Tag: Agriculture

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.

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  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

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

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.

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  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:

Best Cover Crops for Weed Control and Fertility

Cover crops play a pivotal role in sustainable agriculture by enhancing soil health, managing pests and diseases, and improving overall crop yield resilience. Cover crops can be any non-harvested crop used primarily to protect soil from erosion during off-season periods, provide actively growing roots to extract and stabilize nutrients that might be otherwise vulnerable to leaching or volatile loss, and increase levels of SOM to promote soil physical properties and C sequestration. Cover crops have other values to farmers, as some crops can also be harvested for forage or seed or to diversify the cropping system
to suppress diseases, obtain other crop rotation benefits, improve off-season access to fields, or extract water during wet periods.

As a source of additional C delivered to soil during non-cash-crop growing periods (e.g., in fall and winter in many temperate regions), cover crops are particularly effective in supplying soil microorganisms with readily available carbon sources from both root exudates during growth and C-rich crop residues upon termination. Several studies have found greater soil organic carbon sequestration with implementation of cover crops (Poeplau and Don, 2015).
Often combined with no-tillage, management of cropland with cover cropping can enhance soil organic C sequestration due to addition of organic materials growing directly on land rather than imported from another location.

Just click a topic below to scroll down!

  1. Sorghum Sudangrass
  2. Sunn Hemp
  3. Cowpea
  4. Winter Cover Crops
  5. Cereal Rye
  6. Mustards
  7. Vetch
  8. Wheat (Triticum spp.)
  9. Oats (Avena sativa)
  10. Barley (Hordeum vulgare)
  11. Triticale (× Triticosecale)
  12. Daikon Radish or Tillage Radish
  13. Purple Top Turnip
  14. Other Resources (just click a title)

Sorghum Sudangrass

In the summer we plant sorghum sudangrass (top picture) for weed control because it has an allelopathic effect on weeds (click that link to read about it) and it shades any weeds coming on later. It is a vigorous and versatile cover crop that stands out for its exceptional contribution to soil health and weed suppression. Its rapid growth and dense canopy make it highly effective at outcompeting weeds, thus reducing the reliance on herbicides. This competitive growth habit is instrumental in shading out weeds, significantly lowering weed biomass and seed bank potential in the soil. Beyond weed control, sorghum sudangrass excels in improving soil structure and health. Its deep and extensive root system breaks up compacted soil layers, enhancing soil porosity and aeration. This root action not only facilitates better water infiltration and storage but also promotes the activity of beneficial soil organisms by increasing organic matter and available nutrients in the soil profile. Just remember the allelopathic effect (preventing weeds or the crop growing) last for 10-14 days after soil incorporation!

The benefits of sudangrass extend to its role in adding organic matter to the soil when it is mowed and incorporated as green manure. This process means making sure the plant is in a 30-40:1 Carbon to Nitrogen ratio. The decomposition of sudangrass residue releases significant amounts of nutrients, especially nitrogen, which are then available for subsequent crops, thereby improving soil fertility. Additionally, sudangrass has been noted for its biofumigant properties, particularly when specific varieties are used. The breakdown of its tissues can release compounds that suppress soil-borne pathogens and nematodes, further promoting a healthy soil environment conducive to high-yielding crops. However, it’s important to manage sudangrass properly, as allowing it to reach maturity (beyond the 40:1 carbon to nitrogen ratio) can result in a tough, woody residue that is slower to decompose and might interfere with planting subsequent crops.

Sunn Hemp

Sunn hemp (picture above) is increasingly recognized for its substantial benefits as a cover crop, particularly in warm climates where it thrives. One of the key advantages of incorporating sunn hemp into crop rotations is its ability to rapidly accumulate biomass, which, when turned into the soil, significantly enhances soil organic matter. This increase in organic matter improves soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability, leading to a more fertile and resilient soil ecosystem. Moreover, sunn hemp is an excellent nitrogen fixer, capturing atmospheric nitrogen and converting it into a form that subsequent crops can easily absorb. This natural fertilization process reduces the need for synthetic nitrogen inputs, lowering production costs and minimizing environmental impact.

