Do you want to know about chicken keeper’s hidden fear of anything going wrong with their flocks? There are several health issues that chicken can experience.

You raise a few chickens, everything is fine in life. Then one day you walked to the street and saw a dead bird, a sick bird. At that moment, you are in awe of death and think that you have failed to raise chickens. The reality is that sick or injured flocks can affect almost anyone. Of course, there are ways to prevent disease and failure. Today we are going to talk about some of the most common diseases and injuries in chickens and how to treat them effectively.

How to Cure Four Common Chicken Health Issues

1. Digestive Issues

Chicken can suffer from various digestive issues, from feeding problem to ventilation problem. Prevention is a fundamental key to digestion, if you keep your chicken’s guts bacteria healthy, they are less likely to get sick. Feeding chicken with probiotic yogurt once a week is a very valuable treat!

Our flocks also add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the water once a week to control their intestinal flora. If your herd has digestive problems, probiotics are really helpful. Just follow the instructions on the package to manage your flock, and the probiotics will help them heal everything that bothers them.

2. Weak eggshell

Sand is another preventive measure needed to keep chickens digested. Chickens naturally eat the sand in their stomachs to digest food. Chickens raised every day can find the sand they need to stay healthy. Chickens cannot develop freely and need to add sand to maintain their health. Provide sand as an additive of your choice, and then leave the bowl to the chicken. Weak or soft shell is a common problem in chickens. This is due to the lack of calcium in chicken feed. This problem is easy to diagnose and fix. To get a strong, tough eggshell, but if not, you can try some additives.

Ground oyster shells are ideal for most growers facing soft or weak eggs. Oyster shells are provided to their flock’s free choice and are not mixed with feed. Place the bowl in the feeding area and the hens will start to rise. There is also a free solution that works too! Every time you prepare breakfast, save the eggshells of the flock. if you have a dozen eggs, use a mortar and pestle to grind them into powder. Provide a dust-free option for your flock, just like using oyster shells. It has a high calcium content, which can help the eggshell obtain the energy it needs.

Also Read: Top 10 Tips to Keep Your Laying Hens Happy Through the Winter

3. Molting

Molting is a very difficult for your chickens. Not only are your chicken half naked, trembled, and confused, but they also need to quickly re-grow their lost feathers!

Feathers are mainly composed of proteins, so chicken need to add extra protein to their diet during molting so that they can grow healthy feathers. During molting is a great idea to feeding high protein chicken feeders like feather fixer, if you don’t have entry to that, the normal feed can be stick and supplement with protein instead.

Our favorite Mealworms and grubs are rich in protein that is easy to treat. Mealworms are inexpensive and a long-time favorite for our flocks. It is especially helpful with rate and our birds can eat them frequently. Grubs are costly but it has a pack off with higher protein punch.

4. Behavioral & Stress problems

Stress will not only affect you, but also your flock. Over-stressed chickens suffer from various physical problems and can also be a source of frightening of their fellow flocks. Behavioral problems such as bullying, egg picking, and hiding can be the source of your herd’s overstress and lack of entertainment.

Chicken tends to get stress for the following reasons

Introduce a new person to the flock
Loose flock member
Adding light to the birdcage
Re-arrange the cage especially henhouse and nest boxes
Lacking of food and water
Deficient of roost or nesting box
Maximum heat or cold
Being caged up too long
Predators hidden in the area
Pests like mites, lice or rodents cause destruction on your flocks.

If you observed any of those stressors will be affecting your flock, it’s crucial to address them proper away. Stress now no longer simplest ends in conduct troubles inside the flock however can result in illness, wounds, and death as well. One more good way to reduce stress in your flocks is to divert them with treats and supplement! Chickens which might be entertained are a long way probably to pick on each other. Chickens are very food encouraged creatures, and a number of the subsequent hen toys had been verified to bust that boredom so the flock is happier and healthier.

Ways to entertain your flocks with food

Hang a cabbage or head of lettuce from the roof
Fill the gift ball with vegetables and observe the chasing among your flocks
Fill the feed box with mealworms and observe the flocks play to get out of them.

If you work hard to provide your flocks with everything they need to prevent disease before the disease strikes, you will be fine! Make sure you stock up on the best hospitality, entertainment, and supplements to keep them happy and healthy.

Also Read: How to Start a Chicken Farm Business

Boosting Immunity

Improve the health of chicks through the use of feed additives and additives that optimize nutrient absorption. The use of high-quality food supplements can reduce the microbial load in feed and raw materials, improve digestion, and restore a healthy number of intestinal bacteria.

Vegetable Farming

Grow Asparagus Easily: Plant It Once and Harvest for 30 Years

ByMaryem

Asparagus is a one of the earliest plant that greets us in spring time! Once it will habitual the tender hearted spear will come back year after year. Its ferny foliage will make magnificent ornamental. Now how to grow asparagus plant through harvest.

In high temperature regions asparagus can grow as well as it will have grown actively in long winter seasons also. The young stem shoot is the edible part of the asparagus plant which appears the soil temperature increase above 50F in spring.

If you are starting asparagus bed as a dedication, but this dedication will worth it later. The important point about asparagus is to know that during couple of seasons it should not be harvest. You need to root these plant before they can be harvested. Once entrenched, it will produce for 15 to 20 years but you need to well maintained the beds to produce 30 years and more.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKES TO GROW?

As I mentioned above the newly planted asparagus require 2 to 3 years to start and produce, so forbearance is needed! Once established, it can be productive for decades.

Asparagus is a fast producer, once it starts its productivity new spears were send up for every few days in a spring.

Also Read: Organic asparagus farming techniques

WHEN TO PLANT ASPARAGUS?

Asparagus plant can be plant in early spring; the soil works as soon as possible. Most of the gardener plant the asparagus at the same time when the potatoes go in the ground.

Asparagus can be grown from seed but if you take 1-year-old plant called “crowns”, it eliminates the year that comes with starting from seed, it will speed up the production.

Before sowing seeds soak them in water for up to 24 hours.
In peat cups sow seeds can be moistened in flats.
If the plant reached 12 inches harden them off outdoor for a week.
At last spring frost, transplant the young plant to temporary garden, once identify the male asparagus plant and transplant it to permanent site.

CHOOSE AND PREPARE A PLANTING SITE

Asparagus is a perennial plant that return year after year in the same location, although it’s important to select a proper site for planting where it will flourish.

Select the site with full sunlight.
Place the asparagus bed at the corner of your garden whether it not be disturbed by various other planting activities.
Make sure about the bed will drain well, Asparagus does not like its roots get too wet. If you don’t get any with good drainage facility, then you can consider raised bed for asparagus.
Asparagus in lightly acidic soil develop in neutral condition.
From planting site remove all the weeds digging over it. Make a layer of compost, soil mix or aged manure is about 2- 4 inch.
Allow the asparagus crowns to root properly in a loosened soil up to 10 -15-inch depth.

HOW TO PLANT ASPARAGUS?

Plant crown can be protected from the cultivation need annual weed control.
If you are digging a trench more than one, 3 feet space should be maintained among them. Dimensions of the trench must be 12 to 18 inches wide and 6 to 8 inches deep.
In lukewarm water soak the crowns before planting
At the Centre of trench make a 2-inch-high spot of soil and place the crown on top and spread the roots evenly.
Some gardeners just cover the trench with soil and compost. Although it is believed that traditional methods usually produce stronger plants, gardeners rarely have any problems with the all at once method. The ground is quite loose, and the spear can easily slip to the surface.

