Podcasts about growers

In the race to decarbonize agriculture, the spotlight often falls on carbon sequestration, genetics, and alternative proteins. But have we overlooked something that's right in front of us? Electricity.Mike Casey is a self-described “tech bro turned farmer” from Cromwell, New Zealand. Mike runs what's believed to be the world's first fully electric farm, made up of 21 electric machines, from irrigation systems and frost-fighting fans, to electric tractors and forklifts. His business is aptly named Electric Cherries, where power is generated from renewable sources on-farm. Mike says this has enabled him to save tens of thousands on energy costs every year, while also developing a business model for farming that's both profitable and low-carbon.Sarah and Mike discuss:How an old diesel pump kicked off Mike's electrification crusadeThe economics of going electric on a farm (and is it only possible in New Zealand or on a cherry farm?)What electric machinery changes (and doesn't) about running a farm business Why farmers stand to benefit from the shift away from centralized, fossil fuel power generation to decentralized renewable energyMike is also the CEO of Rewiring Aotearoa, a movement helping Kiwis switch from fossil fuels to renewable energy. His mission is simple: make electric technology an economic no-brainer for every farmer and household.Useful Links:On-Farm Electrification isn't an equipment change, it's a systems change, Agtech So… What?Electric Cherries,  Evoke Ag presentation by Mike CaseyElectric Farms Report, Rewiring AotearoaThe future of (decentralized) fertilizer, with Jupiter Ionics (Tenacious portfolio company)For more information and resources, visit our website. The information in this post is not investment advice or a recommendation to invest. It is general information only and does not take into account your investment objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making an investment decision you should seek financial advice from a professional financial adviser. Whilst we believe the information is correct, we provide no warranty of accuracy, reliability or completeness.

As food insecurity grows, Iowa's gardeners are stepping up to help feed those in need — plus, how an improv nonprofit is empowering Iowa's youth to grow confident on and off stage.

Voltiris has developed spectroscopy-based solar panels that filter light for greenhouse crops while generating renewable energy. Unlike traditional opaque panels that cause 60-80% yield reduction in high-tech greenhouses, Voltiris's technology harvests only the light wavelengths unused by photosynthesis. In this episode, we sat down with Nicolas Weber, Co-Founder and CEO of Voltiris, to explore how a former BCG consultant and a PhD spectroscopist are navigating multi-season validation cycles with family-owned greenhouse operations across Northern Europe. Topics Discussed: Why spectroscopy expertise unlocked a solution to greenhouse energy challenges The technical reality: traditional solar creates 60-80% yield loss in high-tech greenhouses Earning credibility with second and third-generation greenhouse operators Time as constrained resource: multi-season validation in agriculture markets System-level thinking required to manage complex greenhouse operations Offline GTM in conservative B2B agriculture: fairs, referrals, and crop advisors Platform strategy: expanding from solar to complete greenhouse energy management GTM Lessons For B2B Founders: Time constraints differ fundamentally in hardware: Voltiris faces season-dependent validation cycles where "you can throw as much cash as you want on a tomato, it's going to take one year to demonstrate that it works." Most growers demand 2-3 full growing seasons before adoption. Hardware founders must structure runway, investor expectations, and partnership terms around immovable biological or physical timelines—not software-style iteration speeds. Product-market fit exists before product in infrastructure plays: Voltiris confirmed demand preemptively. Nicolas explains: "If the technological promise holds, there is demand...the growers, they already told us from the beginning we're waiting for solution like this to come." When selling infrastructure that solves existential problems (energy transition, electrification mandates), validate market pull before achieving technical proof. This inverts typical startup sequencing but derisks decades of R&D investment. Treat early customers as co-creation partners, not transactions: Voltiris positions initial deployments as "joint creation" rather than sales. Nicolas's pitch: "This is the future vision. Are you ready to build it with us and do you want to jump into that shit with us?" In markets with 25-30 year product lifecycles and 3-year company track records, transactional selling fails. Structure partnerships with shared risk, transparent data access, and collaborative problem-solving. Master domain expertise at operator level, not executive level: Voltiris's technical co-founders became greenhouse operations experts, not just energy technology experts. Nicolas credits this: "My two co founders are now among the best experts you have in terms of how to run a greenhouse." In complex B2B environments (agriculture, manufacturing, logistics), founders must understand day-to-day operations—not just C-suite pain points—to build credible solutions. Use direct feedback environments to compress learning cycles: Dutch growers provided unfiltered assessment within minutes. Nicolas values this: "If what you're building is not good, you would know directly within five, 10 minutes...they would say, not worth my time, please, the door is here." Seek brutally honest customer segments that accelerate validation, even if acquisition is harder. Fast negative feedback prevents wasted development cycles on wrong assumptions. //   Sponsors:  Front Lines — We help B2B tech companies launch, manage, and grow podcasts that drive demand, awareness, and thought leadership. www.FrontLines.io The Global Talent Co. — We help tech startups find, vet, hire, pay, and retain amazing marketing talent that costs 50-70% less than the US & Europe. www.GlobalTalent.co // Don't Miss: New Podcast Series — How I Hire Senior GTM leaders share the tactical hiring frameworks they use to build winning revenue teams. Hosted by Andy Mowat, who scaled 4 unicorns from $10M to $100M+ ARR and launched Whispered to help executives find their next role.  Subscribe here: https://open.spotify.com/show/53yCHlPfLSMFimtv0riPyM  