However, while sunn hemp offers numerous benefits, there are also challenges associated with its cultivation. One potential issue is its allelopathic properties, which can inhibit the germination and growth of subsequent crops if not managed properly. This is due to compounds released by sunn hemp into the soil that can affect sensitive plants, or it can work to keep weeds out! Additionally, sunn hemp may pose a risk of becoming invasive if not carefully controlled. This risk underscores the importance of implementing appropriate management practices, such as timely mowing or incorporation into the soil before seed set, to prevent unwanted spread. Despite these challenges, the benefits of sunn hemp, particularly in terms of soil health enhancement and its role in sustainable agriculture practices, often outweigh the potential drawbacks, making it a valuable tool in the arsenal of organic farmers aiming for weed control and soil health benefits.

Good video about Sunn Hemp from Missouri research!

Cowpea

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) (picture above) serves as an excellent cover crop in a variety of agricultural systems, providing multiple benefits for soil health and weed management. Its ability to thrive in poor soil conditions, coupled with a relatively low requirement for water, makes cowpea a robust choice for enhancing soil fertility and structure, especially in regions prone to drought. As a leguminous plant, cowpea enriches the soil with nitrogen through symbiotic nitrogen fixation, a process where bacteria in cowpea roots convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use. This natural fertilization boosts the nutrient content of the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and thereby lowering agricultural input costs.

In terms of weed control, cowpea’s rapid growth and dense foliage provide an effective cover that suppresses weed emergence by significantly reducing light penetration to the soil surface, thus minimizing the growth opportunities for unwanted plants. The shading effect also helps in retaining soil moisture, further supporting the growth of the cowpea while inhibiting weed development (this effect is not nearly as effective because it is a shorter plant). Additionally, when cowpea is incorporated into the soil as green manure after its growth cycle, the organic matter added to the soil improves soil structure, enhances water retention, and stimulates the activity of beneficial microorganisms. However, it’s important to manage cowpea cover crops effectively to prevent them from becoming a weed themselves, as their vigorous growth can sometimes lead to challenges in controlling their spread if not timely mowed or incorporated into the soil. Overall, cowpea stands out as a versatile and beneficial cover crop, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices by improving soil health, enhancing nutrient availability, and providing effective weed suppression.

Winter Cover Crops

Winter cover is more difficult because we typically start to get land ready about the time our cover crops start to grow in February/March.  Winter cover is almost always a small grain and most of the time we use a “combine run” wheat or oat since they are cheaper with a planting of turnips or daikon radish or both.  

Cereal Rye

Cereal rye (not ryegrass), scientifically known as Secale cereale (pictured above), serves as an exceptional cover crop for a multitude of reasons, pivotal for enhancing agricultural sustainability and soil health. One of its foremost benefits is its robust root system, which significantly improves soil structure and enhances water infiltration. This characteristic is particularly valuable in preventing soil erosion and runoff, thus protecting water quality in the surrounding environment. Additionally, cereal rye’s ability to uptake residual nitrogen from the soil makes it an excellent tool for nutrient management, reducing the risk of nitrogen leaching into water bodies and thereby mitigating the environmental impact of nitrogen fertilizers.

Moreover, cereal rye acts as a natural weed suppressant due to its quick germination and fast growth, outcompeting weeds for light, nutrients, and space. The crop’s residue also provides a mulch that further suppresses weed growth and retains soil moisture, which is particularly beneficial in dryland farming systems. Furthermore, by providing a habitat for beneficial insects and microorganisms, cereal rye enhances biodiversity and contributes to the overall health of the agroecosystem.

This picture is from Carl Pepper near O’Donnell on the South Plains. It was planted last September into cotton plants. Seeding rate is 4.5 lbs. of Rye and 4.5 lbs. of Barley with 1 lb. of purple top turnips burned in the freeze. Holds the soil, uses very little if any moisture and is cheap to establish.

