Soil testing is a crucial aspect of grassland management, as it provides valuable insights into the health and fertility of your soil. A comprehensive understanding of your soil’s nutrient levels and pH allows you to make informed decisions about fertilizer applications and other management practices. This article will guide you through the process of soil […]
Soil Testing for Grassland Management Read More »
In an era where the global population is on the rise and arable land is dwindling, the importance of optimizing agricultural productivity cannot be overstated. To feed the ever-growing number of people and to do so sustainably requires going beyond traditional farming methods. This is where precision agriculture comes into play. At the intersection of
Maximizing Crop Yields: The Role of Precision Agriculture Read More »
Today, we’re diving deep into the crawler tractor, a mechanical titan that has sculpted the shape of modern farming. This isn’t just an agricultural accessory; it’s a transformative force. A crawler tractor is a farming machine with tracks instead of wheels. It’s designed to spread out its weight, reducing soil compaction and providing better grip
What Is A Crawler Tractor? the history and operation of an invaluable machine Read More »
Welcome back to GrowerExperts.com. Today, we’re delving deep into a subject close to every modern farmer’s heart: the history of agricultural machinery, specifically the legacy of Ransomes, Sims & Jefferies. This British company played a monumental role in shaping farming practices worldwide. Founding and Early Innovations: 1789–1832—The Humble Beginnings and Game-Changing Inventions The journey of
The In-Depth History of Ransomes, Sims & Jefferies: A Legacy in Agricultural Machinery Read More »
Temperature plays a critical role in the life cycle of a potato, especially during the sprouting stage. Understanding the temperature ranges at which potatoes sprout can significantly impact your growing success. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various stages of potato sprouting and how temperature influences each stage. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll be
What Temperature Do Potatoes Sprout At? Read More »
Soil erosion is more than a simple agricultural problem; it has wide-reaching implications for both the environment and the economy. Understanding its nuances is crucial for effective soil management and sustainable agriculture. What Is Soil Erosion? Soil erosion is the displacement of the nutrient-rich topmost layer of soil. This happens through various agents like water,
If you’re still scratching your head about the differences between sustainable and regenerative agriculture, this guide’s for you. They’re both eco-friendly options, but they function in distinct ways. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty details. Sustainable Agriculture What It Is Sustainability is about maintaining equilibrium. You’re keeping the existing soil, water quality, and ecosystems stable for
Comparing Sustainable Agriculture With Regenerative Agriculture Read More »
Welcome to a fascinating blend of travel and agriculture: agro-tourism. This isn’t just a trend; it’s a way to connect the dots between where our food comes from and the people who make it happen. While offering a financial lifeline to farmers, it also gives travellers a chance to step into their boots, even if
A Deep Dive into Agro-Tourism: Unearth the Richness of Farm Life Read More »
This guide focuses on the critical role of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in ensuring farmers’ safety. It covers what PPE is, its importance in agriculture, and the specific types of gear essential for various farming activities. The goal is to help farmers minimize risks and safeguard their well-being. What Is PPE? A Quick Overview PPE
The Comprehensive Guide to PPE for Farmers: Safety From Head to Toe Read More »
In the realm of agricultural machinery, few inventions have had as profound an impact as the three-point linkage system. It’s not merely an implement; it’s a transformative innovation that has profoundly influenced the efficiencies and possibilities available to small and large-scale farmers alike. The Genesis: A Tribute to Harry Ferguson The three-point linkage system is
The growing season is a cornerstone concept in agriculture, essentially dictating what can be planted and when. It varies dramatically across the globe due to factors like climate and latitude. Let’s explore this concept, incorporating the months during which these growing seasons typically occur. What Is a Growing Season? Simply put, the growing season is
How Long Is the Growing Season? A Global Perspective with Monthly Insights Read More »
When it comes to successful farming, the ground beneath our feet holds more power than one might think. Tilling the topsoil is common practice, but what lies beneath could be affecting your crops in ways you haven’t considered. That’s where subsoiling comes into play, a method of deep tillage that revolutionises soil structure, optimises nutrient
Delving Deep: An Essential Guide To Subsoiling Read More »
I consider soil as much a partner in the growing process as seeds and sunlight. If you’re serious about high yields, you can’t overlook soil structure. It’s the bedrock of successful farming. Let’s dissect it layer by layer. Why Is Soil Structure Important? Root Penetration In soil with superb structure, roots find it easier to
What is Soil Structure: An Introduction for New Farmers and Growers Read More »
The seed drill stands as one of the most pivotal advancements in the realm of agricultural technology. For individuals new to farming, understanding the significance, history, and operation of seed drills can provide a substantial advantage. This article aims to serve as an introductory guide for those interested in both U.K. and U.S. agricultural practices.
The Seed Drill: An Indispensable Tool for Modern Agriculture Read More »
Soil health is paramount for productive agriculture, sustainable landscaping, and balanced ecosystems. One of the most effective ways to enhance soil quality is by adding organic matter. But what exactly are the benefits of this practice? Let’s delve deep into the advantages of incorporating organic material into our soil. 1. Improved Soil Structure: Organic matter,
What Are The Benefits Of Adding Organic Matter To Soil? Read More »
Anybody involved with growing crops or vegetables will have often come across the term “free-draining soil,” but what does it really mean? Whether you’re a seasoned horticulturist or a novice grower, understanding the characteristics of the soil you’re working with can be the key to successful plant growth. In this article, we will delve into
The Secrets of Free Draining Soil: what every grower needs to know Read More »
Agriculture is intrinsically linked with the climate. The success of crops and the yields they produce depend largely on weather patterns, temperature, rainfall, and other climatic factors. But beyond the general climate of a region, there are smaller, localized climate variations known as microclimates. These can have a profound impact on agricultural practices, crop choices,
What Is A Microclimate? Read More »
Gardening blends science and nature, both of which hinge on impeccable timing. A frequently posed question is, “What month do you grow vegetables?” The answer depends on various elements: geography, local climate, and each vegetable’s peculiar needs. The Concept of Growing Seasons Before discussing the specifics, it’s essential to grasp hardiness zones, a system that
What Month Do You Grow Vegetables? Read More »
Break crops are an essential element in contemporary agriculture. They are crops that are grown as part of a rotation system, disrupting a continuous cycle of the same primary crop. Break crops have a long history and are crucial for enhancing soil health, controlling pests, and promoting sustainability. This article aims to provide a comprehensive
What Is A Break Crop and How Are They Used? Read More »
Introduction Rushes, those grass-like plants often found near water bodies, serve a dual role in the environment. They provide valuable habitat to wildlife and contribute positively to various ecosystems. However, on farmland, they may become a nuisance, reducing productivity and hindering agricultural processes. The challenge of managing rushes presents farmers with a complex task that
How Long Do Rushes Take To Decompose? Read More »
Slugs pose a significant challenge to agricultural vegetable crops worldwide, impacting both crop yield and quality. Their nocturnal habits and preference for humid, cool environments make them especially troublesome for farmers. This article explores various large-scale strategies for slug control and prevention, focusing on both organic and chemical methods. Understanding Slugs Slugs, land-living molluscs, are
How to Remove Slugs from Agricultural Vegetable Crops Read More »
Potatoes, a dietary staple in many parts of the world, have a rich history in European agriculture, with the continent serving as the primary site for the crop’s expansion following its introduction from the Americas. Cultivating potatoes in Europe is feasible, but farmers must take into account the specific climatic conditions of their regions, particularly
Can Potatoes Be Planted Outside In Europe After July? beating the frost dates Read More »
Fertilisers play a crucial role in modern agriculture, providing essential nutrients to crops for healthy growth and increased yields. One emerging innovation in the realm of fertilisers is the use of microgranular fertilisers. These tiny, granular formulations offer distinct advantages over traditional fertilisers, making them a promising addition to precision agriculture practices. In this article,
Microgranular Fertiliser: its use in agriculture Read More »
Digging potatoes is a rewarding task for any gardener. The thrill of unearthing those hidden treasures beneath the soil is a delight to both experienced and novice potato growers alike. One effective and traditional method of harvesting potatoes is using a garden fork. This article will guide you through the process of digging potatoes with
Digging Potatoes with a Garden Fork: A Step-by-Step Guide Read More »
Ethylene is a natural plant hormone that plays a significant role in the ripening and senescence (ageing) of fruits and vegetables. While it has positive effects on the ripening of some fruits, it can have adverse consequences when it comes to storing certain produce, including potatoes. Ethylene and Sprouting Ethylene acts as a signaling molecule
Etheylene Gas and Sprouting Potatoes Read More »
The intertwined but seldom heard stories of Bamfords, Kverneland, and JCB form a compelling narrative of innovation, growth, and cooperation in the agricultural and construction machinery industries. From humble beginnings to global recognition, each company has made a profound impact on their respective sectors, leaving a lasting legacy of technological advancement. This article takes you
