Tag: Agriculture

GMO Testing in Organic Cotton: What Farmers Need to Know

Organic cotton farmers work hard to maintain their certification, ensuring that their crops are grown without synthetic chemicals, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), or prohibited inputs. Even when farmers follow organic practices to the letter, GMO contamination can still occur!

Let’s take a closer look at how GMO testing works, what the results mean, and why the final decision on certification can sometimes feel arbitrary.

How is GMO Contamination Measured?

GMO testing in Seed Cotton (raw cotton including fibers and seeds) is performed using real-time PCR analysis, a widely used method to detect genetic modification markers in cotton DNA. The gin will take samples of your seed cotton and submit those samples to their Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) Certifier. The GOTS Certifier will submit those samples to a lab, usually OMIC which will then run them for GMO presence. The results are then submitted back to the GOTS Certifier. Here are some things that are being investigated.

  • Standard Limit of Quantification (LOQ): 0.1% GMO content – This is the most commonly used threshold for accurately measuring contamination.
  • More Sensitive Tests: Some advanced labs claim they can detect levels as low as 0.01%, but I have not seen this as an industry-standard threshold for Seed Cotton testing. But you could see this from European labs!
  • Anything above a 0.1% is detectable and reported as such as you can tell from this test sheet with all the names removed!

Here is another test with some different results.

What the Test Results Mean

  • This sample contains GMO markers including Bt toxin (Cry1Ab/Ac) and herbicide resistance (otp/mepsps).
  • p35S, pFMV, and tNOS confirm genetic modification.
  • Organic certifiers would likely reject this cotton since GMO elements were clearly detected.
  • If contamination was unintentional, an investigation might be needed to determine if the cotton can still qualify for certain supply chains.
MarkerDetected?GMO Trait Significance
SAH7 (Cotton Gene)✔ YesConfirms valid cotton DNA
Cry1Ab/Ac (Bt Toxin)✔ 1.44%Indicates Bt Cotton (Insect Resistance)
otp/mepsps (Glyphosate Resistance)✔ 0.47%Possible Roundup Ready Cotton (Herbicide Resistance)
p35S (CaMV Promoter)✔ 1.93%Common GMO activation switch
PAT (Glufosinate Resistance)❌ Not DetectedNo Liberty Link herbicide resistance
pFMV (FMV Promoter)✔ 1.91%Used for GMO gene activation
tNOS (Terminator)✔ 3.27%Common GMO terminator sequence
GM Elements (General GMO Presence)✔ YesConfirms GMO modification detected

Now What Happens?

What happens when an organic cotton sample tests positive for GMOs? That really depends on a lot of different things, and this is where farmers can get frustrated. I have provided you with some sample test results but usually you won’t even see these results. At this point the GOTS Certifier for the Gin has your test results. This is a small list of what they do:

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) Says:

  • No intentional use of GMOs is allowed.
  • If contamination is detected, the GOTS certifier launches an investigation instead of outright rejection.
  • If the farmer can prove they used verified non-GMO seed and followed organic practices, then there is a strong possibility that they may still be approved.

GOTS Certifier Reaches Out

The next step is for the GOTS Certifier to reach out to your Organic Certifier at the farm level. Because a “red flag” is now waving, your certifier is going to be looking at your Organic System Plan (OSP) with a fine-toothed comb! They will be looking at your cottonseed information, at your field and field locations, at every record you submitted to determine if there is anything that might have caused a “voluntary” versus “involuntary” contamination. You will probably know that something is up either by just a notice of an investigation or possibly a full-blown visit. Either way, they (your certifier) are trying to find out why the raw seed cotton is showing up with detectable levels of GMO.

Most of the time there is absolutely nothing you did to cause a detectable limit of GMO in your seed cotton. We might call this an “Act of God” because no one knows why it happens. The planting seed tested good, the field was good and there is no drift. No one knows what happened or why and so you get a clean bill of health. The system is designed with some flexibility because there can be an “Act of God” and to be honest I am glad to recognize that God is Sovereign even over cotton fields and cotton farmers!