Also Read: Bitter Gourd Farming: Basic Process And Diseases

CARE

From my side I recommend that when trench is filled with soil then add 4 to 6-inch layer of mulch.
The big issue with asparagus you have to manage weeds for first two years. it should not get disturb its roots while hand pulling the weeds. Mulch with compost or grass clipping helps to keep soil moisture and decrease weed growth.
For first 2 years it requires 1 to 2 inch of water per week for per square feet. Use drip irrigation if required for watering purpose.
Use organic fertilizer in growing season and follow the instruction of labels whatever material should be used.

BEFORE HARVESTING

Asparagus take time to grow from its root system, so in first 2 years don’t harvest the spears and cut down the dead leaves in late fall and dressed with compost.
In early fall in spring dressed up with compost during second year and retain the bed thickly with mulch.
In third year, the bed will produce full production, then you can start harvesting spears all over the season.

TRANSPLANTATING ASPARAGUS

In early spring transplant the crowns when they are slumbering. With the help of garden forks dig and lift the crowns with careful not to be disturb roots. Make the clump into two are more pieces. In following year not to be harvest.

Pests/Diseases

Weeds are the biggest concern in the asparagus bed. Hand pulling must be done in regular basis in early summer and in spring. Slightly cultivate to avoid come out damages of asparagus spear.

HOW TO HARVEST ASPARAGUS?

Every day check your plant should be ready for harvest spear. The spear become woody while growing quickly. It is difficult to eat when spear starts to open.
Harvest spear will reach around 8 to 10 inches’ height, then simply cut it with sharp knife from ground level.
Stop it, when the harvesting spear diameter reduce to pencil size.
After harvest, fertilize it for the early summer, you can balanced weed free compost with decomposing mulch.
In summer do not cut the ferns which are remained, and allow it to grow and mature. This is a replacement for next spear production. Leave at least 2 or 3 spears for the growing current season.

Vegetable Farming

Growing Different Types of Beans-Bean varieties

ByMaryem

Beans are most common plants in the garden. They are easy to grow and produce that’s tasty and found in many recipes. There are different varieties of beans in that you were confused which beans to be grow? So, here we have simple difference that split beans into smaller groups that can be helpful to choose your best. Keep reading the article to learn more about varieties of beans plant in that which one is suits for your garden.

Beans are directly sown in the garden, as they dislike while transplanting. Their roots are shallow and easily damaged. If you want to begin the bean inside plant them in biodegradable containers and transplant the whole container into the garden. The important condition of growing bean is not to plant the seeds too early. After all danger of frost has passed then sown the seeds too early to rot in cold, damp the soil and the plants required warm weather to flourish.

How many types of beans are there?

While there are several types of beans are there, the majority of beans plants can be divided into different subgroups. One of the most differences between pole bean and bush beans are-

Pole bean

Pole beans need a structure to climb up, like trellis or a fence. Few of them are quite long. Hence this plant offers the advantage of small footprints; so if your backyard space is limited then any vegetable can be grown vertically and still producing huge yield is a good choice.

Bush bean

Bush beans are easier to grow because they can be planted anywhere and it is shorter and freestanding.

Bean is the common name for the seeds, which are used for human consumption. Human are planting beans from centuries for the use as either shelling beans or dry beans, snap beans.

Growing different types of beans

Growing black beans

Black beans are plays integral role in human health due to rich in vitamins, fiber, minerals and proteins, it is also known as turtle beans.

It has two varieties bush and pole, for bush variety need more space among plants and harvested all at once. But for pole beans need stake support and it produce a greater yield vertically.

Plant black beans if the danger of frost passed in 15 inches containers keep the pots. Place them at the site where the sunlight directly receives 6-7 hours. Use fertile and add compost before planting, maintain the soil moisture and water it frequently.

Also Read: How to Grow Beans: Planting, Care, Yield, Harvesting

Vanilla beans

Vanilla beans are native to tropical Mexico. It will grow in vanilla orchid and take 3-5 years for production of beans. For productivity hand pollination need for vanilla beans plants.

Vanilla beans grow in rich humid conditions and in moist soil. They cannot withstand the temperature below 12°C and needed warmer condition. You can easily grow in pots in your balcony.

Lima beans

Another name for Lima beans are Chad, butter, sieve, and Madagascar beans. The beans are flat, off-white and kidney shaped, it consumed shell for tasty flavour.

Lima beans need warm and sunny conditions, so start sowing seeds early in indoor before the last frost hits or outdoors when the temperature is nearly 15°C for a week.

The ideal temperature for growing is nearly (21-25) °C. Grow the plants where the sunlight receive throughout the day.

Fava beans

Another name for the fava beans is field beans, horse beans, and board beans. This beans have inside the pods-flat, bright green in colour with soft skin which is removed while consumption. If you harvest them early you can easily consume it.

It is a cool season crop, seed are sowed in late summer or early fall or during winter season. This fava bean grows in full sun to partial sun shades. They are hardy at -6°C temperature.

Kidney beans

This type of beans is native for Mexico and Central America. They are crucial source of vegetable protein. These nutritious beans are used to cook in different dishes around the world.

Sowing the seeds after the last frost in a well draining soil with receives full sunlight in that area. Follow the average water and it doesn’t like soggy soil.

Mung beans

This bean are native to India, it has small green beans from legume family. It has a lightly sweet taste and eaten in dals, soups, salads, and stir-fry recipes. Also, these high level nutritious beans are crucial source of vitamins and minerals.

Also Read: Soybean Farming: A Complete Guide to Cultivation and Production

Yard long beans

It is also a member of legume family, the asparagus beans are easy to grow and they are native for southern Asia, grows in warm climate. You can also consume fresh leaves and young pods and beans can be cook. Plant seeds ¾ inch deep under the ground and use stake for support, harvest when it will reach 12-16 inches in length.

Vegetable Farming

How to Grow Organic Potatoes in Your Garden?

ByMaryem

Growing organic potatoes in your backyard need to take few cautious attention while soil preparation, selecting early producing disease resistant potato varieties with the usage of natural fertilizers, row covers, crop rotation and if needed, the careful applications of organic pesticides for the growth of your garden.

Organic potatoes can be grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. Potatoes can be grown neither in cool weather or freeze nor above 80 degree Fahrenheit which decrease tubular production. Early producing varieties can give a good crop before enhance the diseases and insects. Best varieties to start with include Irish Cobbler, Red Duke of York, Norland, Orla, and Yukon Gold.

Site and soil

In the area where the sunlight can falls at least six to eight hours in that potatoes should be grown with a basic fertility and well drained. Planting plants in well drained soil rich in organic matter can avoid few diseases such as green manure are sown earlier in autumn, sowed in the field before sowing, or composted during sowing.

In acidic soil potatoes can grow well and not easy to get sick. Soil can be more acidic due to natural sulphur. To know your soil pH test contact your county extension office (ceo).

