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Soil Health Assessment Tool Now Available for Michigan Farmers

Soil Health Assessment Tool Now Available for Michigan Farmers

By Paul Gross

Michigan Soil Health Progress Report developed by Michigan State University Extension educators is now available for farmers, agribusinesses, agency personal and crop advisors to assist in assessing and tracking soil health on their farms. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA NRCS), soil health is defined as “the continued capacity of soil to function as a vital living ecosystem that sustains plants, animals and humans.” Heathy soils are productive and the foundation of any farm. For farmers wishing to improve soil health on their farms, it is important to take measurements and establish baselines. This can be done using a combination of laboratory analysis and visual observations to build their knowledge base.

The Michigan Soil Health Progress Report will assist farmers and their advisors asses the health of the soil using biological and physical indicators. The indicators include soil structure, biological activity, erosion, soil test organic matter, soil compaction, plant health, residue, infiltration and water holding capacity. The tool includes instructions and an in-field recording sheet. Farmers are encouraged to us the in-field recording sheet each year. Using the progress report and recording values annually can serve as a guide to evaluate soil health changes over time.

Getting into fields with a spade and getting familiar with the soil profile and doing the visual assessments is a good way for farmers to evaluate management. This might include tillage systems, nutrient management, cover crops, detecting problem spots or reinforcing current practices. 

Using the Michigan Soil Health Progress Report is just one tool to help track soil health over time. This simple in-field tool and recording observations, along with laboratory analysis, can assist farmers improve knowledge of their soils and how the management decisions impact soil health and function on a specific field over time.

Source : msu.edu

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Spider Mite Control with Predatory Mites (Neoseiulus californicus)

Video: Spider Mite Control with Predatory Mites (Neoseiulus californicus)

The predatory mite Neoseiulus californicus is an effective natural enemy of various species of spider mites, including the two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae). As a key player in biological pest control, this predator helps growers protect their crops sustainably.

How does Neoseiulus californicus work?

•Specializes in targeting the larval and nymphal stages of spider mites.

•Also consumes spider mite eggs, ensuring population control.

•Detects prey through webbing and leaf damage rather than sight.

•Feeds by sucking out the contents of its prey.

Why use Neoseiulus californicus for spider mite control?

•Highly adaptable to different environments, including warm and dry conditions.

•Works as both a preventive and curative solution for spider mite infestations.

•Complements other predatory mites, such as Phytoseiulus persimilis, for integrated pest management (IPM).

•A natural, sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides.