Blog Posts

The Future of Organic Viticulture: Embracing Fungus Resistant Grape Varieties in Texas

The global wine industry is witnessing a pivotal shift towards organic practices, a trend strongly reflected in the Lone Star State. Although Texas’s organic grape production is currently led by only 3 farmers cultivating over 200 acres, this growing segment is set to change the Texas wine landscape. This rise in organic viticulture, coupled with an increasing consumer interest in organic wines over the last decade, sets the stage for a deeper exploration of innovative solutions like Fungus Resistant Grape (FRG) varieties.

Why Organic? The Texas Perspective

In Texas, where the climate varies from the arid conditions of the High Plains to the humid Gulf Coast, viticulturists face a unique set of challenges. Disease pressure, particularly from fungal pathogens, is a significant concern that can compromise grape quality and yield. Herein lies the importance of FRG varieties, which offer hope for organic viticulture in Texas and similar environments. The adoption of these disease-resistant varieties can not only enhance the sustainability of vineyards but also align with the growing consumer demand for wines produced “environmentally friendly.” There is a tremendous amount of evidence that the organic label has a huge and growing recognition with consumers, and they are buying organic at an ever-increasing rate.

The Organic Wine Boom

Nationally and globally, the last decade has seen a marked increase in interest and sales of organic wines. Consumers are increasingly drawn to organic labels, not just for the perceived health benefits but also for their environmental impact. This shifting preference underscores the need for viticulture practices that prioritize ecological balance and sustainability. In Texas, where the wine industry is as dynamic as it is diverse, the integration of FRG varieties into organic viticulture holds the promise of meeting this demand while addressing the agronomic challenges of organic grape production.

Disease Resistance: A Game-Changer for Organic Viticulture

In past research FRG varieties such as Regent and many others have demonstrated remarkable resilience against fungal diseases that commonly afflict vineyards, reducing the reliance on fungicides and thus supporting organic farming principles (Pedneault and Provost, 2016). The most common Fungus-Resistant Grape (FRG) varieties grown and sold today include:

Regent

  1. Regent: Developed in Germany, Regent is popular in cooler wine regions due to its resistance to both downy and powdery mildew. It produces red wines with deep color and robust flavors.
  2. Marechal Foch: An early-ripening variety known for its resistance to several grape diseases, including downy mildew. It is used to make a range of wines from light reds to rich, full-bodied wines with dark fruit flavors.
  3. Seyval Blanc: This variety is resistant to powdery mildew and is versatile in winemaking, used for producing everything from sparkling wines to well-balanced still whites.
  4. Solaris: Bred in Sweden, Solaris is resistant to most fungal diseases and is suitable for organic viticulture. It produces aromatic white wines with high acidity and tropical fruit flavors.
  5. Marquette: A cold-hardy variety developed by the University of Minnesota, Marquette is resistant to downy and powdery mildew and produces medium-bodied red wines with notes of cherry, blackberry, and spices.
  6. Camminare Noir: developed by the University of California, Davis, as part of their breeding program for disease-resistant grapes, is a hybrid cross between a Vitis vinifera wine grape variety (94%) and American species known for their disease resistance. It is highly resistant to Pierces disease (PD), powdery mildew and downy mildew, making it particularly well-suited for regions where these fungal diseases are significant challenges.
  7. Crimson Cabernet: developed by David and Ann Munson in Missouri, USA, is a hybrid of Norton (Vitis aestivalis, native to North America) and Cabernet Sauvignon. Bred specifically for cold climates, it offers excellent resistance to PD and to fungal diseases, including black rot and mildews. Norton contributes exceptional disease resistance and cold hardiness, while Cabernet Sauvignon imparts high wine quality and a recognizable flavor profile.
  8. Paseante Noir: Produces wines similar to Pinot Noir, offering a light to medium body with delicate fruit flavors and good structure. It is resistant to Pierce’s Disease and moderately resistant to fungal diseases like powdery mildew. This variety is ideal for warmer regions with high PD pressure but performs well in less disease-prone areas too.
  9. Errante Noir: Produces full-bodied red wines reminiscent of Syrah, with rich fruit flavors, good tannin structure, and aging potential. It combines strong resistance to Pierce’s Disease with moderate fungal resistance, making it an excellent option for growers in hot climates with heavy PD pressure.
  10. Ambulo Blanc: White variety that resembles Sauvignon Blanc in its crisp acidity, citrus notes, and fresh aromatics. It offers high resistance to Pierce’s Disease and moderate fungal resistance, making it suitable for humid, warm regions where white grape production is challenging.
  11. Caminante Blanc: Produces wines akin to Chardonnay, with balanced acidity and flavors of apple, pear, and subtle oak when barrel aged. It is highly resistant to Pierce’s Disease and moderately resistant to fungal pathogens, thriving in regions with significant PD pressure while supporting premium white wine production.

Regarding the use of FRG varieties in Texas, these varieties could translate to lower production costs, reduced environmental impact, and the potential for higher yields—key factors in the sustainability equation of organic viticulture. However, Texas’s diverse climate and the presence of various grape diseases make the state a potential area for adopting FRG varieties. The interest in sustainable and organic viticulture in Texas, along with the challenges posed by fungal diseases, suggest that FRG varieties could offer valuable solutions for Texan vineyards looking to reduce chemical inputs and manage disease more effectively.

Taste the Difference: The “Organoleptic” Advantage

Beyond the agronomic benefits, the organoleptic qualities (fancy word for a food or wine that stimulates our sense of taste or smell) of wines produced from FRG varieties offer a great argument for their adoption. Initial tastings and analyses reveal that these wines can compete with, if not exceed, the sensory profiles of wines made from traditional grape varieties (ones demanded now because they are considered superior). The promise of rich, complex flavors, coupled with the environmental benefits of organic viticulture, presents a compelling value proposition to consumers and wine “connoisseurs” alike. FRG varieties can change the industry for the better if allowed to by the very industry keeping them out!

Looking Ahead: Organic Viticulture in Texas

The growth of organic grape production in Texas, though in its early stages, is indicative of a broader trend towards sustainable viticulture practices. As the interest in organic wines continues to surge, the role of FRG varieties in enabling eco-friendly and economically viable grape production becomes increasingly significant. For Texas, a state known for its agricultural innovation and resilience, the adoption of FRG varieties and increase in organic viticulture could mean a significant change for the Texas wine industry—one that is sustainable, flavorful, and aligned with the increasing global shift towards organic production.

The trends surrounding Fungus-Resistant Grape (FRG) varieties reflect an intersection of sustainability, consumer preferences, and technological advancements. These trends are shaping the future of viticulture and winemaking, positioning FRG varieties as a pivotal innovation in the industry. Here are some key trends:

1. Increased Adoption in Organic Viticulture

FRG varieties are gaining traction among organic vineyards due to their inherent resistance to common fungal diseases, which reduces the need for synthetic chemical treatments.

2. Consumer Awareness and Acceptance

There’s a growing awareness among consumers about the environmental and health impacts of pesticide use in agriculture. As a result, wines produced from FRG varieties are increasingly seen as a healthier and more sustainable option. However, consumer acceptance varies, with a large segment of the market very cautious about genetically modified organisms (GMOs). FRG varieties are mostly being developed through traditional breeding methods rather than genetic engineering making them attractive to organic growers and consumers.

3. Technological Advancements in Breeding

Advances in breeding technologies, including genetic mapping and marker-assisted selection (these are approved organic practices), have significantly improved the quality and disease resistance of FRG varieties. These technological advancements enable the development of new varieties that retain the desired sensory qualities of traditional Vitis vinifera grapes while incorporating disease resistance from other grape species.

