Forward
This website contains the Alternative Field Crops Manual published in 1992. Its
objective is to address the need for detailed information on the production of a
number of agronomic crops adapted to the upper Midwest. The intent is to provide
county extension agents and others in educational roles a concise, uniform source
of information on those field crops which may be considered as alternatives to traditional
farm commodities.
The manual is a joint project between the University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension
Service, the University of Minnesota Extension Service and the Center for Alternative
Plant and Animal Products. Extension specialists from both states have written or
reviewed each chapter to insure accuracy and applicability of information and recommendations.
Other websites with alternative crop information include: http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/default.html
Inclusion of a crop is for educational purposes only; no endorsement of any particular
crop is implied. Individual growers should consider the following factors in determining
whether a crop might be a viable alternative in their particular situation:
Market availability - Amount of demand for the product, market location and transportation
to market.
Projected cost of production vs. projected yields and price.
Producer's resources - Land (suitable soil), irrigation capability, available labor,
equipment, capital, and personal goals and interests.
Specific crop requirements and adaptation.
Further information may be available from: University of Wisconsin Cooperative or
Extension Service, Department of Agronomy, Madison, WI 53706, Telephone (608)-262-1390,
Center for Alternative Plant and Animal Products, 340 Alderman Hall, University
of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, Telephone (612)-625-5747.
Chapter Outline
I. History
II. Uses
III. Growth Habits
IV. Environment Requirements
A. Climate
B. Soil
C. Seed Preparation and Germination
V. Cultural Practices
A. Seedbed Preparation
B. Seeding Date
C. Method and Rate of Seeding
D. Fertility and Lime Requirements
E. Variety Selection
F. Weed Control
1. Mechanical
2. Chemical
G. Diseases and their Control
H. Insects and Other Predators and their Control
I. Harvesting
J. Drying and Storage
VI. Yield Potential and Performance Results
VII. Economics of Production and Markets
VIII. Information Sources
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