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Cooperative Extension Service |
AGRICULTURE ARCHIVES |
CONTROL DANDELIONS IN FALL
Dandelions are cool-season weeds we consider real pests in our in lawns, pastures, and crop fields. So when should we try to control them?
Dandelions are perennial plants with a taproot that helps it reproduce and survive. During its peak flowering period in early spring, the flowers quickly transition from yellow blooms to mature seeds. Dandelions germinate from seed in late summer and early fall producing small rosettes and begin an active growth period in the early-to mid-fall when temperatures start to moderate.
Therefore, initiating control during the late fall or early winter months will likely provide the most benefit. Generally, the best time period is through early- to mid-December, provided daytime temperatures reach 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit for a couple of days.To learn more about dandelion and weed control, contact the Henry County Extension Office at 845-2811.
11/10/10
HOW WE GOT PHASE I TOBACCO MONEY
Twelve years ago history was made when the Master Settlement Agreement was signed, giving Kentucky over $100 million in payments annually to be used at the digression of the Legislature.
Unlike many states that quickly shuffled the funds into a general account, Kentucky's Legislators made history by passing House Bill 611, committing 50% of these annual payments to the development of Kentucky's rural and agricultural communities.
The establishment of the Kentucky Agriculture Development Fund in HB 611 created an unprecedented opportunity for Kentucky farmers. In the ten years since the bill was signed into law millions have gone into the agriculture economy to help diversify agriculture and improve net farm income. In Henry County, over $4 million has been put into farm infrastructure through the Phase I 50% Cost Share programs involving virtually all farm enterprises.
The local entity responsible for the final dispensation of Henry County Phase I Funds is the Henry County Agriculture Development Council. This 8 person Council appointed by Agriculture related agencies in the County has been working diligently for the past 10 years, carefully plotting each years’ program to get maximum benefit from the funding. The Council is currently undergoing it’s biennial appointments, so some of the membership will likely change, but the care and understanding of Henry County Agriculture will be maintained.
6/3/10
DEALING WITH THE EMERALD ASH BORER
Many of you have seen the big purple boxes swinging from Ash trees this spring and summer. The purpose of these Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) traps were to find out if these Ash tree killing insects had made it into Kentucky from the states to the north. They had. Without using the traps, we now have 7 counties with confirmed EAB presence, and while Henry County is not one of the seven, we are in the Quarantine area. What does this all mean? The following information and philosophy is from UK Tree Specialist Dr. William Fountain.
The initial infestations appear to have occurred in Michigan five to eight years ago. The option of confining it or eradicating does not exist, and there are no resistant Ash trees. EAB is responsible for the death or removal of over 20 million trees in Michigan alone. As this insect has moved through states to our north, all untreated ash trees have succumbed or are infected. At this time management is our only option for protecting valuable trees.
Though they may be genetically the same, urban and forest trees are economically different and must be managed accordingly. It is economically impractical to protect large numbers of trees in woodlots. The discussion of timber management will be discussed at a later time. Here, we’ll discuss the many Ash trees which are an important component of farmsteads and our urban and suburban landscapes.
The obvious signs of EAB infestation are small (1/8 inch) D- shaped holes, dieback of the crown and woodpeckers feeding on the larvae. The first feeding by EAB larvae is usually in the crown of the tree. By the time feeding and the resulting exit holes can be seen at eye level, it is generally too late for the tree to be saved.
Ash trees can be protected by specific insecticides. The best treatments currently available contain imidacloprid, applied by injection (professional) or drench (homeowner). There are advantages and disadvantages to either method. Insecticides applied by these two methods are considered to be protectants. Specifically, they are must effective when they are applied before the insect begins to feed in the tree. If a tree has lost more than 50% of its crown it is probably too late to save the tree. These insecticides must be applied on a regular basis for as long as the owner wishes to keep the tree.
Making intelligent decisions on which trees to treat and which to remove necessitates knowing (1) the size of the tree and (2) the perceived value of the tree to the owner. Protection is going to be expensive and, with the materials currently available must be treated on a regular basis and at the proper time of year. Generally, trees should be treated well prior to the emergence date of the EAB larvae (approximately mid May).
Young newly planted trees (1 to 2 inch trunks) are generally considered not to be worth treating. If these trees were installed as an important part of the landscape design, remove them and replace with a resistant species. If they were installed as part of a large planting and will not be missed if they are lost, they can be left and either removed when they become infected or treated should cheaper and more effective become available.
Old and declining trees (over 22 inches in diameter) are so large that it is difficult to get enough of the pesticide into the tree to effectively protect the tree. If a large tree is especially valuable to a landscape it can be protected with the intention of providing some lesser degree of protection with the thought that more effective insecticides will be coming onto the market.
Young and maturing trees (4 to 18 inches in diameter) are generally worth protecting, especially if they are considered to be a valuable component of the landscape. There are three reasons why this is especially true for trees in the upper end of this size range. Trees on the south side of a home or in a livestock pasture are valuable not only for the beauty they add but especially for the shade they will provide in the coming decade. Shade from trees reduces utility bills. Secondly, air conditioners in houses that are shaded do not work as hard and, last longer. Thirdly, treating to prevent EAB infection is cost effective. The cost of treatment to large trees over a period of a couple of decades is going to be less than the cost of removal. When you add the cost of a replacement tree and the decade of higher utility bills it can be an obvious decision.
There are going to be a lot of questions about Ash trees in the coming months and years. We will continue to try to explain the facts and the options through the UK Cooperative Extension Service. The local Extension Office can be reached at 845-2811.
7/29/09
FORAGE TESTING A MUST FOR THIS YEARS’ HAY CROP
While always an important management tool, the need for using a forage analysis for testing this year’s hay is even more critical. Tom Keene, UK Forage Specialist, indicates that he has seen more rows of round bales sprouting green grass than normal, an indicator of two primary factors. First, the hay was made at a very mature
stage and had a tremendous amount of viable seed in the seed heads of the hay when baled. This seed ensures that the hay was way past an optimal nutrient value when it was harvested thus reducing quality dramatically.