4. Regulatory and Policy Shifts

Changes in regulations and policies are influencing the adoption of FRG varieties. Some European regions are recognizing the benefits of these grapes in reducing chemical inputs and are adjusting regulations to support their use. Additionally, there’s a push for clearer labeling practices to inform consumers about the sustainable attributes of wines made from FRG varieties, especially organically produced FRG varieties!

5. Economic and Environmental Sustainability

The economic benefits of adopting FRG varieties are becoming more apparent to growers, including reduced costs associated with disease management and potential for higher yields due to decreased disease pressure.

6. Focus on Quality and Sensory Profiles

Initially, concerns existed about the sensory qualities of wines made from FRG varieties. However, ongoing research and development efforts focus on breeding FRG varieties that produce high-quality wines, comparable to those made from traditional grape varieties. This includes optimizing viticultural practices and winemaking techniques to enhance the sensory profiles of FRG wines.

7. Collaborative Research and Development

There’s a trend towards collaborative efforts among research institutions, breeders, and the wine industry to develop and promote FRG varieties. These collaborations aim to pool resources and knowledge to address the challenges of climate change, disease pressure, and sustainability in viticulture.

In summary, the trends for FRG varieties are driven by a confluence of sustainability concerns, technological innovations, and evolving consumer preferences. These trends highlight the growing importance of FRG varieties in the future of sustainable winemaking and organic viticulture.

As we witness the expansion of organic viticulture in Texas, the future of wine production appears promising. With each vineyard turning to Fungus Resistant Grape varieties, we edge closer to a wine industry that is not only kinder to the planet but also offers wines of exceptional quality and taste. The path forward for Texas and the wine world at large is clear: embracing organic practices and the innovative potential of FRG varieties is not just a trend, but the future of sustainable viticulture.

Source: Pedneault, K., & Provost, C. (2016). Fungus Resistant Grape Varieties as a Suitable Alternative for Organic Wine Production: Benefits, Limits, and Challenges. Scientia Horticulturae, 208, 57-77.

Here is an article from Florida by way of resistant grape varieties from UC-Davis. It follows along the lines of my blog here.

Disease-resistant wine grapes could be boon for Florida’s viticulture

Resources for Organic (click to view)

Selecting a Variety for your Farm?

Creating an adapted and sustainable organic farming system requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses both the selection and maintenance of crop varieties and an understanding of their interaction with the local environment and soil microbiome. This post aims to guide organic growers in developing a resilient agricultural practice by focusing on crop variety adaptation, seed saving, and leveraging the soil microbiome. In the realm of organic agriculture, the selection of seeds is a critical decision that influences not only the immediate productivity and health of the farm but also its long-term sustainability and economic viability. But before we dive into selecting seeds let’s talk about the organic standard for plantings seeds.

Click a Link Below to Scroll Down

  1. 205.204 Seeds and planting stock practice standard – Organic Rules
  2. Hybrid seeds
  3. Open-source seeds
  4. Development Process
  5. Maintenance and Distribution
  6. The Practice of Seed Saving
  7. Navigating the Challenges
  8. The Importance of Crop Variety Selection in Organic Systems
  9. Enhancing Soil Microbiome Interactions
  10. Emphasis on Plant Root Interactions with Soil Microbiome
  11. Legal Considerations! Before you try being your own plant breeder be sure you know your seeds…..
  12. Plant Variety Protection (PVP) Certificates
  13. Utility Patents
  14. Distinctions and Implications
  15. Other Resources

205.204 Seeds and planting stock practice standard – Organic Rules

(a) The producer must use organically grown seeds, annual seedlings, and planting stock: Except, That,

(1) Nonorganically produced, untreated seeds and planting stock may be used to produce an organic crop when an equivalent organically produced variety is not commercially available: Except, That, organically produced seed must be used for the production of edible sprouts;

(2) Nonorganically produced seeds and planting stock that have been treated with a substance included on the National List of synthetic substances allowed for use in organic crop production may be used to produce an organic crop when an equivalent organically produced or untreated variety is not commercially available;

(3) Nonorganically produced annual seedlings may be used to produce an organic crop when a temporary variance has been granted in accordance with § 205.290(a)(2);

(4) Nonorganically produced planting stock to be used to produce a perennial crop may be sold, labeled, or represented as organically produced only after the planting stock has been maintained under a system of organic management for a period of no less than 1 year; and

(5) Seeds, annual seedlings, and planting stock treated with prohibited substances may be used to produce an organic crop when the application of the materials is a requirement of Federal or State phytosanitary regulations.

Boiled down these rules mean you need to use only organically sourced seeds if at all possible. If there are not organic seeds available for the crop you want to plant or the organic varieties available are not adapted to your area, then you can select nonorganically produced seed varieties provided they are not treated of if they are treated the seed treatment is on the list of approved organic substances.

If you meet all the rules, then organic farmers are faced with the choice between 1. hybrid seeds, which dominate much of conventional and organic farming due to their high yield and disease resistance, 2. open-source seeds, which are freely available for use without intellectual property restrictions, and 3. traditional on-farm seed saving practices.

Hybrid seeds

Hybrid seeds created through the crossbreeding of two different parent plants, offer consistency and performance but require farmers to purchase new seeds each season, leading to increased costs and dependency on seed producers. A farmer must purchase hybrid seeds each season because the unique characteristics of first-generation (F1) hybrids—such as improved yield, disease resistance, and uniformity—do not reliably pass on to the next generation. This means seeds saved from hybrid crops typically result in plants that vary widely in their traits, losing the specific advantages that hybrids are valued for. Thus, to maintain consistency and performance in their crops, farmers need to buy new hybrid seeds each year. There are tremendous benefits to buying hybrids each year not the least of which is the almost guaranteed consistency of germination, overall plant health and yield. But what about these other methods for buying planting seed?

Open-source seeds

Open-sourced seeds on the other hand, are part of a movement aimed at ensuring seeds remain a shared resource. These seeds can be saved, replanted, and shared by anyone, promoting agricultural diversity and resilience. This system stands in stark contrast to the patented seeds of the large GMO seed industry, providing an alternative that supports the principles of organic farming by enhancing biodiversity and reducing farmers’ reliance on purchased seeds. However, despite the potential benefits, the majority of organic farming still relies heavily on hybrid seeds due to their immediate productivity benefits.

Open-source seeds emerge from a collaborative, transparent process aimed at keeping seeds as a shared resource accessible to all, without the encumbrance of patents or restrictive intellectual property rights. This model allows for the free exchange, use, and modification of plant genetic materials, encouraging innovation and adaptation in agriculture. Here’s a closer look at how open-source seeds are developed and maintained:

Development Process

  1. Breeding and Selection: The initial development of open-source seeds involves traditional breeding techniques where plants are selected based on desired traits such as resilience to pests or diseases, adaptability to local climate conditions, nutritional value, or yield. This process can be undertaken by individual farmers, researchers, or through collaborative efforts among a community of breeders and farmers.
  2. Open-Source Pledge: Once a new variety is developed, it can be pledged as open-source. This means the breeder commits to making the genetic resources of that variety freely available under an agreement that prohibits patenting or applying any other form of intellectual property restriction that would limit its use or redistribution. The Open Source Seed Initiative (OSSI) https://osseeds.org/ is one of the organizations that facilitate this pledge, ensuring the seeds remain free for anyone to use, breed, and share.

Maintenance and Distribution

  1. Seed Companies: While open-source seeds are free from intellectual property restrictions, they still require meticulous cultivation to maintain their genetic purity and desirable traits. Specialized seed companies and cooperatives play a crucial role in this, producing these seeds under controlled conditions to prevent cross-pollination with other varieties, ensuring the seeds remain “true to type” from one generation to the next.
  2. Cleaning and Quality Control: These companies also undertake rigorous cleaning processes to remove weed seeds and other contaminants, ensuring that the seeds are of high quality and ready for planting. This includes both physical cleaning methods and sometimes treatments to enhance seed viability and health without altering their genetic makeup.
  3. Community Engagement and Support: Beyond production, the distribution of open-source seeds often involves educational efforts to inform farmers about the benefits and practices of using and saving these seeds. This includes training on how to save seeds and select for desirable traits, thus empowering farmers to become active participants in the cultivation and improvement of open-source varieties.