Welcome to a special edition of Beats Vines & Life: New Jersey Wine Edition, brought to you by the Garden State Wine Growers Association! On this episode, host MJ Towler gathers wine experts and local trailblazers Hank Zona and Dustin Tarpine for a lively conversation about New Jersey's vibrant wine scene.Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or just wine-curious, get ready to discover the fascinating history, dynamic terroirs, and emerging trends shaping the Garden State's wine industry. From hands-on vineyard stories—like starting Cedar Rose Vineyards with literally a chainsaw and a dream—to inside looks at the upcoming New Jersey Wine Expo, the episode explores how local wineries are redefining East Coast wine culture and building genuine connections with their communities.Tune in to hear about unique grape varietals, the spirit of New Jersey winemaking, how food and wine experiences are leveling up across the state, and why NJ might be your next wine destination. You'll also get tips on pairing local wines, stories about life in the vineyards, and reflections on what it takes to build a growing wine region in an unlikely place.Grab a glass, settle in, and join the journey—because in Jersey, it's all about celebrating mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and all you wine drinkers!For more information about the NJ Wine Expo click the link!For more information about New Jersey Wine Month click the link!Follow New Jersey Wine on IG!Follow Cedar Rose Winery on IG!Follow Hank on IG!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to.For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at blackwineguy.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeFollow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week host @Jackgreenstalk (aka @Jack_Greenstalk on X/instagram backup account) [or contact via email: JackGreenstalk47@gmail.com] is joined by panel with @spartangrown on instagram or X f.k.a. Twitter at https://x.com/grown43626 or email spartangrown@gmail.com for contacting spartan outside social media, any alternate profiles on other social medias using spartan's name, and photos are not actually spartan grown be aware, and @TheAmericanOne on youtube aka @theamericanone_with_achenes on instagram who's amy aces can be found at amyaces.com , and Rust Brandon of @fulcropsciences / fulcrop.ceo who's products can be found at bokashiearthworks.com and This week we missed @NoahtheeGrowa on instagram , Rust Brandon of @fulcrop.sciences / fulcrop.ceo who's products can be found at bokashiearthworks.com, Matthew Gates aka @SynchAngel on instagram and twitter @Zenthanol on youtube who offers IPM direct chat for $1 a month on patreon.com/zenthanol , @drmjcoco from cocoforcannabis.com as well as youtube where he tests and reviews grow lights and has grow tutorials and @drmjcoco on instagram, and and @ATG Acres Aaron The Grower aka @atgacres his products can be found at atgacres.com and now has product commercially available in select locations in OK, view his instagram to find out details about drops!

My Patreon!! :) https://www.patreon.com/ShaneDawson (as alway, no pressure!!) BABBEL!! Start speaking a new language in 3 weeks with Babbel

In this episode, we dive into the unconventional training methods that growers are swearing by — and put them to the test. From wild workflows to surprising tweaks that can transform a setup overnight, we explore what's backed by real results and what's just hype. Tune in as we break down practical takeaways you can actually apply to your own grow and separate the myths from the methods that truly work.Support the show

Growers participating in the combine workshops and follow-up in-field visits last season saved about $115 a hectare, says organiser, FAR technology manager Chris Smith. In this episode of Cut the Crop, he says it is worth attending the latest round of workshops in early December even if growers have been before.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It takes a village run by Matriarchs , Vicky and Mausi who I interview here, to create a well integrated , Permaculture Coffee farm with 4 bio digestors fueling kitchens and fertilizing the farm, 2 micro-hydro generators powering their refrigeration, solar thermal hot water for all showers and sinks, micro-dairy heritage breeds for making their own European cheeses, grass fed beef, worm compost, pigs for their own sausages. This 700 employee , 7 generations family farm, on 900 hectares in the mountains of Nicaragua with it's own bio preserve for the peak and upper slopes a large lake with an Eco resort adjacent and 600 acres of Coffee with avocado, macadamia, citrus and cocoa, with it's own clinic, school and internationally known Eco resort and restaurant with homemade chocolate desserts to die for! All made from on site cocoa and vanilla. Sign up today to reserve your space in our Permaculture class in this amazing setting and culinary experience.- Register here-https://www.permaculturenewyork.com/

In this episode, Defra is considering 57 recommendations after Minette Batters submits her long-awaited Farm Profitability Review.We take a look at some of main themes – including better collaboration between farmers and a closer relationship between industry and government.A cross-party group of MPs say urgent action is needed to improve agricultural productivity and avert the loss of UK farmland.And a major food processor explains why it is working to reward growers for adopting more sustainable farming methods.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom.Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntaskerContact or follow Louise (X): @louisearableContact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarmFor Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweeklyTo contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk.In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

Spotted lanternfly (SLF) is more than a nuisance, it poses a serious risk to vineyards. Brian Walsh, Extension Educator and Spotted Lanternfly Researcher with Penn State Extension, explains how this invasive insect threatens grapes across the eastern U.S. From unusual egg-laying behavior to honeydew-covered canopies that attract stinging insects, Walsh explores why vineyards are especially at risk and how growers can prepare during peak pressure in September. Learn about insecticide options, biocontrol efforts, and scouting strategies—whether SLF is in your area or not.  Resources:   96: Spotted Lanternfly - Threat to California 175: How to Prepare for Invasive Pests in Your Vineyard An Introduction to the Invasive Spotted Lanternfly:Webinar on April 21, 2023   Brian Walsh Research Update of Spotted Lanternfly in Grape: Webinar on March 9, 2022 Spotted Lantern Fly  Spotted Lanternfly Management in Vineyards Spotted Lanternfly Management for Landscape Professionals  Vineyard Team Programs:  Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship - Donate Online Courses – DPR & CCA Hours SIP Certified – Show your care for the people and planet   Sustainable Ag Expo – The premiere winegrowing event of the year – Discount Code PODCAST25 Vineyard Team – Become a Member  

Onida, South Dakota grower, Ryan Olson says the last three weeks the weather has been pretty good. National Sunflower AssociationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest "Your Farm" Podcast: Scott Monroe, Food Safety Educator with Purdue Extension, talks about the "Safe Produce Indiana" training program. You'll hear how they're educating Indiana's fruit and vegetable growers about on-farm food safety to reduce contamination risk and ensure their produce remains safe for all of us. The "Your Farm" Podcast is one of many new podcasts available as Hoosier Ag Today Presents YOUR Purdue Extension—a Podcast Network.