On the other hand, it can sometimes be identified as a wrong bag of planting seed picked up, a wrong module or bale marking, or some other contamination issue along the way. Elevated levels of GMO in your raw seed cotton will throw up all kinds of red flags and could lead to a non-compliance, rejected organic cotton and a microscopic look at all other aspects of your organic operation! Let’s hope we don’t go there……

What Can Farmers Do?

  • Test early and often. If you suspect contamination, conduct your own tests before sending cotton to market. Newsletter Article Page 2
  • Maintain strong records. Prove that you sourced verified non-GMO seed and followed organic protocols.
  • Work with a certifier who understands the realities of farming. Some certifiers are more flexible in their investigations than others or ask the right questions instead of just assuming you are wrong.
  • Improve segregation. Make sure that cotton stays separate at every stage, from harvesting to ginning.

Final Thoughts

Organic farmers face an uphill battle when it comes to avoiding GMO contamination. Even with perfect compliance, your cotton test results can find GMOs, and certification decisions often depend on factors beyond the farmer’s control. Don’t panic and be willing to go the extra mile to find out why. Your organic certifier has their neck on the line too as does your ginner and we all want you to succeed. As we are at the very start of a new crop year do all you can now to stay out of this “mess” later!

Organic Sorghum Resources (update)

Sorghum’s natural characteristics and compatibility with organic farming principles indeed make it an excellent crop for organic cultivation. While some traits like drought tolerance and non-GMO status are shared with conventional sorghum, these characteristics synergize particularly well with the goals and methods of organic agriculture, offering distinct advantages.

Click a link below to scroll down!

Post Updated 3/12/25

  1. Sorghum’s Advantages
  2. Buying seed?
  3. Sorghum Varieties
  4. Forage Sorghum Varieties
  5. Sorghum Sudan Grass Varieties
  6. Sorghum Seed Companies
  7. Other Resources (just click to see)

Sorghum’s Advantages

  • Drought Tolerance: Sorghum’s inherent drought tolerance makes it an ideal crop for organic systems, which prioritize water conservation and efficient use.
  • Low Fertilizer Needs: Sorghum’s ability to thrive in less fertile soils matches well with organic farming, which relies on natural fertility management rather than synthetic fertilizers.
  • Natural Resistance to Pests and Diseases: Sorghum’s inherent resistance to many pests and diseases minimizes the need for synthetic pesticides, making it easier for organic farmers to manage their crops.
  • Versatility in Use: Sorghum can be utilized in a variety of ways (grain, syrup, fodder) which allows organic producers to cater to diverse markets (food, feed, sweeteners) under organic labels.
  • Contribution to Soil Health: Sorghum’s deep rooting system can improve soil structure and increase water infiltration, beneficial effects that are particularly valued in organic systems focused on long-term soil health.
  • Crop Rotation and Diversity: Sorghum fits well into crop rotations, a cornerstone of organic farming, helping break pest and disease cycles and improving soil health without relying on chemical inputs.
  • Consumer Preference for Non-GMO: Even though there is no GMO sorghum on the market, the strong consumer preference for non-GMO products benefits organic sorghum producers, as their products are guaranteed to meet this demand.
  • Growing Demand for Organic Grains: The increasing consumer demand for organic products extends to grains, including sorghum, for both human consumption and organic animal feed.
  • Carbon Sequestration: Sorghum’s growth habit and biomass production can contribute to carbon sequestration, aligning with the environmental sustainability goals of organic farming.

While many of sorghum’s traits benefit both conventional and organic systems, its natural resilience, low input requirements, and versatility make it particularly well-suited for organic agriculture. These characteristics help organic sorghum producers minimize reliance on external inputs, align with organic principles, and tap into a growing market demand for organic products.

Buying seed?

The number of seeds per pound in sorghum varieties can vary significantly depending on the specific variety and the size of the seeds. Generally, this range can be broad, reflecting differences in genetics, breeding objectives, and end use (grain, forage, or specialty types). Here’s a general overview:

  • Small-Seeded Varieties: Can have as many as 16,000 to 18,000 seeds per pound.
  • Large-Seeded Varieties: May have fewer seeds per pound, typically ranging from 12,000 to 15,000 seeds per pound.
  • Forage sorghums and sorghum-sudangrass hybrid types tend to have larger seeds compared to grain sorghum varieties. The seeds per pound can range from 10,000 to 14,000 for forage types, with sorghum-sudangrass hybrids often on the lower end of this scale due to their larger seed size.

