…law’s cumulative impact on cost of living and farming viability. On his own farm, he manages 17 to 19 separate permits. He argues that rising regulatory costs push production out…
Carbon Robotics Brings Laser Weeding and Autonomous Tractors to Center Stage
…farming problems — specifically herbicide resistance, rising labor costs, and environmental concerns. The LaserWeeder uses AI-powered cameras and high-precision lasers to identify and eliminate weeds without chemicals. According to Mikesell,…
Using Bt Products During Bloom to Manage Caterpillar Pests
…they hatch and before they grow larger. Using predictive models, trapping data, and close field monitoring can help growers apply treatments at the most effective stage. With warming spring temperatures…
Don’t Cut Fertility After a Tough Year
…Rogers explained that fertility decisions made this season directly impact next year’s crop. Permanent crops such as almonds, pistachios, and other tree nuts begin determining future bud development well before…
Bee Season in Full Swing, Highlighting Pollination Urgency for Almond Growers
…rain is welcome for reservoirs and soil profiles, it complicates pollination logistics. Bees don’t fly in heavy rain, cold temperatures, or high winds, and muddy orchards can delay hive placement….
Missouri’s Early Agricultural Roots: River Commerce and Opportunity
…the late 1700s and early 1800s, agriculture played a foundational role in Missouri’s development. Farmers in the region produced a surplus of crops that extended beyond local consumption. This surplus…
Understanding Soil Tests: pH, CEC, and Base Saturation in Permanent Crops
…elemental sulfur to mitigate salt issues. Rogers noted that permanent crops require a different soil management approach than row crops. Unlike annual systems where amendments can be incorporated through tillage,…
Jamie Johansson Says 2026 Is a Turning Point for Northern California and Agriculture
…theme of the interview was predictability — something Johansson believes California has lost. Farmers face rising regulatory costs, soaring energy prices, and water uncertainty that make it nearly impossible to…
Michigan’s Rise: Mining, Farming & Autos (1855–1908)
…thriving agricultural sector. Michigan farmers produced grains, livestock, and specialty crops, helping establish the state as a significant contributor to American agriculture. Together, mining, logging, and agriculture created a diversified…
Using PGRs to Extend Bloom and Improve Nut Set in California Orchards
…growers either manage crop load or increase yield potential. In tree nut crops such as almonds and walnuts, PGRs are often used to improve nut set by supporting flower viability…
Luther Burbank and the Potato That Changed Agriculture
…Idaho potato, a name now synonymous with American potato production. This contribution had a lasting impact on food production, helping shape one of the country’s most important staple crops and…
Fertigation vs. Foliar Sprays: Choosing the Right Nutrition Strategy
…in permanent crops, growers are already making several trips through the orchard for fungicide and insecticide applications. Because of that, foliar nutrition can often be “tag-teamed” with existing spray passes…
Record Pistachio Crop, Global Demand, and California’s Water Reality
…inputs, with minimal pesticide and herbicide use compared to many row crops. That message is landing overseas, helping demand outpace supply and strengthening pricing for growers. Tariffs, Trade, and Nutrient-Dense…
How Sodium Interferes with Potassium Uptake in Tree Crops
How Sodium Interferes: Potassium plays a critical role in nut development, yield, and overall tree health—but in many California orchards, growers struggle to get adequate potassium into leaf tissue. In…