Crops
The primary crops at Bruce & Adam Blonde Farms are corn and soybeans, which sounds simple, but is not. Years of trials, errors, corrections, and successes have taught us much about growing these two essential crops.
Corn
Corn farming is a complex skill, one that benefits from a deep understanding of the land as well as adaptable planning. Farmers must understand the soil and nutrient requirements while also observing how conditions change year to year. Perhaps most important, corn farmers draw on the wisdom of previous generations and their years of experience to make the best decisions for their crop. The corn we plant is usually 98- to 108-day maturity depending on soil type and planting window.
Soybeans
Soybeans are a common cash crop that produce at least twice as much protein per acre as most other vegetables or grains. As processed meal or oil, soybeans make their way into human and animal foods, as well as an array of non-food industrial products and fuel.
The soybean is native to East Asia, but today most soybean production takes place in the U.S. and South America. They are generally grown in a crop rotation with corn, creating good risk management for both crops by breaking disease, insect, and weed cycles, as well as managing farm workflow.
Cover Crops
There are many benefits of growing cover crops such as cereal rye, crimson clover, and sometimes radishes on farm ground including:
- Controlling erosion
- Suppressing weeds
- Reducing soil compaction
- Increasing moisture and nutrient content of soil
- Improving yield potential
- Attracting pollinators
- Providing habitat for beneficial insects and wildlife
Like to know more?
If you’re interested in learning more about our farming services, we would love to hear from you.