Sorghum Varieties

The varieties listed below are some planted by current organic growers. We are in the process of getting a better list together and will post them here!

These varieties are listed along with their respective websites for more detailed information. Company listings are down below and your source for qualified salespeople. Check with your certifier before buying any sorghum seed especially if the variety is not sold as organically produced. Since we do not have many organic, locally adapted sorghum varieties producers typically buy conventionally produced varieties without seed treatments.

Forage Sorghum Varieties

Sorghum Sudan Grass Varieties

Sorghum Seed Companies

Richardson Seeds

DynaGro Seed (Nutrien Ag Solutions)

MOJO Seed

Sorghum Partners, S&W Seed Company

Scott Seed Co

  • 114 E New York St. or PO Box 1732, Hereford, TX  79045
  • Office: 806-364-3484
  • Coby Kreighauser
  • Mobile: 806-683-1868
  • coby@scottseed.net
  • Chuck Cielencki
  • Mobile: 806-683-1868
  • chuck@scottseed.net

Supra Ag International

  • 10808 S River Front Pkwy, Suite 3039, South Jordan, UT 84095
  • Office: 801-984-6723
  • Sales: 806-292-0031
  • info@supra.ag
  • Chris Hendrickson
  • chris@supra.ag

Warner Seeds

Integra, Wilbur-Ellis

LG Seeds

Golden Acres

Innvictis Seed Solutions

Alta Seeds by Advanta

DeKalb (Bayer)

BH Genetics

Other Resources (just click to see)

Biopesticides and Biostimulants: Innovation, Challenges, and Growth

Introduction

Biopesticides and biostimulants are at the forefront of organic agriculture, offering natural solutions for pest control and plant health. While these products have gained popularity, the industry faces both opportunities and challenges as it evolves. This post explores the similarities and differences between biopesticides and biostimulants, their regulatory landscape, and what the future holds for these technologies.

Defining Biopesticides and Biostimulants

First let’s look at Biopesticides

Biopesticides are derived from natural materials, including microorganisms, plants, and minerals, to control pests and diseases. They function through competition, antibiosis, or physiological disruption of target organisms. Biopesticides as a category are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as is detailed below!

Types of Biopesticides:
  • Microbial Biopesticides: Contain beneficial bacteria, fungi, viruses, or protozoa that suppress pests (e.g., Bacillus thuringiensis Bt for caterpillar control).
  • Biochemical Biopesticides: Utilize plant extracts, pheromones, and essential oils to affect pest behavior or physiology. For example, Thyme oil or Neem oil would fit this category.
  • Plant-Incorporated Protectants (PIPs): Genetic material introduced into plants, such as Bt proteins in genetically modified (GMO) crops. These are not to be used in organic production but are considered a biopesticide.

This image above is from the EPA website for Biopesticides. Click on the image to go to the website and check on a biopesticides registration!

How a Company Determines the Need for EPA Approval for a Biopesticide

A company developing a new biopesticide must determine if its product falls under EPA regulation by assessing the active ingredient, intended use, and mode of action. The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) mandates that any substance intended for preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating pests must be registered as a pesticide with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). A company should ask the following questions to assess if its product qualifies as a biopesticide requiring EPA registration:

  1. Does the product actively control pests, pathogens, or weeds?
    • If the product claims direct pest suppression, it is a pesticide and requires EPA approval.
    • If it only enhances plant health without targeting pests directly, it may qualify as a biostimulant and not require EPA registration.
  2. What is the mode of action?
    • If the product kills, inhibits, or repels pests, it is considered a pesticide.
    • If the product works by stimulating plant defenses or improving nutrient uptake, it may not require registration.
  3. Is the active ingredient a known biopesticide or plant extract?
    • If the active ingredient is a microorganism, plant extract, or biochemical compound known to suppress pests, it likely needs EPA registration.
    • The EPA maintains a list of registered biopesticide active ingredients, and companies should check if similar compounds are already registered.
  4. Are pesticidal claims being made on the label?
    • If the product claims pest control properties (e.g., “kills fungi,” “controls insects”), it falls under FIFRA jurisdiction and requires EPA registration.
    • If the product only states benefits like “enhances plant vigor” or “improves root growth,” it may avoid registration.