The second issue is the over abundance of rainfall that we have had this year when compared to others. This additional rainfall has made the hay stored outside deteriorate at a much great rate than normal and will cause our storage and feeding losses to skyrocket. The most economical and efficient correction for this type of hay would be to make sure that the hay is tested either with the KDA hay Testing Program (1-800- 248-4628) or with another certified laboratory and then feed according to the class of livestock being fed.
11/4/09
CATTLEMAN’S ASSOCIATION REMAINS STRONG
The Henry County Cattleman’s November 24...
This will be the 8th Annual Meeting of the Henry County Cattleman’s Association, formed as an official chapter of the Kentucky Cattleman’s Association in the summer of 2001. From the very start, this group has had strong leadership and avid participation by it’s membership, which usually hits somewhat above the century mark. With regular meetings on the 4th Monday evening of most months, the attendance has averaged around 90, with several hundred plus meetings! Many larger Cattleman’s Associations would be proud to have the kind of turnout to meetings and field days exhibited by the Henry County group. The Membership seems to truly enjoy every opportunity to fellowship with one another, network, and learn about the Cattle Industry through a wide variety of speakers and presenters. Sponsors seem to line up to have the chance to meet and work with the membership, helping provide a steady fare of grilled beef and all the fixings.
While we talk of the Henry County Cattleman’s Association as being a relative newcomer, Henry County cattle producers had been active inn the Louisville Area Cattleman’s Association, originally formed as the organizing body of the Graded Feeder Cattle Sales held at Bourbon Stockyards, beginning in 1983. Henry County provided a good amount of membership, participation, and leadership to that Area Association. Henry County Cattle farms were consistently featured as Field Day Hosts for what became an annual Fall Cattle Field Day, a practice which has been continued to this day.
The first meeting of the Henry County Cattleman’s Association was May 30, 2001 at the Henry County 4-H Center at the Fairgrounds. The group there had determined their was a need to leave the Area Association in favor of a County Chapter for a couple of reasons. First, this provided the avenue to focus educational meetings and programs more specifically to our local folks and local needs. Secondly, the new
Master Settlement Agreement had made Cost Share Funding available to local farmers through the “Phase I” Programs, and the administration of these funds was required to be made by a local ‘formal’ organization. In order for those early State Model programs such as the Genetics, Forage Enhancement, and the Cattle Handling Facility programs to be available to Henry County Farmers, an organization such as a Cattle Association was needed. Since handling the first programs, the Cattle Association has now been directly responsible for administering more than $2 million directly to farm families over the life of the Phase I program.
The First President was Sarah Stewart, followed by Bobby Foree, Tony Whaley, Allan Bryant, Alvin Tingle, Brian Stivers, Eddie Foree, and present president Joey Kephart. They have been ably assisted by a nine person board of directors which has included: Leon Creech, Claude Nutt, Keith Jeffries, Richard Smith, John Ellegood, Russ Rose, Robert Hunchman, Lloyd Gray, Clark Slone, Phillip Douglas, Phyliss McGuire, John Allison, Larry Bryant, and Lindsey Burke. Mary Bryant and Phyliss McGuire have served as Treasurers throughout the organizations history.
Field Day Hosts, beginning in 2001, have included Graystone Farms, Creekstone Farms in 2002, Lloyd and Pat Gray Farms in 2003, Stivers Farms in 2004, Rand Angus Farm and Larry and Keith Jeffries Farms in 2005, Herrell Farms in 2006, Capstone Farms in 2007, and RiverCrest Farms in 2008.
Cattleman of the Year have included: Lloyd and Pat Gray in 2002, Stivers Farms in 2003, Robert and Jean L. Foree Farms in 2004, Herrell Farms in 2005, Capstone Farms in 2006, and Graystone Farms in 2007.
The organization looks forward to many more years of fellowship, great beef meals, and timely education as they announce this 2008 Annual Meeting for Monday, November 24. Please stay tuned to this column and an invitation from the Association which will give time and place details.
11/5/08
FALL FERTILIZATION
The price of fertilizer is so high that many cattle producers are asking if it’s economical to apply fertilizer to pasture and hay ground this fall.
The answer to that question is difficult because it depends on your specific situation. When considering the answer for your operation, the first thing you should do is examine your soil test levels. If you have not taken soil samples within the past three years, you would be wise to collect new ones before making a decision. From the soil test results, determine what, if anything, is most limiting. In terms of soil pH, the minimum value depends on the type of forage you’re producing. If it’s alfalfa and the pH is below 6.0, you could apply lime. A grass-legume mixture probably can tolerate soil pH down to about 5.8 and a pure grass system probably can go down to pH 5.5 before yields are significantly affected. Similar statements could also be made for phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) nutrition, with alfalfa requiring the most and a pure grass like fescue requiring the least.
The UK College of Agriculture recommends P applications starting when the soil test P level drops below 60 pounds per acre and K when soil test K drops below 300 pounds per acre. If soil test levels are above 60 pounds per acre and or 300 pounds of K per acre, the likelihood of a yield response to additional P and/or K fertilizer is extremely low. But if you want to be sure that P and K are not limiting, apply fertilizers as recommended. If you are conservative and assume some risk that P and K might reduce yield, you might allow soil test levels to decline further. From small plot research, we know that once soil test P drops below 30 pounds per acre and/or soil test K drops below 200 pounds per acre, a yield response to added fertilizer is likely, therefore; these would be the minimum tolerable levels.
For more information on soil sampling and fall fertilizer recommendations, contact the Henry County Cooperative Extension Service at 845-2811.
10/08/08
APPLE TREES IN THE BACK YARD
An apple tree usually is one of the first fruit crops backyard fruit growers think about planting in their yard. However, they are one of the more difficult fruit crops to grow, primarily because of the wide range of pests that like them, particularly apple scab. This is a fungus that causes lesions on the fruit and can also defoliate the tree and kill the spurs – the structures that produce the flower buds.
Over the past 25 years, a number of scab-immune apple varieties have been released. The following apple varieties have performed well in Kentucky and are discussed in order of ripening. Most also have resistance to several other diseases.