The Story of Bamford Kverneland Ploughs and JCB Read More »
The Kverneland A8 plough represents a significant milestone in the history of agricultural machinery. Developed by Kverneland, a leading manufacturer known for their innovative plough designs, the A8 plough combines the reliability of a fixed beam construction with advanced features for enhanced ploughing performance. In this article, we delve into the rich history and notable
Kverneland Model A8 Conventional Plough: history and features Read More »
Properly disposing of potato tops, or foliage, at harvest is crucial for maintaining a healthy plot and minimising the risk of disease transmission. In this article, we’ll explore essential guidelines for disposing of potato tops. By following these methods you can effectively manage the tops and contribute to a thriving environment. Ways to remove the
How To Dispose Of Potato Tops At Harvest Read More »
In the world of vegetable growing, bedtillers play a crucial role in shaping the soil into raised beds, providing an optimal environment for crop growth. These specialized machines, which function as a combination of a rotavator and drill plough combined, are designed to match the wheel track settings of a tractor, ensuring precision and efficiency
How Does A Bedtiller Work? Read More »
Embarking on the journey of growing your own vegetables can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. If you’re planning to grow potatoes, understanding seed potatoes certification is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of seed potatoes, exploring their qualifications, the seed grading system used in the United Kingdom, and why
Understanding Seed Potatoes: classification, certification and quality Read More »
Heirloom potatoes, are traditional potato varieties that have been preserved and passed down through generations. They offer unique flavors, appearances, and a connection to the culinary heritage of different countries. Unlike modern commercial potato varieties, heirloom potatoes maintain their historical significance and provide a glimpse into the traditional cultivation practices of the past. In this
What Are Heirloom Potatoes: are heritage varieties similar? Read More »
The scorching summer months can pose a challenge for gardeners and farmers, especially when it comes to maintaining moisture in the soil. Adequate soil moisture is crucial for the successful growth of vegetables and crops. Dry and parched soil not only affects plant health but can also lead to reduced yields. In this article, we
How to Keep Soil Moist in Summer: Essential Tips for Vegetable and Crop Growers Read More »
If you ever wanted to plant a vegetable crop in a grass field you would think it would be simple – plough it, cultivate it, and sow the seed. But it’s not that simple, the way you prepare the land will affect the soil tilth and the weed and grass content of it. Two commonly
Should You Rotavate Grassland Before Ploughing? seedbed preparation for vegetable crops Read More »
When it comes to agriculture and animal husbandry, understanding the distinction between hay and straw is essential. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to distinct materials with different properties and uses. In this article, we will explore the characteristics, purposes, and differences between hay and straw. Definition and Composition Hay is a
What Is The Difference Between Hay And Straw? Read More »
Preparing the land for sowing seeds is a critical step in ensuring successful crop growth. By following a systematic approach, farmers can create an ideal seedbed that promotes seed germination, root development, and healthy plant growth. In this article, we will outline the key steps involved in land preparation for sowing seeds, from clearing organic
Mastering Seedbed Preparation: timeline of key steps for successful crop growth Read More »
Sometimes you may need to hook on a plough that you haven’t used before or is new to you. After attaching the plough to the tractor, the next stage is getting it set up to plough. There are many adjustments we can make: the angle of the plough to the ground, how deep it ploughs,
Plough Front Furrow Width: understanding compatibility issues with tractors Read More »
For farmers involved in hay and silage production, the timing of grass cutting plays a vital role in determining the quality and nutritional value of the final product. Understanding the appropriate stage at which to cut the grass is crucial for maximizing yield and preserving the forage’s nutritional content. This article aims to guide farmers
The Importance of Timely Grass Cutting for Hay and Silage Production Read More »