Biostimulants

Biostimulants enhance plant growth, stress tolerance, and nutrient efficiency without directly targeting pests or diseases. Unlike biopesticides, they do not require EPA registration, leading to a highly unregulated market.

That said as a disclaimer there are many biostimulants that do a good job at preventing, controlling or managing for pests in crops. They can have a dual function even though they don’t have an EPA registration – a definite grey area!

Key Categories of Biostimulants:
  • Microbial Biostimulants: Beneficial bacteria and fungi that improve nutrient uptake and plant stress resilience.
  • Seaweed and Plant Extracts: Natural compounds that stimulate plant metabolism and root development.
  • Amino Acids and Humic Substances: Organic molecules that enhance soil health and nutrient availability.
  • For a complete look at biostimulants check out this post and the many different types available. Biostimulants: The Next New Frontier

This chart above (just click on it for a larger image) shows how an ISR system works in the plant. Many biostimulants are classified as ISR’s because they are used to stimulate a plant’s defense mechanisms against many pest and environmental problems. This “primed” state may last the life of a plant or more than likely needs to be reinforced through multiple applications.

This chart above (just click on it for a larger image) shows how an SAR system works in the plant. In many cases an SAR developed biostimulant will also be labeled with EPA as a biopesticide simply because it does control specific pests in the plant while boosting the plants defense mechanisms.

Similarities Between Biopesticides and Biostimulants
  • Both are used in sustainable and organic agriculture to reduce reliance on synthetic chemicals.
  • Derived from natural sources, including microorganisms and plant extracts.
  • Improve overall plant health, either through disease suppression (biopesticides) or enhanced resilience (biostimulants).
  • Can be combined with conventional or organic inputs in integrated pest and crop management (IPM/ICM).
FeatureBiopesticidesBiostimulants
Primary PurposeControl pests and diseasesImprove plant growth and resilience
MechanismDirectly targets pests/pathogensEnhances plant physiological processes
RegulationSubject to pesticide regulations (EPA, OMRI)Less regulatory oversight, often considered soil amendments
Mode of ActionAntibiosis, competition, parasitismHormonal stimulation, nutrient uptake efficiency
ExamplesBacillus subtilis for fungal disease controlSeaweed extracts for drought tolerance

Industry Challenges and Regulatory Considerations

One of the biggest challenges in the biostimulant industry is the lack of clear regulations. While biopesticides undergo rigorous EPA evaluation, biostimulants can be marketed with minimal oversight. This has led to the proliferation of products with unverified claims, making it difficult for growers to differentiate effective solutions from ineffective ones.

Government agencies are actively considering regulatory frameworks for biostimulants to ensure quality control without stifling innovation. The Biostimulant Industry Alliance and other trade organizations are working to establish scientific standards and promote best practices.

Market Trends and Future Outlook

Despite challenges, the biopesticide and biostimulant markets are poised for significant growth. Market research predicts a continued rise in demand due to increasing consumer preference for organic and residue-free crops. Additionally, advancements in microbial formulations and AI-driven precision agriculture will enhance the effectiveness of these products.

Data and Charts from Industry Sources

1. Projected Market Growth of Biopesticides and Biostimulants (2020-2030)
  • Data Source: Market research reports from MarketsandMarkets, Mordor Intelligence, and Research and Markets.
  • Methodology: Extrapolation of market size based on reported CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) values of 12-15% for biopesticides and 13-16% for biostimulants from recent industry reports.

References:

  • MarketsandMarkets (2023). Biopesticides Market – Global Forecast 2028.
  • Mordor Intelligence (2023). Biostimulants Market Analysis & Forecast 2028.
  • Research and Markets (2023). Trends in Agricultural Biologicals.
2. Investment Trends in Biostimulant Research and Development (2015-2025)
  • Data Source: Reports from AgFunder, FAO, and OECD on global agricultural input investments.
  • Methodology: Estimation based on reported investments in biologicals, venture capital funding for agri-tech startups, and projected R&D budgets from industry leaders.

