After a very long winter that almost seemed to never end, spring has finally come! Along with the wonderful change of weather also comes the extra field work for the farmers. It is now a bit later than last years, but this morning our corn was planted! When you think further about that, it is amazing how such a small seed can produce such a large corn stalk. Even though the corn was only just planted today, I am already looking forward to seeing how high it will get to be this year!
There are several different crops that farmer’s plant. We as dairy farmers grow barley, alfalfa, and corn. Some other crops that other farmers may plant are canola, and wheat.
Let us begin at the very beginning. Once all the snow has melted and the fields are dry enough to go onto, the farmer goes out and plows the field. If needed, he will also have fertilizer spread on the land. Next the seeder goes and makes even rows that are about 75 cm apart. And then it is time to wait!! For the barley and alfalfa, the first cut is usually done late June. The second cut usually takes place around mid August. Finally, the final cut is done around October and the field is empty for the winter. For corn however, the story is a little different. Once the corn is planted, it just keeps growing until October. When the fields are empty, the farmer goes out once again and harrows and plows the field. At this time the fields will also get a fresh dump of fertilizer. Now all you have to wait for is a little snow, and then for the snow to melt, and then... the cycle begins again!
Betcha you did not know all about that!!! Hope you learned more about what a farmers summer looks like.
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