Tag: Agriculture

Organic Rice Resources

  1. Variety Selection in Organic Rice Production
  2. Importance of Seedling Vigor
  3. Updated Considerations
  4. Rice Variety Research
  5. More Rice Variety Information
  6. Ratoon Rice?
  7. Seed Rice Varieties
  8. Where to Buy Seed Rice
  9. Companies In the Organic Rice Milling Business
  10. Other Resources

Variety Selection in Organic Rice Production

In organic production systems, the challenges to producing an economically successful crop are quite different than in conventional systems. Research has shown that the choice of cultivar is one of the most important decisions in determining performance under organic management.

There are many different target markets for rice, including:

  • Standard Milled Long or Medium Grain Rice: Commonly used in everyday cooking.
  • Brown Rice: Retains the bran layer and is considered healthier due to higher fiber content.
  • Aromatic Rice: Varieties such as jasmine and basmati that are valued for their distinctive fragrances. These are being developed by TAMU Rice Researchers and should be available soon.
  • Special Purpose Rice: Includes rice for flour production or colored bran rice, which can be marketed for its unique nutritional or aesthetic qualities.

Understanding the preferences of these markets and identifying outlets for specific types of rice may offer added economic opportunities for growers. For example, there is a growing market for aromatic and colored bran rice due to increasing consumer interest in unique and healthful food options.

Importance of Seedling Vigor

In organic production, the use of many conventional seed treatments is prohibited. Therefore, selecting varieties with excellent seedling vigor and seedling quality is crucial. Seedling vigor refers to the ability of seeds to germinate and grow rapidly under field conditions, leading to strong early stand establishment. This is particularly important in organic systems for several reasons:

  • Early Flooding: Strong early growth allows for an early flood, which is a key practice for weed control in rice fields.
  • Weed Competition: Vigorous seedlings can outcompete weeds, reducing the need for mechanical or manual weeding.
  • Disease Resistance: Early and healthy growth can help seedlings better withstand diseases and pest attacks.

Updated Considerations

Recent advancements and trends in organic rice production emphasize several additional factors:

  • Adaptability to Organic Inputs: Varieties should perform well with organic fertilizers and soil amendments, which release nutrients more slowly than synthetic fertilizers. Varieties developed in organic systems develop beneficial relationships with the microbiome.
  • Disease and Pest Resistance: With fewer pest control options available, selecting varieties that are resistant to common diseases and insects in the 2 rice growing regions is more critical.
  • Environmental Resilience: Varieties that can tolerate local environmental stresses such as drought, salinity, or extreme temperatures are preferred.

By focusing on these updated considerations, organic rice growers can better navigate the unique challenges of organic production and tap into diverse market opportunities, ultimately leading to more successful and sustainable farming operations.

Rice Variety Research

Rice varieties have different yield potentials under organic versus commercial production systems. Cultivars such as Tesanai 2, Rondo, and hybrids have
high yield potential, as demonstrated in a research plot trial conducted in Texas (see picture below). Based on a 5-year (2015 through 2019) organic commercial production survey, the average yield of XL723 (a popular hybrid variety in Texas, used in organic production) was 4,094 pounds per acre, while Presidio’s yield (a popular inbred variety) was only 2,452 pounds per acre. The selection of high yielding rice varieties with tolerance to weeds and diseases is the key to successful organic rice production.

This is the yield performance of 19 rice varieties and germplasm lines grown organically in Beaumont, Texas in 2015 and 2016 at the Rice Research Center.

More Rice Variety Information

This rice variety test below was conducted by RiceTec in 2023 on the Chriss Schiurring Farm near Garwood.

The measurements provided (bushels and barrels) are generally for rough rice, which includes the hulls and is the form in which rice is typically harvested and initially processed.

  • Bushel of Rice: A bushel of rough rice typically weighs 45 pounds.
  • Barrel of Rice: A barrel of rough rice is typically defined as weighing 162 pounds.

Ratoon Rice?