Today's episode is a special one. We're talking with the very knowledgeable and very lovable Farmer Jesse Frost from No-Till Growers and his The Growers Daily Podcast . Some of you may know that The Composter actually started as part of the No-Till Growers family, and I was originally hired by them to host the show. Jesse's going to talk us through how the Composter Podcast came to be, how it's grown, and what he's up to now. And of course, we'll dig into how he's using compost on his farm these days. If you haven't already, definitely check out The Growers Daily Podcast, hosted by Jesse—I love catching it on YouTube for great growing tips.Support Jesse's work (

Ever wish choosing a cover crop was a little easier? Well, farmers across the West now have some help.

We get together with Nella Mae Parks and Maud Powell this week to discuss the challenges of farming in arid environments, and a new network they are forming for growers in those climates! Nella Mae and Maud are from dry parts of Oregon, and they are starting the Western Arid Growers Network (WAGN) to facilitate farmer-to-farmer learning for arid growers. A lot of people think “rainy” when they hear “Oregon.” But Nella Mae and Maud share stories from their own farms to illustrate the peculiarities of farming in their climate, which has low rainfall and wide temperature swings from hot days to cold nights.They also tell us about a Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) grant they are working together on, highlighting the role of the SARE program in supporting sustainable agriculture and the launch of the WAGN. Their SARE project will use on-farm research with moisture monitors to help growers in arid climates evaluate how much water they actually need to use for optimum crop growth. This is particularly important in arid environments where water is limited- if less water could be used without compromising growth, that would make the water that is available go further. Stay tuned for the results of this research project. Connect With Guest:Website: aridgrowers.orgInstagram: @aridgrowernetwork Podcast Sponsors: Huge thanks to our podcast sponsors as they make this podcast FREE to everyone with their generous support: This episode is brought to you by Tend, the all-in-one, AI-powered farm management platform trusted by modern growers. Tend helps you cut through the busywork, so you can focus on growing and selling what matters. With Tend, you can plan your crops, assign and track tasks, manage inventory, and handle your sales and accounting, all in one smart, easy-to-use platform. Whether you run a 1-acre farm or manage a large operation, Tend adapts to your scale and style, supporting everything from manual labor to fully mechanized workflows. Try it for free at Tend.com, no credit card required. Nifty Hoops builds complete gothic high tunnels that are easy to install and built to last.  Their bolt-together construction makes setup straightforward and efficient, whether it's a small backyard hoophouse, or a dozen large production-scale high tunnels- especially through their community build option, where professional builders work alongside your crew, family, or neighbors to build each structure -- usually in a single day. Visit niftyhoops.com to learn more. Farmhand is the virtual assistant built for farmers—helping CSAs scale sales, run error-free fulfillment, and deliver 5-star service. Whether you're at 100 members or 1,000, Farmhand helps you grow without burning out. You've heard us—and our farmers—right here on the Growing for Market Podcast. Explore more stories and learn more at farmhand.partners/gfm. There are a lot of farm sales platforms out there, but there's only one that's cooperatively owned by farmers. That's GrownBy — your all-in-one solution to simplify farm sales. GrownBy makes online farm sales easy and affordable; setting up your shop is free, and you only pay when you sell. Join over 900 farms who have already signed up for GrownBy, at grownby.com. If you have never attended an ASCFG Conference, there is no better time to invest in yourself! The Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers is welcoming Growing for Market readers to register at the ASCFG member rate for the 2026 Conference in Albuquerque on January 13-14. Register at ascfg.org. BCS two-wheel tractors are designed and built in Italy where small-scale farming has been a way of life for generations. Discover the beauty of @bcs_america on your farm with PTO-driven implements for soil-working, shredding cover crops, spreading compost and more – visit bcsamerica.com to find sale pricing and your nearest dealer. Subscribe To Our Magazine -all new subscriptions include a FREE 28-Day Trial