Short video of Roller Crimping a rye cover crop at pollination

Mustards

Using mustards as a cover crop is a practice rich in benefits for sustainable and organic agriculture. Mustards contribute significantly to soil health and pest management strategies without reliance on chemical inputs. They are known for their rapid growth, which quickly covers bare soil, reducing erosion and suppressing weed growth through competition. The deep rooting of mustards helps break up compacted soil layers, enhancing water infiltration and aeration for future crops. Perhaps most notably, mustards possess biofumigant properties; when incorporated into the soil, they release natural compounds that suppress a variety of soil-borne pathogens and pests (click here for a great project with mustard seed meal). This dual action of physical soil improvement and chemical pest suppression makes mustards an invaluable tool in the organic farmer’s toolkit, promoting a healthier, more productive soil ecosystem and paving the way for successful crop rotations.

“Caliente Rojo” mustard is a variety specifically bred for its biofumigation properties, which can play a significant role in organic agriculture, particularly in disease management and soil health improvement.

  • Biofumigation Properties: “Caliente Rojo” mustard, when incorporated into the soil, releases isothiocyanates (ITCs), which are naturally occurring compounds found in Brassica plants. These compounds have been shown to suppress a wide range of soil-borne pathogens, including fungi, bacteria, nematodes, and some weed species.
  • Soil Health Improvement: Beyond disease suppression, “Caliente Rojo” mustard contributes to soil health by adding organic matter, improving soil structure, and enhancing microbial activity. This leads to better water infiltration, aeration, and nutrient cycling in the soil.
  • Growth Habit: It has a fast growth rate, which quickly provides ground cover, reducing soil erosion and weed growth. Its deep rooting system can also help in breaking up compacted layers of soil, improving root penetration for subsequent crops.
  • Sowing: It is typically sown in the fall or early spring when the soil can be worked. The planting rate and spacing should be adjusted based on the specific goals (biofumigation, erosion control, etc.). Typical planting rate is 8 lbs./ac. but can be lower.
  • Incorporation: For biofumigation, the mustard should be mowed or chopped and immediately incorporated into the soil while it is still fresh. This action releases the biofumigant compounds.
  • Irrigation: After incorporation, irrigating the area can help in releasing the biofumigant compounds more effectively as they hydrolyze in the presence of water.

Vetch

Common vetch (Vicia sativa) and hairy vetch (Vicia villosa) are leguminous cover crops celebrated for their multifaceted benefits in sustainable agriculture. These species excel in nitrogen fixation, a process where atmospheric nitrogen is converted into a form that plants can use, enriching the soil and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. This attribute makes them particularly valuable in crop rotations, especially preceding nutrient-demanding crops. Hairy vetch, with its robust growth and cold tolerance, is particularly noted for producing a significant amount of biomass, which can improve soil structure and organic matter content.

Both common and hairy vetch exhibit vigorous root systems that enhance soil health by increasing porosity and water infiltration, thereby reducing erosion and improving drought resilience. Their dense foliage serves as an excellent weed suppressant by outcompeting weed species for sunlight and nutrients, which can lead to reduced herbicide reliance. Upon termination, the biomass of these vetch species acts as a natural mulch, conserving soil moisture and further suppressing weed growth. Additionally, the flowers of vetch attract beneficial insects, including pollinators and predatory insects, which contribute to the biodiversity and resilience of agroecosystems.

Hairy vetch, in particular, stands out for its ability to thrive in a wide range of soil conditions and its notable winter hardiness, making it an excellent choice for cover cropping in cooler climates where other legumes might fail to establish or survive. Hairy vetch will produce more residue than common vetch 1/3 to 1/2 more. Common vetch does tend to reseed and establish easier in a pasture system compared to hairy vetch. When used in a no-till farming system, the decomposing vetch residue can release nitrogen slowly over time, closely matching the nutrient uptake patterns of subsequent crops. This synchrony minimizes nitrogen leaching and maximizes nutrient use efficiency, showcasing the role of vetch not only in enhancing soil fertility but also in promoting more sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.

Wheat (Triticum spp.)

  • Advantages: Wheat is widely adaptable, with a deep root system that improves soil structure and enhances water infiltration. It’s excellent for erosion control and can be a good scavenger of residual soil nitrogen, reducing nitrate leaching. Wheat also serves as a decent biomass producer in cooler climates.
  • Best For: Erosion control, nitrogen scavenging, and when a crop that can survive a wide range of conditions is needed.