Ratoon rice production involves harvesting a primary rice crop and then allowing the stubble left in the field to regrow and produce a second crop, known as the ratoon crop. This method leverages the remaining growth potential of the plant to produce an additional harvest without replanting, thereby saving time, labor, and resources. Ratoon cropping can increase overall yield and efficiency, although it typically produces a lower yield than the primary crop.

The average yield of a ratoon rice crop is typically about 50-70% of the main crop’s yield. This reduced yield is due to the limited growth potential and shorter growing period of the ratoon crop compared to the main crop. However, ratoon cropping can still be economically beneficial due to the reduced input costs and labor requirements. In many organic rice production fields, the ratoon crop is the profit crop and makes or breaks the farms success!

Seed Rice Varieties

Hybrid Rice Varieties

Hybrid rice is produced by crossbreeding two distinct rice plants with the goal of: higher yields, better disease resistance, and greater environmental stress tolerance compared to conventional varieties. Unlike conventional rice, hybrid rice seeds need to be purchased each planting season, as the hybrid traits do not persist in subsequent generations. Additionally, hybrid rice typically requires a lower planting rate (13-22 lbs. per acre or sometimes more in organic systems) due to its vigorous growth and higher productivity. To read more about how hybrid rice is produced click this link: Hybrid Rice Breeding

RiceTec XL723

For a decade now, XL723 has delivered unsurpassed value through its combination of high yield and outstanding milling yields. Long grain rice. XL723 should be harvested at 18%-20% moisture at first drydown to help maximize grain quality and grain retention.

  • Superior milling yield
  • Ideal for straighthead-prone soils
  • Excellent ratoon potential
  • Great fit for organic cultivation

RiceTec XP753

Up until 2023, XP753 was the highest-yielding long-grain rice available, providing the greatest net income potential of any competitive rice product. XP753 should be harvested at 18%-20% moisture at first drydown to help maximize grain quality and grain retention.

  • Protected by RiceTec’s superior disease package
  • Improved grain retention
  • Excellent ratoon potential

RiceTec RT7301

Introduced in 2020, RT7301 represents an evolution of RiceTec traditional rice products, capturing the best attributes of XP753 a long grain rice. RT7301 should be harvested at 18%-20% moisture at first drydown to help maximize grain quality and grain retention.

  • Very high yield potential
  • Protected by RiceTec’s superior disease package
  • Improved grain retention

RiceTec RT7302

New in 2023, RT7302 represents the next breeding evolution of RiceTec traditional rice products, capturing the best in yield and grain quality. RT7302 will raise the bar for yield among the RiceTec portfolio of long grain rice. RT7302 be harvested at 18%-20% moisture at first drydown to help maximize grain quality and grain retention.

  • high yield potential
  • Protected by RiceTec’s superior disease package
  • high grain quality
  • 25% amylose content* for a more separate cooked product

*Amylose content in rice refers to the amount of amylose, a type of starch, present in the grains. Rice with intermediate amylose content (typically 20-25%) tends to have a balanced texture—neither too sticky nor too dry. This makes it versatile for a variety of culinary uses, providing a satisfactory chewiness without being overly firm or sticky.

RiceTec RT3202

RT3202 is a medium grain rice.

  • Early maturity (110 days)
  • High yield hybrid potential
  • Average ratoon potential

Conventional and/or Inbred Rice Varieties (non-hybrid)

Conventional rice varieties are traditional types of rice that are open-pollinated and can be replanted each season from harvested seeds (there are laws regulating saving some seed varieties, click to read more). They are important for maintaining genetic diversity, which helps ensure crop resilience against diseases and pests. Additionally, they often have unique flavors and qualities prized in local cuisines and cultural practices. Planting rates are in the range of 60-80 or even to 120 lbs. per acre. Check with your sales representative or agronomist. Organic seeding rates can be up to 1.5 times more.