Redfree – a red apple that ripens in August and colors well for this time of the season. Redfree is a tart, sweet apple which will keep for several months and also has resistance to cedar apple rust, as well as sooty blotch and fly speck diseases.
Liberty – a very tart, McIntosh-type apple that ripens in late August. In a cool fall, Liberty develops dark red stripes over a green/yellow fruit.
Enterprise – a red, spicy, crisp and fine-grained apple that ripens in mid-to-late October. Enterprise has a relatively thick skin, a very good disease resistance package and stores well until February.
Gold Rush – a very firm, tart, yellow apple that ripens in mid-to-late October. It sweetens up in storage and is one of the best storing apples available, keeping up to eight months. It has a very good resistance to scab and fire blight, but is susceptible to cedar apple rust.
Sundance – a firm, yellow apple, which is more difficult to find. It is very resistant to all four of the early season problem diseases and ripens in mid-October.
Since these apples are disease resistant, many novice growers mistakenly believe they don’t need to spray them. Unfortunately, these varieties don’t have any insect resistance. Attempting to grow apples without spraying for plum curculio, coddling moth, rosy apple aphid and scale can cause major crop losses, if not complete crop loss, depending on the season.
The most important sprays for apple varieties are the early ones, the dormant oil, pin, petal fall and first-cover sprays.
The publication, Disease and Insect Control Programs for Homegrown Fruit in Kentucky with Organic Alternatives (ID-21), provides descriptions of these varieties and spray recommendations. Contact the Henry County Extension Office at 845-2811 for a copy.
4/1/09
COMMENTS ABOUT TEFF
Teff grass has been gaining interest and that interest is generating a number of questions. UK Forage Specialists and their counterparts in other states have been attempting to gather information which will answer these questions, but with back to back summer droughts in Kentucky, it is still hard to predict just how this grass will serve us here.
Teff is a relatively new summer annual forage grass for our region. Compared to the millets, sorghums, and sudangrasses we normally use, teff is much leafier and finer stemmed, and it often contains more crude protein and TDN. However, it usually doesn’t produce quite as much total tonnage. It makes a very palatable hay and is well accepted by horses, llamas, alpacas, and similar livestock. Recently weaned calves also adapt to teff hay quite quickly. These may be the kind of uses where teff is better suited than most of our other summer annual grasses. Of course, stock cows, replacement heifers, and other cattle also like it. However, since other summer annual grasses usually produce more tonnage and also are acceptable for these animals, they may be a better choice.
Furthermore, teff can be difficult to establish. It has a very tiny seed, much smaller than an alfalfa seed. It must be planted very shallow, about one-eighth of an inch deep, or seedlings will not emerge. Many producers who have planted teff have had thin or uneven stands, partly because the seed was placed too deep by their drills. Extra firm seedbeds may be needed when a drill is used; broadcasting seed and cultipacking afterwards might work better. Seedlings also need a week or so of moist soil to become established well enough to survive.
Teff has much potential when used with the right livestock. But know also that it has some risks and challenges.
5/6/09
CUTTING HAY FOR QUALITY
Every year at this time, forage producers are faced with the same dilemma. Hay is ready to be cut and baled, yet weather patterns are unpredictable and rarely yield a good window of time in which to properly cure hay. The result: we wait until weather conditions are better, but we sacrifice the quality we are capable of producing.
In the case of first cutting alfalfa, waiting doesn’t only get us a lower quality forage, it decreases the total yield of the field because we simply can’t get as many cuttings. One of the solutions to this dilemma is putting the first cutting of high quality forages like alfalfa into a silage package. Rolled bale silage machines are being used to capture early quality, even with lack of curing conditions, and releasing the fields to produce high quality forage while the weather is still favorable in terms of temperature and moisture.
I’ve seen studies where the energy and protein levels of a hay which was cut and rained on were as good or better than the same hay left standing in the field for two weeks until good curing conditions were present. While no farmer wants hay rained on, the early cut, rained on hay left the field ready to grow its next crop earlier.
Some would ask, ‘why does the quality go down?’. The answer to that lies in the fact that stem tissue NEVER has the same quality as leaf tissue, and stem tissue is the only thing growing or increasing in our fields after the first few weeks of growth. Waiting for extra tonnage per acre is simply waiting for more stems to grow.
All forage producers should have their forage harvesting equipment greased and sharpened, and ready to go at the first hint of sunny weather. Good luck!
5/6/09
2007 Census of Agriculture – Henry County
The 2007 Census of Agriculture Data has just been released, and the Henry County information contains some interesting data and trends. Compared to the 2002 Census, two items jumped off the pages at me: the number of farms has increased by 9%, and the amount of tobacco marketed has increased since the 2002 Census.
The number of farms increased from 883 to 962. Interestingly, when looking at the number of farms by size, Henry County had decreases in the very smallest farms and the very largest. Farms of 1-9 acres dropped from 52 to 39, while the number of farms over 1000 acres dropped from 14 to 8. All other size groupings increased.
When comparing farms by income, it is interesting to note that the number of farms reporting less than $5,000.00 income per year in 2007 was 430, while in 2002 that number was only 324. Over half (59%) of Henry County farms reported less than $10,000 in annual agriculture income, while 13% report sales of $50,000 or more.
A significant increase in the market value of land and buildings per acre was noted since the 2002 Census. The average for Henry County jumped from $2,398 per acre to $3,268 per acre. This makes the average size farm of 152 acres worth nearly ½ million dollars.
Farmers are getting slightly older too. The average age of a 2007 Henry County farmer was 57.4 years old, compared to 56.3 in 2002. That trend has continued over the past several Census of Agriculture reports. In 2002, about 9% of the principal operators of farms were female, a figure which rose to 13% in 2007.
Back to the tobacco figures. Since the government buyout, no one (but the tobacco companies) really knows what the acreage and production per county has been, and they do not chose to share these numbers. For the past 4 years, I’ve been guestimating that Henry County’s acreage and production has held steady from the last year of the quota system when producers planted just over 2,200 acres and sold about 4.5 million pounds of burley. The reported acreage for the 2007 census of tobacco indicates an increase in acres up to 2,617, moving Henry County from 7th in the state to 2nd.
