We’ve got big updates to share with our members, and we’re inviting you to join us for our Quarterly Membership Meeting on Tuesday, June 4 at 6:00 PM (ET) via Zoom.
This meeting is for Veterans IN Farming members only, and Zoom access info will be sent directly to your inbox through our May newsletter. Be sure to check your spam folder if you don’t see it—we don’t want you to miss out.
AgriVet Challenge Launch Learn about new funding opportunities available through At Ease Orchard to help Veterans IN Farming members grow their farm businesses.
Multi-State Conference Preview Get the scoop on our upcoming July veterans-in-agriculture conference, featuring:
Dr. Adam Ingrao from Heroes to Hives
In-person networking with veteran farmers from Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio
Hands-on learning in beekeeping, conservation, and farm development
Community Updates + Announcements
This is a great chance to hear what’s happening, ask questions, and connect with fellow veteran farmers.
Versatile gear that earns its keep day in and day out.
On a small farm, the best tools are the ones that show up for multiple jobs. Whether you're managing livestock, fencing, water, or infrastructure, space and budget are always limited—so everything needs to work harder.
Here’s a list of tried-and-true tools and gear that regularly prove their value across a range of small farm operations.
1. Post Driver and Puller If you’re rotating animals or managing temporary fencing, a manual post driver is essential for t-posts and step-ins. A t-post puller—or a high-lift jack with a chain—makes teardown efficient and prevents injury.
2. Cordless Drill or Impact Driver Used constantly for building chicken tractors, hanging gates, installing fencing hardware, or making field repairs. Attachments like a wire brush, scrubber, or mixing paddle make it even more versatile. Keep a spare charged battery on hand.
3. Propane Torch (Weed Torch) Used for burning weeds along electric fence lines (carefully!), clearing garden beds without tilling, sterilizing metal tools, or thawing pipes in winter. A straightforward tool with wide utility—just practice standard fire safety. Great for making holes in garden weed mats.
4. Heavy-Duty Garden Cart or Wagon Look for one with steel sides and pneumatic tires. Useful for moving feed, crates, bedding, tools, firewood, fencing gear, or harvested produce. Removable sides convert it to a flatbed for larger or awkward loads.
5. Multi-Tool (e.g., Leatherman, Gerber) A reliable multi-tool can handle small repairs on the fly—tightening, cutting, prying—without heading back to the barn.
6. IBC Totes for Mobile Watering Where water lines aren’t available—especially in silvopasture, mobile poultry systems, or leased ground—repurposed IBC totes are a smart solution. Mounted on a trailer or truck bed, they allow you to gravity-feed or pump water into troughs or buckets. Look for used foodsafe ones that can be deep cleaned and used on the farm.
7. Five-Gallon Buckets Ubiquitous for a reason. Use them for carrying feed, water, tools, compost, harvested produce, or fencing supplies. Flip one upside-down for a seat or step stool. They’re stackable, cheap, and indispensable. Look for foodsafe ones that are leftover from restaurants.
8. Tough Storage Totes or Contractor Boxes Essential for organizing gear—whether it’s vet first aid kits, seed, mineral supplements, or fencing tools. Whether you use contractor boxes or old military totes, sturdy containers help keep gear dry, organized, and mobile.
9. Basic Horse or Fence Repair Kit Keep a small grab-and-go kit in your truck, UTV, or barn that includes:
Pliers or fencing tool
Extra insulators
Fence tester (Premier1 has a good one)
Splice sleeves or wire
Zip ties and gloves
Final Thoughts A good farm tool doesn’t sit on a shelf—it’s the one you reach for again and again, no matter the job. The tools above aren’t specialty items—they’re the kind of gear that saves time, prevents frustration, and adapts to whatever the day throws at you.
If you have a piece of gear or a system that’s made your work more efficient, let us know. We’re always looking to share practical solutions from the field.
After a long winter, spring brings back fresh greens, longer days, and—if you keep hens—a steady supply of eggs. This simple skillet recipe is a great way to use what’s on hand. It works as a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a hearty breakfast, especially when paired with toast, potatoes, or seasonal vegetables.
This isn’t fancy. It’s just solid, real food—and it comes together in under 20 minutes.
Serves 2
Ingredients:
4 fresh eggs
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
2–3 cups fresh spinach or other spring greens (kale, chard, or dandelion greens all work well)
1 garlic clove, minced (or a few wild ramps if you forage them)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: grated cheese, leftover cooked sausage, or diced potatoes
Instructions:
Heat olive oil or butter/ghee in a cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat.
Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Toss in the well washed greens and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
Make four small wells in the greens and crack an egg into each.
Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook until the whites are set but yolks are still soft—about 4–5 minutes.
Season with real salt and pepper. Add cheese or sausage if using.
Serve straight from the skillet with toast, fried potatoes, or roasted asparagus.
If you raise your own hens—or buy from someone local who does—you’re already ahead in terms of nutrition. Compared to conventional store-bought eggs, pastured eggs have been shown to contain:
Up to twice as much vitamin E
More omega-3 fatty acids
Less cholesterol and saturated fat
Higher levels of vitamin A, D, and beta carotene
These nutritional advantages come from hens having access to forage, insects, and sunlight—all part of a more natural diet and environment.
(Source: Mother Earth News Egg Testing Project, 2007; USDA data)
Dandelion greens are an excellent spring substitute for spinach or kale. They’re often one of the first edible plants to appear in Indiana and can be found growing in gardens, fields, and around barns.
Harvest young leaves from clean, unsprayed areas. Avoid roadsides or treated lawns. Rinse thoroughly and chop before cooking.
Dandelion greens are rich in:
Vitamin K, A, and C
Calcium, iron, and potassium
Antioxidants that support digestion and liver health
They pair naturally with garlic and eggs and offer a slightly earthy, mineral-rich flavor. They will be very bitter if they're harvested too late.
Ticks are an everyday reality for farmers, especially in spring, summer, and fall when fieldwork and livestock management bring you into close contact with tall grass, brush, and wooded areas. Tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever are serious health threats, and cases have been increasing in Indiana. Prevention and daily awareness are essential for anyone working outdoors.
While Indiana has over a dozen tick species, three are most relevant to farmers:
American Dog Tick (Dermacentor variabilis): Most active from April to July, this species can transmit Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.
Lone Star Tick (Amblyomma americanum): Found primarily in southern Indiana, active from March through fall. It can carry ehrlichiosis and is linked to Alpha-gal Syndrome, a red meat allergy.
Blacklegged Tick (Ixodes scapularis): Also known as the deer tick, it’s active during any warm period year-round and is the main vector for Lyme disease in Indiana. It isn't killed by most winter temperatures even when it feels frigid!
For more information, see the Harrison County Health Department’s Tick Brochure (PDF).
Protecting yourself from tick bites starts with a routine:
Permethrin-treated clothing is one of the most effective defenses. Products like Sawyer’s Permethrin Spray can be applied to boots, pants, shirts, and outerwear. Once dry, the treatment remains effective through several washes.
Picaridin and DEET-based repellents are also effective when applied to exposed skin. Look for at least 20% concentration for extended protection.
Essential oil sprays (using oils like cedarwood, geranium, or eucalyptus) may offer some short-term protection, especially for low-risk areas, but they should not be used as your only repellent strategy as they are effective for about an hour.
Daily tick checks should be a part of your routine—especially after evening chores. Check behind the knees, at the waistband, under the arms, around the ears, and along the scalp. Any work clothes should be thrown right in the washer/dryer, or into the dryer by itself for a hot tumble.
If you find an embedded tick, consider sending it for testing through TickReport.com, a diagnostic lab that can identify the tick and test it for multiple pathogens.
We also recommend having a tick bite kit available in your home, vehicle, and barn. Include fine-tipped tweezers, antiseptic wipes, a small container or sealed bag for saving the tick, and a don't forget to mark on your phone's calendar when incident occurred to track bites.
Ticks do not only affect humans. Livestock such as cattle, goats, and horses can become tick hosts, bringing ticks closer to workspaces, gates, and buildings. Regular grooming and parasite checks are a good addition to your management routine, especially for animals on pasture or near wooded areas. Speak with your veterinarian about a tick prevention plan that fits your species and operation.
Some poultry can reduce tick pressure. Chickens, turkeys, and ducks will consume ticks opportunistically, though they may not keep populations under control alone. Guinea fowl are known to be more aggressive tick hunters, but they come with significant drawbacks: they are loud, wander extensively, and tend to roost on rooftops—especially standing seam metal roofs. For farms with neighbors or sensitive buildings, guineas may not be a good fit.
Another option for reducing tick populations around your farmstead is the use of tick tubes. These cardboard tubes are filled with permethrin-treated cotton that mice use for nesting. When ticks feed on the treated mice, they die—interrupting the tick life cycle. A trusted product is Thermacell Tick Control Tubes, which are widely available or can be made as a DIY solution.
Tick-borne diseases often begin with subtle, non-specific symptoms—joint pain, fatigue, headaches, fever, or memory issues. The classic “bullseye rash” of Lyme disease only appears in a small percentage of cases. Infections like ehrlichiosis and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever can develop quickly and may become severe if not treated early.
For updated information on symptoms, co-infections, and treatment protocols, go to LymeDisease.org, a well-regarded nonprofit that offers evidence-based resources and patient advocacy.
If you believe you’ve been exposed, speak with a Lyme Literate doctor. For livestock concerns, reach out to your veterinarian to develop a prevention or treatment plan. Don't forget about your pets too!
Farming in Indiana means working in tick territory. With daily prevention habits, routine livestock checks, and access to the right resources, you can reduce the risk of long-term illness for both you and your animals.
This article is not intended as medical or veterinary advice. Please consult your doctor or veterinarian to create a personalized plan based on your health, livestock species, and property conditions.
Starting a farm takes a serious investment—time, money, and energy. For those just getting started, it’s easy to feel like you have more questions than answers. The good news is that you don’t have to figure it all out alone. There are people and programs across Indiana who understand what you’re working toward and can help along the way.
Whether you're farming full time, part time, or still exploring your options, here are several trusted resources that can help you take your next step.
This July, the Veteran Farmer Conference in Shipshewana brings together farmers from Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Illinois for a full weekend of education and connection. The sessions cover business planning, sustainable farming practices, and practical tools for both beginning and experienced farmers. If you’re still deciding whether to scale up or keep your farm as a side venture or hobby, this event can help you clarify your goals and build your network.
Event details and registration are available at: vetsinfarming.wildapricot.org/Conference
Most counties in Indiana have a local chapter of Indiana Farm Bureau, which is worth connecting with early on. While known for policy work and insurance, local chapters often provide workshops, small grants, and events that bring the community together. County-level staff can also help answer questions or connect you with someone who’s been farming in your area for a long time.
Purdue Extension is a valuable source of science-based guidance on everything from soil testing to pest management. Their educators know Indiana’s climate and growing conditions and can help troubleshoot issues or walk you through best practices for livestock, produce, and more.
Your local Soil and Water Conservation District office is also a good place to go when you’re thinking about land management or applying for programs through NRCS. They can often help with project planning, grazing advice, and pointing you toward funding options.
If you’re dealing with an injury, disability, or physical limitation, AgrAbility works with farmers to develop adaptive tools, adjust infrastructure, and help you continue working safely. They understand the toll this work can take and are known for helping farmers find real, workable solutions that keep them doing the work they love.
This season, we’ll be offering a High Tunnel Build Day where you can learn how to construct one of these season-extending structures from start to finish. It’s a chance to ask questions, meet other veterans in agriculture, and see if a tunnel is something that might work on your land. No construction experience is required—just a willingness to show up and learn. Full event details are posted at: vetsinfarming.wildapricot.org/Events
Indiana is home to a vibrant array of birds, making it an exceptional place for birdwatching enthusiasts. Whether you're wanting to identify birds on your farm, or figure out how to keep your poultry safe from migrating birds, there are excellent resources available to enhance your birding experience.
Recently, Courtney Schmidt, Purdue Extension Educator for Agriculture & Natural Resources and Health & Human Sciences, shared valuable insights and resources about birdwatching in Indiana. Here’s what you need to know:
Indiana DNR Interpretive Naturalist Chandler Sonafrank offers engaging guidance on birdwatching in the state. His insights help bird enthusiasts better identify and appreciate the diverse species found throughout Indiana. Watch the full session here:
Birdwatching in Indiana with Chandler Sonafrank
Having reliable field guides or apps makes bird identification easier and more enjoyable:
Sibley Bird Guides: One of the most respected bird identification resources, perfect for birders of all skill levels. Visit the Sibley Guides website.
Merlin Bird ID App: Developed by Cornell Labs, this intuitive app helps identify birds by their calls and visual characteristics, tailored specifically for your location. Download the Merlin Bird ID App.
Bird health and safety are important for birdwatchers and poultry owners alike. For the latest updates on avian flu in Indiana, check the Indiana Board of Animal Health:
Indiana Board of Animal Health Bird Flu Updates
Indiana native plants provide essential habitats for local bird species. Participating in native plant sales and educational programs offered through your local Extension office supports local ecosystems and encourages bird-friendly environments.
(Please note that we are verifying this as we test this program out with one of our veteran farms. We will update it as soon as we have additional information.)
When service members return to civilian life, they bring valuable skills and experiences with them. To further support their transition, Indiana offers a law that grants honorably discharged veterans a free license to vend, hawk, or peddle goods. Although this legislation dates back to the Mexican–American War era, its modern application continues to deliver tangible benefits today.
Dating back to the mid-19th century, when returning soldiers from conflicts such as the Mexican–American War encountered significant challenges during their transition to civilian life, Indiana implemented measures to support their reintegration. The original “peddlers permit” allowed veterans to launch small ventures without incurring licensing fees—a model that has evolved into the practical benefit available today.
Indiana Code Title 25, Article 25, Chapter 2, Section 25‑25‑2‑1 remains a key resource for veteran farmers. Under this law, any veteran holding an honorable discharge is entitled to a vending license without the standard fee. For those looking to market farm products—be it fresh produce, artisanal goods, or other agricultural merchandise—the process is straightforward:
Documentation: Present your certificate and discharge papers.
Submission: Submit these documents to your local county auditor.
Issuance: Receive a fee-free license authorizing you to vend, hawk, or peddle goods throughout your county.
Sec. 1. (a) This section applies to: (1) any veteran described in IC 10-17-5-2 or IC 10-17-5-1 (before their repeal); or (2) any other veteran to whom this chapter applies because of the provisions of any other statute; who holds an honorable discharge from such service issued by the proper authorities. Such a person shall be entitled to a license to vend, hawk, and peddle goods, wares, fruits, and merchandise in any county, city, or town in Indiana without the payment of any fee for the license. Upon the presentation of the person's certificate and papers of discharge, properly executed, to the auditor of any county and proving the person's identity as the person named in the person's certificate of honorable discharge, the auditor shall issue to the former soldier or sailor a free license to vend, hawk, and peddle goods, wares, fruits, and merchandise in the county and in all cities and towns in the county. A fee may not be charged to the holder of the license by the auditor, by the authorities of any city or town in the county, or by any other officer. The license shall be full and complete authority to vend, hawk, and peddle without the payment of any sum of money. (b) A person who acquires a license under this section is subject to all county, city, or town regulations and ordinances concerning vendors, hawkers, or peddlers, except for those provisions requiring payment of money for obtaining a license. Formerly: Acts 1895, c.121, s.1; Acts 1899, c.42, s.1. As amended by Acts 1979, P.L.247, SEC.1; Acts 1980, P.L.38, SEC.16; P.L.16-1983, SEC.17; P.L.2-2003, SEC.66; P.L.42-2020, SEC.16.
Sec. 1. (a) This section applies to: (1) any veteran described in IC 10-17-5-2 or IC 10-17-5-1 (before their repeal); or (2) any other veteran to whom this chapter applies because of the provisions of any other statute; who holds an honorable discharge from such service issued by the proper authorities. Such a person shall be entitled to a license to vend, hawk, and peddle goods, wares, fruits, and merchandise in any county, city, or town in Indiana without the payment of any fee for the license. Upon the presentation of the person's certificate and papers of discharge, properly executed, to the auditor of any county and proving the person's identity as the person named in the person's certificate of honorable discharge, the auditor shall issue to the former soldier or sailor a free license to vend, hawk, and peddle goods, wares, fruits, and merchandise in the county and in all cities and towns in the county. A fee may not be charged to the holder of the license by the auditor, by the authorities of any city or town in the county, or by any other officer. The license shall be full and complete authority to vend, hawk, and peddle without the payment of any sum of money.
(b) A person who acquires a license under this section is subject to all county, city, or town regulations and ordinances concerning vendors, hawkers, or peddlers, except for those provisions requiring payment of money for obtaining a license.
Formerly: Acts 1895, c.121, s.1; Acts 1899, c.42, s.1. As amended by Acts 1979, P.L.247, SEC.1; Acts 1980, P.L.38, SEC.16; P.L.16-1983, SEC.17; P.L.2-2003, SEC.66; P.L.42-2020, SEC.16.
This statute allows veteran farmers to focus on expanding their enterprises while meeting local regulatory requirements—without the added burden of licensing fees.
Enhanced Business Opportunities: Eliminating licensing fees reduces startup costs, enabling reinvestment in farm operations and local market initiatives.
Financial Efficiency: Fewer administrative expenses mean more resources can be allocated to production, equipment, and market expansion.
Local Economic Impact: Veteran-operated ventures contribute to robust local food systems and regional commerce, strengthening community ties.
Ongoing Recognition: This provision continues to acknowledge the service of veterans by offering tangible support in their civilian endeavors.
To secure your fee-free vending license, submit your honorable discharge papers to your local county auditor—not the county clerk.
Do you know a veteran who could benefit from this law? Share this article and help spread the word about Indiana’s commitment to supporting our returning heroes!
We’re excited to announce that our latest Veterans IN Farming Podcast episode is now live and ready for you to listen to on YouTube, iTunes, and Spotify! In this 15 minute episode, we sit down with two exceptional guests—Olivia, a Wildlife Biologist with Pheasants Forever & Quail Forever, and Aubree, a Precision Ag Specialist with the same organizations—to discuss how innovative programs in conservation and technology are supporting veteran farmers across the country.
In today’s fast-paced discussion, Olivia and Aubree share their personal journeys into their fields, explaining what sparked their passion for conservation and precision agriculture. They provide an in-depth look at the vital work their organizations are doing to help veteran farmers access cost-share opportunities, implement sustainable practices, and adopt precision agricultural tools that are not only beneficial for large-scale operations but also accessible to small, diversified farms.
Our guests delve into practical strategies and programs tailored specifically for veteran farmers—from conservation initiatives designed to reduce environmental impact and support healthy farm ecosystems, to the latest in Precision Ag technology that helps streamline operations and boost productivity. They also offer actionable advice on integrating data-driven decision-making into daily farming practices, ensuring that even those new to these concepts can get started on the path toward sustainable success.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from industry experts who are making a real difference in the lives of veteran farmers. Click here to listen on YouTube.
For those passionate about Indiana’s rich agricultural heritage—especially if you own a historic barn or appreciate the legacy of Hoosier farming—the Indiana Barn Foundation is hosting its annual barn tour in LaGrange County on Saturday, September 13, 2025.
This self-guided driving tour offers a unique opportunity to see firsthand the enduring beauty of Indiana’s historic post-and-beam barns—once numbering over 30,000 across the state and now disappearing at an alarming rate. Tickets for the tour will go on sale later this summer, so be sure to watch for updates if you’re interested in exploring these iconic structures up close.
Indiana’s historic barns are much more than simple agricultural buildings; they are symbols of the ingenuity, perseverance, and craftsmanship of generations of Hoosier farmers. In 2013, preservation advocates led by Mauri Williamson—a Purdue administrator deeply moved by the legacy of Indiana’s rural communities—came together to launch the Indiana Barn Foundation. Since its inception, the organization has been dedicated to protecting these irreplaceable landmarks through educational programs, workshops, and funding initiatives.
During the LaGrange County barn tour, participants will have the chance to drive along scenic routes to view beautifully restored barns, appreciate traditional construction techniques, and learn about the rich history and cultural significance of these structures from local historians and veteran farmers. The event is designed to answer a question many people have: “Where can I see these beautiful barns up close?”
In addition to the tour, the Indiana Barn Foundation offers valuable financial support for barn preservation through its Barn Preservation Grant Fund. Applications for 2025 are now being accepted, and this matching-grant program is designed to help barn owners repair and maintain their historic structures. Under the program, up to $2,500 per project is available from IBF funds, and recipients are required to match that amount—whether through cash contributions, additional grants, loans, or in-kind contributions such as donated labor. With this matching support, each project could potentially secure $5,000 or more in total funding. Applications are evaluated based on established criteria, and the IBF Board of Directors will select two projects annually. Approved projects must be completed within one year of receiving the grant.
Barn owners can also take advantage of another important incentive: the Indiana Heritage Barn Tax Deduction. This tax deduction encourages the maintenance and rehabilitation of historic barns by reducing the property tax burden. To qualify, a barn must have been constructed before 1950, retain sufficient historical integrity in its design, materials, and construction, and be built as a mortise and tenon barn—employing traditional heavy wooden timbers joined with wood-pegged joinery. Barn owners should contact their County Assessor’s office to determine if their barn qualifies as a “heritage barn.” Once eligibility is confirmed, they must complete State Form 55706 (R/6-16) and have it processed by the County Auditor. Applications must be submitted by December 31 of the year for which the deduction is sought, with a postmark on or before January 5 of the following year.
There are even more barn-related activities planned. On Friday, September 12, before the official barn tour begins at 10:00 AM on Saturday, you can participate in additional events such as a "Make Your Own Barn Quilt" class and tours of an historic Polygonal Brown Swiss Dairy Barn and the Stutzman Dairy Farm. Tickets for these activities will be available for pre-purchase or on site. Overnight lodging is available in Shipshewana, and evening live concerts are planned at the Blue Gate Performing Arts Center, adding a festive atmosphere to a day of barn appreciation.
Another annual event to keep on your radar is the Indiana Barn Foundation’s Forum and Annual Meeting, scheduled for July in Hamilton County (the exact date is pending between the 12th and 19th). This event is open to all interested parties and features speakers on a range of topics relevant to barn owners and enthusiasts—from preservation techniques and funding strategies to innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture.
For more information on the LaGrange County Barn Tour in the heart of Indiana Amish Country, contact the Shipshewana/LaGrange County Visitors Center at 260.760.4008 or visit www.VisitShipshewana.org for a free travel guide and trip planning assistance.
