Markets & Ag
COLUMBIA, Mo. — In a press release, David Trinklein, state horticulture specialist for University of Missouri Extension, said, “While not a leading star on the herbaceous ornamental stage, gaillardia can comfortably fill the supporting actor role in your garden.” Commonly called “blanket flower,” this colorful perennial produces daisy-like flowers that come in shades of yellow,…
Read Full Article MILAN, Ill. — Illinois Extension is a resource available for all community members. We work hard to help residents find answers to burning questions, and solutions to challenges, and keep current on industry and university research. We provide education and outreach through a variety of outlets- this article is one of those methods. Another service…
Read Full Article HILLSBORO, Mo. — One of summer’s most showstopping bloomers is easy to transplant and propagate, says University of Missouri Extension horticulturist Debi Kelly. Hydrangeas burst with blooms summer and fall in colors ranging from blues and white to lavender and pinks. Bloom size varies on this low-maintenance perennial shrub, which tolerates almost any type of…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — Missouri forage producers should begin removing seed heads from tall fescue grass pastures soon to reduce toxic endophytes that thwart herd health and profits, says University of Missouri Extension state forage specialist Craig Roberts. Seed heads typically emerge by mid-May in most of Missouri’s tall fescue pastures. They contain five times more…
Read Full Article Fifth-generation family farm from Rushville places first in High Times Hemp Cup national competition
RUSHVILLE, Ill. — Stoney Branch, a fifth-generation family farm in Rushville, recently won first place in the High Times Hemp Cup’s flower and pre-roll category for their CBD hemp strain, Blueberry Waffles. In a press release, co-founder and cultivation director Justin Ward, said, “Our small family operation has worked diligently over the last four years…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — The University of Missouri, through MU Extension, will partner with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln on a $25 million award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to create the Heartland Regional Food Business Center, which will foster more vibrant, resilient food systems throughout a five-state region. Heartland is among 12 regional centers the…
Read Full Article GALENA, Mo. – There are many reasons to avoid cutting low when mowing hay, but money is the main one, says University of Missouri Extension agronomist Tim Schnakenberg. Schnakenberg recommends a height of 4 inches for cool-season grasses like tall fescue, bromegrass, orchardgrass and timothy and 8 inches for native warm-season grasses. Typically, legumes such…
Read Full Article STOCKTON, Mo. — Drought and overgrazing have left cattle pasture stands thin and possibly in need of renovation, said University of Missouri Extension livestock specialist Patrick Davis. He urges cattle producers to use summer annuals as a tool to thicken stands or begin the renovation of cool-season perennial pastures. In a press release, Davis said,…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. – Several species of ornamental magnolias grace the Missouri landscape with colorful flowers from March through mid-June. In a press release, University of Missouri Extension horticulturist Michele Warmond said, “In addition to showy, prolific blooms, magnolias’ sweet, citrusy floral fragrance permeates the air and beguiles the senses.” Magnolia flowers have a fascinating history,…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — What winter-weary heart is not thawed by the arrival of sunshine-yellow daffodils and colorful tulips? Unfortunately, once their blooms fade, these harbingers of spring are often relegated to afterthoughts, University of Missouri Extension horticulturist David Trinklein said. After spring bulbs flower, their greatest work lies ahead, and they need care to ensure…
Read Full Article MILAN, Ill. — Arbor Day is inspired by the multitude of benefits trees provide, the desire to have more trees in our communities, and a call to action to plant trees on this day. I have spent my entire career planting trees and my entire life admiring, climbing and loving trees so for me, planting…
Read Full Article 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…
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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…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — Few things match the culinary delight of fresh peas from the family garden, said University of Missouri Extension horticulturist David Trinklein. Peas are tastiest immediately after being picked, before too much of the sugar converts to starch. For the same reason, peas that mature in cool weather are tastier than those harvested…
Read Full Article SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Dahlias, the national flower of Mexico, burst with fiestas of colors in late summer and early autumn when other flowers begin to fade. These easy-to-grow annuals are popular choices for cut gardens or the backdrop of borders, says Kelly McGowan, University of Missouri Extension horticulturist. Plant dahlias once the danger of frost…
Read Full Article JACKSONVILLE, Ill. — While spring-blooming bulbs get much of our attention in the spring, flowering trees shouldn’t be overlooked. One of the best trees for spring color is the adaptable eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis). What do they look like? Eastern redbuds are small (20-30 feet tall) trees that have short trunks and spreading branches that…
