Crops & Soil

One way to manage invasive plants? Manage soil nutrient levels closely

A new study suggests that soil nutrient profile may have a major impact on changes in plant population, particularly the encroachment of invasive species.

Compost tea research enters its second year

Study aims to shed light on current debates over the safety and efficacy of compost tea as an organic material

By Laura Sayre

A future for organic apple growing in the Northeast

In the humid Eastern states, expanding marketing opportunities are matched by stubborn production challenges. But new disease and pest management tools may be tipping the balance in favor of locally-grown organic tree fruits

By Laura Sayre

Good compost made better

Good compost made better The Rodale Institute takes “black gold” one step further.

Improve your soil, increase your yields, and reduce your expenses with AM fungi

By David Douds, USDA ARS-ERRC Researcher
Christine Ziegler, Editor

Pennsylvania wine-grape grower pioneers sustainable vineyard management methods

The Roth family has been part of southern Pennsylvania's fruit world for four generations. Reigning patriarch Phil Roth—now in his seventh decade—is challenging himself and his fellow growers to cut back on chemicals

By Laura Sayre

An eye in the sky

Images produced by satellites and airplanes can detect problems with crop health not visible from the ground

By Deborah Hyk

2008 Rodale Institute Annual Field Day

ORGANIC NO-TILL: New Farming Strategy for the 21 Century

California conference features pest control and organic production

Lots of promising research on biofumigants, beneficial insects, parasite-suppressing soils, habitat management for pest control, cover crops and compost—despite university administrations fixated on attracting the big money for research into proprietary biotechnologies.

By Don Lotter, Ph.D.

Turning crops to ethanol fuel: on the road to energy independence

Though ethanol production has become a boondoggle at the national level, the technology offers both operating cost savings and a potential revenue stream for local farmers and communities

By John Orr