Water
Mid-summer leaf samples for nutrient analysis
As shoots grow and leaves age, nutrient concentrations change. Mid-summer is the standard time to sample because levels of most nutrients are relatively stable and are most easy to interpret by comparing them to known... more »
Comparison of fruit sampling methods for SWD in blueberries
Spotted wing Drosophila is a new, invasive insect pest of fruit crops that was first detected in Michigan in September 2010. At the time of this article (July 2011), there have been no detections of... more »
Farm lenders seek diverse asset base, good records
While the lending market remains sluggish, loans are being made – albeit in limited quantity to qualified borrowers. Lenders want to see accuracy, a good credit history and a regular payment record. They also like... more »
Don’t let downy mildew get you down
Downy mildew has gotten a relatively early start this year in southwest Michigan with first sightings from mid- to late June, depending on location and cultivar. So far, the most affected cultivar has been Chancellor... more »
The nitrogen cycle: Explaining where your lost nitrogen is going
With the weather of the spring season, losing nitrogen from our farm fields isn’t just a worry, but rather an unwelcome reality. However, using the word “lost” to describe where your nitrogen (N) has gone... more »
Washington winery expands family enterprise
Once a week, Greg Fries makes the drive from a winery in Dundee, Ore., to a winery in Prosser, Wash. The drive takes about four hours. He stays for a night or two. Greg, 39,... more »
Usage, population, sprawl push advancements in irrigation
Plants need water to grow, but as global demand for quality fruit has increased in the last 50 years, the need to have the proper amount of water for successful plant growth has increased, too.... more »
Keep an eye on angular leaf spot in strawberries
Angular leaf spot (also called bacterial blight) is the only reported strawberry disease caused by a bacterium, namely Xanthomonas fragariae. Economic damage is mainly due to blackening of berry stem caps that mars the appearance... more »
Project studies rootstock, training system combinations
Gregory Lang, a Michigan State University (MSU) professor, talked rootstocks and training systems with a group of about 70 growers March 30, during a tour of sweet cherry operations around Grand Rapids, Mich. The morning... more »
Maryland family celebrates 50 years for farm market
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Catoctin Mountains in Thurmont, Md. is the Black family farm, Catoctin Mountain Orchards. The Blacks grow fruits and vegetables, have a farm market and bakery, build a pumpkin... more »
Current Issue
On-farm AI: Water, farm, labor research guide decisions
Data collection tool expands farm management
Carmel Valley winegrapes: Parsonage Village Vineyard
IFTA Yakima Valley tour provides orchard insights
IFTA recognizes tree fruit honorees
Pennsylvania recognizes fruit industry professionals
Fresh Views 40 Under 40
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