Potato plant needs fertilizers but not too much which cause leggy, disease prone growth. Add basic required amount of compost, or while planting dig in a small amount of natural fertilizer or organic poultry manure. After planting, second application of fertilizer can improve yields.

Full size tubers can be difficult to form heavy clay soil. It should be the spot where from past 2 years there is no crop of potatoes, pepper, tomatoes and eggplants to prevent the soil borne diseases.

Planting

Early season varieties can be planted as soon as soil can be worked when its temperature reaches 40 degree Fahrenheit. Mid and late season varieties can be planted before the last weeks of late spring frost. You can plant only those seed potatoes which are certified disease free. These are available in garden centres, nurseries, and catalogs.

For early potatoes, laying your tubers eye side up in a cool and dry place in a container for 1 to 2 weeks, until the eyes sprout. Just plant the tubers whenever you’re ready. The larger potatoes can be cut in the form of 1 to 3 eyes per piece and for smaller potatoes can be planted whole. Be sure that the cut pieces of potatoes can be place outside for at least 24 hours before planting due to that cut sides callous over and they don’t rot.

What is Mango Farming all about – A Complete Guide

ByMaryem

Do you know what is mango known as? Aam, as we call it in India is crowned with the title of King of Fruits. Mango Farming is the most dominant and money-making venture in the world.

It is loved and relished for its taste, appearance, and low upkeep cost. The perk of cultivating mango is that it can be consumed at any stage.

Like the raw mango has a delightful taste as chutney, Aam Panna, pickle, sauce. A full grown, mango can be consumed as shakes, juice, jelly, ice-cream, and desserts.

India exports a huge quantity of mangoes to the USA, Europe, and Middle-East. Mango farming is the most money extracting fruit grown in the Indian sub-continent.

If you want to start your mango farm, you need to gather all relevant about its cultivation. Here, is an outline of important steps to be executed to ensure good mango production.

Types of Mangoes

Here is a list of mangoes with their place of origin. Let’s get a quick look through it:

Alphonso- Ratnagiri, Maharastra
Kesar- Junahgadh, Gujarat
Dasheri – Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Himsagar and Kishan-bhog, West Bengal
Chausa- Uttar Pradesh
Safeda -Andhra Pradesh
Totapari
Amrapali
Langda

Sweetest mango variety

For all the beginners and mango lovers, it is difficult to figure which the best variety of fruit among all. Carabao, the manilla mango is the best and sweetest mango in the world.

However, if we talk about Indian mangoes, Alphonso, the king of all is the best and sweetest mango among all. But don’t forget that mango itself is a sweet fruit loved by all. Every variety is sweet and unique in its way.

Requirements for mango farming

Mango can be planted through seeds or by vegetative propagation. The propagation is carried out through techniques like veneer grafting, epicotyl grafting, and inarching.

Surely, vegetative propagation is a rapid process of germination. It should be carried out through grafting trees.

The spacing of mango trees

The spacing pattern of the trees should be 10 m * 10 m. This is the ideal pattern to be followed to ensure a good yield.

The mango trees are tall and wide. So, they require adequate space to expand themselves. If you compromise with its space, the growth of the tree would be hampered.

As a result, you will be deprived of a desired and profitable yield.

Mango plants training

Training mango plants is an essential step to ensure the proper shape of the fruit. It becomes unavoidable in the case of low branched grafting.

The plant should attain a minimum height of 1 meter for training to be executed well. Regular trimming of branches and leaves ensures th healthy growth of the plant.

The plantation is disease-free and the energy of the plant is centered towards the growth only. Therefore, a continuous training process is maintained to get the desired fruit quality.

In mango farming, it is a mandatory step.

The season for mango plantation

For rain prone areas, the plantation is done in July-August, for irrigation-based areas it is carried out in February-March, and at the end of rainfall in rain prone areas.

Rainfall is a good factor to enhance the growth of the tree. As heavy water intake is needed for the thriving of mango trees.

Also Read: Custard Apple Farming Was Never So Fruitful – Read This Guide Till The End

Fertilization of mango trees

The process of fertilization is carried out in 2 doses. First one, immediately after planting, and the next in the young plants. A spread of urea (normally 3%) is advised in the case of sandy soil before the plant starts flowering.

Soil and light requirement for mango seeds

A mango seedling requires a good amount of sunlight but not direct sunlight. For nurturing the plant, a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight is required and 8-10 hours of sunlight will work wonders.

When planting mango seeds it should be kept in mind, that a good drainage system should be there. Like on watering the soil could flush out excess water.

In summers the plant needs water in excess, do remember excess doesn’t mean water overflow. The water should be well enough to keep the soil hydrated.

How to sprout a mango seed

To sprout a mango seed you need to remove the flesh from the fruit, the seed needs to be cleaned, to ensure that they are ready to plant.

Now, with the help of a sharp knife, chop off the edges of the seed. Ensure the visibility of the pod inside.

Take a container of 11 liter capacity. Place some soil beneath the container providing an outlet at the edge. For settling the soil fill some water in it.

The container is ready to plant the seed inside placing the pointed side downwards. One-fourth of the pod should be popping out of the soil.

Keep watering the seed and place it in a warm place ensuring sunlight but not directly.

Germination time of mango seed

The mango seeds germinate in a period of 2 to 4 weeks. A fully grown-up tree bears fruit in 5 years. These mango seeds germinate at a temperature range between 4-40 degrees.

But a higher range of temperature is ideal for germination. Seeds restore water in them, dies when dry. All the favorable conditions facilitate the process of germination.

A small bunch of leaves shoots up and the roots start getting firm deep into the soil.

Planting mango seed

A suitable temperature, enough sunlight, and adequate water content is a perfect recipe for healthy fruit. When you have all the necessities for mango farming, you can go for it.

You need to have a spacious place for the mango canopy. A mango tree has a stature of 90 feet with long leaves. So, it is recommended to plant them separately allowing proper space for them to thrive.

How long does it take a mango tree to grow?

This is the most common query among mango farming. Beginners are curious to know how long does it take a mango tree to grow? Before proceeding, this question needs to be answered.

From planting the seed in the soil to ultimately bearing fruits, it is a package of 5 years. It takes 5 years complete for a mango tree to produce your favorite mango fruit.

But a lot of rigorous hard work is required to nurture the mango plantation in these 5 years. Regular pruning of branches and leaves is necessary. Plus, after bearing flowers the water intake of the tree is around 26 gallons per week.

This should be maintained to prevent the tree from drying. The proper spread of fertilizers should be done to curb the spread of diseases.

The resultant is the delicious, tasty, and lip-smacking mango fruit.

Diseases infecting mango farming

Mango farming is threatened by aphids, bugs, and mites. Infections prevailing in the plantation can be witnessed in the form of webs on the leaves, white residue, or insects crawling over the leaves.

These infections need to be curbed in, timely before they hinder the growth of the plantation.

Mango farming is prone to anthracnose, a sort of fungal infection. They can be checked by the use of copper-based fungicide. It should be used after 14 days of planting.

How to take care of flowering mango tree

Some of the flowers are formed through the process of self-pollination. However, few of them are pollinated through fruit bats, humming birds, and bees. It must be noted that all the flowering trees don’t produce fruits.

Taking care of a flowering mango tree is a must. Proper care must be taken of those trees who produced heavily during the previous season.

