Nature-based farming can cut fertiliser use, finds trialÂ
More than 30 long-term trials found that diverse rotations, legumes and organic amendments could sustain yields at lower synthetic-fertiliser rates.
[Link] Groundswell debates how to eliminate fossil-fuel fertilisers
https://kindharvest.ag/nature-based-farming-can-cut-fertiliser-use-finds-trial/
Martin Lines is testing a five-year transition away from fossil-fuel fertilisers using legumes, livestock, soil testing and targeted nutrition.
[Link] Beneficial insects help cropping systems
https://kindharvest.ag/beneficial-insects-can-help-farmers-control-pests/
A South Dakota farm uses diverse rotations, cover crops, livestock and minimal disturbance to create habitat for beneficial insects and rebuild soil.
[Link] Microgravity irrigation studied for increased water conservation
https://newsroom.nmsu.edu/news/nmsu-professor-working-to-expand-water-use-efficiency-in-southern-new-mexico/s/3784e6e9-fb59-4ba6-8e3b-f4db190f25d1
A New Mexico field trial is testing low-pressure drip irrigation in pecans and chile as a way to conserve water and reduce pumping costs.
[Link] Pennycress: The first cash cover crop
https://kindharvest.ag/why-it-pays-to-plant-cover-crops-early/
Pennycress is being developed as a winter cash cover crop that protects soil and produces oilseed before soybeans are planted.
[Link] Fertilizer prices are soaring – and that’s an opportunity to promote more sustainable ways of growing crops
https://kindharvest.ag/nature-based-farming-can-cut-fertiliser-use-finds-trial/
A 2022 fertiliser-price shock renewed the case for crop rotations, biological products and farm systems that use synthetic nutrients more efficiently.
[Link] How silvopasture can help with heat stress
https://www.fwi.co.uk/livestock/beef/how-silvopasture-can-help-with-heat-stress
A Devon farmer network is testing how shelterbelts, tree alleys and wood pasture can reduce livestock heat stress while maintaining productive grazing…
[Link] UNCOVERING BEST PRACTICES FOR COVER CROPS TO OPTIMIZE CROP PRODUCTION
https://kindharvest.ag/why-it-pays-to-plant-cover-crops-early/
Pennsylvania trials tested how cereal rye seeding rate, nitrogen and termination timing affect soil moisture and soybean performance when planting gre…
[Link] How South Dakota’s inability to track soil erosion is putting farmers at risk
https://kindharvest.ag/considerations-for-improving-soil-health/
A 2022 derecho exposed South Dakota’s limited ability to measure topsoil loss and the cumulative risks of wind, water and intensive tillage.
[Link] Reality check: How’s the transition to regenerative agriculture going?
https://kindharvest.ag/how-costs-are-falling-for-one-regen-farmer/
Five Minnesota farm visits showed promising regenerative practices, but also the practical, financial and cultural barriers that slow wider adoption.