Open-source seeds represent a collective effort to promote biodiversity, resilience, and sustainability in agriculture. Through the dedicated work of breeders, seed companies, and the broader farming community, these seeds are developed, maintained, and distributed with the goal of keeping plant genetic resources accessible and adaptable to the changing needs of farmers and ecosystems around the world. This approach not only supports ecological and economic sustainability but also fosters a sense of community and cooperation in the agricultural sector. For more information check out the Organic Seed Alliance.

The Practice of Seed Saving

The practice of seed saving, a cornerstone of traditional agriculture, allows farmers to select seeds from plants that have thrived in their specific growing conditions, leading to a gradual improvement of crop genetics tailored to local ecosystems. This practice supports biodiversity and ecological balance, key components of organic farming. If you have any interest at all in seed saving to have plants adapted to your own farm you will enjoy this little discussion about these benefits. Just click: Growing for Flavor and Health – April 2024, Acres U.S.A.

Saving seed on the farm indeed encapsulates a blend of potential benefits and challenges that require careful consideration. Let’s explore these aspects in detail:

Benefits

  1. Cost Savings: One of the most immediate benefits of saving seeds is the reduction in costs associated with purchasing new seeds each season. This can be particularly advantageous for small-scale and resource-limited farmers.
  2. Adaptation to Local Conditions: Over time, seeds saved from plants that thrive in the local environment can lead to the development of plant varieties that are better adapted to local conditions, including climate, soil, and pests.
  3. Preservation of Genetic Diversity: Saving seeds from a variety of plants helps to maintain and even increase genetic diversity within crop populations. This diversity can be crucial for resilience to disease and changing environmental conditions.

Challenges

  1. Germination Issues: One challenge with saved seeds is the potential for lower germination rates. Factors such as improper storage conditions, age of the seed, or damage during processing can affect viability. It requires meticulous management to maintain high germination rates from season to season.
  2. Seed Cleaning Problems: Proper seed cleaning is crucial to remove debris, weed seeds, and diseased seeds, which can be labor-intensive and requires specific equipment. Without effective cleaning, the quality of saved seeds can be compromised, leading to reduced crop quality and yield.
  3. Genetic Drift and Diversity: While genetic diversity is a benefit, managing it can also be a challenge. Without careful selection, genetic drift can occur over time, potentially leading to the loss of desired traits. Moreover, in the case of open-pollinated and especially cross-pollinated crops, there is the risk of unwanted crossbreeding, which can result in off-type plants that do not have the desired characteristics of the original variety.

Navigating the Challenges

To address these challenges, farmers engaged in seed saving can adopt several strategies:

  • Education and Training: Learning about best practices in seed selection, harvesting, cleaning, and storage can improve the quality and viability of saved seeds.
  • Investment in Equipment: While initial investments may be required for cleaning and storage equipment, these can pay off in the long term through improved seed quality and crop yields.
  • Community Networks: Participating in local or online farming communities can provide valuable support and knowledge sharing around seed-saving practices. Sharing seeds and experiences can help in managing genetic diversity and solving common problems.
  • Selective Breeding: Careful selection of plants for seed saving can help maintain or enhance desired traits, ensuring the continuity and improvement of crop varieties over time.

The interplay between these seed systems—hybrid, open-source, and saved seeds—presents organic farmers with a complex set of choices, each with its own set of benefits and challenges. Understanding these options is crucial for anyone looking to support sustainable, productive, and resilient organic farming operations.

The Importance of Crop Variety Selection in Organic Systems

Choosing crop varieties suited to organic systems is important and too little emphasis is placed on this today. These varieties need to be resilient—capable of withstanding pests and diseases without synthetic chemicals, adaptable to local environmental conditions, and efficient in their use of nutrients from organic inputs. Moreover, their ability to outcompete weeds and their synergy with organic crop rotations make them an important part of your organic program. Key traits for organic varieties include:

  • Disease and Pest Resistance: Natural resistance reduces the need for interventions.
  • Adaptability to Local Conditions: Varieties should thrive under local climate and soil conditions.
  • Competitiveness with Weeds: Rapid growth and canopy development can help suppress weeds.
  • Nutrient Use Efficiency: Varieties should efficiently utilize nutrients from organic matter.
  • Quality and Market Preference: High-quality crops meet consumer and market demands.
  • Synergy with Organic Crop Rotations: Varieties should complement organic rotations to enhance soil health and manage pests.

The only way to evaluate, know and understand these traits are acting in your area or on your farm is to talk to other organic growers and to experiment on your own farm. 

Enhancing Soil Microbiome Interactions

A healthy soil microbiome is vital for nutrient supply, disease resistance, and stress tolerance. Strategies to enhance this interaction include:

  • Selecting Microbiome-Friendly Varieties: Some plants are better at recruiting beneficial microbes. Selecting and breeding these varieties can enhance nutrient uptake and stress resilience. Knowing this may involve utilizing the “Haney Test” for measuring CO2 in soil to determine microbial activity and the PLFA test for knowing microbe diversity.
  • Soil Health Practices: Incorporating organic matter, reducing tillage, and using cover crops to support a diverse and active soil microbiome. Some varieties, especially open-pollinated varieties grown for multiple seasons in the same area become adapted to these practices.

Emphasis on Plant Root Interactions with Soil Microbiome

Understanding and Measurement: The ability of a plant to recruit and maintain a beneficial soil microbiome is pivotal for nutrient acquisition, disease suppression, and stress tolerance in organic systems. How do you know? These traits can be measured by some sophisticated tools:

  • Microbial Diversity and Abundance: Using DNA-based techniques (such as 16S and ITS rRNA gene sequencing) to identify and quantify the microbial communities associated with plant roots. This is how scientists are learning to characterize microbes specific to crops.
  • Plant Exudate Profile: Analyzing root exudates to understand the chemical compounds released by roots that attract beneficial microbes. 
  • Microbial Activity: Measuring soil enzyme activities or microbial respiration rates as indicators of microbial activity and health around the root zone (Haney test and PLFA test).
  • Beneficial Associations: Quantifying specific beneficial associations, such as mycorrhizal colonization rates or the presence of nitrogen-fixing bacteria, through microscopy or molecular markers. (Some companies are now offering this service, but it is several $$ to use!)

Legal Considerations! Before you try being your own plant breeder be sure you know your seeds…..

Plant Variety Protection (PVP) Certificates

Plant Variety Protection (PVP) certificates are a form of intellectual property protection specifically designed for new varieties of seed- and tuber-propagated plants. Administered in the United States by the Plant Variety Protection Office (PVPO), part of the USDA, a PVP certificate grants breeders exclusive rights to their new plant varieties for a period of 20 years from the date of issuance (25 years for trees and vines). To qualify, a variety must be new, distinct, uniform, and stable.

One of the key features of the PVP system is the “farmer’s exemption,” which allows farmers to save seeds from PVP-protected plants for their own use in planting subsequent crops. However, they are not permitted to sell the saved seeds for planting purposes without the breeder’s permission. This exemption is crucial as it recognizes and preserves traditional farming practices while still providing incentives for breeders to develop new varieties.

Utility Patents

Utility patents, on the other hand, offer a broader scope of protection and can apply to any new and useful process, machine, manufacture, or composition of matter, or any new and useful improvement thereof. In the context of agriculture, utility patents can protect genetically modified organisms (GMOs), specific plant genes, methods of breeding, or methods of creating a plant with specific characteristics.

