Farm Progress

Seeking new cropping opportunities

New crop types can bring added income, but that’s not the only reason some farmers take on diversification

Willie Vogt

October 21, 2022

In this week’s Around Farm Progress podcast the discussions revolve around alternative crops. And not all the talk is about a new income stream, there are other reasons to take on diverse plantings.

First up, John Hart, Southeast Farm Press, shares what he learned recently about work in North Carolina to explore the potential of sesame as a crop. This versatile, small seed is used for more than the tops of hamburger buns. Hart shares insight on why the state is exploring the crop, what the alternative crop offers to the market and the opportunity for a new income source for growers. And the crop, added to a rotation, can help break pest and potential disease cycles too.

Then we turn our attention to a little diversification that could have a significant community impact – the milpa garden. Jennifer M. Latzke, Kansas Farmer, discusses this concept of taking a small plot of land and planting a variety of crops which provide food for the local community.

This is about giving back, and milpa gardens are gaining attention among many communities. For the farmer who uses that plot for the garden, there are soil health benefits, but it’s also a way for a farmer to connect to the local community. Give it a listen.

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About the Author

Willie Vogt

Willie Vogt has been covering agricultural technology for more than 40 years, with most of that time as editorial director for Farm Progress. He is passionate about helping farmers better understand how technology can help them succeed, when appropriately applied.

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