Running a business is inherently risky. But as the cost of growing a farm business rises higher, does the sector understand its vulnerability to sudden change or who will win and lose from it? For those trying to break into or grow small farm businesses, what series of events could occur to level the financial […] Read more
Opinion: Questions abound in farming’s future
Painful though it might be, would an industry shake-up be good for Ontario agriculture in the long term?
Good soybean canopies lead to more mould
High moisture before crop flowering brought more white mould to parts of the province
Ontario is sporting some good-looking soybean fields this year but ideal environmental conditions before and at flowering mean many lush canopies are hiding white mould. As described in a July 16 Field Crop News article, Horst Bohner, soybean specialist for the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, said high humidity, high soil moisture […] Read more
Row end turns automation especially valuable in high value crops
Trimble markets NextSwath system as employee training solution
Agricultural tech company Trimble is hoping to make human resource management easier for growers who recruit and train new employees for the same tasks every year. It is targeting those who produce permanent or higher-value crops such as grapes or orchard fruits. The company’s NextSwath system is designed to keep equipment running at peak efficiency […] Read more
VIDEO: Buffer strips a boon for beneficial insects
Field Talk with Jennifer Doelman
In this edition of Field Talk, Farmtario contributor Matt McIntosh talks with Jennifer Doelman, an agronomist, farmer and beekeeper from Renfrew County on the value of buffer strips, establishment methods, and integrated pest management fundamentals.
Preventing sprayer compaction is difficult
Some compaction is inevitable, though severe damage can be mitigated
From growth stage to pest pressure, sprayers run when crops need them. This can pose a problem because ideal application timing does not necessarily coincide with dry field conditions. Some level of compaction is almost invariably the result, and while steps can be taken to minimize negative impacts, there are few affordable solutions to sprayer-induced […] Read more
3D printing grows in popularity
Greater knowledge of the technology’s capabilities and data-mapping process drives use by companies and individuals
The number of uses for 3D printing in the agriculture sector continues to grow as expired process patents, better materials and greater awareness of the technology allow more people to bypass traditional barriers and inefficiencies in parts manufacturing. Companies from many sectors have found 3D printing to be a cost-effective method of prototyping new parts […] Read more
Demand strong for drainage tile
High land values, commodity prices and assistance programs drive investments in tile drainage
From the far north to the deep south, landowners across Ontario continue to invest in tile drainage despite ever-increasing acreage costs. They’re doing so partially because of high land values. Why it matters: Farmers and other land investors install drainage tile to increase land values beyond existing per-acre purchase prices. Jesse Tait, board member for […] Read more
Covering up weed seeds
Input savings, soil health are among the benefits of cover crops
Cover crops are not free, but they don’t have to be a cost. In fact, they can save farmers money. Researchers and farmers talked about the benefits during a recent session hosted by the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association. While there is always variability, weed suppression and population reduction are the chief – though […] Read more
VIDEO: Water hemp weed management
Field Talk with Chris Snip
In this edition of Field Talk, Farmtario contributor Matt McIntosh talks with Chris Snip, crop sales specialist with Agris Co-operative, about waterhemp in Essex County, wider herbicide management concerns – and the importance of dialogue with your farm neighbours.
Weed of the week: Lamb’s quarters
It’s important to get ahead of this prolific, early-growing species
Lamb’s quarters can be a real contender in the field despite susceptibility to a variety of active ingredients. A species of the goosefoot family, lamb’s quarters (Chenopodium album L) require early and active management. Why it matters: Lamb’s quarters are extremely common, emerge early and can significantly reduce yields. Lamb’s quarters are a summer annual […] Read more
Cyber-Savvy Farmer