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Read Full Article MILAN, Ill. — Found in rich, moist woodlands, trillium is an easily identified, distinct plant and flower. As the name suggests, the number three is closely tied to the species. Trillium is a unique plant given it does not technically have above-ground stems or leaves. What we identify as leaves are morphologically bracts or modified…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — April is the season of new beginnings, especially for plant lovers. Outdoors, spring-flowering bulbs, shrubs and trees dot the landscape. Indoors, seasonal plants enliven and brighten dreary rooms, says University of Missouri Extension horticulturist Michele Warmund. Crocus, daffodil, hyacinth and tulips are harbingers of spring, with their foliage emerging from the soil…
Read Full Article MACOMB, Ill. — As the winter’s chill lingers into spring, the itch to get out in our yards has never seemed more compelling. One of the ritual tasks performed by many homeowners in the spring is applying weed-and-feed products to their lawns. Contained within these products is a pre-emergent herbicide to combat germinating weed seeds…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — University of Missouri Extension is offering free biosecurity workshops in April and May on how to prevent and respond to disease outbreaks in livestock and poultry operations, including backyard flocks. In a press release, Teng Lim, MU Extension agricultural engineer and a member of the MU Biosecurity Team, said “The importance of…
Read Full Article PALMYRA, Mo. — Doyle Equipment Manufacturing Company, an American-made, family-owned manufacturer of dry fertilizer handling equipment, is having a “Doyle Difference” event from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, April 22 at 1 Jack Doyle Industrial Drive off U.S. Route 61. This open house and career showcase aims to demonstrate how the company stands apart from other…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — University of Missouri researchers are tracking the invasive longhorned tick, which causes weight loss, lost pregnancies and even death in cattle. Researchers from the MU College of Veterinary Medicine found the tick on a Linn County pasture in August 2022. The finding marks the northernmost appearance of the tick in Missouri. It…
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Read Full Article GALLATIN, Mo. — Missouri’s unpredictable spring weather makes it tough to decide when to apply preemergent herbicides on lawns, says Manoj Chhetri, University of Missouri Extension horticulturist. Preemergent herbicides, a form of chemical weed control, prevent germinated weed seedlings from growing. Preemergents must be applied at the right time of year to be effective, says…
Read Full Article CLEVER, Mo. – A soil test can help forage producers avoid the costly guessing game of how much fertilizer to buy and apply, says University of Missouri Extension agronomist Tim Schnakenberg. He recommends testing every three or four years. “If you’re not soil testing, you’re already behind,” he said March 7 at the Christian County…
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Read Full Article JACKSONVILLE, Ill. — Apples and pears are popular trees to grow for people interested in growing their own fruit. However, they aren’t without any problems. A variety of insect pests and diseases can plague them. One common and potentially serious disease is fire blight. What is fire blight? Fire blight is a bacterial disease caused…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — April is National Gardening Month and a good time to plant a garden, said University of Missouri Extension horticulturist David Trinklein. For those who lacked the motivation in the past to garden, consider the following benefits of this popular pastime. Economic. Vegetable gardening is an excellent way to save on the family…
Read Full Article CENTER, Mo. — When Jan Golian’s husband died of a heart attack in the middle of harvest season in 2004, friends and family helped her get the crop in and the cattle sold. Her husband had always been the caretaker of the farm while she worked as a school librarian and teacher. She knew farm…
Read Full Article CLEVER, Mo. — Load ’em up and ship ’em out. That’s the advice University of Missouri Extension livestock specialist Andy McCorkill gives on “crazy cows.” He spoke to livestock and forage producers March 7 at the Christian County Livestock and Forage Conference in Clever. Post-drought hay shortages have forced cattle producers to cull cows that…
Read Full Article PALMYRA, Mo. — Annie’s Project, a program offered by University of Missouri Extension for two decades, gave Amy Lehenbauer the confidence she needed to become active in the family farm. Lehenbauer is one of more than 19,000 women across the nation who completed the program during the past 20 years, says MU Extension agriculture business…
Read Full Article CLEVER, Mo. – Due to poor storage and feeding methods, only about half of Missouri hay reaches the cow’s mouth, says University of Missouri Extension livestock specialist Andy McCorkill. This leads to waste and reduced profits, especially as producers reset their herds post-drought. In a press release McCorkill said, “Make sure your high-value hay gets…
Read Full Article CLEVER, Mo. — While fall is the best time to consider pasture renovation, spring is the second-best time, so there is still time to help pastures get back in shape for the next season, says University of Missouri Extension agronomist Tim Schnakenberg. First, evaluate stand issues. Look at density of desired forages and undesired forages…