Utility patents on plants offer strong protection because they prevent others from making, using, selling, offering for sale, or importing the patented invention without authorization for up to 20 years from the filing date. Unlike PVP certificates, utility patents do not include a farmer’s exemption, meaning that even saving and replanting seeds from a patented plant can infringe on the patent holder’s rights.

Distinctions and Implications

The distinction between PVP and utility patents lies not only in the scope of what they protect but also in their implications for breeders, farmers, and the agricultural industry at large. PVP is specifically designed for plant varieties and includes provisions that balance the interests of breeders with traditional farming practices, such as seed saving. Utility patents provide a broader and stronger level of protection, including for biotechnological inventions, but also impose more stringent limitations on the use of patented materials.

Other Resources

Water-Seeded Rice

Dr. Ronnie Levy, Extension Rice Specialist at LSU wrote this article for the April 2022 issue of Rice Farming Magazine. I clipped it out and thought, “this will come in handy someday!” I am putting this out there again because our organic rice producers are facing some real problems with weeds in rice including weedy rice, hemp sesbania, jointvetch and certainly weedy grasses.

Last year I was at Joe Broussard’s farm near Nome, looking at a rice field that was headed out and looking great. On the other side of the levy was a field choked with weeds – what was the difference? One was water-seeded rice, and the other was not. Joe had used water seeding and his flood to control weeds “the old-fashioned way!” So, read this article by Dr. Levy and think about it……

Rice Farming, April 2022. Dr. Ron Levy. “Most rice is drill-seeded in Louisiana — about 80% — but there is a renewed interest in water-seeding rice for weedy rice suppression (or many other weeds in organic systems).

The most common water-seeding method in Louisiana is the pinpoint flood system. After seeding, the field is drained briefly. The initial drain period is only long enough to allow the radicle to penetrate the soil (peg down) and anchor the seedling. A three- to five-day drain period is sufficient under normal conditions.

The field then is permanently flooded until rice nears maturity (an exception is midseason drainage to alleviate straighthead (physiological problem of rice) under certain conditions).

In this system, rice seedlings emerge through the floodwater. Seedlings must be above the water surface by at least the 3 to 4-leaf rice stage. Before this stage, seedlings normally have sufficient stored food and available oxygen to survive. Atmospheric oxygen and other gases are then necessary for the plant to grow and develop.

The pinpoint flood system is an excellent means of suppressing weedy rice emerging from seeds in the soil because oxygen necessary for weedy rice germination is not available as long as the field is maintained in a flooded (or saturated) condition. A continuous flood system, another water-seed system, is limited in Louisiana. Although similar to the pinpoint flood system, the field is never drained after seeding.

Regarding the water-seeded systems, a continuous flood system is normally best for red rice suppression, but rice stand establishment is most difficult. Even the most vigorous variety may have problems becoming established under this system. Inadequate stand establishment is a common problem in both systems.

Fertilization timing is the same for both the pinpoint and continuous flood systems. Phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sulfur (S) and zinc (Zn) fertilizers are applied preplant incorporated as in the dry-seeded system. Once the field is flooded, the soil should not be allowed to dry.

If the nitrogen requirement of a particular field is known, all nitrogen fertilizer can be incorporated prior to flooding and seeding or applied during the brief drain period in a pinpoint flood system. Additional N fertilizer can be applied at the beginning of reproductive growth between panicle initiation and panicle differentiation (2-millimeter panicle).

Water-seeding has been used in the past for weed control. Will water-seeding make a comeback to help with weedy rice suppression (or possibly for organic rice producers)?”

Another issue water-seeded rice may experience.

Rice Seed Midges – The larvae of these insects (Order Diptera, Family Chironomidae, Genera Tanytarsus and Chironomus) are aquatic and can be very abundant in rice fields. The adults are small, gnat-like flies that typically form inverted pyramidal mating swarms in the spring over stagnant or slow-moving water. Female flies lay eggs in ribbons on the water surface. The larvae hatch and move downward to the flooded substrate where they build protective “tubes” of silk, detritus, and mud. These brown, wavy “tubes” are easily observed on the mud surface of rice paddies. Occasionally, the larvae will exit the tubes and swim to the surface in a whiplike fashion, similar to that of mosquito larvae. Midge larvae can damage water-seeded (pinpoint or continuous flood) rice by feeding on the sprouts of submerged germinating rice seeds. Damage can retard seedling growth or kill seedlings; however, the window of vulnerability to midge attack is rather narrow (from seeding to when seedlings are about 3 inches long).

Control rice seed midge problems by dry seeding, then employing a delayed flood, or by draining water-seeded paddies soon after planting. Thus, a pinpoint flood should reduce the potential for rice seed midge damage relative to a continuous flood. For water-seeded rice, reduce rice seed midge problems by increasing the seeding rate and planting sprouted seed immediately after flooding.

Management of Rice Seed Midge – Insecticide Trial Results

Click on the above link to read a great article from California rice researchers about an experiment they did on Rice Seed Midge control and some of the most effective treatments are organic and soon to be OMRI approved.

Award-Winning Growth: Texas Organic Entities Will Flourish with USDA Organic Grants

Last year USDA put out the call for grant applications for the Organic Market Development Grant program. This was a chance to apply for up to $3 Million in grant funds with a match or up to $100,000 for equipment with no match. The Organic Market Development Grant (OMDG) program supports the development of new and expanded organic markets to help increase the consumption of domestic organic agricultural commodities. The program focuses on building and expanding capacity for certified organic production, aggregation, processing, manufacturing, storing, transporting, wholesaling, distribution, and development of consumer markets. OMDG aims to increase the availability and demand for domestically produced organic agricultural products and address the critical need for additional market paths.

Texas organic producers have excelled in their efforts, submitting a multitude of grant applications, and the results are now in. Below, discover the exceptional organic projects that have been chosen to enhance organic agriculture in Texas for the foreseeable future.

Promotion of Organic Yaupon Tea as a Domestic Alternative to Imported Tea Distributed to The Foodservice Industry

Recipient: Yaupon Holly Tea, LLC, Cat Spring, TX

This project aims to increase the American consumer awareness of organic yaupon tea as a replacement for imported tea via the food service sector. An Organic Yaupon Marketing Plan will increase opportunities for consumer exposure to organic yaupon tea while also allowing for additional customers, buyers, and parties to participate in the domestic organic yaupon tea industry. Yaupon is a caffeinated plant native to North America and rich in polyphenols and antioxidants like imported tea. By using a hybrid of traditional tea preparation methods, organic yaupon tea has an almost indistinguishable flavor profile from imported green and black tea served in both hot and iced tea. Cat Spring Yaupon has created a cohesive marketing and outreach plan to increase the amount of organic yaupon tea served in restaurants, cafes, hotels, and spas. This plan incorporates the opportunity to promote and support additional organic yaupon producers through the American Yaupon Association while also supplying to tea companies who would otherwise be selling imported tea to their food service customers. This will also allow restaurants to substitute imported tea on their menus with organic yaupon tea thus giving their customers and guests an opportunity to sample and fall in love with the incredible domestic organic yaupon tea.

Diversifying Organic Supply Chains for Small Producers in the Rio Grande Valley

Recipient: Triple J Organics, LLC, Mission, TX

Triple J Organics is a minority-owned certified organic citrus orchard in Mission, Texas established in 1995. Triple J manages 25 acres of certified organic citrus groves, primarily of Ruby Red grapefruit and early season oranges, as well as Navel Oranges, Meyer Lemons, Tangerines, and Tangelos in smaller quantities. This project will increase consumption of locally produced organic orange juice in the Rio Grande Valley and increase the profitability and long-term viability of Triple J Organics through special purpose equipment purchases that allow Triple J to process 32,000 lbs. of “waste”, or seconds, oranges into fresh juice and deliver it safely to customers in the Valley. The project will target school districts as potential customers, as well as supermarkets, restaurants, health food stores, daycare facilities, and eldercare facilities as needed. Beneficiaries include Triple J Organics, local schools and businesses who purchase the new product, as well as other organic citrus growers in the Valley who may be able to cooperate and aggregate to produce a higher margin value-added product.