References:

  • AgFunder (2023). Investment in AgTech and Biostimulants.
  • FAO (2023). Sustainable Agriculture and Innovation Trends.
  • OECD (2022). Trends in Agricultural R&D.
3. Adoption Rates of Biostimulants Across Different Crop Sectors
  • Data Source: Surveys and adoption studies from USDA, European Biostimulant Industry Council (EBIC), and International Biostimulants Forum.
  • Methodology: Aggregated adoption data from industry reports and regional case studies, indicating highest adoption in vegetable and fruit production, with lower adoption in ornamentals.

References:

  • USDA (2023). Adoption of Biostimulants in U.S. Crop Production.
  • EBIC (2023). European Biostimulants Market Report.
  • International Biostimulants Forum (2022). Global Trends in Biological Crop Inputs.
4. Regulatory Differences Between Biopesticides and Biostimulants
  • Data Source: Regulations from EPA, European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), and USDA Organic Program.
  • Methodology: Comparative analysis of regulatory frameworks governing product registration, scientific validation, and market oversight for biopesticides versus biostimulants.

References:

  • EPA (2023). Biopesticide Registration Guidelines.
  • EFSA (2023). Regulatory Framework for Biostimulants in the EU.
  • USDA (2023). Organic Input Standards and Market Oversight.

Selling Your Organic Grain – Be Prepared!

  1. Why Contracts Are Essential in Organic Grain Sales
  2. Organic Grain Growers Checklist for Selling to Buyers
  3. Pre-Sale Preparation
  4. Before Delivery
  5. Delivery & Inspection
  6. Payment & Dispute Prevention
  7. Additional Protections

Why Contracts Are Essential in Organic Grain Sales

Selling organic grain is not as straightforward as selling conventional grain at an elevator, where pricing and quality adjustments are often standardized. In the organic grain market, unclear contracts, inconsistent pricing adjustments, and slow payments are common challenges that can put YOU at a disadvantage. Many organic buyers have been known to accept deliveries without immediate quality verification, only to later claim that the grain does not meet specifications. This often results in unexpected discounts deducted from the final payment, sometimes with little to no communication until the check arrives. Additionally, delayed payments can create financial strain for farmers who rely on timely income to manage expenses and reinvest in their operations.

These issues are not unique to one buyer but are widespread across the organic grain industry, where transactions are often handled differently than traditional grain sales. Unlike selling to an elevator, where grain is weighed, graded, and priced immediately, organic grain buyers frequently negotiate terms individually, leading to greater risk for the grower if expectations are not clearly defined upfront. Without a well-structured contract that specifies quality standards, pricing, delivery terms, and payment deadlines, farmers may find themselves in disputes over quality, receiving lower payments than expected, or waiting months to be paid.

To protect growers from these risks, formal contracts should be a standard practice in organic grain sales. A well-written contract provides transparency, ensures both parties agree on quality and pricing expectations, and reduces the likelihood of unfair deductions or disputes. Additionally, incorporating steps such as pre-approved grain samples and documented delivery inspections can help establish trust and accountability in transactions. By setting clear terms in writing, organic growers can secure fair payment for their crops and create a more predictable and long-term marketing process.

Organic Grain Growers Checklist for Selling to Buyers

Pre-Sale Preparation

✅ Research the Buyer – Check past experiences, ask other farmers, and ensure the buyer has a good reputation.
✅ Obtain a Written Contract – Do not rely on verbal agreements. Ensure all details are in writing.
✅ Define Quality Specifications – Specify acceptable moisture, test weight, foreign material limits, and any other grading factors.
✅ Determine Discount Schedule – Get in writing how much will be deducted for deviations from specifications.
✅ Set a Payment Schedule – Include clear payment terms (Net 15, Net 30, etc.) and penalties for late payment.
✅ Require a Pre-Approved Sample – Send a sample to the buyer before the deal is finalized and get a written quality approval.

Before Delivery

✅ Keep Records of Grain Quality – Document test weight, moisture content, and any lab results before shipping.
✅ Take Photos of the Grain – Have visual proof of quality before it leaves the farm.
✅ Confirm Delivery Details – Date, time, location, and any special unloading requirements.
✅ Clarify Inspection at Delivery – Require written acceptance of the load upon delivery to avoid later disputes.

