Idaho SEED Podcast by University of Idaho

In this episode of Idaho Seed Podcasts, we dive deep into one of the most persistent challenges for Pacific Northwest hop growers: the Two-Spotted Spider Mite (TSSM). As heat scales up and the canopy closes, these tiny pests can quickly devastate a crop if left unchecked.

Based on current University of Idaho Extension research and IPM best practices, we break down the life cycle of the spider mite and the strategic scouting methods ...

In this episode of Idaho Seed Podcasts, we explore how interseeding cover crops into corn stacks up against traditional row structures. Based on recent research and Extension trials conducted in Idaho, this episode looks at the potential benefits and challenges of this practice, especially in systems focused on soil health and sustainability.

We cover:

• What interseeding is and why farmers are trying it in corn
• The difference betwe...

In this episode of Idaho Seed Podcasts, we dig into one of Idaho agriculture’s most pressing weed threats: Palmer amaranth. This fast-spreading, herbicide-resistant pigweed has already invaded thousands of acres in the state and poses serious risks to sustainable farming. Based on University of Idaho research and Extension efforts, we explore:

• How Palmer amaranth is outsmarting herbicides through rapid resistance
• How to identify ...

This episode of Idaho Seed Podcasts takes a deep dive into the detective work behind identifying and managing potato storage diseases. Based on expert-reviewed content from University of Idaho Extension and narrated by Extension Potato Specialist Noor Olsen, the episode covers:

• How to select the right tubers for disease diagnosis
• What symptoms to look for: texture, color, odor, and more
• Key differences among pink rot, Pythium leak...

In this episode of Idaho Seed Podcasts, we highlight how wireless scopes and digital magnification tools are changing the way farmers and crop consultants scout for tiny, yet costly, pests. Drawing from a University of Idaho Extension research project led by a UI researcher and Extension specialist, we cover:

• How wireless scopes work and how to use them in the field
• The economic and time-saving benefits of visual tech in insect s...

In this episode of Idaho Seed Podcasts, we delve into the essentials of greenhouse gases (GHGs) and their relevance to Idaho agriculture. Based on a University of Idaho Extension publication about green house gasses authored by Lide Chen, Eric Winford, and Mario E. de Haro-Martí, we discuss:

• The primary greenhouse gases and their sources
• The impact of GHGs on climate change
• The role of U.S. agriculture in GHG emissions
• Specific con...

In this episode of Idaho Seed Podcasts, we delve into strategies for improving the retention of Hispanic agricultural employees in Southern Idaho. Drawing from the University of Idaho Extension study titled "Money Doesn’t Always Matter: Low-Cost Ways to Increase the Longevity of Southern Idaho’s Hispanic Agricultural Employees" by Thomas, Packham, and Ghimire, we discuss:​

• Key factors influencing Hispanic agricultural ...

In this episode of Idaho Seed Podcasts, we delve into essential livestock care practices tailored for beginning and small-scale producers. Drawing from the University of Idaho Extension publication BUL 1001, authored by Rebecca Mills, we discuss:​
University of Idaho

• Fundamental aspects of livestock care, including nutrition, housing, and health management
• Best practices for ensuring animal welfare and productivity
• Common chal...

In this episode of Idaho Seed Podcasts, we explore how Nez Perce County farmer Drew Leitch integrates spring- and fall-seeded cover crops into his cow-calf operation, enhancing both soil health and livestock productivity. Based on the Farmer-to-Farmer Case Study Series publication Grazed Cover Cropping, Drew Leitch (PNW721), we discuss:​

• The dual benefits of cover crops for grazing and subsequent grain crops
• Strategies for implem...

In this episode of Idaho Seed Podcasts, we explore how barn owls serve as natural allies in managing vole populations across Idaho's agricultural landscapes. Drawing from the University of Idaho Extension's publication about using barn owls to help manage voles we discuss:​

• The biology and behavior of barn owls
• Their role in controlling vole populations
• Guidelines for constructing and installing barn owl boxes
• Best practi...