Steelbow Farm: Expanding Access to Local, Organic Produce in Central Texas

Recipient: Steelbow Farm LLC, Austin, TX

Steelbow Farm is seeking to broaden its delivery range and increase local food access and supply chain resilience by procuring a delivery vehicle. The overarching purpose of the proposed project is to expand access to local, organic produce by eliminating the current constraint of distance and delivery radius, while simultaneously addressing the growing demand for product in the current marketplace. Currently, Steelbow Farm has demand for their product that exceeds their capacity because they do not have a vehicle and therefore have a limited delivery range. This bottleneck is hampering Steelbow Farm’s ability to rise to the organic market demands. They believe access to this equipment would drastically improve access to organic produce, as they could radically increase their customer base and range. For context, currently, within Travis County, only .06% of food is produced locally. The Austin and Travis County areas are seeing a decline in the amount of vegetable farms and farmland, which are disappearing at an alarming 16.8 acres a day. Amidst these startling statistics, this business is thriving and demand for their produce is extremely high. Steelbow Farm wants to be able to meet the market demand and fill the gap within the local food system. As organic vegetable producers, they are striving to increase the percentage of local food consumed within their community.

Enhancing Organic Dairy Production and Market Access in Texas

Recipient: Armagh Fine Foods LLC dba Armagh Creamery, Dublin TX

The primary goal of this project is to enhance and expand the production capabilities of the Armagh Creamery organic farming and dairy operations. By acquiring essential equipment, the project aims to achieve increased efficiency, product diversification, and expanded distribution. This equipment will enable us to venture into new product lines, including heavy cream and butter, expand production of existing products, and streamline the production process, reducing the workload on current employees and enhancing overall efficiency for creating new butter product lines. The acquisition of a delivery vehicle will significantly improve distribution capabilities, allowing us to reach local retailers and drop locations in Central, North, and West Texas. This expansion will promote the availability of organic dairy products to a wider consumer base. The specific objectives of this project are two-fold: 1) to scale yogurt production to the full daily capacity of 10,000 units per day, two days a week. This increase will enable us to supply more retailers throughout Texas and cater to the growing demand in the direct-to-consumer market and 2) to expand raw milk and cream production to 600 gallons a day for 3-4 days a week, resulting in a weekly output of 1800 to 2400 gallons. This expansion will further support the direct-to-consumer market and provide ample resources for the planned heavy cream and butter product lines.

Expanding Capacity and Improved Quality of Organic Cotton

Recipient: RKH GIN LLC, dba Woolam Gin, Odonnell, TX

RKH Gin LLC, dba Woolam Gin is a primarily woman owned ginning facility that has processed organic cotton for 33 years, being the first United States to do so. It is located in a high poverty area in Lynn County, Texas and serves other high poverty areas including Dawson and Terry Counties. Woolam Gin is seeking a grant award to purchase and install equipment to expand the services and improve processing to increase production of organic cotton for farmers which will improve overall market production of the beneficial product. The overarching project purpose is to improve efficiency, therefore improving outcomes for farmers and the organic market. The equipment will increase production from 25 bales an hour to up to 40 bales an hour. The increase in processing will improve the housing time of cotton in the warehouse which will improve the grades and facilitate earlier entry into the marketplace, benefiting farm producers, processors, and consumers. Faster processing will improve turnaround for the farmer and further increase production possibilities. The primary partners and collaborators of the project will include participating organic farmers, the project manager, project supervisor, gin manager and other supporting human resources workers. This grant award will create improved markets and expand processing capacity which in turn will enrich market availability and further development of production resources and production.

Texas Organic Market Development & Promotion

Recipient: Texas Department of Agriculture, Austin, TX

The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) will use a multi-faceted approach to promote local organic producers in the produce, grains, dairy, and fiber markets. Though these industries are each unique in their production, the issues they experience are similar. These challenges include, but are not limited to, lack of knowledge among consumers of each industry’s availability/benefits, existing gaps between producers and buyers that result in barriers for growth, and an absence of public resources that assist organic farmers from promoting themselves more efficiently. Through this project, TDA will increase local consumer knowledge, support activities to develop new markets, increase demand for domestically produced organic agricultural products, and provide additional market paths for organic farmers in Texas. Goals of this project include: 1) increase public knowledge of Texas organic agriculture industry, 2) provide opportunities to improve market share and sales of local organic producers, and 3) build new connections between Texas producers and potential buyers to accomplish these goals. TDA Marketing will produce new marketing materials targeted for the organic industry, assist organic producers with attending trade shows relevant to their respective industries, facilitate business to business interactions, and run a social media campaign that highlights each industry. These activities will strengthen the relationships between Texas organic crop/product producers and buyers, as well as better inform the public on the availability and benefits of Texas organic products. These relationships would aid in ongoing efforts to strengthen the supply chain issues, build on current opportunities with Texas agriculture associations, assist historically underserved communities, and increase demand for locally produced organic products. To further assist the organic industries of Texas, TDA will assist in the production of the Field View Organics program. This program aims to identify organic operations across the state and mark them for aerial spraying companies to help prevent potential chemical drift or contamination of organic crops. By supporting this initiative, TDA will protect the current organic producers across the state and alleviate potential concerns for new members wanting to enter the industry.

Here is the entire list of projects funded by USDA for the entire country. This list should give you some ideas for submitting an application for the next grant program that come along! Organic Grant Winners

Non-Antibiotic Management of Mastitis in Dairy Cattle

(This article first appeared in “Texas Dairy Matters” and has since been published in Texas Ag and Dairy Review. I have had an opportunity to work with some of these technologies and these researchers on an organic dairy investigating the potential to improve both mastitis control and long-term animal health. Bob Whitney)

Non-Antibiotic Management of Mastitis in Dairy Cattle

Authors: Bhuwan Shrestha1, Rajesh Neupane1, Sushil Paudyal2, Ph.D.

1 Graduate Research Assistant 2 Assistant Professor. Department of Animal Sciences, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, The Texas A&M University System

Mastitis is a common and costly disease affecting dairy cattle worldwide. It is characterized by inflammation of the mammary gland, typically caused by bacterial infection. Mastitis is typically managed on dairy herds with intramammary antibiotics. However, not all mastitis events respond to treatment with antibiotics, depending on the pathogen associated with the disease event and cow level factors. In addition, prudent and appropriate use of antibiotics is an essential step in achieving antimicrobial stewardship in dairy farms. In some management systems such as organic systems, the use of antibiotics is restricted (USDA, 2017). This presents the need to explore options to manage mastitis without the use of antibiotics.

In this article, we discuss. some strategies currently being evaluated by our group to manage mastitis events.

A) Acoustic pulse technology:

Acoustic pulse technology, APT, has emerged as a promising non-antibiotic therapy for managing mastitis in dairy cattle. Specifically adapted for treating mastitis, APT uses repeated projectile collisions with an anvil connected to the treatment head. These collisions generate low-incidence shockwaves or acoustic pulses that are transferred non-invasively to the affected mammary gland tissues. Similarly to ultrasound therapy, ATP uses sound waves to deliver energy. However, APT delivers lower-frequency sound waves that can penetrate deeper into tissues compared to ultrasound therapy. The therapeutic effects of APT include promoting recovery, reducing inflammation, and potentially improving blood flow and immune responses (Leitner et al., 2021). Recent studies have shown positive outcomes, such as increased recovery rates, reduced culling and additional milk yield in APT-treated cows compared to controls (Blum et al., 2023). This innovative approach offers an alternative to antibiotics, contributing to udder health and overall dairy cow welfare.