AgEmerge Podcast 173 (Part I of Exploring the Haney Soil Test) laid the foundation for understanding how to read your soil test results. Now, AgEmerge Podcast 174 continues the conversation with Part II, featuring Liz Haney and Monte Bottens as they dive deeper into what those results actually mean. Together, they explore the “what”—what soil testing reveals about soil health and how it informs fertility recommendations and management decisions. Dr. Liz Haney explains how the Haney Soil Test measures microbial activity and soil respiration, providing valuable insights into soil function and vitality. This episode also covers key topics like interpreting soil health metrics, managing compaction, and the benefits of diverse crop rotations. Growers will gain practical takeaways on consistent sampling, understanding soil types and management zones, and the importance of working with trusted advisors to make informed decisions on the farm. Are you a visual learner or would you like some additional materials to help this all make sense? Join our mailing list by clicking below and we'll send the Exploring the Haney Test PDF Guide straight to you. Join the AgEmerge Mailing List: https://ag-solutions-network.kit.com/b47ceb598a Chapters: 00:00 Exploring Soil Fertility Testing Methods 01:03 The Importance of Soil Health Metrics 09:48 Diversity in Crop Rotation and Soil Health 19:34 Understanding Soil Health Calculations 26:43 Fertility Recommendations and Their Context 40:49 Understanding Soil Health and Protozoa 46:13 Innovative Sampling Techniques for Soil Analysis 53:24 The Role of Soil Organic Matter in Soil Health 59:18 Impact of Cover Crops on Soil Nutrient Dynamics 01:04:32 Soil Survey Methodologies and Their Implications 01:11:04 Building Soil Health for Future Generations Takeaways: - Soil health is crucial for sustainable farming practices. - The Haney test provides insights into soil microbial activity. - Soil respiration is a key indicator of soil health. - Microbial active carbon (MAC) is essential for understanding soil biology. - Soil compaction can significantly affect microbial activity. - Phosphorus levels can impact soil health metrics. - Diverse crop rotations can improve soil health. - Soil testing should be done at consistent times for accurate comparisons. - Understanding soil types and management zones is vital for effective farming. - Farmers should seek trusted advisors for soil management decisions. Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ Gaining a deeper understanding of the Haney Soil Test can transform your approach to agriculture by offering critical insights into nutrient availability and microbial activity. Whether you're a veteran grower or just beginning your regenerative agriculture journey, this series delivers practical knowledge to elevate your soil management and increase productivity. Liz is a soil and ecosystem scientist with experience in soil testing and analyses, carbon and conservation practice modeling, and is the co-developer of the Haney Soil Health Test. Liz's purpose, drive and passion are helping to improve producer profitability, environmental sustainability, and human health through regenerative practices and soil health. Throughout her career she has developed an expansive network of scientists, thought leaders, consultants, farmers and ranchers within the sustainable agriculture space. Liz loves nothing more than creating community and is skilled at coordinating and conducting educational events, workshops and conferences bringing together today's leading innovators in regenerative agriculture. Liz is also a co-founder of ​Regen Mills​ and Heritage Ground.

This week host @Jackgreenstalk (aka @Jack_Greenstalk on X/instagram backup account) [or contact via email: JackGreenstalk47@gmail.com] is joined by panel with @spartangrown on instagram or X f.k.a. Twitter at https://x.com/grown43626 or email spartangrown@gmail.com for contacting spartan outside social media, any alternate profiles on other social medias using spartan's name, and photos are not actually spartan grown be aware, and @TheAmericanOne on youtube aka @theamericanone_with_achenes on instagram who's amy aces can be found at amyaces.com , and Rust Brandon of @fulcropsciences / fulcrop.ceo who's products can be found at bokashiearthworks.com and This week we missed @NoahtheeGrowa on instagram , Matthew Gates aka @SynchAngel on instagram and twitter @Zenthanol on youtube who offers IPM direct chat for $1 a month on patreon.com/zenthanol , @drmjcoco from cocoforcannabis.com as well as youtube where he tests and reviews grow lights and has grow tutorials and @drmjcoco on instagram, and and @ATG Acres Aaron The Grower aka @atgacres his products can be found at atgacres.com and now has product commercially available in select locations in OK, view his instagram to find out details about drops!

Join Sarah, Zack, and Andy for regional crop updates from across the state. Justin joins in to chat about this week's “Timely Topic” which focuses on moving into cooler weather. The group discusses considerations for several crops, including strawberry, peach, and brassicas. To cover or not to cover? That is the question for strawberry growers this time of year. Tune in to hear some pros and cons on the subject. Andy shares information about delaying bloom on peaches and the optimal timing for pruning. Everyone joins in to chat a little about brassicas and how to reduce stress on yourself and the crop. Zack and Sarah tie for Justin's trivia game, and the prize for everyone is not 1 but 3 “Dad Jokes” from Zack… We obliged, but only because they were Halloween-themed.

Wisconsin soybean growers are closely monitoring what's happening specifically with US/China agriculture discussions. Friday the WI Soybean Association issued a statement expressing optimism about the progress, but also anxiety about market already lost. Bob Bosold talks with WI Soybean past president, Sarah Stelter, about her strategies facing these market issues. She stresses how important it is to stay involved in the process. She also explains different alternative uses soybeans are investigating including railroad fuel and firefightin soy-foam. Warmer weather on the way for the front part of this week. Stu Muck explains what he sees developing for the week across the state. 33 days that the federal government's been shut down. Farmers are just like other citizens - nervous. Ben Jarboe speaks with Stephanie Plaster, UW-Extension Business Outreach Specialist, about how farms approach affordable health care. She says if it's just a husband/wife team, they usually don't plan on seeing a doctor. However, Plaster says when you introduce kids - that all changes. The US Meat Export Federation is pleased to see some weekend development with China that could open more doors for US pork. Two bills have been signed into law by Gov. Tony Evers designed to shore up rural responders and the services they provide. Pam Jahnke talks to WI Senator, Howard Marklein, about the listening sessions he conducted to find out about the unique challenges faced by EMS groups serving rural Wisconsin. Marklein says disparities on reimbursement for services provided, as well as reimbursing educational expenses that future emergency responders faced, are part of what the bills should address. He says he hopes it helps inspire people in rural communities to think about serving.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Francis is a Farmer in ‘Gobothery’, southwest of Forbes. Alongside his brother and their families, Chris has been taking on grain farming, fodder growing, and short-horn cattle, following 3 generations of family history. In this episode, Chris discusses the landscape his extensive operation sits on and some key motivations for their dedication. He explains the farm’s livestock decisions, irrigation choices, fodder production, and his stance on the rise of corporate input in the farming industry. Nominate a Mate: If you'd like to nominate a mate (or yourself) as a potential future guest on the podcast, you can do so here: Nominate a Mate for 'Seeds for Success'. Connect: Central West LLS website Central West LLS on Facebook Central West LLS on X Central West LLS on YouTube The views contained in this podcast series are not necessarily endorsed by Central West Local Land Services. Listeners are advised to contact their local office to discuss their individual situation. This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