You may see the term “inbred.” Inbred rice varieties are those developed through self-pollination over multiple generations to achieve a stable, uniform genetic makeup. Unlike hybrid varieties, which are produced by crossbreeding different parent lines, inbred varieties maintain consistent traits across generations when their seeds are replanted. They are often valued for their stability, specific traits, and adaptability to local growing conditions.

Dyna-Gro DG245L

Semi-dwarf, early maturing, long-grain variety with exceptional milling yields and grain quality. Medium plant height of 36 inches and great stalk strength for lodging resistance and storm tolerance. Very stable yields in five years of research with excellent ratoon crop potential. Intermediate gel temperature* and intermediate amylose content.

*Gel temperature refers to the temperature at which the rice starch granules gelatinize or become sticky during cooking. Rice varieties with intermediate gel temperature generally produce grains that are soft but not mushy when cooked, offering a desirable texture that balances between firmness and tenderness.

Dyna-Gro DG263L

High yielding long grain variety with excellent quality with excellent disease package including blast and smuts. Plant height and stalk strength for lodging resistance and storm tolerance with a proven field performance. Uniform grain size and very good miller (58/69). Lower seeding rates than most varieties (45-65 lbs. per acre).

Dyna-Gro DG353M

High yielding medium grain variety with excellent quality with uniform grain size and a very good miller (60/70). Great standability and favorable plant height (36 inches). Very stable yields in four years of research. Lower seeding rate (50-75 lbs. per acre) than other conventional medium grain inbreds.

Horizon Ag CL153

CL153 is an early, semi-dwarf, long-grain Clearfield rice variety developed by the LSU AgCenter H. Rouse Caffey Rice Research Station. Known for its excellent yield potential and high head rice yields with minimal chalkiness, CL153 offers several agronomic advantages. It has a yield potential comparable to or slightly below that of CL151 but with better lodging resistance. The variety also features excellent grain length, translucency, and whole milled rice output, meeting industry standards.

In terms of disease resistance, CL153 is moderately susceptible to blast, Cercospora, bacterial panicle blight, and straighthead, but it is susceptible to sheath blight. It carries the Pita gene, providing broad-spectrum resistance to common blast races in the southern USA. This makes it a robust choice for growers seeking a variety with good disease management traits.

Horizon Ag CLL16

CLL16 is a long-grain, conventional height, Clearfield rice variety developed by the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. It boasts excellent yield potential and stability, maintaining strong yields even with later planting dates. The variety has excellent seedling vigor and is a few inches taller than typical Louisiana Clearfield varieties, but it is moderately resistant to lodging.

CLL16 features the Pita gene (not a GMO), providing strong resistance to blast, and the CRSP2.1 gene (not a GMO), offering resistance to narrow brown leaf spot. It is moderately susceptible to Cercospora infection on the stem, sheath blight, and bacterial panicle blight. However, milling yields and ratoon potential are observed to be lower than other some other varieties.

Organic rice farmers looking for a reliable variety will find CLL16 to be a strong contender due to its consistent performance, high milling quality, and industry-leading blast resistance. In university tests, CLL16 has shown good rough rice yields, averaging higher than the Diamond variety, making it a comprehensive choice for rice farmers.

Horizon Ag CLL18

CLL18 is a long-grain, conventional height Clearfield rice variety developed by the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. It boasts excellent yield potential and stability, maintaining strong yields even with later planting dates. With excellent seedling vigor, CLL18 is slightly taller than typical Louisiana Clearfield varieties but is moderately resistant to lodging. However, its milling yields are observed to be lower than other Clearfield varieties.

CLL18 does not contain the Pita blast resistance gene and is moderately susceptible to blast, making it less suitable for areas prone to this disease. It does contain the CRSP2.1 gene, providing resistance to narrow brown leaf spot, but is moderately susceptible to Cercospora infection on the stem, sheath blight, and bacterial panicle blight. Despite these susceptibilities, CLL18 has consistently outyielded CLL16 by about 5% in Arkansas trials. Its earlier maturity makes it a good planting partner with CLL16, allowing farmers to stagger their harvests effectively.