B) Cold laser therapy:

Cold laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy, has been explored as a potential non-antibiotic treatment for mastitis in dairy cattle. Cold laser therapy is currently used by many veterinarians as an alternative therapy approach to manage inflammation in small and large animals, including horses. This technology works on the principle of “photobiomodulation,” which refers to a therapeutic technique that uses light energy to stimulate cellular processes. In the context of dairy cattle, photobiomodulation has gained attention for its potential benefits in various aspects of herd health and productivity. There are reports of this technology used to promote wound healing and tissue repair. Photobiomodulation can accelerate wound healing and tissue repair by promoting cellular metabolism and enhancing blood flow. The technology can also help with pain management as the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation can help alleviate pain and discomfort. It has particularly been useful for managing conditions like lameness or joint inflammation (Gard et al., 2017).

Photobiomodulation has been explored as an adjunctive therapy for mastitis treatment. By reducing inflammation and promoting immune responses, it may aid in faster recovery. Light-emitting diodes, LEDs, or lasers are used to deliver specific wavelengths of light to targeted areas for a specific duration. Treatment protocols vary, but sessions are typically short and non-invasive. Although research is ongoing by our group, the results have indicated potential benefits. In à separate study, the laser irradiation resulted in a 16.6% increase in recovery, indicated by regression of signs of inflammation and a decrease in the somatic cell counts. Supportive treatment with laser irradiation increased recovery rates by 24.2% (Malinowski, et al., 2019). However, further studies are needed to establish its efficacy by evaluating optimal duration and wavelength combination for mastitis and somatic cell count management.

C) Plant molecule-based compounds:

One of the new tools for mastitis management that is getting attention is called antibiofilm compounds derived from plant molecule-based a non-antibiotic therapy for compounds. Mastitis-causing bacteria form and maintain biofilm through the process of quorum sensing. Bacteria produce biofilms as a survival strategy, especially in challenging environments. Biofilm protects the bacteria as a shield preventing immune cells from directly reaching the bacteria. The plant-based molecules use quorum sensing science to disrupt communication between selected mastitis-causing bacteria (Herrema et al., 2023). The components can block bacterial communication and influence their behavior such as biofilm formation. This process is called quorum quenching or quorum sensing inhibiting. In bacteria, the formation of biofilms is controlled by quorum sensing, QS, signaling genes and their products. Various inhibitors/compounds can disturb the QS signaling cascade and are used as an alternative therapy to optimize biofilm-related challenges. Reducing bacterial QS signaling by proprietarily selected plant molecules is possible because they possess inhibitory activity against bacterial and fungal biofilms. There are claims this technology promotes overall herd health and longevity of cows.

(The plant molecule-based compounds currently being evaluated are produced by AHV International. Some organic dairy producers are reporting varied success with these treatments, but more work is being done to evaluate their use. Bob Whitney)

References:

Blum, S.E., Krifuks, O., Weisblith, L., Fleker, M., Lavon, Y., Zuckerman, A., Hefer, Y., Goldhor, O., Gilad, D., Schcolnic, T. and Leitner, G., 2023. Evaluation of acoustic pulse technology as a non-antibiotic therapy for intramammary infections: Assessing bacterial cure biofilm vs. recovery from inflammation. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 10, p.1079269.

Gard, J. 2017. Laser Therapy in Food-Animal Practice. Laser Therapy in Veterinary Medicine: Photobiomodulation, 423-430.

Herrema, F., Bieleman, H., Hoekstra, M. and Gomes, J., 2023. Longevity and Milk Production Improvement in Dairy Cows Using Plant-Derived Products. J Vet Heal Sci, 4: 128-140.

Leitner, G., Papirov, E., Gilad, D., Haran, D., Arkin, O., Zuckerman, A. and Lavon, Y., 2021. New treatment option for clinical and subclinical mastitis in dairy cows using Acoustic Pulse Technology (APT). Dairy, 2: 256-269.

Malinowski, E., Krumrych, W. and Markiewicz, H., 2019. The effect of low intensity laser irradiation of inflamed udders on the efficacy of antibiotic treatment of clinical mastitis in dairy cows. Veterinaria italiana, 55: 253-260.

USDA, AMS 2017. National Organic Program (NOP); Organic Livestock. and Poultry Practices. A rule by the Agricultural Marketing Service. The Federal Register.

Download the paper just click here. Non-Antibiotic Mastitis Control

Soil testing, soil results, soil test labs

Soil sampling is an essential practice in agriculture, providing a foundation for informed decision-making regarding soil management and crop production. The process involves collecting soil samples from multiple locations within a field to analyze for nutrient content, pH levels, organic matter, and other soil properties. This analysis offers a snapshot of the soil’s health and fertility, guiding farmers and agronomists in customizing fertilizer applications and other soil amendments to meet the specific needs of their crops. By tailoring these practices based on soil test results, producers can optimize plant growth, increase crop yields, and reduce the risk of over-application of fertilizers, thereby minimizing environmental impact.

The benefits of soil sampling extend beyond the immediate improvement of crop production. It plays a crucial role in sustainable agriculture by helping to maintain soil health over the long term. Healthy soil supports a diverse microbial ecosystem, improves water retention and drainage, and enhances the soil’s ability to store carbon, contributing to the mitigation of climate change. Moreover, by understanding the soil’s condition, farmers can adopt practices that prevent soil degradation, such as erosion and nutrient depletion, ensuring the land remains productive for future generations. Thus, regular soil sampling is a key tool in the pursuit of sustainable farming, enabling the efficient use of resources while protecting and enhancing the natural environment.

Click a Link Below to Scroll Down

  1. Click a Link Below to Scroll Down
  2. Taking a Soil Test
  3. What does a soil test tell you about soil?
  4. Soil Tests Typically Taken
  5. Haney Soil Health Test
  6. Soil Wet Aggregate Stability Test
  7. Using the PLFA Soil Health Test
  8. Trace Genomics Testing
  9. Soil Labs: this is not a complete list by any means but simply a guide.
  10. Other Resources:

Taking a Soil Test

Taking a proper soil test involves a series of steps to ensure the accuracy of the soil sample, which in turn, provides reliable data for making informed agricultural decisions. Here is a detailed list of how to conduct a proper soil test:

  1. Planning the Sampling Strategy: Determine the appropriate time and pattern for sampling. Ideally, soil should be sampled at the same time each year, avoiding periods immediately after fertilizer application. Divide the field into uniform areas based on soil type, topography, previous crop history, and apparent soil variability.
  2. Gathering the Right Tools: Equip yourself with a clean, rust-free soil probe, auger, and/or shovel, and a plastic bucket. Avoid using metal containers which can contaminate the soil sample with trace metals.
  3. Sampling Depth: Collect soil samples at a consistent depth. For annual crops, a depth of 6-8 inches is typical, whereas for perennials, samples may be taken from a deeper profile, depending on the root zone of the crop.
  4. Collecting the Soil Sample: In each area, collect soil from at least 15-20 random spots to avoid bias. Mix these sub-samples in the plastic bucket to form a composite sample. This approach ensures the sample represents the overall area rather than specific spots.
  5. Labeling and Documentation: Clearly label each sample with a unique identifier, noting the sampling date, location, depth, and any other relevant information. This step is crucial for keeping records and interpreting the results accurately.
  6. Preparing the Sample for Analysis: Allow the soil to air-dry at room temperature; avoid heating or sun-drying as this can alter the soil chemistry. Once dry, remove stones, roots, and other debris, and break up clumps. A quart-sized sample is typically sufficient for laboratory analysis.
  7. Choosing a Laboratory: Select a reputable soil testing laboratory that uses methods appropriate for your region’s soils. Provide the laboratory with detailed information about your crop, previous fertilizer applications, and any specific concerns you have.
  8. Interpreting the Results: Once you receive the soil test report, review the recommendations on fertilization and soil amendment. If necessary, consult with an agronomist or extension specialist to understand the implications for your specific situation and crops.
  9. Implementing Recommendations: Use the soil test results to adjust your fertilization strategy, applying nutrients according to the crop’s needs and the soil’s current status. This targeted approach helps avoid overuse of fertilizers, promoting environmental sustainability and economic efficiency.
  10. Monitoring and Adjusting: Soil testing should be a regular part of your farm management practice. Re-test soils in each field every 2-3 years or more frequently if significant amendments have been made, to monitor changes in soil health and fertility over time.

