Timing probably ranks as the most important issue in farming, especially when it comes to spraying, says Phil Needham, a widely known ag consultant and a National No-Tillage Conference speaker.

Several successful organic vegetable growers in southeastern states are combining the benefits of cover crops, reduced tillage and smart marketing. Here’s a brief look at two family operations that have been guided by the work of pioneering researchers such as Virginia Tech’s Ron Morse (see accompanying story). Both families are active participants in the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Work Group (SSAWG), a 12-state, non-profit organization.

As plantings of genetically modified (GM) crops continue to climb by millions of acres per year, one crop stands out for its absence from the list. Wheat growers, including no-tillers, are still waiting for the benefits of biotechnology, and the wait is likely to be a long one.

Thinking strategically about nitrogen fertilizer, especially anhydrous ammonia, helps hold down costs while maximizing profits, says Sam Ferguson, an agronomist for Dow AgroSciences.

It might be time for no-tillers to stand up and tell their equipment dealers to start paying attention.