High Desert Food

NAU study finds drought-quenching bacteria protect plants from climate stress

In vineyards growers have been using brix measurements to determine when to pick grapes for a long time. Brix is now also associated with nutrient density and a refractometer is an inexpensive way to determine how your fruit and veggies are doing.

Grants for organic farmers

"A group of scientists at University of Illinois says that research from the Morrow Plots, the oldest research plots in the country, is indicating a decline in soil carbon from the use of synthetic N fertilization. ... Applications of humates will not only increase soil carbon levels, but will improve water retention, drainage, soil tilth and nutrient retention. Humates also provide a healthy substrate for beneficial soil microbes."

While we have LOTS of calcium, most is not available due to our high pH

Inexpensive, but does it work in our high pH desert soils?