The yield potential of any soybean crop production system can be greatly enhanced by planting as early as possible.

a recent summary of the available research has shown that red clover established in wheat or oats and then left to grow as a cover crop until the next season can contribute between 45 and 155 pounds of nitrogen per acre to the next corn crop.

Many U.S. farmers who grow genetically engineered (GE) crops are realizing substantial economic and environmental benefits — such as lower production costs, fewer pest problems, reduced use of pesticides, and better yields — compared with conventional crops, says a new report from the National Research Council, but GE crops could lose their effectiveness unless farmers also use other proven weed and insect management practices.

As we get into mid- and late April, the time is upon us to begin searching for slug eggs in no-till fields that have had previous problems.

A number of university extension have been commenting on a recent article in the March issue of No-Till Farmer titled, "Are We Shooting Ourselves In The Foot With A Silver Bullet?"

No-tillers and strip-tillers have until June 25 to apply for the Conservation Stewardship Program, which now offers more money and access to qualified applicants under the final rules USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack announced June 3.

Farmers caring for their land received a mixed bag when USDA finalized rules for the Conservation Stewardship, according to National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

Current wet soil conditions present challenges to early season fieldwork. Whether it is planting beans or corn, cultivating or rotary hoeing, there is high potential to cause significant soil structure damage.

Soil compaction can be a serious problem for farmers, but with proper management, compaction can be minimized.

With everyone from USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack to the mainstream media and celebrity chefs touting locally grown food, growing and selling sweet corn to city dwellers who pay $6 or more for a dozen ears may be a profitable niche market for strip-tillers.