The spread of yellow nutsedge, an aggressive weed that thrives in coastal conditions, has put a damper on an otherwise phenomenal period for California cilantro growers, and the NCBA says the President's plan to increase beef imports from Argentina is misguided.

Pumpkin growers have had a nightmare year. The crop needs plenty of water and the hot summer made them ripen too early for Halloween. Cost of living pressures have also affected some farms running visitor attractions like Pumpkin patches.Drought could continue into 2026 for some parts of England. The National Drought Group met yesterday and warned that England would need 100% of its average rainfall to ease the situation, but only 2 months so far this year had seen that much rain.After 2 legal challenges the Government has published a new version of its Carbon Budget, which lays out how climate targets will be met towards the eventual goal of net zero in 2050. Green energy is the Government's headline, but what's in the plan for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from farming?We visit North Harris to find out what it takes to keep an island free of invasive species.Presenter: Charlotte Smith Producer: Sarah Swadling

This week: In Colombia, Cargill and Solidaridad are partnering to help smallholder palm oil growers build more sustainable and climate-resilient supply chains. Leticia Kawanami and Joel Brounen talk with Ian Welsh about how farmer-led action plans, shared investment, and collaborative data tools are driving measurable progress – and how these lessons can scale across Latin America.   Plus: at the Chicago packaging conference, Ian spoke with Jason Bergquist from RecycleMe about the rapid rise of Extended Producer Responsibility laws for packaging the US.   And, climate inaction driving global health crisis; no economic sector on track for 1.5°C; court rules TotalEnergies guilty of greenwashing; and, EU parliament rejects rollback of sustainability rules, in the news digest.   Host: Ellen Atiyah   For more information on the Cargill and Solidaridad partnership in Columbia, click here.

The final charter for the Kiwifruit season has set sail. This is Zespri's 60th vessel for the year to 50 different markets. This season's crop has broken records, with 215 million trays weighing in at 770,000 tonnes. There's also been a significant growth in US and European markets. Chief Executive of New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Colin Bond says that, 'those growers are going to receive more value per trade than they ever have before.' LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Farmers are looking forward to recent changes the Department of Labor made to the Adverse Effect Wage Rate and how it could impact their finances. So, any questions?

Article Link:https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0926669025014645This week host @Jackgreenstalk (aka @Jack_Greenstalk on X/instagram backup account) [or contact via email: JackGreenstalk47@gmail.com] is joined by panel with @spartangrown on instagram or X f.k.a. Twitter at https://x.com/grown43626 or email spartangrown@gmail.com for contacting spartan outside social media, any alternate profiles on other social medias using spartan's name, and photos are not actually spartan grown be aware, and @TheAmericanOne on youtube aka @theamericanone_with_achenes on instagram who's amy aces can be found at amyaces.com , and Rust Brandon of @fulcropsciences / fulcrop.ceo who's products can be found at bokashiearthworks.com and This week we missed @NoahtheeGrowa on instagram , Matthew Gates aka @SynchAngel on instagram and twitter @Zenthanol on youtube who offers IPM direct chat for $1 a month on patreon.com/zenthanol , @drmjcoco from cocoforcannabis.com as well as youtube where he tests and reviews grow lights and has grow tutorials and @drmjcoco on instagram, and and @ATG Acres Aaron The Grower aka @atgacres his products can be found at atgacres.com and now has product commercially available in select locations in OK, view his instagram to find out details about drops!

Salad growers are warning that price increases for electricity will drive people out of the sector. Growers in the Lea Valley on the edge of London say they have large electricity connections for times of heavy use, but often use much less power. Since 2022 they've been charged based not only on what they use, but also on the size of the connection, and they say that from April next year those standing charges will effectively double. They say they should have government support to help meet the cost, like other sectors which are intensive users of energy.Carrots are the nation's favourite vegetable, regularly eaten by around three quarters of us and worth nearly £300 million a year in sales . They are in season in the UK nearly all year round thanks to specialised  growing techniques, including overwintering them in fields. Right now farmers are working hard to get them covered up before the first frosts. We visit a farm in the Vale of York as a layer of straw is put over the crop to protect it.  Zebra mussels, mink, floating pennywort and the Asian hornet - what they all have in common is that they are all here in the UK, but they shouldn't be. This week we are looking at invasive species. There are 2000 non native species in Great Britain, about 200 of them are classed as invasive and the Animal and Plant Health Agency, the government agency which works to tackle them, says14 new ones are identified every year.Presenter = Charlotte Smith Producer = Rebecca Rooney

Northwest cherry growers can now look back on the largest harvest in six years, but it might not be enough to really celebrate.