Above is a standard soil probe that will last you for years – well worth the cost. Next is a picture of WD-40 which is a great spray for the probe to keep the soil from sticking in the probe. Clay soils can be difficult to get “out” but WD-40 eliminates the issue.

Following these steps ensures that the soil testing process is thorough, and the results are reliable, forming a solid basis for sustainable soil management and crop production strategies.

What does a soil test tell you about soil?

Soil testing encompasses a range of analyses that evaluate different aspects of soil health, soil properties, and soil fertility, providing critical information for agricultural management and environmental assessment. Here are several key types of soil tests commonly conducted:

  1. pH Test: Measures the acidity or alkalinity of the soil on a scale from 1 to 14. Soil pH affects nutrient availability to plants and microbial activity in the soil. A pH of 7 is neutral, values below 7 are acidic, and values above 7 are alkaline.
  2. Nutrient Content Test: Assesses the levels of essential nutrients, including nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K) (often referred to as NPK), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), sulfur (S), and micronutrients like iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), boron (B), molybdenum (Mo), and chlorine (Cl). This test helps in determining fertilizer needs.
  3. Organic Matter Test: Evaluates the amount of organic matter in the soil, which influences water retention, nutrient availability, and soil structure. High organic matter content is beneficial for soil health and plant growth.
  4. Soil Texture Test: Determines the proportions of sand, silt, and clay in the soil. Texture affects water retention, drainage, and nutrient availability, and it guides management practices such as irrigation and cultivation.
  5. Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) Test: Measures the soil’s ability to hold and exchange cations (positively charged ions) such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. CEC is influenced by soil texture and organic matter content and affects soil fertility.
  6. Electrical Conductivity (EC) Test: Assesses the soil’s electrical conductivity, which is an indicator of salinity levels. High salinity can affect plant growth by inhibiting water uptake.
  7. Lime Requirement Test (Buffer pH Test): Determines the amount of lime needed to adjust the soil pH to a desirable level for crop production. This is crucial for acidic soils needing pH correction.
  8. Soil Water Holding Capacity: Measures the amount of water the soil can hold and make available to plants. This is important for irrigation planning and drought management.
  9. Soil Aggregate Stability: measure how well aggregates hold together during a disturbance event. These tests can predict soil risks or management needs and track changes to soil overtime. The SLAKES APP is a great tool that is easy to use on your smartphone.
  10. Heavy Metal Test: Identifies the presence and concentration of heavy metals such as lead (Pb), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg), which can be toxic to plants and humans at high levels.
  11. Soil Health Tests: These are comprehensive tests that may include biological indicators such as microbial biomass, enzyme activities, and earthworm counts, assessing the overall health and biodiversity of the soil.

Soil Tests Typically Taken

Of course, a normal soil test or what you might call a Regular Soil Test discussed above is a must. These are not usually expensive, +/- $15 or more with micronutrients. This test is mostly meaningless unless I have previous year’s results to see what is going on. I have taken literally thousands of soil samples and often I will see something show up that is off the charts. I am not known to panic when I see a problem because I am not going to react to that test unless I know it has steadily been a problem that is just getting worse. For instance, we can see pH swings in sand from one year to the next. Before I lime a soil, I may take a second sample just to verify I need lime. $15 soil test is cheaper than $60 per acre lime application.

Second, I like to have a Haney Soil Test done to get an idea of the availability of many nutrients in an organic system and to better understand the overall “healthiness” of the soil. It is not cheap compared to the typical soil test. Most labs charge $50 so you don’t usually just send everything in for a Haney Test. Again, the results are only good if you have several years’ worth of data to see if you are getting better.

Next, is the Soil Wet Aggregate Stability Test. This test used to assess the ability of soil aggregates to resist disintegration when exposed to water.

Last, is the PLFA Test or Phospholipid Fatty Acid Test. This test measures the biomass of the microbes in the soil and is one of the tests that is currently being conducted to determine the microbial population of soil. See down below for more.

This is an example of soil test costs from one lab. They are all about the same price from multiple labs.

Haney Soil Health Test

The Haney Soil Health Test is a comprehensive analysis designed to evaluate the overall health and fertility of the soil through a holistic approach. Developed by Dr. Rick Haney, a research soil scientist with the USDA, this test goes beyond conventional chemical nutrient analysis by incorporating measurements of soil organic matter, microbial activity, and the potential for nitrogen and phosphorus mineralization. The test employs a unique set of assays, including the Solvita CO2-Burst test, which measures the amount of carbon dioxide released from the soil after rewetting dry soil to assess microbial respiration and activity. This is an indicator of the soil’s biological health and its ability to cycle nutrients.

Additionally, the Haney Test evaluates the water extractable organic carbon (WEOC) and water extractable organic nitrogen (WEON), which are believed to more accurately reflect the pool of nutrients that are readily available to plants than traditional extraction methods. By assessing both the chemical and biological fertility of the soil, the Haney Test provides a more integrated view of soil health, guiding farmers in optimizing their management practices to support sustainable agriculture. The results from the Haney Test can help in making more informed decisions on the application of fertilizers and amendments, aiming to enhance soil health, reduce environmental impact, and improve crop yields by fostering a more vibrant and resilient soil ecosystem. This test is particularly valuable for those engaged in regenerative agriculture and organic farming, as it aligns with the principles of nurturing soil life and function to achieve productive and sustainable farming systems.

The Haney Soil Health Test provides a comprehensive set of results that offer insights into both the chemical and biological aspects of soil health. The test results typically include several key indicators:

  1. Soil Health Score: A composite index that reflects the overall health of the soil, integrating various test components to give a summary assessment. This score helps in comparing the health of different soils or the same soil over time.
  2. Water Extractable Organic Carbon (WEOC): Measures the amount of organic carbon that is easily available in soil water, indicating the potential food source for microbes.
  3. Water Extractable Organic Nitrogen (WEON): Indicates the level of organic nitrogen available in soil water, which can be readily used by plants and soil organisms.
  4. CO2-C Burst (Carbon Mineralization): Assesses microbial respiration by measuring the burst of carbon dioxide released from the soil after it is moistened, indicating active microbial biomass and soil organic matter decomposition rate. This number will be between a low of <10 and a very high score is >200. This will be in parts per million or mg/kg which is the same.
  5. Soil pH: The acidity or alkalinity of the soil, which affects nutrient availability and microbial activity.
  6. Electrical Conductivity (EC): A measure of the soil’s electrical conductivity, which can indicate salinity levels that might affect plant growth.
  7. Extractable Phosphorus, Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium, and other nutrients: Provides information on the levels of these essential nutrients that are available for plant uptake, based on water extractable methods.
  8. Nitrate-Nitrogen and Ammonium-Nitrogen: Measures the inorganic forms of nitrogen available in the soil, which are directly usable by plants.
  9. Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC): Indicates the soil’s ability to hold and exchange cations (positively charged ions) important for plant nutrition.
  10. Organic Matter %: The percentage of soil composed of decomposed plant and animal residues, indicating the potential of soil to retain moisture and nutrients.
  11. Recommendations for Fertilizer and Lime Applications: Based on the test results, specific recommendations are made to address nutrient deficiencies or pH imbalances, tailored to the crop being grown and the goals of the farmer.

