michigan Apple Committee announces new chair, board appointments
The Michigan Apple Committee announced changes to its board and chairperson positions. Find out who was appointed.
MSU Extension offers weekly fruit pest, disease updates for growers
Join the weekly Zoom meetings to get the latest field-driven intelligence and connect with regional growers and specialists.
Nominations open for Wisconsin Cherry Board seat; deadline March 27
Wisconsin cherry growers can submit nominations for a board seat through March 27. Learn how to participate in the upcoming industry election.
Mizzou researchers unlock how plants regulate root growth
A key protein controls plant root length, paving the way for more drought-resistant crops. Learn more about this research breakthrough.
Master vineyard pruning: 2 day Michigan workshop welcomes global grape experts
Space is limited to 16 participants — secure your spot today and sharpen your pruning skills before the season begins.
Growing fruit — and farmers — in Michigan
Learn how Northern Michigan’s Lakeview Hill Farm empowers its workforce and adapts its production practices to today’s realities.
Fusilier Family Farms, Sarah Black honored with Master Farmer Awards at Great Lakes EXPO
Read up on the winners of the 2025 Michigan Vegetable Council Master Farmer & Associate award winners from GL EXPO 2025.
Michigan Agritourism Convention marks 20th anniversary with education, farm tours
Michigan’s 20th Agritourism Convention in Frankenmuth will feature farm tours, workshops and expert speakers. Get details on the event now.
USDA, MSU develop dual-arm fruit picking robot to drive harvest efficiency
ARS and Michigan State University researchers developed a new dual-arm harvesting robot. Watch a short video showing the robot in action.
USDA, MSU develop dual-arm fruit picking robot to drive harvest efficiency
ARS and Michigan State University researchers developed a new dual-arm harvesting robot. Watch a short video showing the robot in action.
How cold is too cold? MSU experts say tree fruit buds should be safe
Learn which crops MSU says are most vulnerable, what temperature thresholds matter and how to assess potential damage after the cold passes.
Spray drones: best practices for specialty crop use
Learn how aerial tools can compliment your on-farm spray program and enable precise applications to orchard and vineyard crops.