They should be trimmed regularly. And should also provide more fodder to ensure a better flowering and fruit production in the present season as well.

The much-branched inflorescence needs to be detached or trimmed compulsorily. It ensures better flowering and fruit production.

In the regions where the evening temperatures trips below 30 degrees, these white creamy flowers become steady. On reaching the temperature range back, they tend to bear fruits immediately.

Mango yield per acre

The mango yield per acre varies. This depends on the quality of seeds sown and the good upkeep of the mango farming. Ideally, the yield ranges from 2.5 to 3 tonnes per year. Exceptionally, it can reach 9-10 tonnes per year.

A good spacing in the orchard, among the trees, and favorable climatic range shoots up the yield of a mango farm.

Mango farmers must adhere to these 2 most important factors apart from other upkeep necessities. A little extra care can make you earn higher profits.

When to harvest mango?

After flowering and bearing fruits, now the point arise when to harvest mangoes. The tasty tropical fruit of mango is grown in various parts of the world, favorable to mango farming.

The harvesting of the fruit is directly proportional to the amount of care taken of the tree in the 5 years of the plantation.

On average a good harvesting time prevails after the completion of 100-150 days from the flowering stage. Generally, flowering ends up producing fruits and you can observe the fruit grow in shape and size.

In 3 months, the fruits become ripe, this can be felt on touching the mango, as it becomes soft on ripening. The color turns into a proper yellow shade of the fruit.

Heavy fruit can be seen bulging downwards from the branches. This is an indication the fruit is ready to pluck.

Now, you have 2 ways to get the fruit down either shaking the tree or thrashing the branches to chop off ripen fruits.

Shaking tends to damage the roots and branches of the tree. Also, unripe fruits get disturbed as well. It is highly recommended to thrash the branches by the use of a rope or stick.

This the best way out to spank down your favorite mango fruit. The fruit is ready to explore the markets.

Must Read: Papaya Farming Ultimate Guide

Transporting mango to markets

Once you are done with mango harvesting, it is time to get a reward for the 5 years of hard work done. Proper steps should be taken to avoid any sort of damage to the fruit during the transit period.

For transporting mangoes, the packaging is done in two ways either using a wooden crate or by using CFB boxes. However, for long-distance transit it advisable to store mangoes in CFB boxes as it is a perishable item.

Wooden crates can hold the mangoes for 8 days maximum. After that, they tend to perish.

When transporting to local nearby markets, wooden crates are the best open as they keep the fruit safe and fresh. And the fruit is ready to consume.

Is mango farming profitable?

To find out the profit ratio of mango farming, let’s calculate the cost of production involved. The cost of the land stands on whether it is owned or rented.

Then comes the plantation cost. This comes to around 2 lakhs per acre per year. And it gives a normal yield of 2.5 -3 tonnes or even up to 9-10 tonnes.

It is a profitable deal. A deal with huge profits. It is one of the most profitable ventures in horticulture. Profitability has a direct relationship with demand for the product in the market.

Mangoes are high in demand. The reason for this is the limited availability and good taste. This fruit is relished by everyone.

This tropical fruit is an evergreen fruit and never will lose it’s charm. Nothing can beat the demand for mango fruit.

Yes, you can say it is a tedious job but the hard work is paid off well. Whether its appreciation in taste or money, a mango farmer lands in huge profits after selling his mangoes in the markets.

People wait for those delicious mangoes in the market every year for their limited availability. So, the idea of mango farming is a sure shot profit deal. Crack this deal and enjoy the benefits.

Farming Pedia

Growing Mint – Ultimate Guide

ByMaryem

Mint is a tasty, versatile herb used to flavor a fruit salad, lamb or fish dish, or even an iced tea or cocktail and you should know how to grow mint. Mint comes in various flavors, each of which is simple to care for and can last for several years if properly cared for.

However, if left to grow unchecked, the plant may become invasive and compete for nearby plants’ resources. To grow mint, you’ll need to either plant it in containers or find a way to keep its roots from extending too far below ground. Know about how to grow mint and make your garden greener.

List of things you should take care of for mint plant

Light Mint grows best in part shade, but it can be grown in full sun if watered regularly. Planning to know about how to grow Mint at home should include the following steps.

Know about the things you should consider before growing Mint.

The soil

Mint grows best in a thick, slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0.

If the soil is deficient, top-dress with the organic matter once a year and add an organic fertilizer after shearing in the middle of the season. You can also grow Mint from cuttings.

Source of water

Mint needs consistently moist soil with good drainage. Mint plants love water, but they can’t tolerate wet feet or soggy dirt.

It’s probably best to water the plants first thing in the morning so that they have plenty of moisture by the time the afternoon sun arrives.

Humidity and Temperature

The hardiness of your mints can vary depending on the species, but they are very adaptable. Peppermint is a hardy plant that can withstand the cold in USDA hardiness zone 3.

Spearmint is the best heat-tolerant plant and can be grown in zones 11 and 12. Increase humidity by m if you’re raising Mint indoors. You should know how to care for the mint plant.

Type of fertilizer

As new growth emerges in the early spring, feed container mint a healthy, all-purpose liquid fertilizer. After that, fertilize every four to six weeks for the rest of the growing season. Potted plants that are constantly watered lose nutrients more quickly.

How can you grow Mint?

Mint is a fast-growing plant that prefers an organically rich, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. USDA Hardiness Zones 3–8 are suitable for the plants. Plants prefer full to partial sun, and variegated varieties can need shade from the hot afternoon sun.

Feed with a portion of all-purpose, water-soluble plant food, such as 10-10-10, until new growth emerges in the spring (NPK). If required, fertilize again in the middle of the growing season. Harvest leaves regularly after the plants have formed themselves.

How can you grow plants in containers?

Mint plants in containers should be spaced 12 to 24 inches apart in the garden to keep growth under control. You can use wide containers with a diameter of 8 to 24 inches and a similar width.

The boxes should be sunk into the garden beds, with the top two inches of the rim remaining above ground. This prevents runners from escaping and establishing new plants in fertile soil. To boost drainage, amend the soil with 1/3 aged compost or other rich organic matter and 1/3 landscape sand.

To avoid the roots from resting in water, make sure there is plenty of material covering the drainage holes in the pots, such as coir, pebbles, or broken pottery. To prevent the roots from spreading through the drainage holes, turn the banks in the ground every 14 to 28 days.

Must Read: How To Grow Cilantro

How can you take care of your mint plant?

To keep the plant from taking over, bury some metal flashing or landscape edging 8 inches deep around it. Mulch potted and in-ground plants with a 2-inch layer of straw to keep weeds at bay and maintain moisture.

Mint plants can survive a light freeze, but their top growth may die back in the winter. If your winters are rough, cut back stems to the ground in the fall and cover with a 2-inch layer of mulch. You should also be aware of how to grow Mint at home.

Can we grow the mint indoors?

If necessary, add 1/3 of landscape sand to help with drainage. You should know that how to grow Mint indoors. Ensure that the bottom of the pots has plenty of drainage material, such as broken pottery, gravel, or pebbles, and that the soil is moist but not wet.