These results (see below for a sample) offer a detailed picture of the soil’s current condition, highlighting areas where improvements can be made to enhance soil health, fertility, and productivity. By focusing on both the biological and chemical facets of soil health, the Haney Test guides farmers towards more sustainable and efficient management practices, emphasizing the importance of soil life in agricultural ecosystems.

Soil Wet Aggregate Stability Test

Soil wet aggregate stability testing is a method used to assess the ability of soil aggregates to resist disintegration when exposed to water. This test is crucial for understanding soil structure, which plays a vital role in the soil’s ability to support plant growth. In this method, soil aggregates are placed on a sieve and submerged in water, where they are subjected to gentle agitation to simulate natural conditions such as rainfall. The stability of these aggregates is then measured by determining how much of the soil remains intact after exposure to water. The results provide valuable insights into the soil’s resistance to erosion, its ability to retain water, and its overall structural integrity.

The importance of wet aggregate stability testing lies in its direct relationship to soil health and crop productivity. Stable aggregates improve water infiltration and retention, reducing the risk of surface runoff and erosion, which can lead to nutrient loss and reduced soil fertility. Additionally, well-structured soils with high aggregate stability allow roots to penetrate more easily, access nutrients, and withstand environmental stresses such as drought. For growers, maintaining high aggregate stability is essential for sustaining healthy crops and promoting long-term soil fertility, making this test a critical component of comprehensive soil health assessments.

The four methods you can use for measuring soil aggregate stability include: Slaking image analysis, Cornell Rainfall Simulator, Wet Sieve Procedure, Mean Weight Diameter

Slaking Image Analysis:

  • Overview: This method uses a smartphone app, like SLAKES, to capture and analyze images of soil aggregates submerged in water. The app tracks the degree to which the aggregates break apart (slake) over time. (easy to download to your smartphone and I can even use it!)
  • Why It’s Used: It offers a quick, accessible way to assess aggregate stability in the field without the need for specialized lab equipment. For farmers, this method is very easy and practical to use, making it ideal for routine soil health monitoring, though it may lack the precision needed for scientific research.
  • Click here to see a great explanation of this app and how to use on your farm.

Cornell Rainfall Simulator:

  • Overview: Soil aggregates are placed under a simulated rainfall, and the test measures how well the soil resists breaking apart and eroding. The simulator mimics natural rainfall to assess the soil’s response.
  • Why It’s Used: This method is particularly useful for understanding soil erosion potential and how soil structure withstands actual rainfall events. For farmers, it provides insights into how well their soil can handle heavy rains, though it typically requires access to specialized equipment only available at a few labs.

Wet Sieve Procedure:

  • Overview: In this method, soil aggregates are placed on a series of sieves and submerged in water. The sieves are then mechanically agitated to simulate natural conditions like water flow. The amount of soil that remains on the sieves is measured to determine stability.
  • Why It’s Used: It is a widely recognized and precise laboratory method for quantifying the stability of soil aggregates under wet conditions. Farmers might find this method less accessible due to its complexity, but it provides highly reliable data that can inform long-term soil management decisions. Typically used by researchers.

Mean Weight Diameter (MWD):

  • Overview: This method calculates the average size of soil aggregates that remain stable after being subjected to wet sieving. It provides a single value that reflects the overall stability of the soil.
  • Why It’s Used: MWD is a commonly used metric in soil science because it offers a straightforward way to compare the stability of different soils and management practices. For farmers, this method can be useful for tracking the impact of different practices on soil structure over time, though it’s usually conducted in a lab setting.

Using the PLFA Soil Health Test

The Phospholipid Fatty Acid (PLFA) analysis is a powerful tool for assessing soil health, focusing on the microbial community within the soil. Phospholipid fatty acids are components of cell membranes in all living organisms, and their presence and composition in soil samples can provide detailed information about the microbial community structure, including bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, and other soil organisms.

How the PLFA Test Works

The PLFA test involves extracting phospholipids from a soil sample and then analyzing the fatty acid components. Each group of microorganisms has a unique fatty acid profile, allowing scientists to identify and quantify the types of microbes present in the soil. This information can be used to assess biodiversity, microbial biomass, and the balance of fungal to bacterial communities, which are critical indicators of soil health and ecosystem function.

Importance of PLFA Analysis for Soil Health

  1. Microbial Biomass: The total amount of microbial biomass is a direct indicator of soil organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling capabilities. High microbial biomass often correlates with healthy, fertile soil.
  2. Community Composition: The composition of the microbial community can indicate the soil’s condition and its ability to support plant growth. For example, a higher fungal to bacterial ratio is often found in soils with good structure and organic matter content.
  3. Soil Stress and Disturbance: Changes in microbial community composition can also indicate soil stress, contamination, or the impact of agricultural practices such as tillage, crop rotation, and the use of fertilizers or pesticides.
  4. Baseline and Monitoring: Establishing a baseline microbial community profile allows for the monitoring of changes over time, assessing the impact of management practices on soil health.

Applications of PLFA Analysis

  • Agricultural Management: Helping farmers and agronomists understand the impact of farming practices on soil microbial communities and, by extension, soil health and crop productivity.
  • Environmental Assessment: Evaluating the restoration of soil ecosystems following contamination or disturbance.
  • Research: Advancing our understanding of soil microbial ecology and its relationship to plant health, climate change, and ecosystem services.

Advantages and Limitations

The PLFA test offers a direct, rapid assessment of living microbial biomass and community structure, providing valuable insights into soil health that are not captured by chemical soil tests alone. However, it requires specialized equipment and expertise to perform and interpret, and the cost may be higher than traditional soil tests. Despite these limitations, the PLFA analysis remains a critical tool for comprehensive soil health assessment, guiding sustainable soil management and conservation efforts.

Great publication you can read on understanding these Soil Health Tests. Just click the link below:

How to Understand and Interpret Soil Health Tests

The “take home” message is not soil testing only, but records of soil tests you can see over time!

Trace Genomics Testing

Thanks to Dr. Justin Tuggle for sending this information to me about Trace Genomics. This is a fairly new company that basically tells you what kinds of microbes you have in the soil, good or bad, to then help make decisions of what you need to do. It may be a new variety, a biostimulant or a soil treatment.  I would like to see some producers try this new test and share some examples of what it can do. Click here to see their webpage.

A quote from Trace Genomics

“We engage in hi-definition DNA sequencing down to the functional gene level.  This lets us mine the soil microbiome to identify specific functions, commonly referred to as “indicators,” which can provide actionable insights to help you maximize soil health. One example is a phosphorus solubilization indicator, which analyzes the quantified capability of microbes in the soil to release bound phosphate and make it plant available.”

“In just one soil test you get insights covering more than 70 crops and more than 225+ pathogens. TraceCOMPLETE pairs unmatched soil analysis with hi-definition genomic sequencing to deliver an unrivaled collection of pathogen and nutrient insights. It can drive agronomic action in your most critical decision areas to help you make meaningful management decisions.“

Soil Labs: this is not a complete list by any means but simply a guide.

  • Ward Laboratories, Inc.
  • www.wardlab.com
  • 4007 Cherry Ave, Kearney, NE 68847
  • (800) 887-7645
  • TPS Lab
  • www.tpslab.com
  • Joe Pedroza, Business Development Manager
  • 4915 W. Monte Cristo Rd, Edinburg, TX 78541
  • Office: (956) 383-0739
  • Cell: (956) 867-7480
  • Midwest Laboratories
  • https://midwestlabs.com/
  • 13611 B Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68144
  • contactus@midwestlabs.com
  • Office: (402) 334-7770
  • Fax: (402) 334-9121

Other Resources: