Hay Season In Full Swing, Rain Both Positive And Negative
The abundance of rain this spring and summer has helped hay production, but hurt the harvesting process. Overton County Ag Extension Agent Jason Garrett said the rain delayed the spring crop harvest. Garrett said cool season grasses are better when harvested earlier because of their nutrients. “Everybody was behind,” Garrett said. “Which affected the quality […]
Invasive Hammerhead Worm Spotted In Fentress County
The hammerhead worm, an invasive pest native to Southwest Asia, has been spotted in Fentress County. The hammerhead worm is a flatworm with a shovel-like head. Fentress County Ag Extension Agent John Gunter said hammerhead worms prey on earthworms. Gunter said earthworms are needed to help regulate the dirt. “We have the potential to have […]
Warm, Humid Summers Good Recipe For Plant Mildew
A local Agricultural Expert said frequent rain and high humidity might increase the chances of mildew on your plants and crops this summer. Warren County Ag Extension Agent Heath Nokes said mildew in plants comes from a fungal attack of leaf tissue. Nokes said plant leaves are responsible for photosynthesis, which gives them energy to […]
Flowers Need Protection From Freeze Monday Night
Farmers and gardeners beware as temperatures are set to plummet and a hard freeze expected across the Upper Cumberland overnight and into Tuesday morning. Putnam County Agriculture Extension Agent Wayne Key said with a possible freeze looming, people should cover plants and gardens with light sheets if possible. He said any potted plants should be […]
Warm Winter Days Can Pose Pre-Spring Issues For Crops
The first few days of warm weather have the potential to start some pre-spring blooming. Putnam County UT Extension Agent Wayne Key said that buds will start to swell as the weather begins to warm, typically around the first week of March. However, the warm days but frosty nights can pose a problem to crops […]
Army Worms Causing Lawn And Grass Problems Across The UC
Army worms are in the Upper Cumberland and wreaking havoc on plants, yards and fields. Smith County UT Ag Extension Director Chris Hicks said in most years, zero calls come in about these insects. However, Hicks said that’s not the case this year. Hicks said there is not a clear answer on why more army […]
Agriculture Aid Available To Farmers As Costs Rise
The Coronavirus Food Assistance Program has opened signups to provide Upper Cumberland farmers aid. Chad Huddleston is County Executive Director for the USDA Farm Service Agency. Huddleston said up to $250,000 is available based on a farmers crops and the number of animals they own. “All input costs are going up,” Huddleston said. “Fuel, fertilizer, […]