Fertilize in the spring and again in the middle of the growing season with an all-purpose liquid plant food like 10-10-10 (NPK). Give your containers some afternoon shade to avoid heat stress and ensure a consistent harvest. Plants in containers should be divided every 3 to 4 years to keep them healthy.

How can you take care of your mint plant?

Keep the following tips in mind for fast growth and a plentiful harvest.

Enable the soil to remain moist; these plants need a lot of moisture.
In places where the sun is hot in the afternoon, have some light shade.
Plants can be kept from spreading by growing them in containers or using landscape barriers. The mint growing season is autumn.
To attract pollinators, encourage some plants to flower in the garden.
To help plants conserve moisture, cover them with a 2-inch layer of mulch.

Harvesting of mint plant

If you’re starting from seed, this should take about two months, but if you’re buying nursery plants, it should take less time. To avoid weakening the plants and bringing them into decline, never harvest more than one-third of the plant at a time. You should be aware of when you can start harvesting Mint.

As required, snip sprigs and leaves. If you don’t harvest your Mint regularly, shearing it in the middle of the season would greatly help it. You’ll probably see the stems getting longer and the leaves getting shorter at some point. Now is the time to cut the plants back by one-third to one-half of their original size. This will motivate them to send out new messages.

Conclusion

Mint doesn’t need anything other than moisture and fertile soil. It’s difficult to destroy a mint plant. If you let it, it will take over your backyard. To keep the plants lush with leaves, harvest or shear them.

Sow seeds outdoors in late spring or indoors eight to ten weeks before the last frost. Maintain a moist atmosphere before the seed germinates. Mint seed takes 10 to 15 days to germinate. Within two months, seed-grown plants should be ready to harvest.

Livestock farming

Top 10 Tips to Keep Your Laying Hens Happy Through the Winter

ByMaryem

Do you think your flocks will be stressful during the first winter in the farmer’s shed?

You might be worry about unhappy hens, frozen water, lack of eggs and cold. With the help of few key details your hens will be laying eggs much of the winter, though the production may be slow. It’s important that you will take rest easily when you know your hens are warm and comfortable.

Keep your Hens Happy in Winter

1. Chicken does not need a heater

You don’t think of putting fire or heater in your chicken coop for winter warmth and don’t seal up the coop completely ventilation is requires to prevent moisture build-up, they huddle together for warmth in the coop.

Also Read: How to Start a Chicken Farm Business

2. Use deep litter to keep warm

This deep litter method is one of the ways to give bedding material to chicken coop to build up in a spring, summer and fall. So, in winter you have the composting material on the floor of the coop and the bedding material both will gives the heat to the chicken coop naturally.

3. Don’t lie down unless you provide supplement lighting

The sunlight affects the reproductive cycle of the hen. In early spring, when the sun reaches 14 hours a day, the chickens begin to lay eggs. When the length of the day reaches 16 hours per day, the maximum egg laying appears. This is a biological miracle and the ideal design allows the chicks to hatch in the spring and mature in the warm summer.

The chicks that hatch in the warm spring and summer are more likely to survive than the chicks born in the harsh winter, which gives commercial egg producers and some backyards. Poultry farmers brought in to provide lighting for their houses in the dark winter to prevent chickens from laying eggs for as long as possible.

4. Feed them corns at night to keep them warm all night

Corns are the favourite food for the chicken. So, every evening time in winter feed them with cracked corns before bed and give them something with that digest their food, during the night keep it warmer and it will be happier with full bellies.

5. Hang a head of cabbage as a toy for the chicken

As like human beings chickens can be bored and stir crazy in winter. Make sure that seem to be enjoys a head of cabbage hang to string in between the coop. They go wild picking it with this simple trick you can make your chickens happy.

6. Make them nice sun room

Are you worried about your chicken they don’t have enough space in the coop, you can make the green house style structure cover it with a clear plastic. They will wander out with it and get a more space on nice days and you will take rest easy knowing they are not too restricted and getting some fresh air.

7. Combs and Wattles protects from frostbite through petroleum jelly

In winter season the combs and wattles are prone due to frostbite. So that protect them from this frostbite smear their combs and wattles with petroleum jelly. Hence, if you’re chicken can frostbite nothing serious only the tip of the combs will be affected and it can be look icky?

8. Chicken don’t like snow

In generally if the temperature decreases about the 20 degree Fahrenheit range chicken would not like to walk into the snow. You can disperse on the ground and it will make tastier for them. When the temperature increases nearly 30 degree Fahrenheit then they won’t be walk on the snow as much.

Also Read: The A to Z of Commercial Sheep Farming – A Step to Step Guide

9. Chicken don’t have to be put inside in bad weather

If the chickens are dont want to go outdoors, simply let them to do what they want. They head into their coops and there are harder than your thinking. They are not against the cold as the people assume. Don’t waste your precious time and energy trying to get inside during snow or rain.

10. Roosts are keys

The chicken sit curled together, this keeps them warm and also prevents them from cooling. The stall should be at least 2-3 feet off the ground. Therefore, please make sure that you have enough space for all the chickens to rest comfortably. Check with a flashlight at night when a bird is on the ground, there is not enough space.

Hope these tips can help you relax and make your chickens happy during the colder months. If you have not built a chicken coop before, be sure to visit other people in your area in winter to see with your own eyes how the birds adapt to colder temperatures.

Vegetable Farming

How to Grow Squash – A Step-by-Step Guide

ByMaryem

Squash is one of the easy veggies to grow in your garden or backyard. Squash can be grown easily in most of the regions of The United States.

In this article, you will know everything about how to grow squash, varieties of squash, growing stages, and harvest period. Before heading towards how to grow squash let us first know about its varieties.

Varieties Of Squash

Squash comes in many varieties which can be grown both in summer as well as winter. Few popular varieties of winter squash are as follows

Winter Squash Variety

Winter squash comes in dozen varieties, it can be kept for months after harvesting as it has tough exterior.

Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is a popular pick for cold weather dishes like soups and risotto. It comes in a shape of a bulb with tan yellow skin and orange fleshy pulp. Its taste is similar like pumpkin, sweet, and nutty. It grows on a vine and its taste becomes sweeter and richer as it gets ripe.

Spaghetti Squash

Spaghetti squash is the most trendiest among all the varieties. It has got shredded flesh that is the reason it is called as spaghetti squash. It is one of the healthy substitution of pasta, with low carbs.

Acorn Squash

Acorn squash is also known as pepper squash. This squash has green exterior and yellow orange flesh. It can be used for roasting or stuffing and has mild sweet flavor.

Sweet Dumpling Squash

Sweet dumpling squash comes in much smaller size when compared to other squashes. It resembles a small pumpkin and can be used as a bowl for soups or stuffed with meat and other veggies. Its flesh is sweet and tender and tastes similar to sweet potato.

Red Kuri Squash

Red kuri squash has a tear top shape with orange skin which can be consumed once cooked. This squash can be best consumed when stuffed with rice, meat or vegetables.

Summer Squash Variety

Well, summer brings sunshine as well as new varieties of squash. These are harvested mush earlier than winter squash. The shelf life of summer squash is one or two weeks only. It is very soft and takes less time to cook.

Yellow Squash

It has a bright yellow exterior and comes in two varieties which can be distinguished by the shape of its neck, straight neck or crooked neck. It has tender and thin skin that can be easily peeled and chopped.

Zucchini Squash

Zucchini is the favorite squash of all the chefs as it is perfect for grilling, baking, sauteing, and much more. It is dark green in color and most loved summer squash. It is the best low-carb substitution for noodles and fries.

Chayote Squash

This squash is originally from Mexico and resembles a lot like pear. Chayote squash is low in calorie and tastes similar to that of cucumber. It can be made in various ways which makes it versatile.

Also Read: How to grow cauliflower: All The Information Regarding It

Planting Squash

Let us know about squash growing stages, what month to plant, how long will it take to grow squash, and when to harvest as well.

If you are planting winter squash then you must know what month to plant. The best time to plant winter squash is after the last frost is over.

The first thing to be done is to make the soil ready for planting, you need quite open space as it grows in vine and spreads quickly. Spread at least 3 inch of compost and make the land ready. Make sure to provide nutritious fertilizer as well. Squash need full sun and good air circulation so choose the place accordingly. The condition for summer and winter squash are the same, except the harvest time.

Here is the way on how to grow squash from seeds. Sow the seeds 1-2 inch deep in the soil and give a gap of at least 4-6 feet after every seed. The seedlings will emerge within 3-4 days of planting.

After this is done now you will be eager to know how long will it take to grow squash. The plant takes 70-100 days to mature, but it depends on the type of plant and the weather as well.

Harvesting Squash

Harvesting or picking squash is fun, its so good to see different varieties with different shapes and sizes. You can expect about 1-10 fruits from each plant, depending on the variety. Look for the below mentioned points before harvesting winter squash

Harvest after at least 50-55 days from the time fruit has set.
You should hear a hollow sound when tapped gently.
Harvest it before the frost arrive.
The rind should change from light green to tan.
Cut the rind with a short stub of vine attached.

After harvesting the squashes need to be kept in a cool and dry place. Winter squash can be kept for as long as 1-2 months, they can even be used for decoration. Where as summer squash cant survive this longer. It needs to be cooked or consumed withing 2-3 weeks.

Vegetable Farming

Turnip Farming Information Guide

ByMaryem

Turnip farming can be performed on commercial or personal scale very easily and with minimal efforts. Gaining much needed knowledge gets you ready to start. Check out this full guide on turnip farming.

Turnips are cool weather vegetables and its botanical name is Brassica rapa. These are considered as staple food for humans and livestock too. They have a rosette of bright green leaves that grows from tubers or swollen roots. Turnips are consumed for their swollen roots and greens. Also, they are biennial but grown as annual.

Most commonly found turnips are light purple in colour from top and white from bottom. However, more than 30 varieties of turnip are found over the globe. All of these vary in shape, sizes, and colours. Some might taste as sweet as carrots and others might taste like a potato.

Swollen turnip is eaten by people all over the world. It can be either consumed raw or stewed, roasted, boiled, mashed with other root crops to consume. Greens of turnips can be consumed too. People cook and eat them in the same manner as spinach as kale are.

They generally grow in spring and fall.temperate climates are best suites for turnips. Therefore, they are mostly grown in the USA, UK, Poland, China, France etc. They have been grown and consumed for over 3000 years by our ancestors.

It is advised to avoid hot summer weather for their growth. Turnips tend to become woody and bitter in hot temperatures. They mature rapidly and are very easy to grow in home gardens.

Turnips are considered biennials hardly. They are mostly grown by people as an autumn crop.

As mentioned earlier, turnips can be fed to livestock too. Animals can be fed upon turnips after they are harvested. Or browsing animals can consume them in fields too. Few people plant turnips to attract deers to their fields.

Also Read: Sweet Potato Farming Information Guide

Varieties of turnip

There are various varieties of turnips. Most popular varieties of turnip are Purple top, Royal Gloss, Just Right ( 40-60 days), White globe( 57 days), Tokyo Express, Market express, Shogoin, and mild Hakurei. Best varieties in the case of greens are Alltop (50 days greens), Topper, Royal Crown (52 days) and Seven top( 45 days,greens).

Yellow Globe produces golden turnip roots and is great for roasting. For upper midwest and canada, Green Globe and York Globe are the most suitable varieties.

Health benefits of turnips

Turnip is full of nutrition and anti-disease properties. Moreover, the health benefits of turnip are immense too.

Nutritional value-

1 medium turnip is laced with following nutrients-

Calories- 34g

Fat- 0.1g

Carbs-7g

Proteins-1g

Fiber- 2g

Sugar- 4g

Cholesterol- 0g

Vitamins and minerals–

Calcium- 3% of daily value (DV)

Folate- 5% of DV

Magnesium

Potassium- 115% of DV

Phosphorus- 3% of DV

Vitamin C- 30% of DV

Turnip greens are also full of nutrition. Vitamin A and C are found in abundance in turnip leaves. One cup of greens contains 6373 IU of vitamin A and 33mg of Vitamin C.

Health benefits

Vitamin C is helpful in protecting the body from free radical damage. To add to this, it increases iron absorption and regulates blood cholesterol.

Vitamin K, on the other hand, prevents excessive bleeding. Vitamin A regulates eye, skin and lung health.

Anti cancer properties– Turnip is famous all around the globe for its anti cancer properties. It helps prevent growth and spread of cancerous cells. Also, turnips are rich in glucosinolates. Glucosinolates are a group of bioactive plant compounds. These compounds have antioxidant properties and therefore, reduce risk of various cancers like lung cancer, colon cancer, rectal cancer etc.

Along with this, they are also enriched with flavonoids. Mainly anthocyanins are found in turnips and they are known to have anti cancer properties too. Plus, they lower the risk of chronic and degenerative disease.

Control blood sugar– Turnip swollen roots and greens are believed to have anti-diabetic effects. They can control metabolic disorders like high blood cholesterol, high triglyceride levels. Further, they increase blood sugar clearage and lower production of glucose from the liver. Also, they reduce the absorption of carbohydrates.

Anti inflammatory– Many diseases cause inflammation in the body part as symptoms like arthritis, cancer or high blood pressure. Turnip can be helpful in such a condition due to the presence of glucosinolates. It breaks down into indoles and isothiocyanates which have anti-inflammatory properties.

Protect against Bacteria– Turnip has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties also. Turnip ensures inhibition of bacterial or microbial growth in the human body.

Weight management– It is a non starch edible, full of fibre, and has very low calorie count. Therefore, consuming this will help you stay full for longer periods and healthy.

Promote bone health– Materials present in turnip have the power to maintain good bone health. Vitamin K found in turnip helps in bone metabolism.

Liver protection– Consuming turnip ensures lesser glucose production and thus less stress on the liver of the human body.

How to grow turnips

First of all, you must be aware of when to grow turnips. Turnip growth months vary with region. For late spring harvest, you can sow seeds directly in your garden around 2-3 weeks before the average last frost date. For instance, in USA zone 2a, the best time for sowing seeds of turnip is august and September for autumn harvest. You can easily check out the best month of growth of your region.

For autumn harvest seeds are sown in late summers. These seeds are generally sowed after summer crops of onion,squash, beans or sweetcorn. Seeds can be sowed in early autumn too to get a late autumn harvest.

They grow in temperatures ranging from 40F to 70F ( 7-24C). They must be reaped out before temperature exceeds 24 C.