Delivery & Inspection

✅ Request a Third-Party Inspection (If Necessary) – If there are concerns, get an independent inspection at delivery.
✅ Obtain a Delivery Receipt – Ensure the buyer acknowledges the grain’s arrival and confirms quality in writing.
✅ Document Any Quality Concerns Immediately – If issues arise, get a signed report at the time of unloading.

Payment & Dispute Prevention

✅ Track Payment Due Dates – Follow up if payment is delayed beyond the agreed timeframe.
✅ Dispute Any Unfair Discounts Promptly – If deductions occur, request documentation and negotiate if necessary.
✅ Consider Partial Upfront Payment – For large transactions, negotiate for partial pre-payment or escrow arrangements.

Additional Protections

✅ Keep a Paper Trail – Maintain emails, contracts, test results, and photos in case of a dispute.
✅ Clarify Liability for Rejections – If the grain is rejected, determine who covers the cost of returning or reselling it.
✅ Work With a Lawyer (For Large Sales) – For significant transactions, having a legal review can prevent future issues.

Understanding the Proper Use of Organic and Biological Products in Pest Control

I am asked all the time about organic and biological products. I have over 130 OMRI approved products on a list for controlling pests (weeds, disease and insects) in organic crops. As more growers turn to organic and biological products for pest control, it’s important to understand the nuances of their application. Unlike synthetic chemicals, these products require careful consideration of environmental conditions, mixing procedures, and application timing to be effective. People assume that the Extension Organic Specialist will know every product on the list and how they work – Wrong! I do know about many, but I am also very dependent on growers who use the products telling me about their experiences. I include a lot of that information in the list below.

To view the 5 Excel Sheets or to Download just click on the picture above.

Why Choose Biological Control Products?

Biological control products, while sometimes slower to act than botanical oils or mineral oils, offer several advantages. These products, often derived from beneficial fungi or bacteria, work by stopping insect feeding almost immediately. Over several hours, they gradually degrade the exoskeleton of pests and can also target eggs and larvae, preventing their development.

While oils can provide a quick knockdown effect, they can be harsh on crops, especially in regions like Texas where intense heat and light can exacerbate their impact. This makes biological products generally a safer option for maintaining crop health.

The Importance of Water pH and Quality

One of the most overlooked aspects of using organic and biological sprays is the pH and quality of the water used for mixing. In Texas, our hard water is notorious for high mineral content, which can bind with the active ingredients in sprays, reducing their effectiveness.

For most biological products, it’s crucial to buffer your water to a pH of 5.5-6.5. This range helps to ensure that the organisms remain stable and active in the solution. An exception is Pyganic, a natural pyrethroid, which is highly sensitive to pH. For Pyganic, water buffered to a pH of 4.0-5.0 is ideal for maximizing its efficacy.

Additionally, always use warm water, not cold, when mixing your sprays. Warm water helps the biologicals to remain active and mix more evenly, preventing the clumping that can occur with cold water.

Timing Your Application

Timing is everything when it comes to applying organic and biological products. Unlike synthetic chemicals, these products are sensitive to environmental conditions, particularly UV radiation. Applying them in the evening or at dusk is ideal for several reasons:

  • Reduced UV Exposure: UV radiation can degrade biological products quickly. Applying in the evening allows the product to remain effective longer.1
  • Insect Activity: Many insects are more active when it’s cooler and there’s less light, making it easier to target them effectively.
  • Improved Residual Effect: Spraying in the evening allows the droplets to stay moist longer, thanks to slightly higher humidity. This moisture helps the product adhere better to the plant surfaces and provides residual protection overnight.2

Click on this picture above to read about adjuvants

The Role of Organic Adjuvants in Biological Spray Applications

Organic adjuvants play a critical role in enhancing the performance of biological and organic spray products. By reducing the surface tension of the spray solution, adjuvants help the product spread more evenly across plant surfaces, ensuring better coverage of leaves, stems, and other target areas.

In addition to improving coverage, adjuvants help prevent biological products from drying out too quickly. Many beneficial organisms, such as fungi and bacteria, require time to adhere to the plant surface and begin their activity. Rapid drying can reduce their effectiveness. By maintaining moisture on the surface longer, adjuvants enhance the opportunity for these organisms to establish and do their job effectively.

