Tag: Organic

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:

Best Cover Crops for Weed Control and Fertility

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

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

Just click a topic below to scroll down!

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

Sorghum Sudangrass

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

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

Sunn Hemp

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

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

Good video about Sunn Hemp from Missouri research!

Cowpea

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

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

Winter Cover Crops

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

Cereal Rye

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

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

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

Short video of Roller Crimping a rye cover crop at pollination

Mustards

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

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

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

Vetch

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

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

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

Wheat (Triticum spp.)

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

Oats (Avena sativa)

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

Barley (Hordeum vulgare)

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

Triticale (× Triticosecale)

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

Daikon Radish or Tillage Radish

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

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

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

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

Purple Top Turnip

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

Other Resources (just click a title)

Scale Insects and Mealybugs – Winter/Spring is the time to look and treat!

Click on an item below to go directly to it!

  1. Lecanium Scale: Pecan Trees
  2. San Jose Bark Scale
  3. Crape Myrtle Bark Scale
  4. Mealybugs are prominent now in Greenhouses and Houseplants
  5. Introduction of Natural Predators or Disease
  6. Other Resources

Lecanium Scale: Pecan Trees

Lecanium scale on pecan

Scales are sucking insects that insert their tiny, straw-like mouthparts into bark, fruit, or leaves, mostly on trees and shrubs and other perennial plants. Some scales can seriously damage their host, while other species do no apparent damage to plants even when scales are very abundant. The presence of scales can be easily overlooked, in part because they do not resemble most other insects.

Lecanium scales in the picture above (there are about 12 species) are known as “soft” scales and are common pests on many ornamental plants all over North America. Holly, elm, redbud, walnut, citrus, apricot, pear, persimmon, beech, box elder, grape, pecan, rose, and willow are a sample of the diverse range of hosts that Lecanium scales can parasitize.

As these scales feed, they excrete large quantities of honeydew which serves as a substrate for sooty mold fungi.

Here is a link to a previous post I wrote about this scale on pecan. Scale on Pecan?

San Jose Bark Scale

San Jose scale, Quadraspidiotus perniciosus (Comstock) (Homoptera: Diaspididae).
Photo by C. L. Cole.

San Jose Bark Scale is one of the major insect pests of peaches and maybe one that causes the most damage. The first signs of infestation include a decline of tree vigor, leaf drop and appearance of sparse yellow foliage, particularly on the terminal growth. Reddish spots on the underside of bark and around scales on leaves or fruit result from feeding of immature stages. In severe cases, the entire surface of bark can become covered with layers of overlapping grayish scales. Cracking and bleeding of limbs occur, and heavily injured trees may die.

Life Cycle: Intermediate. Mature females and immature (second nymphal instar) stages survive the winter. Rather than eggs, female scale insects produce tiny six-legged, mobile, yellow-colored young, called “crawlers.” This stage spreads the infestation to new areas on the host plant, including bark, leaves and fruit, and to new hosts. After inserting their thread-like mouthparts into the plant and feeding for 2 to 3 days, female crawlers secrete their initial scale coverings and never move from that spot. Males develop into 2-winged adults in 2 or 3 weeks and emerge from their scales to seek females to mate. Up to six generations may be produced annually. All stages of development can occur throughout the year except during the winter.

Crape Myrtle Bark Scale

The crape myrtle bark scale, Acanthococcus (Eriococcus)  lagerstromiae (Kuwana) was first confirmed in the USA in 2004 in the landscape near Dallas (TX), although it was likely introduced earlier. The scale is a sucking insect that feeds on the phloem (sap) of plants. As it feeds, it excretes a sugary solution known as “honeydew” (similar to aphids, whiteflies, and other sucking insects). Heavy infestations of crape myrtle bark scale produce sufficient honeydew to coat leaves, stems and bark of the tree. This honeydew, in turn, will eventually turn black as it is colonized by a concoction of fungi, called sooty mold. Although crape myrtles rarely die as a result of crape myrtle bark scale infestation, the sticky leaves and black trunks greatly reduce the attractive appearance of the tree.

Photo by Erfan K. Vafaie, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.