Stratton Jupiter

A short-season, semi-dwarf, medium grain with excellent yield potential and milling quality. It is a small grain size but has moderate resistance to bacterial panicle blight.

Stratton Titan

Titan is a very early, short-stature, medium-grain rice variety known for its excellent yield potential, often comparable to or better than Jupiter. It matures about a week earlier than Jupiter and is similar in height. Titan has a preferred large grain size but is moderately susceptible to blast and bacterial panicle blight. It is important to harvest Titan at the correct moisture level, as milling yields drop off significantly when harvested at lower moisture. This short-season variety is valued for its robust performance and high yield potential.

Stratton Cheniere

A short-season, semi-dwarf long grain with excellent yield potential and milling quality comparable to Cypress. An early, high-yielding, high-quality, rice variety with, good lodging resistance and moderate resistance to straighthead. It is moderately susceptible to blast and bacterial panicle blight and susceptible to sheath blight and Cercospora. The variety displays excellent grain quality characteristics, has a higher amylose content and cooks less sticky than typical U.S. long grains.

Stratton Jewel

A mid-season long grain variety with good yield potential and milling yield. Susceptible to straighthead. Moderately susceptible to sheath blight, blast, Cercospora, false smut and lodging. Moderately resistant to bacterial panicle blight.

Stratton Diamond

A mid-season, long-grain variety with excellent yield potential and good milling quality. Very good straw strength. Susceptible to blast and sheath blight, moderately susceptible to bacterial panicle blight. Very susceptible to false smut

Where to Buy Seed Rice

RiceTec Seed

  • https://www.ricetec.com/
  • PO Box 1305, Alvin, TX 77512
  • Office: 281.756.3300
  • Fax: 281.393.3532
  • Email: CustomerService@ricetec.com
  • Joe Pankey, Regional Business Innovation Agronomist
  • Cell: 318.381.3280
  • Email: jpankey@ricetec.com
  • Derrol Grymes, Region 15 Sales
  • Cell: 281.381.9371
  • Email: dgrymes@ricetec.com
  • Craig Hamm, Region 14 Sales
  • Cell: 281.387.7247
  • Jeff Mosley, Regional Sales
  • Cell: 662.719.1034

Dyna-Gro Seed

  • https://dynagroseed.com/
  • Nutrien Ag Solutions, El Campo
  • 676 Country Road 324, El Campo
  • Dr. Qiming Shao, Rice Breeder
  • Office: 979.541.3912
  • Nutrien Ag Solutions, Wharton
  • 1015 Nelson Lane, Wharton
  • Office: 979.532.2371

Horizon Ag Seed

  • https://www.horizonseed.com/
  • 8275 Tournament Dr., Suite 255, Memphis, TN 38125
  • Office: (866) 237-6167
  • Office: (901) 818-3070
  • Fax: (901) 818-3117
  • Email: info@horizonseed.com
  • Hunter Brown, District Field Representative
  • Email: hbrown@horizonseed.com
  • Cell: 337.546.7288

Stratton Seed

  • https://gostrattonseed.com/
  • 1530 HWY 79 South, Stuttgart, AR 72160
  • Office: 800.264.4433
  • Keith Hammer, Sales Manager – Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma
  • Cell: 501-326-3845
  • Email: khammer@strattonseed.com

Companies In the Organic Rice Milling Business

Doguet’s Rice Milling

  • https://www.doguets.com/
  • 795 S. Major Drive, Beaumont, Texas 77707
  • Email: doguets@doguets.com
  • Office: 409.866.2297
  • Fax: 409.866.1646

Gulf Pacific Rice Milling

  • http://gulfpac.com/
  • 12010 Taylor Road, Houston, Texas 77041
  • Office: 713.464.0606
  • Fax: 713.467.0325
  • Email: gpsales@gulfpac.com

McKaskle Family Farm

Harvest Grain Mills

Other Resources

USDA Organic: You are automatically part of a huge family!