In addition to this 2nd place ranking in tobacco acres, Henry County is also 2nd in pheasant production, 4th in quail production, 20th in forage land for hay, 24th in dairy, 25th in goats, 25th in Horses and Ponies, 38th in beef production, and is ranked 46th in the state in terms of all products sold.
2/11/09
WINTER HORSE NUTRITION
The headlines in the LOCAL really caught my eye last week. It emphasized the plight of horses now caught in the wake of some interesting conditions. Some would say it’s the ‘perfect storm’. The equine economy is sluggish, cold weather is here which means little or no help from pasture, hay supplies are tight and expensive due to two straight summer droughts, and horses can’t go to slaughter in the US. Are there unwanted horses out there? Are there some who will not be fed properly through the winter? The answer is probably yes to both questions. However, we have a great community of horse owners and managers in Henry County, and they do their best to see that our equine friends are properly cared for.
No matter what the economic conditions, a horse’s nutritional needs do increase with even mild Kentucky winters. Here are some ideas to consider when feeding your horses this winter.
The first thing every horse owner should do is assess your horses’ body condition scores, or the amount of fat they are carrying. This is simple numeric system, ranging from 1 to 9 that will help you adjust your horses’ diets so they are carrying the perfect amount of body weight. If you need help with this, the UK Extension Service has a fact sheet titled, “Condition Scoring Your Horse,” and you can contact us at the Henry County Extension office to look for ASC-145. Using this system will help you keep feed costs down and your horses’ health and well-being in top shape.
No matter your horses’ body condition scores, one of the most important aspects of feeding horses during the winter is being able to provide a source of good-quality forage. Unless you have a well-planned rotational grazing system in place and have stockpiled forage that will that last until spring, feeding hay is essential.
Unless you are raising broodmares or growing horses, most horses should be fed at least 50 percent of their total daily diet as forage. For an average 1,000-pound horse fed at 2 percent body weight per day, that would be at least 10 pounds of hay per day. In addition to providing nutrients, hay also supplies heat to the horses through the digestive process.
If your hay is of high-nutritive value and your horses are maintaining their body condition scores throughout the winter, you may not have to provide a source of grain at all. However, if your horses are not meeting their nutritional needs with hay alone, you can add grain to their diet.
Water is an essential nutrient that you need to monitor very carefully during the winter months. In general, horses tend to increase their consumption of water when consuming more dry matter or harvested forages. But, they tend to not want to drink really, really cold water. Therefore, it’s important to make sure you provide fresh water daily on a free-choice basis. When the temperature dips into the 30s and below, water tanks may freeze up. Be sure to check them at least twice a day and break the ice up if needed so the horses can drink.
Make sure you especially monitor older horses that have trouble keeping weight on during the year. They may need some special attention to keep them in good weight throughout the winter.
12/24/08
HISTORIC REVIEW OF AGRICULTURE
The 2007 Census of Agriculture Data for Henry County is targeted for release in early 2009. What facts and trends will it reveal? The 2002 Census revealed some interesting facts and trends in our farming community. Depending on your perspective, some changes and trends can be good and some not so good, but they are real, and the knowledge of them may be useful in planning for the future.
From 1997 to 2002, Henry County decreased total farm numbers from 1,022 to 833, with the average farm size creeping up to nearly 160 acres (right at the State Average) from the 1997 size of 147. The market value of production dropped nearly 30%, from nearly $37 million to roughly $26 million. As you might guess, most of the drop in income came as a result of the decrease in tobacco income.
Henry County has an area of 291 square miles, with a total of 186,272 acres of land. The number of acres in farms in 2002 was 141,592, down nearly 9,000 acres from 1997.
Now let’s go back in time nearly a century to take a look at Henry County. Exploring 1909 (the earliest year of the U.S. Census of Agriculture for Henry County), we find the acreage in farms in 1909 was 178,217. There were 2,329 farms, with an average size of 77 acres. The average value of land and buildings per acre was $50, a huge contrast to the $2,398 per acre in 2002.
In the year 1900, Henry County population was recorded at 14,620. Each 10 year U.S. Census after that reveals a population lower that 14,000 until the 2000 Census of 15,060. With 2,329 farms in 1909, we can see that a much greater number of people lived and depended on farming in our past.
There are some interesting facts concerning the number and size of farms through the years. In 1909, there were 306 farms from 1 to 9 acres in size, now there are only 52. The number of farms of 1,000 acres or more has increased from 2 to 10, and until 1982, there were no farms of 2,000 acres or more, now there are 4. The number of farms from 180 acres to 499 acres in size has remained fairly constant, dropping only from 217 in 1909 to 189 in 2002. A size range which has dropped significantly, even though the average size of a farm has increased, is the 50 to 179 acre range. From 1007 in 1909, we are down to 409 in 2002. The statistics tell us that we have decreased numbers of small farms, and growing numbers of large farms.
Will these century old trends continue with the 2007 Census of Agriculture? When the Henry County numbers are released, we hope to forward them to you right here in the Henry County Local. Stay tuned.
7/16/08
NITROGEN FOR STOCKPILING FESCUE
Nitrogen prices continue to increase in Kentucky, but prices for stored feed also continue to increase. Start planning now for stockpiling tall fescue for late fall and winter grazing. Stockpiled tall fescue will provide high quality, palatable forage and reduce the cost of winter feeding. The most efficient application time to insure strong fall growth is early to mid-August on grazed (3 to 4”) or hayed fescue stands. Recommended N application rates are 50 to 80 lb N per acre, but rates as low as 30 to 40 lb N per acre will enhance growth and improve forage quality. Ammonium nitrate is the preferred N fertilizer because it does not volatilize in hot weather. Price and availability are certainly big issues with ammonium nitrate. If urea is used it should be applied immediately before rain or used with the additive Agrotain which reduces volatilization losses.
7/9/08
PASTURE RENOVATION It's time to start "Beefing Up" pastures and hay fields. The optimum window for seeding most of our cool season grasses and legumes runs from Early February to mid April. The early part of this time period usually allows us the opportunity to use "Freeze Seeding", whereby the natural freezing and thawing action of the soil helps "plant" the seed. Follow these six important steps when renovating grass fields with legumes:
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WHY DO LIGHTER CALVES BRING MORE? Over the years, I've heard that question asked many times, but never had a grasp of the full reason until receiving the following example. This was sent by Dr. Lee Meyer, UK Extension Livestock Economist.
