Improving Nitrogen Performance with Dr. John Murphy and AgXplore

Improving Nitrogen Performance with Dr. John Murphy and AgXplore

In this episode of The Specialty Crop Cast, I sit down with Dr. John Murphy, Director of Agronomy at AgXplore, to learn about his journey through agriculture and what led him to one of the industry's leading crop nutrition companies. We discuss the similarities and differences between row crops and specialty crops, how agronomic principles translate across both industries, and why specialty crop growers can benefit from innovative nutrition strategies. We also take a closer look at the N Zone Max trial we're conducting in my high-density Honeycrisp apple orchard in Northern Michigan, what we're hoping to learn, and how these products could impact tree health and productivity. Topics covered: * Dr. John Murphy's background in agronomy * The story behind AgXplore * Row crop vs. specialty crop production * Bringing innovative nutrition programs into orchards * Our N Zone Max Honeycrisp trial * What growers should watch for this season A special thank you to our title sponsor, Nichino America, for supporting The Specialty Crop Cast and helping us bring educational conversations like this to growers across the specialty crop industry. Be sure to learn more about their crop protection solutions at Nichino America [https://nichino.net/?utm_source=chatgpt.com]. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to The Specialty Crop Cast, leave a review, and share it with another grower. To learn more about AgXplore and their crop nutrition products, visit AgXplore [https://www.agxplore.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com]. Thanks for listening, and be sure to follow The Specialty Crop Cast for more conversations with the people shaping the future of specialty crop agriculture.

How GoGo squeeZ Sources Apples from American Growers | Rachael Miller on Rengenerative Ag and Healthy Snacking

In this episode of The Specialty Crop Cast, I sit down with Rachel Miller from GoGo squeeZ to discuss how one of America's most recognizable applesauce brands works with growers, supports agriculture, and delivers healthy snacks to millions of families. We talk about where GoGo squeeZ apples come from, how the company partners with U.S. fruit growers, what goes into producing high-quality applesauce, sustainability initiatives, food innovation, and what consumers may not realize about the journey from orchard to pouch. Whether you're a farmer, grower, or simply curious about where your food comes from, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the specialty crop industry and one of its most recognizable brands. If you enjoy conversations about farming, apples, orchards, agriculture, and the people shaping the future of specialty crops, be sure to subscribe to The Specialty Crop Cast for new episodes featuring growers, researchers, agribusiness leaders, and innovators from across the industry. 👍 Like the episode 💬 Leave a comment with your favorite GoGo squeeZ flavor. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode. GoGo squeeZ has been helping families enjoy convenient, real-fruit snacks since launching in the U.S. in 2008. Today, the company offers a wide variety of fruit, yogurt, smoothie, and protein snack pouches while partnering with American growers and operating one of its major production facilities in Traverse City, Michigan. The brand is also committed to sustainability through responsible sourcing, manufacturing improvements, recycling initiatives, and community partnerships. To learn more about GoGo squeeZ, explore their products, or read about their sustainability initiatives, visit: https://gogosqueez.com/ [https://gogosqueez.com/] #SpecialtyCropCast #GoGoSqueeZ #AppleFarming

100 Years of the National Cherry Festival | Kat Paye

The National Cherry Festival is celebrating 100 years, and in this episode of The Specialty Crop Cast, we sit down with Executive Director Kat Paye to explore the history, impact, and future of one of America's most iconic agricultural festivals. From its humble beginnings in Traverse City, Michigan, to becoming a world-renowned celebration of cherries, agriculture, and community, Kat shares what it takes to organize this landmark event, how the festival has evolved over the past century, and what visitors can expect during the historic 100th anniversary celebration. We also discuss the festival's connection to Michigan's cherry industry, its economic impact, volunteer efforts, and why this celebration continues to be a cornerstone of Northern Michigan. Whether you're a grower, agriculture enthusiast, festival-goer, or simply curious about the people behind one of the nation's longest-running agricultural celebrations, this episode offers an inside look at a century of tradition and the future of the National Cherry Festival. 🍒 Learn more about the National Cherry Festival: https://www.cherryfestival.org/ [https://www.cherryfestival.org/] This episode of The Specialty Crop Cast is proudly sponsored by Nichino America. Nichino America is committed to providing innovative crop protection solutions that help growers maximize crop quality, productivity, and profitability. Their trusted portfolio of insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, and miticides helps specialty crop growers protect what matters most. Learn more about Nichino America: www.nichino.net [www.nichino.net] 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow growers, industry professionals, and anyone passionate about agriculture. #SpecialtyCropCast #NationalCherryFestival #MichiganCherries

Navigating The Farms Future Successfully

What happens when it's time to pass the farm to the next generation? In this episode of the Pomes and Stones Podcast, we sit down with succession planning expert Art Littlefield to discuss one of the most important—and often most difficult—topics facing farm families today. We cover the challenges of transferring land, equipment, and management responsibilities while preserving family relationships and keeping farms viable for future generations. Whether you're actively planning a transition or just beginning to think about the future, this conversation offers valuable insights for growers of all ages.In this episode: 🍏 Why succession planning should start earlier than most growers think 🍒 Common mistakes farm families make during transitions 🚜 How to navigate conversations between generations 🌱 Fair vs. equal inheritance among farming and non-farming heirs 📈 Building a plan that protects both the farm and the family 👨‍🌾 Preparing the next generation for leadershipIf you're part of a family farm, orchard, or agricultural business, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Arthur Littlefield, MBA Farm Succession & Estate Planning Coordinator Academy Financial, Inc. – Agribusiness Services Cell: (630) 408-0110 Text: (269) 201-5480 Fax: (630) 369-3360 Art.Littlefield@academyfinancialinc.com [Art.Littlefield@academyfinancialinc.com] The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. This information is not intended to be a substitute for individualized legal advice. Please consult your legal advisor regarding your specific situation. Associates of Academy Financial, Inc. are registered representatives of LPL Financial Securities and advisory offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

The Most Frosty Spring

A frosty spring update from the guys