MSU Extension Beginning Farmer

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  Four Michigan producers awarded NCR-SARE 2023 Farmer Rancher Grants

  Published on May 31, 2023
  More than $65,000 was awarded to Michigan producers in 2023 through a competitive grant focused on exploring sustainable solutions in agriculture through on-farm research and education.

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  Southwest Michigan fruit update – May 30, 2023

  Published on May 30, 2023
  Tree fruit thinning is continuing. Fruit set is looking good for all fruit crops in the region.

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  Southwest Michigan fruit update – May 23, 2023

  Published on May 23, 2023
  Plum curculio damage is being seen. Oriental fruit moth and codling moth flight is underway. Grape berry moth biofix is expected soon.

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  Southwest Michigan fruit update – May 16, 2023

  Published on May 16, 2023
  Strawberry bloom is underway across the region. Apple bloom is finishing. Most stone fruit is out of the shuck.

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  Southwest Michigan grape meetings in May

  Published on May 11, 2023
  MSU Extension is hosting a spring grape IPM meeting on May 22 and partnering with the Michigan Grape Society for this summer’s first Twilight Grower Social on May 17.

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  Southwest Michigan fruit update – May 9, 2023

  Published on May 9, 2023
  Stone fruit are largely finished with bloom. Apple and blueberry bloom is now underway.

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  Southwest Michigan fruit update – May 2, 2023

  Published on May 2, 2023
  A series of mornings below freezing this past week has caused sporadic damage to some crops, but prospects are still good in most locations.

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  Southwest Michigan fruit update – April 25, 2023

  Published on May 2, 2023
  Growers have been watching the cool morning temperatures closely, but no significant damage has been reported so far.

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  Making It In Michigan Conference and Trade Show returned to in-person format for 2023

  Published on April 21, 2023
  MSU Product Center hosted the 14th annual conference on April 20, 2023, at the Lansing Center.

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  Southwest Michigan fruit update – April 18, 2023

  Published on April 18, 2023
  Last week’s hot weather pushed all fruit crops along quickly. Next week will be closer to normal but cool weather may be a challenge for pollinating blooming crops.

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  What should I do if I find a swarm of bees?

  Published on April 18, 2023
  Contact a local beekeeper if you find a swarm of honey bees.

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  Southwest Michigan fruit update – April 11, 2023

  Published on April 11, 2023
  And we’re off! The first crop blooms of the year have been seen. Apricots have started blooming. Other stone fruit are not far behind, especially with the warm weather forecast this week.

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  New bulletin on renting farmland available from MSU Extension

  Published on April 6, 2023
  Bulletin E-3427 offers guidance on navigating the land renting process.

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  Southwest Michigan fruit update – April 4, 2023

  Published on April 4, 2023
  This week will be warm with some extreme storm potential on Wednesday. Quick phenology advancement is expected. Be prepared for any disease management sprays if the crop phenology indicates the need.

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  Soil testing returns through MSU Extension!

  Published on April 4, 2023
  MSU Extension launches new soil testing program for home gardeners and commercial growers.

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  Southwest Michigan fruit update – March 28, 2023

  Published on March 28, 2023
  This is the first fruit scouting report of the season.

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  How insects survive cold: The potential effect of a mild winter

  Published on March 14, 2023
  Large insect populations are possible this year, but many factors determine overwintering survival and success.

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  The Anatomy of a Soil Test Report

  Published on March 9, 2023
  A summary of how to understand a soil test report to help you best understand and analyze the results to make effective farm management and soil fertility decisions.

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  Mentors matter for new farmers

  Published on February 28, 2023
  Michigan Sustainable Farm Mentors program connects 42 beginning and aspiring farmers with experienced farmers.

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  Sustainable agriculture grants for training farm educators and graduate student research

  Published on February 28, 2023
  Apply by April for projects supporting people, resource protection, and long-term farm profitability.