Oats (Avena sativa)

  • Advantages: Oats are fast-growing and establish quickly, providing rapid ground cover to outcompete weeds and reduce erosion. They produce significant biomass, which can improve soil organic matter. Oats also die off in freezing temperatures, which makes them easy to manage in the spring.
  • Best For: Quick cover to outcompete weeds, adding organic matter to the soil, and as a winter-kill cover crop in regions with cold winters.

Barley (Hordeum vulgare)

  • Advantages: Barley establishes quickly and can provide a good ground cover and weed suppression. It’s more drought-tolerant than oats and can be used in areas with lower water availability. Barley also contributes to soil health by adding biomass and improving soil structure.
  • Best For: Fast establishment, drought-prone areas, and effective weed suppression.

Triticale (× Triticosecale)

  • Advantages: Triticale, a wheat and rye hybrid, combines the best traits of both parents. It offers a robust root system, excellent biomass production, and good tolerance to both poor soil conditions and colder temperatures. Triticale is also notable for its nutrient scavenging ability and can be used to improve soil fertility.
  • Best For: Biomass production, nutrient scavenging, and versatility in both cold and marginal soil conditions.

Daikon Radish or Tillage Radish

Daikon radish, often referred to as tillage radish, has gained popularity as a cover crop for its unique ability to improve soil structure and health through natural biotillage. Characterized by its rapid growth and large, penetrating taproot, tillage radish drills through compacted soil layers, creating channels that enhance air and water infiltration. This deep penetration also helps to break up hardpans, reducing the need for mechanical soil tillage, hence the name “tillage radish.”

One of the standout benefits of tillage radish is its capacity to capture excess nutrients from the soil profile. The deep roots absorb nitrogen and other nutrients, which are then stored in the plant’s tissue. When the radishes decompose in the spring, these nutrients are released back into the soil, becoming available for the next crop. This nutrient recycling can improve crop yields while reducing the risk of nutrient runoff into waterways, contributing to more sustainable farming practices.

Tillage radish also contributes to weed suppression. The rapid, dense canopy formation shades out weeds, reducing their ability to establish. This effect can carry over into the spring, providing a cleaner start for the next crop. Additionally, the decaying radish residue leaves behind significant organic matter, contributing to soil organic matter content and overall soil health. This organic matter feeds soil microorganisms, which play a critical role in maintaining soil fertility.

Moreover, the winter die-off of tillage radish eliminates the need for chemical or mechanical termination, simplifying spring field operations. This characteristic makes it an attractive option for farmers looking to reduce labor and input costs associated with cover crop management. The holes left by the decomposing radishes can also improve soil aeration and provide pathways for the roots of subsequent crops, potentially enhancing root development and access to deep soil nutrients.

Purple Top Turnip

Purple top turnip is a cover crop that has been used for years in Texas. The seed is relatively cheap, serves as winter grazing if needed, grows fast and adds lots of organic matter. It is known for its rapid growth and adaptability to a wide range of soil types, this cover crop is an excellent choice for farmers looking to enhance soil structure, suppress weeds, and improve nutrient cycling within their farming systems. The large, leafy greens of the purple top turnip create a dense canopy that can quickly cover the ground, effectively suppressing weed growth by outcompeting weeds for sunlight and nutrients.

Other Resources (just click a title)

USDA seeks applications for value-added grant program to help farmers and ranchers seek new markets

The USDA is now accepting applications for grants to help agricultural producers maximize the value of their products and venture into new and better markets.

The USDA is making the grants available under the Value-Added Producer Grants program. (Click that link to go to the USDA webpage about the grant) The grants help farmers and ranchers generate new products, create marketing opportunities, and increase their incomes through value-added activities.

Eligible applicants include independent producers, agricultural producer groups, farmer or rancher cooperatives, and majority-controlled producer-based business ventures.

The USDA may award up to $75,000 for planning activities or up to $250,000 for working capital expenses related to producing and marketing a value-added agricultural product.

Planning activities may include conducting feasibility studies and developing business plans. Working capital expenses may include costs associated with processing, marketing, advertising, inventory and salaries.

The USDA is particularly interested in applications that will advance Biden-Harris Administration priorities to:

• Reduce climate pollution and increase resilience to the impacts of climate change through economic support to rural communities.