The organic label is more than just a marketing term; it is a rigorous standard of quality that reflects sustainable and environmentally friendly practices across the agricultural sector. The USDA’s National Organic Program (NOP) is at the heart of this movement, ensuring that products labeled as organic meet stringent, federally regulated guidelines. This unified regulatory framework is crucial not just for maintaining the integrity of the organic label but also for investing in and supporting a diverse array of stakeholders involved in the organic supply chain—from farmers and researchers to retailers and consumers. Tools such as the USDA Organic Consumer Outreach Toolkit play a vital role in promoting these standards, ensuring that the value of organic products is clearly communicated and understood by the consumer but also by those outside looking in and examining the organic program family!

  1. The Unified Regulatory Framework of Organic Agriculture
  2. Collaborative Efforts Across Stakeholders
  3. Education and Outreach: Tools for Sustaining Organic Integrity
  4. Support Systems and Knowledge Exchange
  5. Traceability and Transparency: Building Consumer Trust
  6. Conclusion
  7. Some real-world examples of building consumer trust

The Unified Regulatory Framework of Organic Agriculture

Organic agriculture operates under a comprehensive framework established by the NOP, which enforces consistency across the entire supply chain. This uniformity ensures that whether one is dealing with an organic dairy farm in Texas or a producer of organic vegetables in California, or a feed manufacturer in Illinois, all parties are held to the same high standards. This regulation not only supports the integrity of organic products but also helps streamline processes for stakeholders at all levels, including brokers, wholesalers, manufacturers, and retailers. The ability to trust in the label “organic” comes from this rigorous oversight and the commitment to upholding these standards universally.

Collaborative Efforts Across Stakeholders

One of the most remarkable aspects of the NOP’s structure is its collaborative nature, which fosters engagement across a broad spectrum of stakeholders. This collaboration includes:

  • Educational institutions and specialists: As an organic specialist with a land grant university, my role involves educating and guiding future and current farmers on best organic practices. Even specialists without organic in their title like agronomists, entomologists or plant pathologists contribute to organic knowledge and expertise. More and more these folks are finding ways to work with our natural plant and animal systems advancing organic agriculture.
  • University researchers are doing tremendous work and through their efforts organic ag is advancing faster and faster. I know, because of the many current organic grant projects just in Texas. Other research bodies, both public and private research, also are a part of this huge collaboration to advance organic agriculture from the farm all the way to the table.
  • Organizations and associations like the Organic Trade Association (OTA), The Organic Center (TOC), Organic Farm Research Foundation (OFRF) and many other non-profits work tirelessly to promote organic production practices and products, help foster collaborations, and advocate within the halls of government.
  • Certification entities and even certification inspectors all work together with growers and handlers to ensure that the system is protected from simple mistakes to outright fraud protecting a consumer based and backed program. They are not doing this just for themselves but for the grower and handler who needs the consumer to buy their products because they are certified organic.

Education and Outreach: Tools for Sustaining Organic Integrity

The USDA Organic Consumer Outreach Toolkit exemplifies the educational tools that are crucial for sustaining the integrity of the organic label. This toolkit is designed to educate stakeholders along the supply chain and inform consumers about what the organic label represents. Clear, consistent messaging helps to ensure that the organic label retains its value and significance in the marketplace. For instance, retail employees can use the toolkit to better explain the benefits of organic products to customers, reinforcing trust and understanding.

USDA Organic Consumer Outreach Toolkit

Support Systems and Knowledge Exchange

I will admit this is a tough one! We do not have the support systems and advisory services we need within the organic community. Extension organic specialists and county extension agents and even private advisors and consultants to provide ongoing support and guidance, have been in short supply – but it is improving. This continual knowledge exchange is vital for keeping up with the fast-changing organic systems research, the new and innovative products for organic production, the regulatory environment we work within and of course, any and all emerging trends in organic agriculture.