When selecting an organic adjuvant, ensure it is compatible with the biological product you are using. Always follow label recommendations for application rates and test compatibility in a small jar test if you’re mixing multiple products. Proper use of surfactants can make a significant difference in achieving the desired results from your pest control program.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Many growers who experience issues with organic products often trace the problem back to a few common mistakes:

  1. Improper Mixing: Failing to buffer water or using cold water can lead to reduced efficacy. Always mix according to the product’s instructions and monitor the pH closely.
  2. Environmental Conditions: Applying products during the heat of the day or in bright sunlight can degrade their effectiveness. Always aim for cooler, less bright times of the day.3
  3. Timing: Don’t rush your application. Ensure that you’re applying at the right time to maximize the product’s impact.

Conclusion

By understanding and addressing these factors, you can significantly improve the effectiveness of your organic and biological pest control efforts. Remember, the success of these products often hinges on the details—proper mixing, the right environmental conditions, and timely application.

I encourage you to share your experiences and any questions you might have in the comments below. Together, we can continue to refine our practices and improve the outcomes of organic farming.

  1. The timing of pesticide application can significantly affect the level and persistence of pesticide residues. Evening applications generally lead to higher pesticide residue levels over a longer period compared to morning applications.
    Key Findings
    Effect of Application Timing: Evening applications of pesticides tend to result in higher residue levels that persist longer. This is because the conditions in the evening, such as lower temperatures and reduced sunlight, slow down the degradation of pesticides, allowing residues to remain on plants for extended periods (Norida et al., 2023; Moraes et al., 2021; Makram. et al., 2020).
    Degradation Factors: Sunlight and UV exposure are critical in the degradation of pesticides. Pesticides degrade more effectively when exposed to direct sunlight in the morning compared to the evening, as seen in studies where morning sunlight led to more significant degradation of certain pesticides (Makram. et al., 2020).
    Impact on Efficacy: The effectiveness of pesticides can also vary with the time of application. For instance, some studies have shown that morning applications can be more effective in controlling certain pests due to better environmental conditions for pesticide action (Skuterud et al., 1998; Moraes et al., 2021).
    Environmental Considerations: Applying pesticides in the evening can reduce the immediate impact on non-target organisms, such as bees, as residues have more time to dissipate before these organisms become active again in the morning (Swanson et al., 2023).
    Conclusion
    Evening applications of pesticides generally result in higher and more persistent residue levels compared to morning applications. This is due to slower degradation rates in the absence of sunlight and cooler temperatures. While this can enhance the persistence of pesticide effects, it also raises concerns about prolonged exposure to residues. Therefore, the timing of pesticide application should be carefully considered to balance efficacy and environmental impact.

    References
    Skuterud, R., Bjugstad, N., Tyldum, A., & Tørresen, K. (1998). Effect of herbicides applied at different times of the day. Crop Protection, 17, 41-46. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0261-2194(98)80020-3
    Norida, M., Yahya, S., & Ghazali, F. (2023). Effectiveness of Homemade Repellents and Spray Timing in Controlling Insect Pest in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) and Chinese Mustard (Brassica rapa var. Parachinensis). IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 1208. https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/1208/1/012021
    Swanson, L., Melathopoulos, A., & Bucy, M. (2023). Systematic review of residual toxicity studies of pesticides to bees and comparison to language on pesticide labels using data from studies and the Environmental Protection Agency. bioRxiv. https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.06.05.543089
    Moraes, H., Ferreira, L., De Souza, W., Faria, R., De Freitas, M., & Cecon, P. (2021). Spray volume, dose and time of day of glyphosate application in the control of Urochloa brizantha. Bioagro. https://doi.org/10.51372/bioagro333.1
    Makram., S., Ibrahim, H., & Mohammed., M. (2020). EFFECT OF DIRECT SUNLIGHT AND UV-RAYS ON DEGRADATION OF BUPIRIMATE, PENCONAZOLE AND PROFENOFOS. **. https://doi.org/10.21608/fjard.2020.189675 ↩︎
  2. Ibid ↩︎
  3. Ibid ↩︎

Texas Organic Rice Update: Insights for Producers and Researchers

Great picture by USA Rice at the recent Western Rice Conference, January 15th in El Campo.