Read Full Article MILAN, Ill. — My family dedicates an entire weekend to a walkabout in our woodlands each spring. The timing of the retreat is not left to chance, we mark it on the calendar far in advance and decline all invitations and events for that weekend. We do this to celebrate spring’s arrival, disconnect from the…
Read Full Article SPRINGFIELD, Mo.. — Squatty, squishy bales are making their way out of the ditch and into the cow pasture as post-drought supplies dwindle and winter lingers. Bad bales are costly in many ways, says Derrell Peel, Oklahoma State University Extension agribusiness livestock specialist. Peel recently spoke at the 39th annual Southwest Missouri Forage Conference sponsored…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. – Livestock producers can learn how to reduce toxins that damage performance and profits during the March 23 Alliance for Grassland Renewal workshop in Mount Vernon, Mo. University of Missouri Extension state forage specialist Craig Roberts says ergot alkaloids in Kentucky 31 tall fescue begin to increase about mid-April in Missouri. Tall fescue…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — Get a head start on pastures for the year with good management of spring flush, says University of Missouri Extension state forage specialist Harley Naumann. Early decisions determine pasture health for the rest of the season, Naumann says. Spring flush occurs when conditions exist for cool-season grasses to come out of their…
Read Full Article MACOMB, Ill. — It seems like everyone is doing trivia these days. To celebrate the coming spring, I am trying my hand at writing some gardening trivia questions. Good luck! 1. When admiring spring bulbs, a horticulturist exclaims “Look at that Narcissus.” What are they referring to? 2. Why are daffodils planted in everyone’s yard?…
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Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — Spring is just around the corner and, with the final doldrums of winter, many Missouri wildlife species are showing an abundance of activity, says University of Missouri Extension state wildlife and fisheries specialist Bob Pierce. In a press release, Pierce said, “This time of year provides many opportunities for conducting management practices…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — In a press release, Missouri Extension horticulturist David Trinklein said, “If ever there was a flower that brings a smile to people’s faces, it has to be the pansy.” This delightful, cool-loving garden flower bears blotched petals that resemble a face smiling back at those who admire it. Midwesterners enjoy pansy’s unique…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — It’s no blarney. Potatoes are a staple for St. Patrick’s Day meals, along with corned beef, cabbage and soda bread. The Irish (white) potato has long been associated with the potato famine in Ireland during the 1840s, says University of Missouri Extension horticulturist Michele Warmund. Late-blight disease, the source of the great…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — University of Missouri Extension is celebrating the 20th year of Annie’s Project, a national nonprofit to educate and empower women in agriculture. Annie’s Project uses a methodology that builds confidence, develops networks and creates lifelong learners among women farmers, ranchers, growers, landowners and agriculturalists, said Annie’s Project co-CEO Karisha Devlin, an agricultural…
Read Full Article BAYLIS, Ill. — The first livestock judging clinic for youths was held on Saturday, March 4, at the John Wood Community College Agricultural Education Center in Baylis. University of Illinois Extension and John Wood Community College were the hosts. More than 70 youths attended the entry level workshop. They first spent time in the classroom…
Read Full Article KIRKSVILLE, Mo. — Missouri cattle producers interested in feeding out their cattle are invited to a two-day University of Missouri Extension Feedlot School, March 22-23 in Kirksville. MU livestock specialists will cover nutrition and health management, the performance of calves fed by MU and harvested locally, and the economics of feeding cattle in Missouri. Participants…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — Interest in Missouri winemaking exploded during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the University of Missouri Grape and Wine Institute has responded to meet the demand. The institute, a partnership of MU and the state’s wine and grape industry, provides information and advice on all issues related to viticulture and enology. (Viticulture is the…
Read Full Article JACKSONVILLE, Ill. — As the days get longer and the temperatures start to warm, we often get the itch to start gardening. However, we shouldn’t be in too big of a hurry to start cleaning up our gardens in preparation for the upcoming growing season. While cutting back dead plants and removing leaves and plant…
Read Full Article URBANA/CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Experts at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine have created a comprehensive website to help beef cattle producers implement on-farm biosecurity measures. “Biosecurity” refers to farm management practices to prevent disease introduction or spread on farms. An outbreak of a foreign animal disease (i.e., one not currently found in the…
Read Full Article COLUMBIA, Mo. — Several antibiotics used in cattle and other livestock will require a veterinary prescription in the coming months. This change represents the final phase of the Food and Drug Administration’s efforts to bring all medically important antibiotics approved for use in animals under veterinary oversight by June 11, 2023. In a press release,…
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