There are many phases involved in the cycle of farming. Beginning with crop selection, finalizing with harvest and many in between. As spring approaches, it is time for the phase of planting crops into the ground. In order to successfully prepare for planting, follow these tips.
Crop Selection
Determining which seeds to grow and harvest are dependent on a variety of factors. The first is geographical location. Certain crops thrive better in certain climate conditions. For example, the majority of corn grows best in the midwest, contributing to 55% of corn population in the United States. Other things to consider are soil type, pH, temperature, moisture level and time of year. Various crops grow stronger based on different types of soil.
Tip: Plan to plant more crops than needed in case of any damage during growing season.
Grains
Grains make up a majority of a common household diet. Grains can include cereal grains like wheat, corn, and rice or legume grains which include peanuts and beans. When planting grains, make sure to do so in the sun. Like most crops, all grains require sun. Grains don’t have high requirements for soil type like other crops might, but it is still important to make sure the location aligns with the growing requirements. However, keep in mind that different grain types have different soil requirements. These low-maintenance crops have long roots that allow them to search deep in the ground to find nutrients and moisture.
Related: How to Protect Your Corn Crop from Problem Birds
Fruits 
Fruits don’t like to be overwatered. When planting fruits, avoid any areas that collect water such as at the bottom of a hill or any low slope spots. Slope direction is another thing to consider when deciding what to plant and where to plant it. To avoid drowning fruit plants, the soil must be well-drained and loamy. Fruits require a full day of sunlight so make sure they are planted in a spot where they can receive 8 hours or more of direct sun.
Related: How to Deter Birds from Blueberry Bushes
Vegetables
Like most crops, vegetables require at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight a day. However, there are some vegetables that can tolerate partial shade including lettuce, kale, spinach, cilantro, parsley and thyme. Root vegetables require at least 4 hours of direct sunlight a day. Examples of root vegetables include carrots, radishes and beets. When preparing for the growing season, it’s important to understand what the location of your planting site looks like and what type of crop can be successful there. In order to grow these crops to perfection, the soil must contain the proper nutrients. This can be done through the selection of fertilizer or the use of compost or manure.
Crop Protection
A study released by the Ministry of Agriculture highlighted the damage of crops caused by birds. They found that cereal grains are popular for birds to feed on. As mentioned, cereal grains include wheat, corn, rice and more. It is also common for birds to feed on sweet fruits and hardy vegetables as they begin to ripen and harvest. Some ideas to protect your crops from birds include:
- Seed tunnels to protect seedlings
- Plant seeds one and a half-inch into the ground so birds can’t get to them
- Bird netting
- Scarecrows, statues, or reflective decorations
- Motion-activated speakers or lights
- Liquid bird repellent
The simplest method for protecting your crops is to use a non-lethal liquid bird repellent. Avian Control is an easy-to-apply liquid bird repellent that can be sprayed or fogged. No need to worry about the growth or taste of your crops either, since Avian Control won’t change growth patterns, appearance, or taste.
Take Back Your Crops
There are plenty of options on the market when it comes to keeping birds away from your crops this season. It’s important to do your research and determine how much of a workload you can handle. It’s time to take back your fields and stop birds from flying off with your products. If you are interested in learning more about how Avian Enterprises can help you prevent bird damage to your crops this year contact us today.
Getting Ready for Farming Season