Planting Complete
We can finally celebrate: planting for 2021 is finished. Yesterday we wrapped up the last of the corn, got all the soybeans in the ground, and parked the planter back in the shed where it belongs.
This spring brought the smoothest and driest planting we’ve seen in the past four years. I’m grateful to Brian, David, and Tom for all their hard work in the fields and for running errands, even when a late snow tried to slow us down. The crew at the FS plant kept us moving, always managing to stay a step ahead with herbicide applications.
Milestones Along the Way
The new planter worked well for us this year, with just a couple of small hiccups along the way. One was a burnt-out relay that kept us from unfolding the planter on a Sunday. Maybe that was a sign we were meant to take a break.
We also took time to celebrate Lauren’s Master’s graduation. It was a good reminder that while the fields keep us busy, family milestones are just as important.
We were lucky to have family from Nevada and Utah join us this season. It was a real joy to have everyone together, working side by side and sharing in the rhythm of planting.
Early Soybeans Showing
The timing couldn’t have been better. Today’s gentle rain was just what the crops needed. After lunch, we spotted the first soybeans poking through the soil. With a little luck, we won’t have to do any replanting this year.
The weather has been on our side, too. Monday brought some strong winds, with gusts over 30 miles an hour, but things calmed down yesterday. The rain we’re getting now is just what the soil needs. Here’s hoping we avoid the five to seven inches we saw last year.
A Note from Tom
Tom sent a note to the crew after hearing that planting was complete:
“Sorry I couldn’t be there to fold up the cultivator for the last time, and see the new planter unfold… or not. Weather man says this is the driest spring in a while. Great to see the beans coming up. Congrats to all and nice job, Field Marshall Joe, on another safe, successful spring.”
He also shared his own adventure, climbing up on the roof after strong southern winds tore off a dozen shingles. Fixing roofs isn’t quite as easy as it used to be, but he got the job done.
Looking Ahead
With planting finished, soybeans coming up, and grain prices holding steady for now, we have plenty to be thankful for this spring. Here’s to a safe growing season, steady rains, and no need for replanting.
—Joe