Swedes, a root vegetable related to turnips and rutabagas, play a significant role in stockfeed due to their high nutritional value. Incorporating swedes into the diet of livestock brings diverse benefits that contribute to overall health and productivity. In this article, we will explore the nutritional value of swedes for livestock and highlight the advantages
Swedes For Livestock: A Powerhouse Stockfeed for Livestock Health and Performance Read More »
Matching a tractor to the horsepower requirements for a round baler is crucial for optimal performance and efficiency. In this article, we will explore the McHale F550 round baler and delve into the horsepower requirements specific to this model. By understanding the significance of horsepower and its relationship to crop type and baler settings, you
Horsepower Requirements for a Round Baler: McHale F550 case study Read More »
When it comes to ploughing, the speed at which you operate your tractor plays a crucial role in achieving optimal results. Understanding the appropriate ploughing speed is essential for effective soil preparation. In this article, we will explore the factors that influence ploughing speed and provide guidelines to help you determine the best forward speed
Ploughing Speed: know the limits Read More »
Potatoes are a beloved staple food enjoyed in various forms worldwide. They can be mashed, fried, roasted, or turned into comforting soups and stews. But have you ever wondered if you can eat raw potatoes? In this article, we will explore whether raw potatoes are safe to consume and delve into the potential risks associated
Can You Eat Raw Potatoes: the hidden dangers Read More »
In the realm of modern agriculture, the quest for efficiency and productivity is an ongoing pursuit. Farmers and agricultural professionals are constantly seeking innovative solutions to streamline their operations and optimize their yields. One such solution that has revolutionized ploughing practices is the auto-reset plough. Auto-reset ploughs have become an indispensable tool for farmers, offering
What Is An Auto Reset Plough? Read More »
Arthur Clifford Howard, a visionary Australian engineer and inventor, revolutionized agriculture with his groundbreaking invention, the Howard Rotavator. Born on March 6, 1896 in Australia. Howard grew up on a farm and witnessed the challenges of traditional plowing methods. His innovative solution transformed soil cultivation, paving the way for enhanced productivity in the agricultural industry.
Howard Rotavators: Arthur Clifford Howards Revolutionary Agricultural Invention Read More »
Contour plowing is a farming technique that plays a vital role in safeguarding our soil and ensuring bountiful harvests. By understanding and implementing this simple yet effective method, farmers can significantly reduce soil erosion on sloping lands. This article aims to provide an in-depth exploration of contour plowing, explaining its benefits, the technique itself, and
What Is Contour Plowing: Protecting Our Soil and Harvests Read More »
Have you ever wondered how plants get the nutrients they need to grow? Nutrient cycling is the natural process that helps deliver essential elements, like nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon, to plants in a way that keeps our agricultural systems healthy. Let’s explore this process and understand how it works to support sustainable farming. Nutrient Cycling
What Is Nutrient Cycling: How Nutrients Move and Benefit Agriculture Read More »
Sustainable agriculture plays a crucial role in ensuring the long-term health of our planet and food systems. As we strive for more environmentally friendly and socially responsible farming practices, regenerative agriculture has emerged as a promising approach. In this article, we will explore the concept of regenerative agriculture, its core principles, and the benefits it
What Is Regenerative Agriculture? Read More »
Producing high-quality hay is essential for ensuring nutritious and palatable forage for livestock. To achieve this, several key factors and steps must be considered throughout the hay production process. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to make high-quality hay, covering factors that determine hay quality and the steps you should follow to optimize
How To Make High Quality Hay: 10 steps to success Read More »
The root zone of a plant is a critical area that greatly influences its growth and overall health. By comprehending what the root zone is and how it functions, gardeners and growers can optimize their cultivation practices to support robust plant development. In this article, we will explore the concept of the root zone, including
What Is A Plants Root Zone? Read More »
Understanding the impact of drought on our crops is becoming increasingly essential in an era of changing climate conditions. This article aims to shed light on the damaging effects of drought on different crops, notably vegetables and arable crops, offering an in-depth understanding for growers worldwide. Understanding Drought Drought is a prolonged period of abnormally
The Effects Of Drought On Crops: vegetables and arable crops Read More »
Cultivators are essential tools in agriculture and horticulture, designed to prepare and maintain soil for the planting and growth of crops. But what is a cultivator, and how does it function? Let’s delve into the world of cultivators, their types, and their use in farming. What Does a Cultivator Do to the Soil? Cultivators play
What Is A Cultivator? Read More »
A rotavator, a powerful tool in the world of agriculture and horticulture, offers a multitude of benefits for soil cultivation. Recognizing its impact requires diving into its history, mechanics, and flexible usage. The Evolution of Rotavators The roots of the rotavator reach back to the early 20th century, when Arthur Clifford Howard, an Australian engineer,
The Use Of Rotavators In Agriculture Read More »
Understanding the effectiveness and application of common weed killers, such as Roundup, is crucial for every horticulturist and farmer. This article explores the details of Roundup, its origins, and how it works on various weeds. Let’s delve into the history of this essential garden tool. History and Origins of Roundup Roundup, produced by Monsanto, now
How Long Does It Take for Roundup to Work? background and application Read More »
Welcome back to GrowerExperts, your go-to site for all things farming! Today, we’re focusing on a key piece of farming equipment: the power harrow. This tool is central to preparing the perfect seedbed for your crops. The Invention of the Power Harrow The power harrow was invented by Willy Becker in Germany in the late
What Does a Power Harrow Do? Read More »
Ploughing is a fundamental agricultural practice, and understanding the components of a plough is crucial for effective operation. Two such essential components are the disc coulters and skim coulters. This article aims to explain their functions, the importance of their correct settings, and their use in different ploughing scenarios. Disc Coulters: An Overview A disc
Setting Plough Skim Coulters and Disc Coulters Read More »
Welcome to another post here at GrowerExperts, where we offer comprehensive advice to help you maximize your yield. Today, we’re delving into an essential topic for all growers: the ideal soil moisture level for ploughing. Understanding this aspect can make a significant difference in your crop’s health and productivity. So, let’s dig in! Understanding Ploughing
Mastering the Moisture: The Right Time to Plough Your Soil Read More »
For growers who demand precision and reliability, the Bluelab pH Meter is a tool that often comes highly recommended. This professional-grade device is known for its high accuracy and durability. In this review, we’ll explore the features, pros, and cons of this top-tier tool. The Key Features of the Bluelab pH Meter The Bluelab pH
Bluelab pH Pen Review: the only soil pH meter to buy Read More »
If you’re keen on growing your own oats, you’re in the right place. Oats are not only a versatile grain but also a fantastic addition to your garden or field, enriching the soil and providing a great source of nutritious food. Ready to get sowing? Let’s dig in! Soil Preparation for Oats: Dealing with Grass,
How to Grow Oats: 3 Simple Sowing Methods Read More »
Germination is the process through which a seed turns into a new plant. For growers, understanding the factors that influence germination is crucial to ensure healthy plant growth. In this article, we’ll discuss the essential elements required for successful seed germination. The Seed: An Overview A seed is made up of three main parts: the
What Does a Seed Need to Germinate? Read More »
Buttercups (Ranunculus spp.) are bright yellow flowering plants that can quickly invade grasslands, reducing the quality and quantity of forage available for livestock. Removing buttercups is essential for promoting healthy grass growth and maintaining productive pastures. In this article, we’ll explore the best farming practices to control and eliminate buttercups from grassland. Identifying Buttercups in
Succession planting refers to the strategic planning and planting of crops in a way that maximizes the use of available space, prolongs the harvest season, and improves overall garden health. This article will provide an overview of succession planting, its benefits, its different types, and some practical examples. By the end of this article, you’ll
What is Succession Planting: Overview and Examples Read More »
Tillage practices play a significant role in agriculture, affecting soil health, crop yields, and overall farm productivity. With a growing interest in sustainable farming methods, strip tillage has gained popularity as an effective soil management technique. In this article, we’ll explore strip tillage, its benefits, and examples of crops suitable for this tillage method. What
What is Strip Tillage: Benefits and Examples Read More »
Hello, fellow potato growers! Today, we’re diving into the world of mechanized weeding and ridging. If you’ve got a larger area of potatoes, using a tractor and specialized equipment can make the weeding and ridging process more efficient and less labor-intensive. In this article, we’ll explore how to use a Massey Ferguson 35x tractor, a
Conventional ploughs have played an essential role in agriculture for thousands of years, enabling farmers to cultivate and prepare the land for sowing seeds. This vital piece of farming equipment has evolved over time, adapting to the needs of farmers and the demands of modern agriculture. In this article, we will explore the history of
Conventional Ploughs: History and Operation Read More »
Docks (Rumex spp.) are a common and persistent weed problem in grasslands, posing a threat to agricultural productivity and overall pasture quality. Knowing the right stage to spray docks is crucial in effectively controlling their growth and preventing them from taking over your grassland. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the optimal stage of
I’ve spent countless hours behind the wheel of a tractor, guiding it across fields and working the land. One of the most important aspects of farming is knowing how to properly match your tractor’s horsepower to the size of your plough. Choosing the right tractor and plough combination ensures efficient and effective work, while minimizing
The foundation of any thriving vegetable lies in the quality of its soil. Preparing and maintaining healthy soil is essential for the growth of robust, nutrient-rich plants. In this article, we will explore various techniques and tips to help you prepare your soil for a successful vegetable growing season. We’ll discuss soil testing, amending soil
How To Prepare Soil For Planting Vegetables Read More »
Rushes, often referred to as “nature’s warning sign,” can be a significant problem for grassland managers and landowners. These invasive plants thrive in wet, poorly drained soils, and their presence can reduce the productivity and quality of grasslands. Controlling rush infestations is essential for maintaining healthy grassland ecosystems, providing better forage for livestock, and promoting
Effective Strategies for Removing Rushes from Grassland Read More »
Neem oil is a naturally occurring pesticide derived from the seeds of the neem tree. This versatile oil has been utilized for centuries due to its various properties, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antifungal effects. The yellow to brown oil has a distinct bitter taste and a garlic/sulfur smell. Extracted primarily through cold-pressing the neem
What Is Neem Oil Made From? Unveiling the natural source and process Read More »
Anyone who has tried to grow a plant will know firsthand how important it is to educate yourself about the pests that can wreak havoc on our beloved plants. Today, let’s dive into the world of potato leafhoppers, tiny insects that can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Identifying potato leafhoppers Potato leafhoppers are small,
What Are Potato Leafhoppers? lifecycle, effects and control Read More »
Growing potatoes can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to stay vigilant and keep an eye out for the most common pests and diseases that can harm your crops. In this article, I’ll share with you the top 10 most common pests and diseases that affect potatoes, as well as some helpful tips on
Hello, fellow growers and gardening enthusiasts! Welcome back to another informative post on growerexperts.com. Today, we’re going to explore the fascinating world of seed potatoes and how their size can impact the overall yield of your potato crop. There are several factors that contribute to the final yield, and while it might seem logical that
The Surprising Impact of Seed Potato Size on Your Potato Yield Read More »
Companion planting is a gardening technique that involves planting different crops in close proximity to each other to create a mutually beneficial relationship. It is a natural and sustainable way to improve soil health, increase crop yields, and reduce pest problems. For example, planting marigolds alongside tomato plants can help repel harmful insects and improve
What Is Companion Planting? the smart way to grow vegetables Read More »
If you are an avid grower, you’ll know the importance of saving seed for the next planting season. One of the most popular vegetables to grow are potatoes. Potatoes are relatively easy to grow and can be stored for a long time in the correct conditions. However, to grow potatoes each year as efficiently as
How to Keep Seed Potatoes for Planting Next Year: tips for keeping home-grown seed Read More »
If you’re looking to start a vegetable garden, you might be wondering which plants grow the fastest from seed. Fast-growing vegetables are a great option for gardeners who don’t have a lot of time to wait for their crops to mature. Fortunately, there are many delicious and nutritious vegetables that grow quickly and easily from
Top 10 Fastest Growing Vegetables from Seed Read More »