• Ensure all rural residents have equitable access to Rural Development (RD) programs and benefits from RD-funded projects;

• Help rural communities recover economically through more and better market opportunities and through improved infrastructure.

Here is great information on the grant program sent out after the webinar. It explains a lot about the program and helps know better how to apply. Just click this link. (Value Added Producer Grant Info).

Paper applications must be postmarked and delivered by mail, email or in person to the state office where the project is proposed by close of business on April 16, 2024. Electronic applications will be accepted via Grants.gov until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on April 11, 2024.

Organic Corn Resources

Finding a corn variety adapted to Texas extremes can be very difficult. At this time, I just don’t know of too many certified organic corn varieties that can make it through the difficult hot nights in most of Texas except maybe the northern panhandle area of Texas. Even in those area many growers have tried to bring in corn varieties popular in the Midwest and they just don’t yield well.

That said, I have tried to list varieties that Texas organic growers have grown and continue to grow. The companies listed may or may not have varieties adapted to Texas, but you have their contact information to check. If you see anything I need to add, change or delete please let me know. This is an ongoing project and one that will continually be updated and changed.

Click a link below to scroll down!

Updated 3/12/25

  1. Corn Varieties Used for Organic
  2. Seed Contacts:
  3. Organic Corn Buyers:
  4. Resources (just click to see)

Corn Varieties Used for Organic

  • Pioneer Yellow – P0075, P0157, P0487, P1185, P1197, P1222, P1359, 6381, 5353, P1608, P1639, P1718, P1870, P17677 (available in 2025), and (not sure about availability – P1751, P33Y74, P1422, 63T1GH, 6589ZZ, P33774)
  • Pioneer White – P1790W, P1306W, P1543W (available in 2025), and (not sure about availability – 1639 and 32B10)
  • Partners Brand – PB 11802 (118 day), CL 860 (116 day), and PB 8580 (115 day)
  • Seitec Genetics – 6345, 6381
  • BH Genetics – 8780, 8700, 8590, 8555, 8420, 8443W, 8121

Seed Contacts:

This list does not necessarily mean that these companies have corn varieties adapted for Texas. Companies continue to develop varieties that work in areas they have not traditionally grown in and so some testing helps know and use new materials.

Pioneer

  • I am in contact with Pioneer to get contact information soon. Till then check with your local rep if you have one?

New Deal Grain

  • 501 E Main St, New Deal, TX 79350
  • Office: (806) 784-2750

Partners Brand

B-H Genetics

  • 5933 Fm 1157, Ganado, TX 77962
  • Office: (361) 771-2755
  • seed corn, sorghum, sorghum-sudangrass

Seitec Genetics

Beck’s Hybrids/Great Harvest Organics

  • 6767 E. 276th Street, Atlanta, IN 46031
  • (800) 937-2325
  • Corn, Corn Silage, Soybeans, Wheat, Alfalfa, Milo/Sorghum, Forage and Cover Crop

Albert Lea Seed/Blue River Organic Seed/Viking Non-GMO

  • 1414 West main Street Albert Lea MN 56007
  • seedhouse@alseed.com
  • Work: (800) 352-5247
  • www.alseed.com
  • corn, soybeans, alfalfa, wheat, oats, cover crops, wildflowers, native grasses, CRP

De Dell Seeds

American Organic Seed

Falk’s Seed Farm

  • 1170 High 9 NE Murdock MN 56271
  • falkseed@westtechwb.com
  • (320) 875-4341
  • www.falkseed.com
  • soybeans, corn, forages, small grains

Foundation Organic

Genetic Enterprises International

Master’s Choice

Welter Seed and Honey Company

Byron Seeds

  • 775 N 350 E Rockville IN 47872
  • duane@byronseeds.us
  • (800) 801-3596
  • http://byronseeds.net/
  • alfalfa, corn, clover, cover crop, grasses, mixes

Organic Corn Buyers:

Enger Farms

McDowell Feed Source

Coyote Creek Organic Feed Mill

Deaf Smith County Grain

Panhandle Milling

Heartland Co-op

Triple Nickel

Pink Rose Organix

Resources (just click to see)