The October 23 edition of the AgNet News Hour was packed with innovation, insight, and a deep look at the future of farming — from fertilizer and fungicides to fully autonomous sprayers. Broadcasting from the FIRA USA Ag Automation Show in Woodland and the CAPCA Conference in Reno, hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill spotlighted some of the biggest players in ag technology, including TK, Bayer Crop Science, and GUSS, now part of John Deere. The show opened with Alex Avila, Central California representative for TK (Tessenderlo Kerley), who shared updates from the crop protection side of the business. “California is so unique — every region grows something different,” Avila said. “What we do in the Central Valley is totally different from the coast or Oregon.” TK provides fertilizers, insecticides, and fumigation solutions tailored to each region's unique needs. Avila noted that California's mild growing season in 2025 produced some of the best fruit quality and yields in years, but warned that market pressures remain tough. As winter approaches, Avila said the focus shifts to fumigation. “This is when we prep the soil for the next season,” he said. “We're getting ready for fumigation with products like Sectagon to make sure next year's crops start strong.” He also predicted another wet winter — a welcome change for water storage and dormancy cycles. “Cold, wet weather is good for trees,” he said. “They're staying dormant longer and recharging.” Next, Papagni sat down with Sabih Javid, fungicide product manager for Bayer Crop Science, who discussed emerging threats like Red Leaf Blotch in almonds, first identified in 2024. “It's taking 30 to 40 percent of yields in some orchards,” Javid warned. “Our fungicides with FRAC 3, 7, and 11 codes — like the Luna and Adamant lines — are showing the strongest results.” Bayer is also preparing for EPA approval of new Adamant and Xivana formulations, designed for aerial and drone applications. “We're ready for drones — the future is targeted spraying,” Javid said. Javid urged PCAs and retailers to plan early for next season. “Spray at bloom and post-petal fall,” he advised. “Once Red Leaf Blotch sets in, it's too late.” He emphasized that three straight wet winters could increase disease pressure, making timing and precision more important than ever. Finally, Papagni spoke with Gary Thompson, co-founder of GUSS (Global Unmanned Spray System), now a John Deere company based in Kingsburg. Thompson, who grew up in the dairy industry, described how GUSS was born from necessity. “The CEO, Dave Crinklaw, couldn't find enough tractor drivers,” he said. “So he built a tractor that didn't need one.” GUSS machines are now spraying millions of acres across California, using sensors and GPS-guided autonomy to eliminate overspray, reduce labor strain, and improve precision. “Growers can now run fleets of sprayers from a tablet,” Thompson said. “It's about empowering workers — turning tractor drivers into fleet managers.” He announced that John Deere has fully acquired GUSS, giving the company access to nationwide dealer support and expanded manufacturing capabilities. “We started with one model and now have three — GUSS, Mini GUSS, and a herbicide version that spot-sprays weeds to save chemicals,” he said. “The technology is only getting smarter from here.” Papagni wrapped up the program by connecting the dots between these innovators: “Whether it's fertilizers from TK, fungicides from Bayer, or automation from GUSS, California farmers are leading the world in adapting, innovating, and feeding the future.”

The October 21 edition of the AgNet News Hour featured Todd Snider, the newly elected president of the Kern County Farm Bureau, in a wide-ranging interview that captured the passion, perspective, and urgency driving California agriculture today. Snider, a lifelong Bakersfield resident and former national champion mountain biker, brings competitive energy to his new role. A crop insurance professional with deep roots in the community, he said his goal is to protect and promote the future of farming in one of the most productive regions in the world. “It's an honor to lead the Kern County Farm Bureau,” Snider said. “We feed the world from right here, and it's time Sacramento and Washington remember that.” Kern County is the second-largest ag-producing county in the nation, and Snider said the Farm Bureau's mission is clear — to defend agriculture against overregulation, labor challenges, and water shortages. “Farmers are producing more with less — less land, less water, more cost — and yet we're still feeding millions,” he said. “People have forgotten the labor, risk, and science it takes to grow food. We have to tell our story better.” Snider emphasized the Farm Bureau's expanding educational programs that introduce local schoolchildren to farming through Farm Days and FFA partnerships. “Kids think food comes from a grocery store,” he said. “When they visit the farm, they realize agriculture isn't just tractors and dirt — it's drones, computers, and science.” He also highlighted opportunities in modern ag careers, from data technology to accounting. “You don't have to have dirty boots to be in agriculture,” he said. On policy, Snider was blunt about Proposition 50, warning it would “destroy rural representation” by allowing redistricting power to shift to political insiders. “Voters need to do their research,” he said. “If this passes, rural California will lose its voice — and that's devastating for agriculture.” He also spoke passionately about California's water crisis, calling it “a man-made problem.” “Growers pay for 100% of their water and only get 50%,” he said. “Then in wet years, they're asked to buy the rest at a premium. Imagine what this valley would look like if we actually delivered 100% of what farmers are already paying for.” The result, he said, is 27,000 acres of almonds and grapes now fallowed in Kern County alone. “Water means jobs,” he warned. “Without it, our communities will shrink, our schools will suffer, and our economy will collapse.” Despite the challenges, Snider expressed optimism and pride in the resilience of California's farmers. “We've weathered droughts, recessions, and regulations,” he said. “Farmers are problem-solvers — we'll find a way forward, but we need leaders who understand agriculture, not just politics.” The interview closed with Snider's call for unity across county lines: “We don't just want Kern County to succeed — we want Tulare, Fresno, and the entire Central Valley to thrive. When one of us grows stronger, all of California agriculture does.”