Next thing that you need to focus upon is the planting site. The place for growing turnips must receive full sunlight for maximum hours. Soil of the area must be well drained to ensure good growth and sweet and tender vegetables. If soil is heavy or clayey, you can fix it by adding sand in it before seeding. Remove any stones at the site to provide a bigger area for roots to expand. pH of soil must be ranging between 5.5 to 6.8.

Addition of compost and well aged manure is suggested. Manure or organic compost is enriched with nutrients and minerals. Therefore, it is very beneficial in the growth of turnips.

Soil bed must be weed free. But keep in mind that removal of weeds can disturb roots of young turnip plants. Therefore be careful while removing weeds. Usage of mulch is proven beneficial. It helps in retaining moisture in soil and suppresses weeds too. Addition of peat moss, compost,coconut coir or well aged manure is also favoured.

Although not much care is needed for turnip plants but do provide them with enough moisture at all times of growing period. Watering must be done upto 1 inch per week to avoid bitter and tough roots. It is observed that they demand dry bed but wet heads. Plus, soil must be kept moist at all times.

Overcrowding must be avoided in case of turnip plants. It results in small roots in turnips.

How to sow turnip seeds

Turnip seeds are sowed directly into the soil. Just scatter the seeds in your garden. Dig a small hole of ½ inch depth. Place the seed in it and cover it with soil and then patt a little. Further, they must be placed 2 inch apart wide rows of 12 inches. In later stages,thin them upto 4-6 inches apart for large turnips while 2-4 inches apart for greens. Overcrowding can be an issue for turnip plants. Therefore, work out these beforehand.

You can also grow turnips in pots or containers. The container taken for turnip growth must be 8inch deep at least. This depth will ensure proper growth of roots.

Further, for summer harvest, seeds should be sown in early spring, 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date. And in the case of autumn harvest, sow seeds 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost date. You can expect mature turnips in early spring and after 2 months of first frost date respectively.

Germination time of turnips

Turnip seeds take around 3 – 10 days approximately to germinate. Soil beds are required to be moist all the time for faster and better germination of turnip seeds. The temperature conditions must be favourable and the best temperature for germination is 71F or 21C. Also, colder temperatures can delay germination. Optimum Temperature for turnip growth is 16C.

Diseases in Turnip

Pests can affect turnip plants in various ways. Some might cause defects in vegetables or some can affect leaves of the turnip plant. Whatever, it is they ,ust be taken care of to ensure healthy plants.

Aphids and flea beetles are disastrous for turnips. Aphids can be removed by pinching out the foliage. While on the other hand, flea beetles can be removed or avoided by getting rid of weeds in the area of turnip plantation.

White rust of fungus is also a disease seen in turnips. It results in small white cottony blisters on the upper surface of the leaves. Yellow discolouration is also observed on the underside in this disease.

Alternaria leaf spot- In this disease, small black spots appear on leaves which turn into brown or grey. It is caused by fungus and can be treated with a fungicide.

Anthracnose- Small circular shaped spots appear on leaves. High number of spots can kill the leaves of turnip plants. Lesions turn leaves into yellow and make them wilt. The cause of this disease is fungus. Sanitary practices must be considered to avoid fungus and cruciferous weeds should be gotten rid off.

Black rot- dark rings appear on the cross section of stem in black rot. Lesions of v shape can also be seen. Leaves can turn into yellow or brown. Cause of disease is a bacteria. Good sanitation must be ensured and avoid sprinkler irrigation.

Club root- slow and stunted growth is observed.roots become distorted in this disease. It is caused by fungus. Treatment of this disease is economically unfeasible. In future,purchase certified plants from a renowned nursery.

Downy mildew- irregular yellow patches on the leaves are observed and gray growth is observed on underside of leaves. Apply appropriate fungicide and remove crop debris.

Root maggots- This insect leads to root damage and scars on the turnip.

Growth time for turnips

It takes from 5 weeks to 2 months to grow turnips. Growth time for turnip varies on the basis of a variety of turnip-like greens, tender roots to eat, or larger roots to store. It takes 60 days to grow fully but if you pull them out in 30 days, they will be very small in size.

Growing for 60 days helps in making them more flavoured and avoid watery or bland taste.

Along with time, take care of proper water supply too, in order to receive sweeter and tender turnips.

When to harvest turnips

Small, young and tender turnips can be harvested after 5 weeks of sowing seeds. Main crop can be harvested from 6 weeks to 10 weeks.

Fall turnips are harvested after light frost and they are known to be sweeter than other harvests. Do harvest them before hard breeze for best results.

Lift roots when they are 2-3 inch in diameter. Further, you can cut leaves of turnips when they are 12 inch long. Keep in mind to lift them very carefully with a garden fork.

After harvesting turnips, you can store them for 3 or 4 months in cool,dark and humid places. Turnips can also be stored in the root cellar, a vegetable drawer for the fridge in a perforated plastic bag.

Turnips plant is such a plant that doesn’t require much effort for growing. You just need to take care of the water supply and good soil condition for them to be best. Ensure good fertility in the sowing and growing period to receive sweet and tender turnips. Above mentioned knowledge is enough for you to get started. Then what are you waiting for, just begin.

Livestock farming

Sheep Farming – A Step to Step Guide

ByMaryem

Sheep farming is generally described as ‘commercial breeding of sheep for meat, milk and wool processing.’ It is a traditional business for the communities of several countries worldwide. However, sheep farming is not a successful choice for industrial milk processing. Sheep are ideal for the processing of meat and wool.

You must have adequate facilities such that both small and big Sheep can be raised. It should be acknowledged that the sector of sheep farming is a very lucrative venture. You can desire to earn handsome sheep farming profit within a short period, you can get your savings back. However, create a solid business plan and operate accordingly before beginning a sheep farming company.

Here we will tell you about the benefits of sheep farming. Why should you raise Sheep? What are the conventional sheep breeding methods? And the right ideas for sheep raising.

Also read; Biofloc Fish Farming – A Complete Guide

Sheep Farming Profit – Why Should You Go For It?

Sheep are primarily bred for their development of fur, meat, skin, and manure. Sheep meat is not only quite tasty; it is healthy and famous among all styles of people worldwide. If you decide to find the most successful business then sheep farming may be an outstanding idea as it is a decent source of revenue and for eradicating deprivation from the dry, desert, semi-arid, and mountainous regions.

Look at some of the points below that are must know before you dream to accumulate sheep farming profit.

Sheep farming needs less labor than any other cattle growing business.
You don’t have to have significant capital to start this venture.
An expensive sheep’s house is not needed since they require lesser living space. Sheep should be fed like other cattle.
Sheep ingest different kinds of vegetables, just like any other animal group. The good thing about them is that they can survive on low-quality grass. It means that you don’t need to do anything extensive to feed them.
One more great thing about the Sheep is they are so adaptable that they can survive in almost all sorts of environments. Be it sheep farming in the USA or somewhere else.
Some unemployed young people may even create a reliable source of income and education by growing sheep farming businesses.

Steps To Start Sheep Farming Business

To begin learning to start the first-ever successful sheep farming business, you need to know about the various steps involved in it. No matter whether you do sheep farming in New Zealand, or USA. So, without any ado, let’s quickly dive in.

