We have started two hives of bees here at the hangar. We started this spring and have found the learning curve to be rather steep. These are phenomenal insects! Thanks so much to Jason Toyne who is “holding our hand” this first year. Basil our pilot has taken an extraordinary interest in the bees and now I call him Beeeesil. I know we would not have the success if it were not for Beeesil’s help.

Rootworm beetle and Spider Mites are showing up in all fields in the area.  To manage the rootworm insect; corn should be sprayed after tassel to increase yield this year and also reduce the rootworm resistance problem for next year.  Mite populations will be reduced with the same timely application.

Now is the time to start planning for next year’s wheat crop. We can help you with your weed control on this year’s fallow, to preserve moisture for this fall’s wheat.   As the rains come and go your stubble will need an application of herbicide to control the growth of weeds.   An early application can help stop cheat grass from taking over your fields. We will be glad to visit with you on any questions you have about controlling problem weeds in your fields. I will be ready to help you with a timely application of herbicide to maximize your dollar input.

The pastures have a severe problem with weeds this year and will be more of a problem next year, especially cheat grass!  Eye problems, fire hazards, and greatly increased grass production.  In return, higher beef yield and overall pasture health are realized!  This fall or early next spring we need to visit.

Well, we have made it past the Fourth of July and now we are headed down the home stretch.  There is still a lot of work that needs to be done before harvest. We want to remind you that turnips and radishes are a great compliment to corn when cut for silage. Not wishing bad luck on anyone, but if that white combine takes its toll on your corn, a cover crop can be a good fit for you as well.  We have had some good feedback from those who have planted cover crop for grazing. The cattle, once they find it, hardly lift their head when they’re grazing. We are offering a mix of 30 pounds of wheat with two pounds each of radish and turnips. You will need to have water available to get them up and going. Give us a call if you want to discuss this opportunity.