Immature crape myrtle bark scale is hard to see with the naked eye, but adult scale covers, and egg sacs are frequently visible on the upper branches and trunk of the tree. These scales include larger, white, oval (female) and smaller, elongate (male) scales.  Both male and female scales of the crape myrtle bark scale are immobile and will “bleed” pink blood when crushed.

On a personal note, this is a problem I have in my landscape and use Certis Biologicals – Des-X Insecticidal Soap as a treatment. Seems to work well but it does require repeat applications.

Mealybugs are prominent now in Greenhouses and Houseplants

Mealybugs are soft-bodied, wingless insects belonging to the family Pseudococcidae. These pests are known for their damaging effects on a wide range of plants, including crops, ornamentals, and houseplants. Their appearance is distinctive: adults are covered with a white, waxy, cotton-like secretion, making them resemble small tufts of cotton. This protective coating helps conserve moisture and offers some defense against predators and pesticides. Understanding the biology of mealybugs is crucial for developing effective management strategies in agricultural and horticultural systems.

Mealybugs have a complex life cycle that includes egg, nymph (crawler), and adult stages:

  • Egg: Female mealybugs lay hundreds of eggs within an ovisac, a protective sac made from waxy secretions. The color and size of the ovisac can vary among species.
  • Nymph (Crawler): After hatching, the nymphs, or crawlers, emerge to find feeding sites. This is the most mobile stage of the mealybug life cycle, and it’s when they are most vulnerable to control measures. Crawlers are tiny, yellowish, and lack the waxy coating seen in adults.
  • Adult: As they mature, nymphs undergo several molts before reaching adulthood. Adult females are larger than males and retain the waxy coating. Males may develop wings, depending on the species, and do not feed on plant sap as adults.

Mealybugs feed by inserting their long, slender mouthparts into plant tissues and sucking out sap. This feeding behavior can weaken plants, reduce growth, and cause leaf yellowing, wilting, and even death in severe infestations. As they feed, mealybugs excrete honeydew, a sticky substance that can lead to the growth of sooty mold, further impairing photosynthesis and plant health.

Mealybug reproduction can be sexual or asexual, varying by species. Some species are capable of parthenogenesis, where females produce offspring without mating. This ability allows for rapid population increases under favorable conditions.

Mealybugs spread primarily through human activity, such as the movement of infested plant material, and natural means, like crawling to adjacent plants or being carried by wind, animals, or ants. Ants, in particular, are known to farm mealybugs for their honeydew, protecting them from natural enemies and inadvertently aiding in their dispersal.

Introduction of Natural Predators or Disease

Controlling scale or mealybug insects in an organic farming system emphasizes the integration of biological and ecological methods to maintain pest populations below damaging levels. Biological control, one of the cornerstone practices in organic agriculture, involves the use of living organisms—predators, parasitoids, and pathogens—to regulate pest populations. Here are some effective methods to manage these insects through biological or predator-based strategies:

  • Lady Beetles (Coccinellidae): Many lady beetle species are voracious predators of scale insects in their larval and adult stages. For instance, the vedalia beetle (Rodolia cardinalis) has been successfully used to control cottony cushion scale in citrus groves.
  • Cryptolaemus montrouzieri: Often referred to as the mealybug ladybird, this beetle is a voracious predator of mealybugs in both its larval and adult stages. It has been used successfully in various agricultural systems to control mealybug populations.
  • Lacewings (Chrysopidae): Green and brown lacewings consume scale insects during their larval stages. Green lacewing larvae are effective predators of mealybugs, consuming them at various stages of their development. Their larvae are known as “aphid lions” for their predatory efficiency.
  • Parasitic Wasps: Tiny wasps, such as Aphytis melinus and Encarsia spp., specialize in parasitizing scale insects. They lay their eggs in or on the scale insect, and the developing larvae consume the scale from the inside. Several species of parasitic wasps, such as Leptomastix dactylopii, target mealybugs specifically. These wasps lay their eggs in or on mealybug larvae, and the hatching wasps consume the mealybugs from the inside.
  • Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae are fungi that infect and kill a wide range of insect pests, including scale and mealybug insects. These fungi are particularly useful in humid environments where they can naturally proliferate and infect scale populations.
  • Isaria fumosorosea (formerly known as Paecilomyces fumosoroseus) is a naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus that acts as a biological control agent against a wide range of insect pests, including mealybugs, aphids, whiteflies, thrips, and other soft-bodied insects. It infects its hosts through the cuticle, leading to the pest’s death, and is particularly useful in integrated pest management (IPM) systems in organic agriculture and greenhouse settings.