Traceability and Transparency: Building Consumer Trust

A cornerstone of the NOP’s approach is the emphasis on traceability and transparency. From farm to retail store, every step of the organic product’s journey is documented (and includes a certified entity), ensuring that the products consumers buy are genuinely organic. This traceability not only helps in enforcing compliance with organic standards but also builds consumer confidence in the organic label. According to a recent consumer survey conducted by the Organic Trade Association 88% of all consumers know about the organic label and are willing to pay more because of their trust in the label.

Conclusion

The USDA National Organic Program’s structured approach to regulating and promoting organic agriculture underpins the integrity and trust in the organic label. By fostering a unified and collaborative framework, the NOP ensures that organic standards are not just ideals but practical realities that benefit the environment, producers, and consumers alike. As we look to the future, your continued support and participation in this program will be crucial for advancing sustainable agricultural practices and increasing organic farming, manufacturing, retailing and consumption. How? By realizing you are part of an “organic family” that promotes you and your business along with every other part of the value chain (traceability means you get promoted) all the way to the consumer who picks up your product and knows you are part of that product.

I know that all these rules and regulations and the piles of paperwork get overwhelming but know that this helps the consumer to feel a part of your production and ultimately your farm. Here are a few examples or Case Studies of what things may look like in the future as we try to invite the consumer to be part of this value chain known as Organic Farming.

Some real-world examples of building consumer trust

Case Study 1: Carrefour and Blockchain

Overview:
Carrefour, (big in Europe and the Middle East) a global retail giant, launched a blockchain-based traceability system for several products, including organic fruits and vegetables. The system allows consumers to scan a QR code on the product packaging to access detailed information about the production process.

Key Features:

  • Farm to Fork Information: Consumers can see details about where and how the organic produce was grown, including the farm’s location, the farming practices used, and the harvest date.
  • Transparency and Trust: By providing a clear view of the supply chain, Carrefour enhances consumer trust in their organic label.

Case Study 2: IBM Food Trust and Walmart

Overview:
Walmart joined the IBM Food Trust, a blockchain-based system, to improve the traceability of its food products. The initiative initially focused on conventional products but has extended to organic products to ensure their integrity.

Key Features:

  • Enhanced Traceability: The system tracks every transaction from the supplier to the store, ensuring that organic standards are maintained at every step.
  • Rapid Response to Issues: If an issue arises, such as a contamination risk, Walmart can quickly trace the product back to its source and manage the situation effectively.

Case Study 3: Ripe.io and Tomato Traceability

Overview:
Ripe.io uses blockchain technology to provide transparency in the tomato supply chain. Although not exclusively organic, the principles applied can directly benefit organic markets by detailing each step of a tomato’s journey from seed to supermarket.

Key Features:

  • Detailed Product Insights: Information on when and how tomatoes were planted, cared for, harvested, and transported are all recorded.
  • Consumer Feedback Integration: Consumers can provide feedback on the quality of the product, which can be used to improve farming practices.

Guayule! A West Texas Rubber Tree?

On May 2, 2024, I had the privilege of attending and speaking at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Uvalde – Vegetable Spring Field Day. The field day featured a morning walking tour of all the research going on at the center and one of the stops was extremely interesting and informative especially since it covered an area of agriculture I had never heard about. Del Craig with Bridgestone Company (maker of many brands of tires) was on hand to talk about their continued research into a plant called “Guayule,” and it was a fascinating introduction!

Guayule is a shrub native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The correct spelling is Parthenium argentatum, and it’s indeed a source of natural rubber. Guayule is particularly interesting because it offers an alternative to the traditional rubber source, the Hevea brasiliensis tree, which is grown primarily in Southeast Asia.

