When you see two tillers growing out of a corn root you may suspect the wannabe plants are stealing nutrients from the main stalk, along with yield potential. But that’s not the case, explains Pride Seeds’ market agronomist Aaron Stevanus on this episode of Real Agriculture Corn School. “Tillers are actually a good thing. It... Read More
Category: Podcasts
The word "biosecurity" can conjure up some interesting images, not limited to an overabundance of showers, hard-drives of paperwork and hazmat suits. But, ensuring good levels of on-farm biosecurity doesn't have to be overwhelming. "There's been so much focus on biosecurity as a word," says Franklyn Garry, professor at Colorado State University, "that it does,... Read More
If the world of soil biology had its own version of Facebook, crops like peas, lentils, corn and flax would be listed as "in a symbiotic relationship" with mycorrhizal fungi. The microscopic organisms help these crops access phosphorus in the soil. Wheat would probably be friends with mycorrhiza, as cereals see some benefit from having... Read More
It's a diagnosis no cattle producer wants to hear, and it's likely much more prevalent than we realize. Caused by Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP), Johne's causes chronic enteritis (inflammation of the intestine), diarrhea and progressive weight loss in cattle. Despite the seemingly obvious symptoms in infected animals, the disease has characteristics that can make... Read More
There are many potential stressors for cattle during transport, as Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's Karen Schwartzkopf-Genswein pointed out at the recent Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association conference and annual general meeting. Animals have to contend with handling (often by unfamiliar people), a unique environment, mixing with new animals, feed and water restrictions and the energy/focus required... Read More
In early July, IP soybean growers aren’t typically thinking about weed control. But when it comes to nightshade, growers need to be diligent and watch for late flushes that could compromise the quality of food grade export markets, explains Huron Commodities agronomist Wayne Wheeler. In this episode of Real Agriculture Soybean School, Wheeler explains that... Read More
While western Canadian crops look to be in good shape overall, drought is taking its toll in Ontario. On the heels of the UK's Brexit vote, there’ve been some new developments in the Canada-Europe trade deal and environmental groups are taking the Canadian government to court over neonics, despite honey bee colony numbers in Canada... Read More
What impact can fungicide have on corn that’s suffering through the dry Ontario summer? It all depends on your crop’s yield potential, explains BASF technical development specialist Rob Miller. Quite simply, fungicide applications are designed to protect yield potential throughout the grain fill period. Maintaining healthy plants that stay green allows for a greater amount... Read More
It's hard to believe we're already at wheat harvest, but it's time to get the combine set up! And take a look at those fields! Producers across the province are finding disease, insects and nutrient deficiencies, and it’s all in this week’s Word, with Peter Johnson, resident agronomist for RealAgriculture. Have a question for Wheat... Read More
As Canadian farms continue to grow, so does the need for talented employees who can help farmers reach their business goals. But how do you find and attract these individuals? And once you have them in your employ, how do you keep them? Human resource consultant Lynn Perry joins us for episode 20 of the... Read More