Below you will see a list of organic products that have scale and/or mealybugs on their labels. These include some of the beneficial fungi listed above as well as botanical oils and the still very popular Azadirachtin extracted from the neem tree. You can just look through this short list or click on the link below to either see it on your computer or download and use as an Excel file.

Scales and MealybugsDownload

Other Resources

Data confirms peanut inoculant and in-furrow biofungicide are tank-mix compatible

A big thanks to Dr. Holly Davis for writing and sharing the article below. This issue has been mentioned many times and this research helps us use these two biological products in organic peanut farming without worry! Bob Whitney

There have been some concerns about an at-plant, tank mix application of certain biofungicides and Rhizobia inoculants in peanuts. To determine if the biofungicide Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain D747 (trade name Double Nickel or Convergence™) had any negative impacts on the liquid peanut inoculum Bradyrhizobium sp. (vigna) (trade name Exceed Traditional Liquid for Peanut), Certis Biologicals’ Research and Development team conducted an in-depth study on how these two products interacted in a simulated tank mix.  

Compatibility was tested by combining the Bacillus at the commercial rate of 8 fl oz per 10 gallons of water with the Bradyrhizobium inoculum at 5X the commercial rate of 15 fl oz per 10 gallons of water. The higher rate of Bradyrhizobium was used because, at the commercial rate, the colony forming unit counts (CFU’s) were very low compared to Bacillus, making the Bradyrhizobium difficult to detect in testing. Mixtures of the two products alone and in combination were incubated at room temperature for 3 hours (Fig. 1).  Then, the viability of Bacillus and Bradyrhizobium were measured by counting the number of cells per ml using BactoBox™. If the product samples in combination contained the same log of CFU’s as the controls (unmixed individual samples) over time, then the products were deemed compatible (Figure 1).  

Figure 1. Three different sample preparations and their associated counts (cells/ml) at Time = 0 and Time = 3 hours. After which, 1 mL was taken from each treatment and total cells per ml was calculated by BactoBoxTM (https://sbtinstruments.com/bactobox). 

Results showed that after 3 hrs., the cell count in Bacillus alone was 6.7×107 cells/ml, and Bradyrhizobium alone was 8.5×107 cells/ml. In a compatible tank mix it would be expected that final counts would be equivalent to adding the cell counts of the individual mixtures together, which would give ~1.5×108 cells/ml.  However, the actual mixture showed ~3x that amount giving 5.8×108 cells/ml. This suggests that not only are these two products compatible, but they also grew better together than alone. However, these results did not provide the cell count of Bacillus vs Bradyrhizobium in the tank-mix. Therefore, after 24 hours in a tank mix the flow cytometry power of BactoBox TM was used to distinguish between Bacillus and Bradyrhizobium cells. In Figure 2 you can see two peaks, orange for Bacillus and red for Bradyrhizobium indicating that it was possible to distinguish between the two species.  

Figure 2. Flow cytometry discerns Bacillus and Bradyrhizobium individually and in mixtures with two peaks of different amplitudes on the y-axis and in different phases on the x-axis.

Using this feature, cell counts were made for the Bacillus (blue) and Bradyrhizobium (orange) at 0 hours and again at 24 hours after being in a mixture (Figure 3).  You can see that cell counts were not reduced substantially from 0 to 24 hours for either product. 

Figure 3: Cell counts of Bacillus and Bradyrhizobium in a tank mix at 0 and 24 hours.  

Results of these two experiments confirm that the biofungicide Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain D747, Double Nickel or Convergence™, and the liquid peanut inoculum Bradyrhizobium sp. (vigna), Exceed Traditional Liquid for Peanut, are compatible to tank mix and apply at the together as peanut planting gets underway this season! 

For more information on Double Nickel, Convergence™ and other Certis Biologicals products, please visit: https://www.certisbio.com/ 

For more information on Exceed products, please visit: https://www.visjonbiologics.com/ 

Study conducted and reported by: Dr. Dhritiman Gosh, Manager of R&D, Certis Biologicals and Dr. Shaun Berry, VP of Research and Field Development, Certis Biologicals 

Article written by: Dr. Holly Davis, Field Development Manager Certis Biologicals, South Central US 

Purple Tomatoes – They are not all the same!