On this episode, Justin and Brittney bring us another Grower Spotlight. Brittney tells us about Mcleod Farms, a multi-generational operation in McBee, SC. The farm, now run by Kemp and Spencer Mcleod, has been a family run farm since 1916. Since the beginning, peaches have been a major part of their operation, and they have since expanded into many more crops and even some agritourism. Tune in to find out all the offerings Mcleod Farms brings to the PeeDee region. Justin, Sarah and Brittney also share some stories of spooky pests out in the field!

Wisconsin potato growers are battling both uncooperative weather and tough market conditions this fall. Prolonged heat delayed harvest across the Midwest, forcing farmers to work overnight to protect crop quality, while the frost now threatens what’s left in the ground. Despite decent yields, prices have fallen under pressure from oversupply and reduced demand. Alsum Farms Manager Ryan Walther says they’re hoping for a market turnaround soon, as smaller operations face increasing difficulty weathering low prices and tight margins.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode we discuss cannabis strains that were once highly popular but have since largely fallen out of circulation. We explore the reasons why those strains vanished — such as genetic loss, shifting consumer demand, or cultivation challenges — and why growers and enthusiasts continue to lament their disappearance.Support the show

Cocoa farmer and council chairman of Ghana's Cocoa Abrabopa Association, Pomasi Ismail talks with Innovation Forum's Diana Kim, about how the EU's deforestation regulation delay has impacted thousands of farmers preparing for compliance. He explains the cost of readiness, the missed opportunities, and why fair prices are key to ending deforestation at its roots.

Kath Irvine and Jason Ross know a thing or two about growing their own fruit. Kath is an organic gardener who has been teaching food growing for 25 years.

Welcome to episode 261 of Growers Daily! We cover: pricing and packaging for restaurants, working in restaurants and then working as a farmer, and it's feedback friday ! We are a Non-Profit! 

Since John Deere rolled out See & Spray in 2021, the spot spraying technology continues to evolve and gain a growing foothold on farms across Canada. In this report from the Farm Progress Show in Decatur, Illinois, Josh Ladd, Deere's go-to-market manager for application, shares where and how the spraying technology is finding a fit... Read More

Hundreds of local giant pumpkin growers race toward personal bests and heaviest weights. And this is their season. Their Super Bowl is the Topsfield Fair, when the best bring their giant pumpkins to compete for the title and the prize money.

A first-of-its-kind resource gives growers in the Western U.S. customized cover-crop recommendations based on their goals, soil, and climate.

I'm thrilled to share this remarkable and insightful discussion with Sonia Roldan, UnitedAg's Member Services Manager. Together, we unravel the significant role of empathy in healthcare and its impact on forging a sustainable business model. Throughout the conversation, Sonia's unwavering commitment to helping others shines through, emphasizing the significance of personalized care and empathy in the healthcare industry. Sonia shares her upbringing in the agriculture industry and how witnessing her family's struggles became the driving force behind Sonia's life mission of assisting others, rooted in the golden rule of treating people as she would want her family to be treated. We delve into Sonia's approach to cultivating a team that embodies empathy, fostering a positive work environment. She shares her goal of instilling passion within her team, highlighting the authentic member-centric approach at UnitedAg, where going the extra mile is not just a statement but a genuine commitment. Sonia concludes by sharing one poignant moment that showcases the emotional depth of her work, even in stories that may not always have a happy ending.This episode is sponsored by UnitedAg,  one of the largest association health plans to offer healthcare to the agriculture industry of California and Arizona.  Kirti Mutatkar, President and CEO of UnitedAg. Reach me at kmutatkar@unitedag.org, www.linkedin.com/in/kirtimutatkarUnitedAg website - www.unitedag.orgEpisode Contributors - Sonia Roldan, Kirti Mutatkar, Dave Visaya, Rhianna MaciasThe episode is also sponsored by Brent Eastman Insurance Services Inc. - https://brenteastman.com/BlueShield of California - https://www.blueshieldca.com/EliteMedical - https://www.elitecorpmed.com/Gallagherhttps://www.ajg.com/SAINMedical https://sainmedical.com/

This week host @Jackgreenstalk (aka @Jack_Greenstalk on X/instagram backup account) [or contact via email: JackGreenstalk47@gmail.com] is joined by panel with @spartangrown on instagram or X f.k.a. Twitter at https://x.com/grown43626 or email spartangrown@gmail.com for contacting spartan outside social media, any alternate profiles on other social medias using spartan's name, and photos are not actually spartan grown be aware, and @TheAmericanOne on youtube aka @theamericanone_with_achenes on instagram who's amy aces can be found at amyaces.com , @NoahtheeGrowa on instagram and Rust Brandon of @fulcropsciences / fulcrop.ceo who's products can be found at bokashiearthworks.com and This week we missed Matthew Gates aka @SynchAngel on instagram and twitter @Zenthanol on youtube who offers IPM direct chat for $1 a month on patreon.com/zenthanol , @drmjcoco from cocoforcannabis.com as well as youtube where he tests and reviews grow lights and has grow tutorials and @drmjcoco on instagram, and and @ATG Acres Aaron The Grower aka @atgacres his products can be found at atgacres.com and now has product commercially available in select locations in OK, view his instagram to find out details about drops!