Verticillium wilt is a soil-borne disease that affects a wide range of crops, including potatoes. The disease is caused by the fungus Verticillium dahliae, which invades the plant’s water-conducting system, leading to wilting, stunting, and reduced yield. The fungus can survive in the soil for up to 10 years, making it difficult to manage. Fortunately,
Managing Verticillium Wilt in Potatoes: effective strategies and prevention techniques Read More »
Organic potato farming is a sustainable and eco-friendly way to grow potatoes. However, it can be challenging to cope with pests and diseases without the use of synthetic chemicals. Organic potato farmers need to be proactive in preventing and managing pests and diseases to ensure a successful harvest. One of the most important steps in
How to Cope with Pests and Diseases in Organic Potatoes: Tips and Strategies Read More »
Organic gardening is becoming increasingly popular as people become more conscious of the food they consume. One of the most popular vegetables to grow organically are potatoes. Potatoes are relatively easy to grow, and they are a staple in many households. Growing organic potatoes is not only good for the environment, but also good for
How to Grow Organic Potatoes: A Beginner’s Guide to Cultivating Chemical-Free Spuds Read More »
Are you thinking about growing potatoes in your garden but not sure when to plant them? The timing of planting potatoes can have a significant impact on the yield and quality of your crop. Knowing when to plant potatoes is essential to ensure a successful harvest. The best time to plant potatoes depends on several
When Should I Plant Potatoes: a helpful guide from planting to harvest Read More »
Potatoes can be grown in containers, which is a great option for those with limited space or who want to grow them on a balcony, patio, or deck. Getting the potatoes to grow well is one challenge, but knowing when to harvest them is another if you haven’t grown potatoes before. Read on to find
When To Harvest Potatoes In Containers Read More »
Small potatoes are pretty annoying to prepare for a potato-based meal – unless you cook them as baby potatoes with their skins on. Large potatoes on the other hand are great, they can be used for many different potato dishes – it can be useful to know the average weight of a large potato though,
How Much Does A Large Potato Weigh? Read More »
Magnesium is an essential nutrient for plant growth and development, and potatoes require a sufficient amount of magnesium to grow optimally. The amount of magnesium required by a potato plant can vary depending on factors such as soil type, growing conditions, and potato variety. How much magnesium do potatoes need? The amount of magnesium you
How Much Magnesium Do Potato Plants Need To Grow Optimally? Read More »
Soil pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of the soil, and it plays an important role in agriculture. Soil pH is measured on a scale of 1 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Values below 7 indicate acidic soil, while values above 7 indicate alkaline soil. Most plants grow best in soil
What Is Soil pH In Agriculture Read More »
Adding fertiliser to potatoes is an important step in the process of growing a great crop. However, there are many questions about the best type of potato fertiliser to use and how much is required. This article looks at using chemical and organic fertilisers and how much you should add at different stages of the
How Much Fertiliser Should I Add To My Potato Plants? growing potatoes at home Read More »
When winter has passed and a new spring season is looming, it is now time to get ready to start planting your next crop. This applies to a raised bed, an allotment, or a field. Before you can plant the next crop into the soil you will need to prepare it to give the new
How To Prepare Soil For Planting Potatoes: 3 important sections Read More »
If you had to plant a large field of potatoes you would most likely not make your drills with a hand shovel and set each seed potato by hand. This is where the potato planting machine comes in handy, it will set each seed to the required depth and cover it with soil. Perfect for
Potato Planting Machine: how do they work? Read More »
If you have been growing plants for any length of time you will know how important it is to get your soil pH compatible with the plants you want to grow. When you adjust your soil pH so that it suits the plant, wonderful things can happen. There are many ways to check the pH
How To Test Soil pH With Strips: in 6 easy steps with pictures Read More »
Swedes are a very tasty winter vegetable, they are planted in late spring and harvested in Autumn. Harvesting the swedes is straightforward- the big question is how to store swedes? As winter ends it is important to harvest and store any swedes still in the ground, as they will soon begin to bolt and produce
How To Store Swedes: big tips for long storage Read More »