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FRIENDS HELPING FRIENDS We lost a good Henry County Citizen in a farm accident. Marshall Banta was a good Husband, Father, Son, Neighbor, Friend, and an Agricultural Community Leader. Because of my associations with Agriculture, the folks here at the LOCAL asked me if I would care to write a Commentary about Marshall. At the time, I just couldn't. Now, after witnessing some rather unique events, I believe I should try. As County Extension Agent for 4-H and Agriculture,I had the good fortune to have known Marshall Banta for over 24 years, and in that time had several opportunities to work with him in his role as an Extension Leader. Together, we planned and conducted several Tobacco and Forage Demonstrations and Field Trials on the Banta farm. His willingness to put some new ideas from the UK College of Agriculture to work and then open the farm to Field Days surely helped hundreds of Farmers from the County and Region to adapt some improved practices. I don't know just when Marshall became a great Agriculture leader. But I can probably point out several reasons why. His easy going personality, constant smile, obvious love of farming, and his willingness to try to make things better made Marshall a favorite in several Agriculture related groups. The Extension Service benefitted greatly from Marshall's service on the County Extension Council, the Agriculture Council, and the Extension District Board. He represented Henry County well as an Area Extension Council Officer, and became the only Henry Countian ever to serve as President of the State Extension Council. His leadership was certainly not confined to Extension, as he was very active in the Henry County Conservation District, Southern States, Farm Bureau, and the Chamber of Commerce. Each of these groups will miss his leadership. Many of Marshalls' friends and neighbors have told me that they didn't realize just how many organizations he worked with and provided leadership for. Back in the community, he simply remained a good farmer, friend, and neighbor, always ready to lend a hand when needed. That spirit of community and giving has been demonstrated in many ways since the accident, as folks have pitched in to help the Banta family. Work on a farm takes no holiday, and the harvesting of nearly 300 acres of field corn needed to be accomplished. This effort was coordinated by a couple of talented individuals, and the corn harvest began on Saturday of Thanksgiving Weekend. Combines, Grain Carts, Tractors, Trucks, Elevators, and many friends and neighbors rolled into the Smithfield area and smoothly and efficiently began binning a good corn harvest. In one instance when a Combine broke down, there was a quick response and two combines appeared to take its place. The harvest took 4 days, and was a sight to behold. After running on several farms and different fields for the first 3 days, the entire operation moved to the Banta farm on Tuesday afternoon. They got close enough to finishing that they decided to work after dark. The last field was illuminated by a full moon and the lights of 3 huge combines, 2 grain carts and tractors, and several grain trucks. When the last corn stalk was run, the entire armada moved across the ridge behind the Banta home to the Grain Elevator. As one of the farmers said "I've heard about things like this, but until now I'd never seen anything like it". The entire Harvest effort will be long remembered. Nearly 50 people were somehow involved on site, with many others doing extra duty back home to allow these many volunteers to leave for a few days. The entire group had a common goal and purpose, and worked as a team. Individually, these men and women were extremely talented and capable, and did whatever it took to accomplish the end goal. In my experience, farmers are somewhat individualistic, but any differences of opinion were put aside during the harvest operation. The reasons for this probably surfaced in a conversation I heard as 5 or 6 of the volunteers were discussing the operation. As one farmer said, "If this had happened to any one of us, Marshall would have been the first in the field to have helped". He lived and shared the message that "friends should help friends", and that came through in his personal life, in many board meetings on the local and state level, and even in National Agriculture Summits. It is ironic that Marshall volunteered quite a bit of time and leadership to the newly formed "Farm Safety Coalition" this past summer. He assisted the many agencies and organizations in conducting the very well attended "Farm and Home Safety Fair". One of the messages the coalition wanted our farming population to hear was to simply take the time to be safe. No accident is planned, all are damaging, and some are terribly tragic. Because of an accident, one of our best and brightest is gone. I think he would continue to encourage folks to work together to always make our place a better one in which to live and to "be careful out there". |
FALL GOOD TIME TO SAMPLE SOIL Wet soils compact. Lime and fertilizer haulers are super busy in the spring time. These two facts are both excellent reasons to take soil samples and get needed lime and fertilizer hauled and spread in the fall. Harvest time is also an excellent time to make cropping decisions for next year. Which fields might be used for tobacco next year? Which will be corn, beans, sown for hay, etc.? If this much of the puzzle is put together in the fall, then soil sampling and proper liming and fertilization go a long way toward completing the picture. Fall application of lime and the elements phosphorus and potassium can help allow time for these soil amendments to react and give you the most "bang for your buck". It has become increasingly popular for farmers to use "pelletized lime" in the spring because of the thought that it reacts faster. Based on research from several states, it appears that the pelletized lime reacts no faster to raise the soil pH than good quality ag lime applied at the recommended rates. Back to our original two arguments in favor of fall soil sampling and fall spreading. Soils tend to be much drier in the fall, therefore much less likely to compact from the weight of the spreading equipment. Truckers continue to tell me that they have a difficult time getting to everybody in the spring planting rush, and that spreading out some of their work into the fall would suit them just fine. Fall soil sampling can reap great benefits. Contact Steve Moore at (502)845-2811 if you have questions. FALL SOIL SAMPLING
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Livestock Water Extremely Important Winter can be a rough weather time for Kentuckians. Fortunately, most of us can stay inside where it's warm and not have to worry about having food and water. Livestock, on the other hand, don't have it so easy. The biggest thing for producers to remember is that livestock need water, or they won't eat. After the need for water is realized, producers have to remember that livestock require more energy to make it through the winter months. More energy means additional high-quality forages and grains. It's a common myth that grain rations are hotter rations. High-quality forage rations actually provide more heat for livestock. Producers should take advantage of forage testing to better understand what they actually have. In general, it's a good idea to have a supply of feed available to get livestock through times when the roads may be closed due to snow, ice, etc. Livestock in isolated areas, away from the center of the operation, need to have at least a week's supply of feed available. Don't forget the importance of good, dry bedding. Animals who are kept dry have a better chance of staying comfortable and alive than those who stay wet during cold spells. Extra attentions should be given to protecting 'newborns' from drafts. When caring for livestock in times of weather stress, remember that animals have a much better tolerance for cold than humans do. For example, the comfort range for cattle is somewhere between 40 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Horses have a wider range, from about 10 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Confining the animals completely is not the answer to very cold weather, however. If you have a 20-degree day and the wind is not blowing and the sun is shining, most animals ought to be outside. There are fewer problems with ventilation and associated barn humidity. The rule of thumb is if you open the door, and they want to go outside, they ought to be outside; if they take one look and go back inside, they should stay inside. Livestock Management in the winter months can be successful by simply having water readily available, a good source of feed, and shelter that protects from wind and moisture. |
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Lawn Care In The Fall
10/25/06 |
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HAY STORAGE MATTERS
2006 |
| Hay Testing
How good is your hay? How will animals perform on the hay you plan to feed next winter? What is the value of your hay from a nutrient standpoint? The answers to these and many other "Hay Quality" questions can be answered through the Kentucky Department of Agriculture Hay Testing Service. A simple toll free call (1-800-248-4628) will put you in contact with the KDA Hay Testing Program. Arrangements will be made for a trained individual to visit your farm and sample your hay. For a nominal fee of $ 10.00 per lot, your hay will be tested and a report returned to you. If you would like assistance in balancing rations, it is available from your County Extension Agent and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. |
5/16/07 |
1/24/07 |
12/27/06 |
12/6/06 |
HOW DRY WAS JULY
I’m not sure exactly how much rain is ‘normal’ for July, but we sure didn’t get close to it. Of the 5 CoCoRaHS Rain Gauges reporting daily in Henry County, the most rain recorded was a paltry 1.15 inches near Campbellsburg. The lowest amount was less than seven tenths of an inch just north and east of Pleasureville. Needless to say, the many 90 plus degree days we’ve had and the lack of rain have painted a pretty parched look in much of the county. The farmers and gardeners at the Harvest Showcase were actually hoping for a much bigger rain than was experienced during the Showcase on Saturday afternoon.
8/3/11
LACK OF RAIN IN JULY SHOWING
Lots of tobacco is getting close to topping time, and much of the Henry County corn crop has tasseled now. These are critical times for both crops in terms of having adequate water. While we had record high amounts of rainfall earlier in the year, July rainfalls have not found much of Henry County. Our CoCoRaHS observers have recorded only an inch or less of rainfall through this morning (Monday the 25th), and we’ve had a snoot full of 90 plus degree days. Our Turners Station and Campbellsburg observers have seen the most rain, at a very modest 1.11 inches and 1.02 inches. Our Pleasureville observer has recorded less than half an inch (.44 inches) through 25 days.
TOBACCO DISEASE UPDATE
To date, no Blue Mold has been found in Kentucky, and the threat remains extremely low. Be watchful, though, and be prepared to act. Let us know at the Extension Office (845-2811) so we can insure all others know about any outbreak.
Dr. Kenny Seebold tells us that both target spot and frogeye leaf spot are on the increase. Quadris fungicide, applied at 8 fl fl oz/A, is the recommended material for target spot and gives good control if applied at least once beginning at layby. A second application could be needed at topping to help with a late-season flush of disease. Timing Quadris applications for frogeye control should be the same as for target spot unless disease pressure is heavy before layby. To reduce the potential for plant injury, try to treat earlier or later in the day to avoid very high temperatures and full sunlight.
7/27/11
WEATHER IN THE NEWS
According to preliminary data, the past 3 months in Kentucky were the wettest April, May and June on record (117 years), with 24.21 inches for the state, after 3 out of the past 4 years suffered serious periods of drought in Kentucky. Our group of weather reporters in Henry County have captured a whopping amount of rain which collaborates the state numbers. Reports range from a low of 25.72 inches near Campbellsburg to a high of 29.19 inches near Eminence.
Many crops got in behind the schedule desired by our farming and gardening community, yet it appears they got in and are now doing well. As a whole, tobacco is off to a good start, but there have been exceptions. Some acreage was set coming out of a very wet period, and was met with a very hot and dry week early in June. The UK diagnostic lab has seen many situations where the cause of problems has been ‘transplant shock’, ‘environmental’, and ‘cultural’, meaning no disease, just poor growing conditions.
Once in the ground, corn and beans have started well. Hay crops have mixed reviews, according to many farmers. It has been a struggle to catch haying weather when the forages needed to be harvested for top quality.
Gardening and Horticulture crops got in late, but are really beginning to come on now. At visits to the Farmers Market and the Produce Auction, we see that the quantity and quality is getting good. If you haven’t tried either of these sources for your own fruits and vegetables, you’ll be pleased with the local offerings. Don’t forget the big Henry County Harvest Showcase July 30th at the fairgrounds.
During the Henry County Cattleman’s Meeting a week or so ago, Dr. Pryor discussed Pinkeye, sometimes a major problem for cattle producers. While not seeing widespread outbreaks of Pinkeye, producers are encouraged to keep up the management tactics to prevent the problem, including maintaining a good fly control program, clipping pastures to remove the seedheads, and using timely vaccines for the herd.
7/6/11
MOB GRAZING MISCONCEPTIONS
Mob grazing is a hot topic in the grazing world. I’ve already heard some farmers discussing the pros and cons, but I’ve also heard some misconceptions. Mob grazing is a popular name for ultra-high stock density grazing. Picture around a hundred or more cow-calf pairs per half acre, and so forth. Of course, you can stay on that small piece of ground for only a brief time with that much animal pressure. So this mob of animals is moved to fresh pasture several times each day.
Mob grazing can increase forage utilization because animals don’t have much chance to graze selectively - they eat most of what they can get to. They also trample lots of grass into the soil and spread manure quite uniformly across the small area they are grazing.
