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Articles Tagged with ''soil organic matter''

How the Nitrogen Cycle Influences Different Nitrogen Sources

By Jim Isleib posted on February 3, 2017 | Posted in Nutrient Management

Source: Michigan State University Extension

A look at the nitrogen cycle can help growers understand the advantages and disadvantages of particular nitrogen fertilizer sources.

Online Extras: October 2016 Issue

October 1, 2016

Web-exclusive content for this issue includes:

A webinar that will help you understand the factors that influence organic matter formation and how to manage the process of building organic matter

Shoot for Higher Organic Matter by Relying on Residue

While increasing organic matter is a multi-year process, no-tillers can boost it even faster by ensuring there’s enough plant material to replenish what’s already in the soil and adding more residue.

By Laura Barrera posted on September 17, 2016 | Posted in Residue Management, Soil Health

Despite making up only a small percentage of the soil — no more than 10%, according to the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension — organic matter plays a critical role in the soil’s health and the crops raised on it.

Video

Saving Moisture, Boosting Soils with No-Till

September 6, 2016 | Posted in No-Till Farming 101, Soil Health

Hutchinson, Kan., no-tiller Darren Nelson discusses why he and his father, Jim, switched to no-till during the 1990s, and the difference the practice has made for their soils. They no-till 2,000 acres of winter wheat, milo and soybeans.

USDA Announces Changes for Largest Conservation Program

September 1, 2016 | Posted in No-Till Farming 101, Cover Crops, Soil Health

Source: Natural Resources Conservation Service

In response to customer and partner input, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service announced today a significant update to the Conservation Stewardship Program, the nation’s largest conservation program by acreage.

What Crop Rotation Can Do for Soil Biology

A soil biologist explains how a high ‘diversity index’ of cash crops and covers unlocks soil biology potential and increases the viability of no-till systems.

By John Dobberstein posted on August 20, 2016 | Posted in Cover Crops, Soil Health

If you’re no-tilling, soil biological activity in your fields is most likely better than your conventional tillage neighbors.

From the Desk of Laura Barrera

Focus on Soil Health Now to Be Competitive Later

By Laura Barrera posted on July 5, 2016 | Posted in Seeding & Planting, Soil Health

Despite genetic improvements to corn hybrids and soybean varieties, without soil health — especially soil organic matter — growers may see their yields plateau.

No-Till Notes

10 Tips for Successful No-Till Production: No. 9

By Mark Watson posted on June 22, 2016 | Posted in Cover Crops, Residue Management, Water Management

No-tillers can harvest more moisture and ‘manage their bucket’ if they focus in improving soil organic matter and water-holding capacity on their farm.

Reaching Beyond Equipment, Irrigation for No-Till Success

Cover crops, pollinator strips and compost are among the tools Kelly Kettner uses to improve organic matter and stretch irrigation resources on his 5,000-acre operation in the Texas Panhandle.

By Jim Steiert posted on June 11, 2016 | Posted in Cover Crops, Nutrient Management, Soil Health

When Muleshoe, Texas, farmer Kelly Kettner decided to try no-tilling back in 2005, he expected success would depend on the equipment he used.

Organic Matter Serves Important Role in Soil Health

March 21, 2016 | Posted in No-Till Farming 101

Source: Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation

Here's a good refresher about the importance of soil organic matter in soil health, from a senior consultant at the Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation.

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No-Till Legend Concerned About Corn Profits in 2024

On this episode of Conservation Ag Update, brought to you by Martin Industries, Vincennes, Ind., no-tiller Ray McCormick explains why it’s going to be tough to “not lose a lot of money this year” on corn. Plus, we ask our readers, “On a scale of 1-10, how concerned are you about drought this year?” Hear why some farmers are worried, and why others aren’t very worried at all.

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