Organic rice production in Texas continues to evolve, with advancements in weed control, fertility management, and ratoon cropping showing promising results. This update covers the latest developments, challenges, and resources available to organic rice growers, with implications for both organic and conventional production systems.

Advancements in Organic Rice Production

1. Enhancing Yields with Ratoon Crop Production
Texas researchers are leading efforts to improve ratoon crop yields in organic rice. This practice of harvesting a second crop from the stubble of the first offers a sustainable way to maximize productivity without replanting, making it an attractive option for organic farmers. Paragraph from study below:

“To enhance nitrogen availability, the researchers utilized organic-approved inputs such as compost and cover crops, finding that an equivalent of 90 pounds of nitrogen per acre was optimal for achieving the greatest yields, with greater rates offering no additional advantage. This insight helps farmers optimize nitrogen inputs using sustainable sources, saving costs while promoting organic practices.”

2. Organic Variety Trials – 2023
Organic variety trials conducted in Garwood, Texas, showed promising results. These trials not only help identify suitable varieties for organic systems but also aid in improving overall seed supply for future seasons.

Variety AverageDry (lbs./ac.)Dry (Bu./ac.)Dry (barrels/ac.)
XP7537233160.744.6
RT74017091157.643.8
RT73016716149.241.5
RT73027263161.444.8
XL7236760150.241.7

Overcoming Challenges in Organic Rice Production

1. Weed Control Innovations
Weeds remain a major challenge for organic rice farmers. Here are some key tools and practices being used:

  • Northern Jointvetch Control: The bioherbicide LockDown (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides f. sp. Aeschynomene) has shown great effectiveness. This live organism must be applied with a surfactant, offering a cost-effective solution.
  • Hemp Sesbania Management: USDA-approved use of Albifimbria verrucaria (formerly Myrothecium verrucaria) has demonstrated success against hemp sesbania and other weeds like sicklepod and pigweed.
  • Water-Seeding Method: The pinpoint flood system effectively suppresses weedy rice by creating anaerobic conditions that inhibit germination.

2. Organic Fertility Programs
Organic rice growers are adopting long-term fertility strategies, including the use of compost and biostimulants. Research highlights the importance of repeated compost applications to boost soil biological activity and improve yields.

  • Biostimulants in Focus: Biostimulants such as humic acids, seaweed extracts, and microbial inoculants can enhance plant growth. However, product quality remains inconsistent, necessitating thorough testing and careful application.

Market Trends and Opportunities

The organic rice market faces challenges related to supply chains, international competition, and fraud. Key issues include:

  • GMO concerns, especially in Mexico and China.
  • Limited seed supply due to adverse weather conditions in 2024, which impacted production in Texas.

Picture of an article in an Indian News Post showing “GMO” rice sent to Europe!

Despite these hurdles, Texas continues to work to expand organic rice production. Programs like the Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) are equipping farmers with mentorship, community-building opportunities, and technical training to support successful transitions to organic farming.

Resources for Organic Farmers

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Organic Program provides a range of resources to support organic rice growers:

  • Podcasts: On TOPP of Organic offers insights into organic production practices.
  • Newsletters: Subscribe to bimonthly and monthly newsletters for the latest updates.
  • Workshops and Field Days: Covering topics such as certification, conservation planning, and marketing.

The Future of Organic Rice in Texas

Organic rice production has been a rapidly growing industry with vast potential but there are plenty of struggles right now. By addressing challenges like weed control and fertility management, and leveraging mentorship and research programs, Texas farmers can lead the way in sustainable and organic agriculture.

Lastly, this information is from Cognitive Market Research off their website. I took a picture of this graph showing that Organic Rice sales are growing tremendously and will continue to grow. I have rice growers say to me that people have quit buying organic rice and they believe this because our organic rice farmers can’t get contracts to grow organic rice. The problem is not that our US consumers don’t buy organic rice it is that organic rice imports are filling that demand – NOT Texas organic rice producers! So, I ask the question, “Where is this organic rice coming from?”

Other Rice Resources (just click a link!)