This publication provides direction on estimating soil moisture by the "feel and appearance" method; taking a some soil and rolling it up in a ball then squeezing it between your thumb and forefinger to form a ribbon and noting how it appears and feels. Compare what you see with photographs and/or charts to estimate percent water available and the inches depleted below field capacity.
Recycling organic debris for composting and improving soil doesn’t have to be a chore! If hot composting is not for you, try one of these easy cold-composting methods. Each has advantages and disadvantages but the end result is the same: improved garden soil and less organic waste in landfill.
This report includes preliminary data for the second of a three-year study. Since this year was a record drought year, results could vary from a normal rainfall year. Finalized data and observations will be released in future as peer-reviewed studies, reports, and extension articles. For more information, please visit the RDFA project page. .
Although grain crops bring in less revenue than vegetables or fruit, they can become an important part of a farming enterprise. Grains are less labor-intensive and can be grown when fields need a rest.
Christmas trees planted in unirrigated sites depend on the weather for survival. A research trial set out to find factors that would help seedlings survive during drought years. Results were mixed.
Mature cattle grazing in pastures with rapidly growing grass are sometimes afflicted with a disease called grass tetany. The cause is a lack of magnesium in the grass. Here's what to look for and how to treat it.
This expert-led online course offers an introduction to a variety of relaxation techniques, including breath, gentle stretching and yoga, self-massage, self-compassion practices, and mindfulness and meditation.
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” (B Franklin, 1706-1790). Pest prevention is a central component of integrated pest management and organic pest management strategies. Crop rotation and crop planning (i.e. ...