Mob grazing is not a season-long method of grazing. Instead, it works best when there is much stemmy growth, especially old growth from the previous year or where weeds have taken over. You might use it for a couple of months, or maybe only a day or two. Primarily use it as a way to rejuvenate overgrown pasture. Used correctly, mob grazing can help almost everyone.
5/4/11
WET WEATHER SETS RECORDS
Without question, the extremely wet weather pattern we experience last week is one to remember. In fact, this looks like the wettest April EVER in much of Kentucky. The record for Louisville is 11.10 inches back in 1970. Every one of our local CoCoRAHS reporters has documented MORE than that record as of this writing on Monday afternoon, so it would be reasonable to assume that this is the wettest April ever for Henry County. By the way, the wettest month ever in most reporting stations in Kentucky is still January of 1937, hence the ’37 flood. The rainfall that month was upwards of 19 inches in Louisville.
This wet weather is causing some delays and concerns in Agriculture. We expect increased acres to be planted in Corn and Soybeans in Henry County this year, and most of the corn would be in the ground already but for the rainy weather. Later planted corn generally has less yield potential. When the ground gets ready, look for a rush of corn and bean planting.
Pastures and hayfields aren’t damaged badly yet, but you can imagine that hoof action in the pastures is tramping down more grass than normal. Regular forage management like application of fertilizer, etc is running behind.
Most tobacco transplants aren’t ready for the field yet, and that’s a good thing. However, wet, warm, overcast conditions are primetime for bacteria and fungal diseases. We just saw some target spot (rhizoctonia) starting in a greenhouse last Thursday. While we recommend a weekly treatment of a preventive fungicide such as Dithane in the greenhouse, the early target spot warrants a treatment with Quadris. It’s too early to see pythium as a problem, but not too early to be treating for it with Terramaster.
Earlier, I mentioned our CoCoRAHS reporters and I’d like to invite you to take a look at their diligent work by visiting the website at http://www.cocorahs.org. We have very accurate rain gauges spread around the county, with most read every day and reported on the internet. With the map feature, you can see exactly how much rain was recorded around the county.
4/28/11
PASTURE MANAGEMENT
When I discuss farming principles with livestock producers I encourage them to think of themselves as forage farmers as well. Increased use of forage reduces feed costs and increases potential yield per animal. Using forage benefits the land by increasing organic matter and can improve nitrogen levels found in the soil. Forage production is a sustainable practice that reduces surface water runoff and slows or prevents the leaching of nutrients; forage-covered fields need less fertilizer and they protect soil year-round.
Good pasture management can enable livestock to graze on pasture for more days of the year, decreasing dependence on the higher costs associated with stored feed/hay. To increase days on pasture, farmers should first implement a rotational grazing system to allow pastures time to recover. Having two (or more) pastures and rotating stock back and forth increases the fertility of the soil by allowing the empty pasture to replenish itself.
Farmers should consider the following:
• Good planting practices. The goal is to establish strong stands of forage, using high quality seed of proven varieties and timely planting.
• Soil test. Inexpensive soil tests tell farmers how to best use lime, phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen top dressings. This improves yield, quality, and stand life, and it also reduces weed problems.
• Nutritional needs. Cattle, horses and goats, for instance, each have different nutritional needs. These variations are further impacted by the age and use of the animal.
• Stocking rates. Grazing the right number of animals is extremely important to short- and long-term grazing success.
• Pasture alternatives. Consider grazing animals on crop residues or other plantings to fill in some of the pasture gaps left by most cool season forages.
• Legumes. Use legumes as much as possible to increase both yield and quality and reduce the need for nitrogen.
• Reduced and more efficient use of stored hay.
• Invest time to learn the principles of livestock management through programs such as Master Cattleman, Master Grazer, Horse College, and by joining Associations which promote educational programs and activities.
4/20/11
A Sad Farewell
Earlier today, Maryellen, Cathy, Laraine, and I attended a funeral that we did not want to attend. As members of the Henry County Extension Service, we lost our co-worker and good friend Annmarie Ivers, as she lost her courageous battle with cancer. As Secretary of the Henry County Extension Service, Annmarie was that nice friendly voice on the phone that so many Henry Countians heard when they contacted the Extension Office for the past 23 years. Some called her just to get the phone number for some other person or office, knowing that she usually knew the number without looking it up. She was a walking phone book!
This Extension staff had a chemistry unmatched in the state. I’m not sure of the numbers, but I don’t know of any other County Extension Office who had more time together than here in Henry County. Annmarie had typed so many letters for us that she virtually could finish our sentences. Folks bringing in Soil Samples, bugs, plant diseases, and the like were treated quickly, accurately, and fairly. Annmarie could work with anybody. At the office, we had become a family, and we’ll sorely miss our good friend and co-worker. Our loss pales, however, to the loss felt by her family. Our thoughts go out to them in this difficult time.
4/13/11
PREVENTING PASTURE BLOAT
Spring brings with it a couple of big changes in a cow’s life. Most of our Momma Cows have their calves in the spring, and their need for high quality feed goes up greatly. Luckily, this increased need happens at the same time our vast amount of cool season forages are growing rapidly after their winters nap. However, there are a couple of potential forage related problems associated with early growth that we as animal caregivers need to be aware of and watch out for. Grass Tetany and Bloat are the problems.
Grass tetany can occur in animals when they consume a lot of early growth which because of the cooler soils don’t take up enough Magnesium. Farmers usually prevent this by feeding a mineral which has extra Magnesium, or simply by continuing to supplementally feed dry hay for a while until pastures warm up.
Bloat at this time of year has been a legume induced pasture bloat. While one of the best ways to increase both quality and quantity of our forages is by adding legumes, legume bloat can be a problem. Prevention is key here. Keeping a pasture less than 50% legume helps lower the risk. Since moisture plays a role in bloat potential, farmers need to refrain from putting hungry cattle in a field with high legume content particularly when the dew is on or just after a rain. Waiting until the cattle have grazed and the dew dried is a prudent safeguard against pasture bloat. Some farmers also feed a bloat preventative containing poloxaline. Bloat is visibly seen in cattle as a bulging stomach up high on the left side when viewing the animal from the rear.