If you grew or were involved with farming potatoes in the 1970s or 1980s you would most certainly have come across Grimme single-row potato harvesters. Grimme is a German company from the city of Damme in the Lower Saxony region in North West Germany. It was established in 1861, initially as a blacksmiths forge, but
Grimme Single-Row Potato Harvesters: 1970s to 1980s an amazing overview with pictures Read More »
We’ve heard it all a thousand times before- preparation is the key to everything- and it is no different when it comes to preparing your garden for potatoes. Preparing your garden for potatoes The following applies if you are growing a crop of potatoes in your garden, allotment, or field. Land drainage and soil sampling
Preparing Your Garden For Potatoes: what to do and when for better results Read More »
It always seems a waste to throw food of any sort into the bin, especially vegetables if you have pets or animals around the home. One of the questions I am often asked is if it is okay to feed potato skins to your pets/animals. In this article, we look at whether we can feed
Can Chickens Eat Potato Skins? Read More »
The spin digger or spinner was the first mechanised attempt at removing potatoes from the soil in which they grew to make gathering the potatoes easier. Prior to the invention of the spin digger, someone had to manually dig the soil and potatoes with a spade or a fork and spread the crop on the
Harvesting Potatoes Using A Spin Digger: history and operation of an amazing invention Read More »
The thought of storing potatoes outside long term seems strange, but this is precisely how most people kept them for centuries in their fields and gardens. The mound they created was known as a “Potato Pit”. The funny thing about potato pits is that they are excellent at storing potatoes for a long time if
Storing Potatoes Outside: how to make an amazing potato pit Read More »
The Underhaug Superfaun UN1700 potato harvester was first produced by Underhaug (correctly referred to as Underhaugs Fabrikk from Naerbo in Norway) and given the model name UN1700. Underhaug was bought by Kverneland ( another Norwegian company) in 1986, the most noticeable change was the machine was finished with Kverneland red paint instead of Underhaug orange
Underhaug Superfaun UN1700 Potato Harvester: fascinating history and operation Read More »
If you are growing potatoes for the first time, you may be wondering if fertilising potatoes is a good idea. Like all living plants, potato plants need adequate nutrients to grow and produce large tubers. Namely, potatoes need nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, the three nutrients denoted in the NPK ratio on a bag of fertilizer.
Fertilising Potatoes: the key to big yields Read More »
Many people are surprised to learn that potato skins (aka peels) are packed with vitamins and nutrients and can also be a good source of fiber. Many regularly cook young, new potatoes peel-and-all and enjoy the health benefits the peel brings. Mature potatoes develop a tough skin that is typically removed before cooking — with
Can You Compost Potato Peels? Read More »
Potatoes are a common staple in the American diet and are often grown in the home garden. These starchy tubers are used for fries, mashed potatoes, and in casseroles, soups, and stews. It may surprise you to learn that even though potatoes are vegetables, the potato tubers aren’t really the fruit of a potato plant.
When Do Potatoes Flower? Read More »
Potatoes need adequate nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to grow. Each nutrient plays a role in plant growth and the quality of your potato tubers – in this article we will find out what role does phosphorous play in potato production? What is phosphorous fertilizer? Fertilizer contains the vital nutrients nitrogen (N), phosphorus(P), and potassium (K).
What Role Does Phosphorous Play In Potato Production? the easy explanation Read More »
Nitrogen is essential to plant growth as it helps to form the building blocks of proteins and other vital plant enzymes. It is also part of the chlorophyll molecule necessary for your potato plant to perform photosynthesis and produce energy for the plant. But what role does nitrogen play in potato production? – the excess
What Role Does Nitrogen Play In Potato Production? boosting your results Read More »
Fertilising your potatoes during the growing season keeps them healthy and promotes a good yield. Many chose to apply granular fertiliser to the soil before planting them and side-dress the potatoes two weeks after planting them and then once a month up until two weeks before harvesting. But you don’t need to use granular fertiliser,
Liquid Fertiliser For Potatoes: pros, cons, and how to choose Read More »
You may have read about growing potatoes in compost and wondered if it was really a good idea. Technically, potatoes can be grown in compost alone, but it isn’t always the best choice. Amending your soil with compost or making a potting mix with compost and soilless mix for containers may be a better choice.
Can I Grow Potatoes In Straight Compost: + how to increase its P and K Read More »
