5 Ways to Get Better Crops
When you’re farming, whether animals or crops, it’s always important that you do so in a way that will allow you to harvest safe products. It not, you could end up putting a product out there that causes a salmonella outbreak, or any other type of diseased outbreak that puts fear in people and creates a negative stigma against your farm.
While most people only pay attention to those that happen at animal farms, crop farmers also need to ensure they do everything they can to harvest healthy and safe crops. If you are a crop farmer looking to make the best of your products, be sure to use the following five tips to get better crops.
- Start at the right time.
Not all crops are the same, which means that they will not grow at the same pace. Some plants need to be started early in order to get to full harvest before the weather turns cold. Make sure that you pay attention to the length of time needed for your crops. For instance, if you’re trying to grow something like potatoes that take more than 100 days, you’ll want to be sure you’re planning your planting accordingly.
- Use the right soil.
photo/ Agricultural Research Services
Your soil is important when planting crops, so make sure that you are using the right kind. For instance, be sure to have the right amount of nutrients and minerals in the soil that are needed for your crops to grow. Items like tomatoes thrive when combined with lime, so use these products together.
It’s also important to note that some crops don’t thrive well in the same place. For example, if you are planting tomatoes, you will want to move them to a different area the following year, as tomatoes have a harder time growing in old tomato soil.
- Use plant nutrients.
Plants require certain nutrients in order to thrive, and if you’re missing even one of the essential nutrients, it could inhibit the way that your plants grow. This is why it’s extremely important that you ensure your plants are getting the right amount of plant nutrients. By doing this, you will know that you are getting the best looking and healthiest plants and that your crops will thrive.
- Know the water schedule.
photo/ Agricultural Research Services
Everyone knows that plants needs water to grow, but not all of them require the same amount. Know how much water is the right amount for your crops, and then make a schedule that follows this routine. In addition, you should also account for rain as well as a drought. Overwatering and under watering can have a negative effect on your crops, so be sure you’re using the right amount.
- Position with the right sun.
Besides water, sunlight also plays a major role in your crops’ success. Make sure that you are fully aware of the amount of sunlight your crops need, and then be sure you are planting them in a place that offers this sun. Try to avoid areas that get shaded too quickly, as this could inhibit your crops from growing in that area. At the same time, if something needs minimal sun, make sure to pick a shaded area, as too much sun could end up ruining your crops.
Farming crops is a lot of hard work, and if you want your crops to thrive, you need to make sure you are planting them properly and using these tips. If so, you can count on a great harvest at the end of this year’s season.
Guest Author: Paul Smith