We have an excellent publication just released by Dr. Jeff Lehmkuhler and Dr. Roy Burris discussing Pasture Bloat and Prevention available at the Henry County Extension Office (845-2811).
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3/23/11
FORAGE ESTABLISHMENT
The past few years have been rough going for Forage Establishment on many farms. Some springs have been really wet, and some falls have been terribly dry. Let’s hope this year we can get some decent windows of opportunity both spring and fall.
Whenever the seeding, it’s good to work with a soil test. Making sure the soil is not critically low in an essential element is a good first step in a successful planting. Then, make sure you chose a seed and variety which has some credentials. UK Forage Tests can help pick out varieties which have maximum yield potential and disease resistance. Next, get the right amount of seed in contact with the soil. Seed/soil contact can be accomplished with lots of different methods, but one method may be past effectiveness now, that being Frost Seeding for clovers. It’s best to actually drill or plant the legumes now as we may not get sufficient freeze action to plant the seed.
Most grass seedings are most successful in the fall, but spring seedings are possible if we accomplish it early. Nearly all Cool Season grasses such as Orchardgrass, Timothy, and Bluegrass are best planted by early April. Fescue may have an extra week or two to get a successful establishment.
Once any seeding is made and begins to establish, one of the most critical steps remains. Competition, whether it be from other desirable forage crops or weeds, must be controlled until the new seeding has a chance to establish. Mowing, bushhogging, grazing, or herbicides are all methods which may help control competition.
3/16/11
CAUTION ADVISED WITH
GRAZING & CUTTING
HEIGHTS OF ORCHARDGRASS
The UK Forage Team has had some questions over the past several years about Orchardgrass persistence including why these new varieties of orchardgrass won’t last longer.
To date, we have not found a “new” disease or insect that can account for overall decline. Fertility can certainly affect stand life of any crop, but we cannot attribute low fertility with overall stand decline over the state. The factors that may explain much of this has to do with weather and grazing/cutting height. We have had four bad years and many of our Orchardgrass pastures were overgrazed and abused resulting in low grazing height.
With the advent of disk mowers close cutting can be accomplished with ease. In fact, many recommend cutting alfalfa as close as possible without injuring crowns. Cutting orchardgrass at 1-2 inches repeatedly will certainly reduce stand life. Optimum cutting/grazing heights for orchardgrass is 3.5-4.0 inches. If you have experienced stand decline, take a look at your cutting/grazing height and see if it could be too low.
3/9/11
THANKS FOR 15 BILLION GALLONS!
We just celebrated the Thanksgiving season, and I’ve heard many folks talking about the good visits they had with family and friends. Personally, that’s what I’m most thankful for. Here in Henry County, we were thankful for the abundant rains which fell last Wednesday and Thursday. More on that rain in a moment.
Farming in Henry County saw a fairly wet spring and summer, and then a severe drought which started about the end of July. Most farmers report good hay yields, a tobacco crop that went into the barn in good shape, and those that deal with soybeans and corn were satisfied with both yield and prices. Late hay and pasture was severely reduced, and some of the tobacco dried quickly and sported a brighter, higher color that the ‘company’ says is ‘undesirable’. Hopefully the market which begins this week will give us more to be thankful for. While farmers are feeding hay supplies much earlier, most report that with some management of the herd and the feeding process itself, they will likely go through the winter OK. What was worrying some more was the lack of water available for livestock in streams and ponds. While too late to make much difference in the forage growth department, the rains really helped solve the livestock water problem.
Back to the rain – just how much did we get in Henry County? Reporter observed from a low in Eminence of 2.31 inches to a high near Turners Station of 4.07. Another reporter in Eminence had 2.95, , one in Pleasureville had 3.00, one in New Castle had 3.72, and one in Campbellsburg had 3.80. These reporters make a daily observation in a program called the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow network. You can find these daily reports at http://www.cocorahs.org/ , click on ‘view data’ and select Station Summary Report for Henry County. You will be able to find nearly any period of days you select (i.e. for the data I used above, I selected November 23rd through November 28th. We still need an observer in the Pendleton, Smithfield, and Sulphur areas to create the most useful tool this cocorahs system can be.)
With the reports listed here, I can estimate that Henry County received an average of at least 3 inches of rain over the Thanksgiving holiday period. One inch of rain on one acre of ground is just over 27,000 gallons of water. Multiplying 186,000 acres of land in the county by 27,000 gallons per inch of rain, by 3 inches, we got a whopping 15 BILLION GALLONS of much needed water for Thanksgiving. We indeed have much to be thankful for!
12/2/10
FIREWOOD FACTS
Every winter, many Henry Countians utilize firewood for heating, sometimes for supplemental heat and sometimes for the primary heat source. When buying firewood two factors will determine just how hot your fire is—seasoning and the kind of wood.
Wood is made up of air and cellulose (wood fiber). The more air space that wood has, the less there is to burn. Buying wood with the heaviest/most dense per unit volume will keep you toasty.
Dense wood species include Osage orange, hickory, black locust, all of the oaks, sugar maple and ash. They produce hot fires; plus they are easy to split. Yellow poplar, silver maple and red maple provide much less heat per log but are good for kindling because they catch fire quickly. Avoid elm, sycamore and sweet gum because they are not as warm, and their fibers are so interlaced they will not split.
The second thing to look for when buying firewood is how much water is in the wood. Since wood comes from a living plant, it contains water. The more water in the wood, the less heat it generates when it burns. Ask the vendor if the wood is seasoned. Wood is 50 percent moisture and needs six months to a year to dry out enough to burn efficiently. Dry or seasoned wood has splits in the ends of the logs and a gray appearance.
Firewood is sold in a variety of measures. A cord measures 4 feet wide by 4 feet high by 8 feet long. A ‘face cord’ is a stack 4 feet high by 8 feet long, but is only as wide as the individual sticks of wood, usually cut 18 to 24 inches long.
For the warmest fires at the best price, do some comparative shopping before you buy.
11/24/10
Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative
Extension Service serve all people
regardless of race, color, age, sex, religion, disability, or national origin.
UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY, KENTUCKY
STATE UNIVERSITY, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
AND KENTUCKY COUNTIES COOPERATING
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