If you own a historic barn or are passionate about the preservation of Indiana’s agricultural heritage, these events and programs from the Indiana Barn Foundation provide invaluable opportunities to learn, connect, and contribute to the future of Hoosier farming. For more information on event registration, grant applications, and the Heritage Barn Tax Deduction, please visit the Indiana Barn Foundation’s website or contact their event coordinator.
For more information on event registration, grant applications, and the Heritage Barn Tax Deduction, please visit the Indiana Barn Foundation’s website or contact their event coordinator.
For beginning farmers, March is the perfect time to start seeds indoors and get a head start on the growing season. Whether you’re growing vegetables, herbs, or flowers, starting your own seeds allows you to control growing conditions, save money on transplants, and produce healthier, more resilient plants. But it’s not as simple as just tossing seeds in the soil—timing, light, and care all make a difference.
Here’s what you need to know to get your seedlings off to a strong start, plus answers to some of the most common seed-starting issues.
Some crops can be direct-seeded into the ground once the weather warms up, but others—like tomatoes, peppers, and many herbs—need a longer growing season than what your local climate allows. Starting seeds indoors lets you bypass unpredictable weather, extend your growing season, and produce stronger, healthier transplants.
This approach is especially useful if you live in a short-season climate or if you want to maximize early production for market sales. It also gives you more control over what varieties you grow, which is especially important for organic or heirloom producers.
Setting up a successful seed-starting system doesn’t require an expensive greenhouse, but it does take a little planning. Here’s what you’ll need:
One of the biggest mistakes new growers make is starting seeds too early. If plants sit indoors too long, they can become leggy, rootbound, or stunted before they’re ready for transplanting.
Here’s a general guideline for when to start different crops:
To find your last frost date, check the USDA planting zone map or use a resource like Farmers’ Almanac.
Even experienced growers run into issues when starting seeds indoors. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:
If seeds aren’t sprouting, it’s usually due to temperature, moisture, or seed viability issues.
✔ Check soil temperature – Most seeds need 65-75°F to germinate. A cold room or basement might be too chilly. Using a heat mat can help. ✔ Keep soil evenly moist – Seeds need consistent moisture but shouldn’t sit in soggy soil. Covering trays with a humidity dome can help. ✔ Use fresh seeds – Old seeds lose viability. If they’re more than two years old, do a germination test before planting.
Leggy seedlings happen when there’s not enough light or too much warmth.
✔ Provide strong, direct light – Keep grow lights 2-4 inches above seedlings and adjust as plants grow. ✔ Increase air circulation – A small oscillating fan strengthens stems and prevents disease. ✔ Avoid over-fertilizing – Too much nitrogen can make plants grow too fast without strong stems.
Wilting or sudden collapse is often caused by overwatering or damping off, a fungal disease.
✔ Use well-draining seed-starting mix – Avoid heavy, compacted soil. ✔ Water from the bottom – Fill a tray under seedlings instead of watering overhead. ✔ Improve airflow – A small fan reduces humidity and prevents fungal growth.
Yellowing leaves (chlorosis) can be a sign of nutrient deficiency, poor drainage, or transplant stress.
✔ Feed with a diluted organic fertilizer – Once seedlings have their first true leaves, feed lightly every 7-10 days. ✔ Ensure trays drain properly – If soil stays soggy, roots can’t absorb nutrients. ✔ Harden off seedlings before transplanting – Gradually introduce seedlings to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days before planting in the field.
Before moving your seedlings outdoors, they need to adjust to real sunlight, wind, and temperature fluctuations. This process is called hardening off and should be done over 7-10 days:
Starting seeds indoors is a simple, cost-effective way to get a jump on the season and improve success rates for crops. For beginning farmers, it’s a great way to gain confidence in managing crops before investing in large-scale production.
If you’re part of Veterans IN Farming, consider sharing your seed-starting success (or struggles!) with the community. Learning from each other’s experiences is one of the best ways to improve your farm operation.
Got questions? Reach out through Veterans IN Farming—via email or Facebook we’re here to help!