1. Plan It The Right Way

The exciting news is that it is straightforward to start a profitable sheep farming venture. First, always make the right plan when starting up a business. And obey that and begin with a stepwise procedure.

2. Suitable location

Then choose a convenient place to start a rather valuable sheep farm. Take charge of the necessary sheep raising facilities. Good clean and freshwater must be available, adequate green areas, right medication, transport, and proper marketing are essential resources for beginning commercial sheep farming. Consequently, the following things must be held in mind when choosing a suitable location for sheep farming.

3. Quality of breeds

You should try to buy quality breeds from renowned breeders. There are various sheep types worldwide. However, you must be mindful that not all such kinds are ideal for farming in all regions. On the one side, certain varieties are suitable for producing industrial meat and others to produce wool. Choose the appropriate breed according to your desired output. Local races should be taken into consideration.

4. Housing

Interestingly, sheep do not need expensive housing. They will be comfortable even if you meet the basic housing needs. You can also breed them on a small scale with other farm animals. However, if you want to rear them commercially, then you would require an appropriate place. You will also have to take care of their safety—the safety from adverse weather along with some dangerous animals.

An adult sheep needs roughly 20 square feet of space available. Like, you will make a house of 10×20 feet, if you want to raise ten goats. The roof will be at least 6 feet high from the ground with a strong airflow structure. It should be clean and dry, with ample light and air inside the room. It will be helpful if you have a drainage system inside the building.

5. Feeding the Sheep

Healthy nutrition of Sheep is a must for proper growth and optimum output. High-quality food makes them safe, active, and free from diseases. Therefore, always consider feeding your Sheep with good food of high quality. Usually, all grasses, plants, and maize are their favorite. In addition to the above, please offer your Sheep enough fresh and clean water on demand.

6. Fencing

You must fence around the field if you allow them to graze on the ground. The fence must be sturdy enough to keep them from escaping and remaining securely inside. This can serve to keep all sorts of animals away if the fencing is secure. It is best to construct a wire or a woven fence.

7. Caring

To ensure maximum benefit from your sheep farming venture, you must care and manage your Sheep properly. It is recommended to buy quality and productive cattle, feed them nutritious meals. Also, make a comfortable house for them.

8. Vaccinate the Sheep

Vaccinate the pets properly. It will protect them from different disease forms. One ought to have a good relationship with the veterinarian, so you can always ask for support.

9. Marketing Hack

For marketing, try your nearest livestock market. Identify marketing tactics before starting a business. Also, a foreign exchange may be regarded if you have enough facilities. Sheep goods have strong international demand. Therefore, foreign currency can be gained by selling sheep products. It will also boost national income directly. Poor people can win extra money by rearing small-scale goats.

Look at some popular sheep breeds

As mentioned above, there are various sheep breeds. So, you need to be very choosy when it comes to making this business profitable. Here we are only going to discuss some of the most famous sheep breeds concerning the USA and New Zealand.

Sheep farming in the USA: Breeds

More than 60 sheep species are recognized by the American Sheep Industry Association (ASI). A few were recently added through semen and embryos. Others have been introduced to the American colonies with early settlers and helped to develop trade. Katahdin, Berkshire, Essex, Dorper, Dorset, and Southdown are the six groups with the most ethnic records. While not in the top six breeds, the Rambouillet is perhaps the most significant breed in the United States, as it forms the basis of most Western flocks. The Livestock Conservancy categorizes fewer common species, whose aim is to prevent the disappearance of endangered animals and breeds of poultry.

Awassi

It is one of the prominent breeds when it comes to sheep farming in the USA. It is a fat-tailed sheep, which is also the highest milk producing cattle, too. Awassi has heads and legs in white and brown colors. So, it won’t be wrong to call them multicolored. Its long and drooping ears are what make them even more attractive. Rams are horned, and the ewe is pounded. It has excellent adaptability for even poor feeding. In 2012, Awassi was first introduced in the USA via embryos.

American Blackbelly

The American Blackbelly is indeed the result of the Mouflon and Rambouillet crossing of the Barbados Blackbelly mainly to raise rams for trophy hunting. And is very popular when talking about sheep farming in the USA. Rams exhibit impressive horns usually, whereas ewes are polled. Without it, American Blackbelly has characteristics identical to Barbados Blackbelly.

Babydoll Southdown

The Babydoll Southdown is a smaller variant of Southdown, created by breeders who decided to return the Southdown to the roots until selective breeding. To apply for the entry, sheep must weigh shorter than 24 inches (during shearing). Babydolls are also marketed for the field and vineyard farming because of their limited size. They are mostly born as poultry.

Black Welsh Mountain

The Black Welsh Mountain is a little sheep generating a thick black fleece. Ewes are polled. Nevertheless, rams have incredible horns. In 1973, this breed was founded in the United States. Semen imports introduced genetic variation to these flocks in the late 1990s. The protection of livestock implies that this sheep breed is threatened.

Sheep farming in New Zealand

New Zealand, too, has a wide range of sheep breeds. Knowing about them may help you in exploring some more productive sheep breed.

Corriedale

Since its roots, sheep farming in New Zealand has been strongly associated with this flock. Export revenue stemmed mostly from wool purchases, but early in the century, a booming export meat trade with the United Kingdom (which was quite diversified), with the introduction of cooling meat transportation and meat processing, became significant.

There is also a vast region of New Zealand between the sparser grass that fits the Merino and the more fertile grasslands that are the ideal for the Romney and another British longwool. Crosses of these two forms were regarded early in the pastoral tradition of New Zealand.

Border Leicester

This breed is Dishley Leicesters’ linear descendants. In 1767, Matthew and George Culley, who were disciples of the English geneticist Bakewell, started to bring them to Northumberland and eventually became popular in England and southern Scotland.

The Border Leicester offers the crossbred progeny with healthy fertility and reasonable mothering consistency and is used for growing reproduction in commercial flocks such as Romney, Corriedale, and Merino. The Leicester Line was used to create the Border-Romney crossing and the Border-Corriedale hence also called Borderdale in New Zealand.

Dorper

The South African Department of Agriculture agreed in the 1930s to grow a new breed of sheep that had a decent portion of lambing and created a good quality carcass. The Dorper is a cross between the Dorset Horn and the Persian Blackhead. The breeding system led to the Black and the White Dorper. The breed is set to give the features and characteristics a robust replication.

Keep these vital functions of sheep farming in mind:

Sheep collection and purchasing
lamb feeding, weaning,
housing and shelter maintenance,
culling, record keeping, marking

Bonus Tip:

To run any business competitively, every owner needs to update him to the latest changes in the sheep rearing industry and technology. In this case, reading journals, newspapers, or sheep farming webpages may be handy. You can even visit some farms in your town, gather experience and finally do it.

Conclusion

It is not, so that sheep farming business is risk-free. There are so many issues that need more significant consideration on the owner’s part. Many questions come up in sheep farming, such as defending the Sheep from threats, housing arrangements, cold weather protection, diseases, etc.

Among these issues, sheep suffer most from diseases and predators. Create adequate fencing to cover your goats. Vaccinate diseases early to avoid goats. They are safe from various forms of diseases, which are the most dangerous challenge.