My Patreon!! :) https://www.patreon.com/ShaneDawson (no pressure of course!!) DRAFT KING  Get the app, sign up with code GROWER, then start spinning on THE Home of Cash Eruption. New players get FIVE HUNDRED SPINS over TEN DAYS on your choice of Cash Eruption slots when you wager five dollars. Play classic Cash Eruption today, then Red Hot Joker or Coins and Clovers tomorrow—it's all up to you!  RAYCON Got to https://BUYRAYCON.com/grower  to get 20% off the Everyday Earbuds Classic. SQUARESPACE!! Head to https://www.squarespace.com/GROWER to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code GROWER KIKOFF!! Get your first month for a dollar at https://GetKikoff.com/shane today. Sponsor The Shane Dawson Podcast: https://public.liveread.io/media-kit/the-shane-dawson-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you worried about potential pathogens lurking in your indoor farm's water system or substrate? I've got you covered with insights from an expert in agricultural analytics.I sat down with Taylor Robinson, Chief Scientist and founder of Rimrock Analytical, to discuss the critical role of proactive monitoring in controlled environment agriculture. Taylor's unique background in molecular sciences and agriculture has positioned him as a leader in providing cutting-edge analytical services to indoor farms.Taylor shed light on the common challenges indoor farmers face, from biofouling in water systems to unexpected pathogen outbreaks. He stressed the importance of having a solid biosecurity plan and regular monitoring to catch issues early. We delved into real-world case studies, including a Pythium outbreak that nearly devastated a farm's operations, and how data-driven solutions helped turn the situation around.We also explored the evolving landscape of indoor farming, discussing the industry's consolidation and the lessons learned from early adopters. Taylor shared valuable insights on how farms of all sizes can benefit from analytical services, emphasizing the return on investment in preventing crop losses. If you're involved in indoor farming or curious about the science behind growing food in controlled environments, this episode is packed with practical knowledge you won't want to miss.Ready to unlock the secrets of maintaining a healthy indoor farm environment? Listen now to gain valuable insights that could save your crops and optimize your growing operations.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key Takeaways5:03 Water treatment challenges in indoor farming10:31 Proactive monitoring vs. reactive troubleshooting16:23 Education and support for growers22:25 Risks of pathogen spread in grow systems26:50 State of the indoor farming industry31:32 Rimrock team size and recent hires34:36 Importance of preventative maintenance for farmsTweetable Quotes"We take the mantra of 'data to decisions' at Rimrock. We see ourselves as a vehicle to streamline what can be barriers for growers and operators to get the necessary data.""Microbes have the capacity to multiply and spread very rapidly. So keeping a close eye on things, establishing routine monitoring surveys we've found is key.""We're rolling out a microbial heat map to help you better visualize your microbial results mapped to your process flow in your facility. With that you can see potential hotspots for pathogens and how they might integrate to downstream systems."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://rimrockanalytical.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/65487487/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rimrock_analytical/Connect With UsVFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram -

RealDGC.com

In today's BB Podcast episode (No. 142), we're visiting with Diane Szukovathy, co-owner of Jello Mold Farm in western Washington and a founding member of the Seattle Wholesale Growers Market Cooperative. Diane shares her decades of experience as a flower farmer and cooperative leader, discussing the realities of small-scale farming, the importance of industry standards, and the newly released Floral Standards Book — a groundbreaking resource that compiles practical, research-backed post harvest care information for more than 230 crops. From her love of plants and an art background to her insights on pricing, sustainability, and cooperation, Diane offers a refreshingly honest look at what it takes to build a resilient flower business and community. Join us as we chat with Diane about: Her journey from artist to flower farmer and the origins of Jello Mold Farm The founding and evolution of the Seattle Wholesale Growers Market Why the Floral Standards Book was created and how it serves farmers and florists What the Floral Standards Book reveals about dahlia varieties, including vase life testing The role of quality standards in creating fair pricing and cohesive products Cooperative business models — how they function and benefit small-scale farms Challenges in U.S. flower farming: land access, climate change, and market pricing Lessons learned over two decades: finding niches, doing enterprise math, and taking time off The importance of abundance, generosity, and community in a sustainable floral future Links mentioned in this episode: Dr. John Dole – North Carolina State University professor, researcher, and post harvest expert ASCFG (Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers) – professional organization for flower farmers Robin Wall Kimmerer – author of Braiding Sweetgrass and The Serviceberry, cited for her perspective on abundance and reciprocity Downloadable Case Study: Portrait of a Cooperative Pioneer (The Seattle Wholesale Growers Market Cooperative) This episode of the Botanical Brouhaha Podcast is brought to you by: Madrid Flower School You can find show notes and more episodes of The Botanical Brouhaha Podcast at botanicalbrouhaha.com, and you can find the BB Podcast co-hosts on IG @botanicalbrouhaha and @hey.nataliegill. This episode of The Botanical Brouhaha Podcast was produced by Joel McGee. Original music by Landon McGee.     

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Welcome to episode 251 of Growers Daily! We cover: we are taking a question from a flower grower wondering about synthetic fertilizers to address soil deficiencies, meta pirating farm books for AI, and it's feedback Friday.  We are a Non-Profit! 

My Patreon!! :) https://www.patreon.com/ShaneDawson No pressure!! In this episode it's all rabbit holes and conspiracy theories!!! Get ready! Hope you enjoy it! ROCKET MONEY!!! Try Rocket Money for free or unlock more features with premium: https://RocketMoney.com/grower Draft King New players get FIVE HUNDRED SPINS on Huff N' More Puff over TEN DAYS. Download the app, use code GROWER, and claim your Spins after your first five dollar wager.  RAYCON!!! Go to https://buyraycon.com/grower to get twenty percent off site wide! SEAT GEEK!!! Use my code for 10% off your next SeatGeek order*: https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/GROWER2025 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discount Sponsor The Shane Dawson Podcast: https://public.liveread.io/media-kit/the-shane-dawson-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices