Managing soil fertility is challenging because it requires considerable focus — you must consistently pay attention to the source, timing, rate and placement of nutrient applications. This publication discusses the many types of fertilizers and soil amendments (material or techniques that improves a soil’s physical properties) available for organic plant production. From soil fundamentals (pH,… Continue reading Soil Fertility in Organic Systems: A Guide for Gardeners and Small Acreage Farmers
Type: Manuals/Guides
Pasture and Grazing Management in the Pacific Northwest
A book that provides knowledge of ecological processes involved in pasture growth and utilization and an understanding of how management influence those processes for good or bad.
Crop Rotation on Organic Farms
A complete, step-by-step crop rotation planning guide for organic farmers. 154 pages.
Cover Cropping for Pollinators and Beneficial Insects
This 16-page bulletin will help you use cover crops to encourage populations of pollinators and beneficial insects on your farm while you address your other resource concerns. It begins with a broad overview of pollinator and beneficial insect ecology, then describes cover crop selection and management, how to make cover crops work on your farm,… Continue reading Cover Cropping for Pollinators and Beneficial Insects
Do You Need to Be Certified? Assess Your Supply Chain Matrix
Use this matrix to assess whether your operation needs to be certified, particularly pertaining to the new Strengthening of Organic Enforcement rule.
Organic Potato Production in Idaho: Nutrient Management and Variety Selection
Topics in this publication include selecting varieties that may be suited for organic production; adapting fertilizer recommendations intended for conventionally grown potatoes; selecting organic nutrient sources; and using green manures, cover crops and rotation crops to meet nutrient requirements.
Selecting Winter Wheat Cultivars for Organic Production
A guide to selecting winter wheat cultivars for organic production, including selection criteria, cultivar recommendations, and how to supplement with organic and conventional online data.
Organic Alfalfa Management Guide
Looking to switch to organic alfalfa production? This management guide details the considerations and procedures for doing so.
Calculating Dry Matter Intake from Pasture for Ruminants
This resource is designed to help you calculate how much dry matter your animals get from pasture and demonstrate that you have a plan to comply with the National Organic Program requirements for pasture for organic ruminant livestock.
Organic Alternatives for Late Blight Control in Potatoes
New strains of late blight have emerged in recent years, making potato production especially challenging. Several nonchemical options are available for managing this disease, including cultural practices, some varietal resistance, and alternative sprays that discourage disease development.