This is a picture of the “Purple Tomato” developed and sold by Norfolk Healthy Produce. According to the press release from the John Innes Centre it is a high-anthocyanin purple tomato developed nearly 2 decades ago. Here are a couple of paragraphs from the article below.

Nathan Pumplin, CEO of Norfolk Healthy Produce, said: “We are thrilled to offer these first-of-a-kind seeds to home gardeners. Our tomato is just a tomato – you can grow it in your garden next to your Sun Golds and Purple Cherokees, and other favorite varieties. We share our gratitude to the thousands of fans who have expressed their interest and encouragement through our website.” 

The company says that surveys with American consumers showed that 80% are interested to eat, purchase and grow the purple tomato, knowing that it is bioengineered (as a genetically modified organism, or GMO). Only 5% of consumers were not interested. I seriously doubt this last sentence and wonder how accurately they surveyed customers!

These pictures are of the YOOM tomato. This purple tomato was introduced last year and as you can see also has the purple color and because of that color it has high anthocyanins like other purple vegetables and fruit.

The Yoom tomato is not developed using GMO technology like the “Purple Tomato.” Instead, Yoom tomatoes are the result of conventional breeding techniques. These techniques involve selecting parent plants with desirable traits and crossbreeding them over multiple generations to produce offspring that express those traits. The Yoom tomato, known for its distinctive purple color and high levels of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, was developed through this traditional method of plant breeding. (Article in Vegetable Grower News)

The purple color is a natural trait that some tomato varieties exhibit, enhanced through the selection process to appeal to consumers looking for novel and potentially healthier options in their diets. The development of such varieties focuses on enhancing flavor, nutritional content, and visual appeal without the need for genetic modification techniques like CRISPR-Cas9 or GMO.

Conventional breeding remains a powerful tool in developing new plant varieties, allowing for the gradual improvement of crops with respect to taste, yield, disease resistance, and nutritional content. While CRISPR technology offers precise gene editing capabilities, it’s important to distinguish between crops developed through genetic modification and those, like the Yoom tomato, that are the result of selective breeding practices.

Organic growers need to be aware of this powerful difference and don’t be fooled by others who want you to grow the Purple Tomato without realizing the difference. Recently I was asked about organic farmers growing the Purple Tomato. I was caught completely unaware because I knew about YOOM and so thought this was the tomato they were referring to. It was not the YOOM, and you need to know it is not legal or ethical for you to grow the “Purple Tomato” unless you grow the YOOM Purple Tomato.

Lastly, YOOM is not a certified organic seed variety (YET), at least that I can find. There may be some organic seed offered soon but you will need to talk to your certifier about using conventional YOOM seed based on the fact that it is from conventional breeding and is the only tomato variety with these traits.

News Updates below: Click links for a new twist to this story!

Rotten tomato: Biotech company makes false claim about its GMO purple tomato

GM purple tomato company targets non-GMO seed company over alleged patent infringement.

Plant breeders and seed retailers are increasingly living in fear of legal threats from GMO developer companies. Report: Claire Robinson

The company that is commercializing the GM purple so-called “anti-cancer” tomato has targeted a non-GMO heirloom seed company over alleged patent infringement.

(Click the heading above for a link to this article)

Organic Corn Resources

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

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

Click a link below to scroll down!

Updated 3/12/25

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

Corn Varieties Used for Organic

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

Seed Contacts:

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

Pioneer

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

New Deal Grain

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

Partners Brand

B-H Genetics

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

Seitec Genetics

Beck’s Hybrids/Great Harvest Organics

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

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

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

De Dell Seeds

American Organic Seed

Falk’s Seed Farm

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

Foundation Organic

Genetic Enterprises International

Master’s Choice

Welter Seed and Honey Company

Byron Seeds

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

Organic Corn Buyers:

Enger Farms

McDowell Feed Source

Coyote Creek Organic Feed Mill

Deaf Smith County Grain

Panhandle Milling

Heartland Co-op

Triple Nickel

Pink Rose Organix

Resources (just click to see)