“In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt.”
- Margaret Atwood
Spring. Yup. It has sprung, and the 2022 planting season is well underway. So we're doing a quick spring checkup with you.
Checkup for what, doc?
Your health and your farm's health. It's been a tough year, but despite late blizzards and widespread drought, farmers across the nations have dusted off their tools and are getting seeds in the ground. Regardless of whether you have all your acres planted or a single seed has yet to be sown, we at FarmRaise want to offer these tips for a bountiful and safe planting season.
Prior to beginning your planting, make sure the tractor, planter and all related planting equipment and tools are safe and ready to use:
A routine soil test never hurts, especially when it comes to adjusting fertilization rates after you implement cover crops. If a cover crop is to be tilled under, consult your local extension office. Also, consider using the FarmRaise app to apply for conservation agriculture grants like the Environmental Quality Incentives (EQIP).
You've seen every instruction manual say it because it's important. We've seen the harmful effects on crops and farmers alike when herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, seed treatments and fertilizer were used incorrectly or were expired. So always, ALWAYS check the label and follow it exactly as written.
The greatest asset to your farm is YOU. Unpredictable weather, crop disease, volatile markets, heavy workloads and social isolation are just some of the many challenges that farmers routinely endure. Not to sound like an overbearing parent but, prioritize quality sleep and eat healthy meals and snacks throughout the day. If you need additional support for mental health issues, consider utilizing the crisis resources suggested by the National Farmers Union.
If you're looking into cover crops like we mentioned in the checklist, read about how they protect your farm and how you can get funding to use them on your farm. Then, check out how to secure funding for cover crops.
Farming is about honoring traditions while paying attention to current changes. For those who have learned to adapt, be sure you're getting the support you need.
Nice! That checkup wasn't so bad. Here's a lollipop on your way out! 🍭
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