Crop Management

Webinar: How to address ag trade deficit through Farm Bills

An agricultural trade deficit is increasing as the U.S. grows less and imports more fresh produce and other crops. New research reveals how many acres it would take to balance the U.S. agricultural trade deficit... more »

Farmland LP fund offers $250 million for transitioning to organic

Farmland LP, a fund manager specializing in organic farmland, has launched the $250-million Vital Farmland III, its third and largest fund to date. Fund III will extend Farmland's mission of transforming conventional farms into dynamic,... more »

Michigan State organic grower training program registration opens

Michigan State University (MSU) is accepting applications for the 2024 Organic Farmer Training Program (OFTP). The registration deadline is Feb. 21 for the MSU Department of Horticulture’s program. The OFTP brings together farmworkers, aspiring farmers,... more »

USDA expands crop insurance to cover grapevine loss

The USDA is expanding crop insurance options with a new grapevine insurance program to cover loss of grafted vines caused by natural perils such as freeze or fire. The new program also will complement the... more »

U.S. apple crop forecast at 256 million bushels

The U.S. apple crop for 2023-24 is expected to top 256 million 42-pound bushels, according to the U.S. Apple Association. USApple’s forecast is about 6 million bushels over the USDA’s annual forecast. The USDA released... more »

Organic growers seek climate change solutions via Farm Bill

As Congress hammers out the 2023 Farm Bill, growing interest in the impacts of agriculture on climate could give organic farmers more political sway as they advocate for funding and programs that help them. Organic... more »

Drone assignment: A costly investment, consider pros and cons

A recent addition in growers’ toolboxes, unmanned aerial systems (UAS) flying over orchards and vineyards can supply images to help orchardists and horticulturists more precisely and efficiently identify areas of concern. Drones can increase efficiencies... more »

Organic Grower: Apple growing profitable, but challenging

It's all in the details when growing organic apples. Growers saw the challenges firsthand during the International Fruit Tree Association’s 66th annual conference and tours in Grand Rapids, Michigan. At a stop during the February... more »