Markets & Ag
TRUXTON, Mo. – Strip-grazing milo (grain sorghum) is a money-saving alternative winter feed plan for cattle, according to University of Missouri Extension agronomy specialist Rusty Lee. In a press release, Lee said, “Winter feed expenses are the killer of profits. It’s the top reason for whether a cattle producer will make a profit or loss.”…
Read Full Article JACKSONVILLE, Ill. — Bees are a welcome site in our gardens. Without the help of bees (and other pollinators) pollinating many of our plants, we wouldn’t be able to enjoy the myriad of flowers, fruits, and vegetables we have in our landscapes. Despite all their benefits, one bee species may not always be a welcome…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo — University of Missouri Extension state forage specialist Craig Roberts says now is the time to check for ergot in the seed heads of grasses. Ergot can cause severe illness in livestock, especially cattle and horses. One early sign is yellow syrup drops called honeydew in flowering seed heads. Honeydew hardens and turns…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — It’s time to make the first cutting of hay in Missouri, says University of Missouri Extension state forage specialist Craig Roberts. Waiting too long leads to poor-quality feed for livestock next winter. For best quality, harvest hay in May before seed heads pollinate, says Roberts. Early cutting helps pastures reset for later,…
Read Full Article MACOMB, Ill. — The problem with many plant diseases is once you notice them it’s often too late. That’s especially true with our trees. We often don’t gaze at the canopies of our trees looking for problems. The typical homeowner won’t notice disease or insect damage until visible symptoms surpass 10 percent of the canopy.…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. – Some flowers don’t mix well with felines. A spring favorite, the Easter lily, is one that could kill a curious cat. The perennial plant’s white, trumpet-like flowers might not sound the warning that all parts of it are highly toxic to cats. Easter lilies are true lilies. They grow from bulbs, not…
Read Full Article Provided by the Adams County Farm Bureau.
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo — A newly released study shows that planting cover crops and reduced tillage could substantially lower the number of prevent plant (PPL) acres and subsequent federal crop insurance payments. Cover crops lower the number of PPL acres in wet springs, reducing the loss odds by 24%, according to the six-state study released in…
Read Full Article MACOMB, Ill. — Homeowners are seeking lawns that are considered more sustainable than conventional lawns. I often get questions regarding eco-lawns or no-mow lawns, which are great options for certain situations. However, if you have kids, or pets, or intend to use your lawn, it is recommended we stick to a more traditional lawn approach.…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo — Sometimes, gardeners take the “if some is good, more must be better” approach, says University of Missouri Extension horticulturist Justin Keay. But it’s possible to shower your garden with too much love in the form of fertilizer, manure and compost. More fertilizer and organic matter won’t necessarily produce more flowers or produce,…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — George Washington knew the value of a good seed: “Bad seed is a robbery of the worst kind,” the founding father wrote, “for your pocket-book not only suffers by it, but your preparations are lost and a season passes away unimproved.” University of Missouri Extension livestock specialist Gene Schmitz agrees, especially when…
Read Full Article JACKSON, Mo — Beautiful flower gardens begin with the right bedding plants, says Donna Aufdenberg, University of Missouri Extension horticulturist. Before heading to the garden center, research what plants do well in your area, Aufdenberg says. Also consider whether your gardening space is sunny or shady. Aufdenberg has more tips: Aufdenberg and other MU Extension…
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