Characteristics of Guayule

  • Habitat: Guayule thrives in semi-arid climates, making it well-suited for regions where few other economic crops can grow.
  • Appearance: It’s a woody perennial that can reach up to 3 feet in height. It has a silver-gray appearance due to its hairy leaves, which help minimize water loss.
  • Rubber Production: Unlike the rubber tree, guayule produces rubber biopolymers in its bark and roots rather than in its sap. This rubber is harvested by grinding the whole plant and using a solvent-extraction process. Del Craig explained that the whole plant is harvested like you would harvest hay and then taken to processing.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

  • Sustainability: Since guayule grows in semi-arid regions, it requires less water than traditional rubber crops, making it an environmentally friendly alternative.
  • Hypoallergenic Properties: The rubber from guayule does not contain the proteins responsible for latex allergies, making it safe for use in medical supplies like gloves and catheters.
  • Economic Potential: It offers economic benefits for arid and semi-arid regions, providing a viable crop option that can support local economies without the extensive use of irrigation.

Research and Applications

  • Research is ongoing into optimizing the cultivation and processing of guayule for rubber extraction. This includes genetic breeding for traits such as increased rubber yield and disease resistance.
  • Current applications of guayule rubber include tires, medical products, and even consumer goods like footwear and adhesives.
  • The Uvalde Center has been a good test site but Del explained on the tour that they are also establishing a project in the Rio Grande Valley and at the Lubbock Research and Extension Center. These multiple sites allow for lots of experimentation on varieties in different eco-zones.

Could it grow in the South Plains?

In the pursuit for sustainable agricultural solutions in regions like the South Plains of Texas with limited water resources, guayule could be a great alternative to consider. Native to arid environments and native to Texas, this drought-resistant shrub is ideally suited to the South Plains of Texas, where traditional water-intensive crops struggle. Mr. Craig told me personally that they are looking into the possibility of the Plains to Brownfield to Seminole area being ideal for production.

One of the most compelling attributes of guayule is its water efficiency. This plant thrives in semi-arid climates, utilizing very deep root systems that tap into lower soil moisture levels and leaves adapted to minimize water loss. These features allow guayule to sustain itself and produce economically valuable rubber with minimal irrigation, aligning perfectly with the water conservation needs of the South Plains.

Moreover, guayule is adaptable to various soil types, increasing its viability across different landscapes within the region. Its introduction could diversify agricultural practices, reduce economic risks from crop failures, and provide farmers with a new revenue stream through the production of biodegradable rubber products.

The environmental benefits of cultivating guayule are also noteworthy. By stabilizing soil and reducing erosion on marginal lands, it enhances soil health and supports the local ecosystem. Del Craig also commented that they have looked at the carbon sequestration ability of the plant and its deep and extensive root system makes it a winner. To fully integrate guayule into the South Plains, initiatives such as pilot projects to tailor cultivation techniques, local agronomic support, and the establishment of processing facilities are essential.

Resources

Selecting a Variety for your Farm?

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

Click a Link Below to Scroll Down

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

205.204 Seeds and planting stock practice standard – Organic Rules

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hybrid seeds

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

Open-source seeds

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

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

Development Process

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

Maintenance and Distribution

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

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

The Practice of Seed Saving

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

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

Benefits

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

Challenges

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

Navigating the Challenges

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

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

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

The Importance of Crop Variety Selection in Organic Systems

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

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

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

Enhancing Soil Microbiome Interactions

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

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

Emphasis on Plant Root Interactions with Soil Microbiome

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

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

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

Plant Variety Protection (PVP) Certificates

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

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

Utility Patents

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

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

Distinctions and Implications

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

Other Resources

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.

Click a Link Below to Scroll Down

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

Taking a Soil Test

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

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

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

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

What does a soil test tell you about soil?

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

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

Soil Tests Typically Taken

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

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

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

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

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

Haney Soil Health Test

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

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

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

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

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

Soil Wet Aggregate Stability Test

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

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

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

Slaking Image Analysis:

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

Cornell Rainfall Simulator:

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

Wet Sieve Procedure:

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

Mean Weight Diameter (MWD):

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

Using the PLFA Soil Health Test

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

How the PLFA Test Works

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

Importance of PLFA Analysis for Soil Health

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

Applications of PLFA Analysis

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

Advantages and Limitations

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

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

How to Understand and Interpret Soil Health Tests

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

Trace Genomics Testing

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

A quote from Trace Genomics

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

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

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

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

Other Resources: