Many native plants—including wildflowers, trees, and grasses—require a period of cold before they will germinate. This process, called cold stratification, mimics natural winter conditions that break seed dormancy. Without it, many seeds will not sprout, leading to frustration for beginning farmers and gardeners.
For Indiana farmers in USDA Hardiness Zones 5b to 6b, understanding how to stratify seeds is key to successfully growing native plants that support pollinators, improve soil health, and enhance biodiversity.
Indiana experiences cold winters and warm, humid summers, creating conditions where many native plant seeds naturally undergo stratification. In the wild, seeds drop in the fall, spend the winter buried in soil, and germinate when temperatures rise in the spring. When growing native plants from seed, replicating this process ensures strong germination rates.
Some common Indiana native plants that require cold stratification include:
For farmers working to establish pollinator-friendly plantings, wildlife habitat, or native pastures, cold stratification is an important tool for successful seed germination.
There are several ways to stratify seeds, depending on your goals and planting schedule.
For small-scale seed starting, refrigeration is an effective way to break dormancy.
This method allows for controlled germination timing and is ideal for farmers planning nursery starts or transplanting seedlings in the spring.
For a more natural approach, the milk jug method creates a miniature greenhouse effect.
This method requires minimal effort and works well for native wildflowers and perennials.
For large-scale plantings, sowing seeds directly into the soil in fall allows them to undergo stratification naturally. This works best for native grasses, meadows, and hedgerows. However, unpredictable winter conditions may affect germination rates, making controlled stratification methods preferable for more delicate species.
For farmers interested in native plant propagation, pollinator support, or conservation plantings, cold stratification is essential. Native plants are well-adapted to Indiana’s climate and provide long-term benefits such as:
For those interested in learning hands-on stratification techniques, a free workshop will be held at the IU Campus Farm in Bloomington.
Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025 Time: 2:00 – 4:00 PM Location: IU Campus Farm, 451 N Pete Ellis Dr, Bloomington, IN 47408
Biologist Mary Welz from the Indiana Pollinator Partnership will demonstrate the milk jug method and discuss best practices for growing native plants.
What to Bring: A clean, empty ½ to 1-gallon plastic milk or water jug. Additional materials, including soil, will be provided.
RSVP by February 17th to receive further details.
For questions or directions, contact Christina at (765) 621-2924.
This workshop is a great opportunity for beginning farmers to practice cold stratification techniques, connect with experts, and prepare for a successful growing season.
For Indiana farmers looking to establish native plantings, improve pollinator habitat, or enhance biodiversity, cold stratification is a valuable technique. Whether using refrigeration, winter sowing, or direct fall planting, understanding how to break seed dormancy will lead to higher germination rates and stronger plant growth.
Attending the Cold Stratification Workshop is an excellent way to get started, meet fellow growers, and learn from experienced conservationists. We hope to see you there!
As a young officer in the Army, I learned that the key to success in building something new—whether it’s an organization, a project, or a unit—is “irreversible momentum.” I feel like we’re almost there. With the awards, accolades, and strong partnerships we’ve built in 2024, Veterans IN Farming is gaining real traction.
Our January conference brought together over 70 members, educators, and sponsors to learn about programs and opportunities specifically for veterans in agriculture. It wasn’t just an educational event—it strengthened friendships, built camaraderie, and reinforced our shared mission.
Our focus in 2025 is to mentor and develop veteran farmers in Indiana through the AgriVet Challenge. We have some major players helping us make this a reality, including the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs, Indiana State Department of Agriculture, and Indiana Farm Bureau.
As I mentioned at the conference (and in our YouTube video), this isn’t about simply “giving out” money to the best farm. It’s about nurturing both the veteran and the farm into a viable business—one that can stand up to professional review and get the boost it needs to succeed. We want you to be part of this journey!
I recently had the honor of attending the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Convention in San Antonio, TX, where I was reminded just how many veterans are part of AFBF’s membership. I had the chance to talk with many of them, and I was especially grateful for the opportunity to meet AFBF President Zippy Duvall.
President Duvall is not only an outstanding leader, but also a military dad—his son is a Black Hawk pilot! We had a great discussion about farm bill policy, the challenges veterans face in starting farms, and how veteran farming nonprofits can collaborate with AFBF to support new farmers. He is a strong advocate for veterans in agriculture, and I look forward to future opportunities to work together.
AFBF is not just an insurance provider—they are a powerful voice for farmers. I can’t encourage you enough to join Indiana Farm Bureau (IFB). But don’t just join—participate.
IFB is always looking for new members, and they have leadership opportunities that connect you to your community. I know it can feel intimidating—there’s a perception that IFB is built for large-scale, generational farmers. That’s more myth than truth. There is space for veteran farmers, beginning farmers, and small-scale producers to have a voice.
We’re always looking for members to step into leadership roles. If you’re interested in hosting a VIF conference or workshop in your region or on your farm, we’d love to support you. It’s a rewarding effort that won’t cost you anything.
If you’re interested, email me at joericker@ateaseorchard.com or ricker2@purdue.edu—let’s make it happen.
I’m incredibly excited for 2025—this is the year we’ll finally give out funding to veteran farmers. Mark your calendars for May 9th at The Brookshire in Carmel for our major fundraiser. The more we raise, the more we can give!
Thank you for being part of this mission. Let’s keep building this momentum—together.
- Joe Ricker President, Veterans IN Farming
Starting your own farm or homestead is an exciting journey, but it also comes with important responsibilities—especially when it comes to business planning and financial record keeping. Whether you're just getting started or looking to grow your operation, having a solid financial foundation is key to long-term success.
Good business planning and financial literacy help you make informed decisions, track your progress, and stay prepared for opportunities that come your way. If you plan to work with the USDA or apply for grants and loans, you’ll often be required to provide detailed financial records and a clear business plan. Having this information organized can make the application process smoother and increase your chances of securing funding.
Define Your Goals Start by outlining your short-term and long-term goals. Are you focusing on self-sufficiency, selling at farmers markets, or expanding into larger-scale production? Having clear goals helps guide your planning.
Create a Business Plan A solid business plan should include:
A mission statement
Market research
Production plans
Financial projections
Marketing strategies
Writing down your plan helps you stay focused and makes it easier to present your farm as a serious business to potential lenders or partners.
Seek Out Resources Programs like Boots to Business, which will be offered at the Veterans IN Farming Conference this weekend, provide valuable insights into starting and managing your farm business. These programs can guide you through the planning process and equip you with practical tools.
Keeping good records is crucial for tracking expenses, measuring profitability, and ensuring compliance with tax and loan requirements. Some essential records to maintain include:
Income and Expenses: Track all sales and purchases related to your farm.
Receipts and Invoices: Keep copies of all transactions for accurate reporting.
Inventory Records: Document what you produce, sell, and use on the farm.
Tax Documents: Stay organized to simplify tax filing and meet IRS requirements.
A farm business has unique financial needs, so it’s important to work with professionals who understand agriculture. Seek out a tax professional and accountant with expertise and experience in farm businesses. They can help with tax strategies, deductions, and financial planning tailored to your operation.
Building a successful farm starts with strong financial habits. Taking the time to develop a business plan and maintain accurate records will set you up for growth and resilience. Whether you're applying for USDA programs or simply want to track your farm’s progress, financial literacy is a critical skill for every farmer and homesteader.
If you're ready to take the next step, be sure to attend the Boots to Business course at the Veterans IN Farming Conference this weekend to sharpen your skills and gain valuable insights.
Stay tuned to our social media for more updates and resources!
Turkeys can be a rewarding addition to your farm or homestead. They’re not only a source of delicious meat for your table or market, but they also have curious, entertaining personalities that can bring a lot of joy to your daily routine. If you’re just getting started, here’s what you need to know to raise healthy and happy turkeys.
Your turkey-raising journey often begins with a trip to the post office to pick up a box of day-old poults shipped from the hatchery. The hatchery ensures they are safely packed in a ventilated box with bedding for their journey. When you pick them up, inspect the poults to ensure they look active and healthy. Once you get home, transfer them carefully to a pre-warmed brooder to help them adjust to their new environment. Turkeys are very fragile during their first few weeks, so it’s important to check on your poults every few hours to ensure they are thriving and to minimize losses.
Before ordering your poults, consider how many turkeys you’re ready to raise. Starting with 6-12 birds is manageable for beginners, but you can adjust based on your goals and space. You’ll also need to decide whether to pay extra for all-female turkeys (hens). Hens tend to have fewer issues with fighting compared to toms, especially as they grow, so this might be worth the investment if you’re looking for a more peaceful flock.
You’ll also need to decide whether to raise heritage breeds or broad-breasted whites. Heritage breeds are hardy, can reproduce naturally, and are well-suited for pasture-based systems. They take longer to grow but often have richer flavors. Broad-breasted whites, on the other hand, grow quickly and produce larger birds, making them ideal for meat production. However, if you plan to take your turkeys to a processor, check in advance if they charge extra for birds with dark or brown feathers, as these often take longer to process.
If you’ll be processing your own turkeys, ensure that your equipment can handle them. Your plucker and scalder need to accommodate larger birds, and your kill cones should be appropriately sized for turkeys.
Young poults need a warm, secure brooder to thrive. Start with a temperature of 95°F and lower it by 5°F each week until they’re fully feathered and ready to transition outside. Make sure your brooder is draft-free, has clean bedding, and provides enough space for the poults to move around comfortably.
As your turkeys grow, they’ll need a dedicated turkey coop. A well-ventilated shelter with roosting bars and secure fencing is essential to protect them from predators and provide a safe space at night. If you plan to pasture your turkeys, portable electrified fencing is a great option to rotate their grazing area and keep them active and healthy.
You might hear conflicting advice about whether turkeys and chickens should be kept apart due to the risk of blackhead disease, which can be transmitted between the species. While some farmers don’t see it as a major concern, it’s always a good idea to follow basic biosecurity practices. Keeping different flocks separated can help reduce the spread of disease and ensure the health of all your birds.
Raising turkeys can feel overwhelming at first, but with the right preparation, it’s a manageable and rewarding experience. Start small, invest in quality housing and equipment, and take the time to learn as you go. Remember, you’re not just raising turkeys—you’re building a farm and a future. If you’re ready to dive in, Veterans IN Farming is here to support you every step of the way. Join our Poultry Processing session at Conference. Farm ON!
Avian influenza (AI), commonly known as bird flu, continues to pose a significant threat to poultry health. For layer flock owners in Indiana, staying informed and proactive is critical to preventing outbreaks. With robust biosecurity measures and careful flock management, you can minimize risks and support your birds’ well-being.
As of December 2024, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 remains a concern in the United States. Indiana has experienced outbreaks affecting both commercial and backyard flocks, with monitoring and updates provided by the Indiana State Board of Animal Health (BOAH). Staying updated on local cases is essential for safeguarding your birds.
The foundation of any AI prevention strategy lies in maintaining excellent flock health through the following practices:
In addition to these practices, certain poultry products may offer supplemental support in combating avian influenza. Products containing natural ingredients like oregano and garlic, such as Orego-Stim, are commercially formulated to enhance poultry health. These products leverage the antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties of herbs and may contribute to reducing disease risk when used as part of an overall management plan.
Certain practices and operations are at higher risk for AI outbreaks, including:
Ammonia buildup from manure can compromise flock health, weakening respiratory systems and making birds more susceptible to diseases like AI. Regular coop cleaning, proper ventilation, and absorbent bedding (such as wood shavings or straw) help maintain air quality.
Be vigilant for signs of avian influenza, which include:
If you observe these symptoms, contact the Indiana State Board of Animal Health or the USDA Healthy Birds Hotline at 866-536-7593 immediately.
By combining strong biosecurity practices, high-quality nutrition, clean water, and natural poultry products, you can create a healthier environment for your flock. While no single measure guarantees immunity, these efforts significantly reduce the risk of avian influenza and other diseases.
For the latest updates on AI in Indiana and practical resources, consult the Indiana State Board of Animal Health and USDA's "Defend the Flock" program. With the right precautions, you can protect your layers and ensure their productivity year-round.
Bedding is an essential part of keeping a healthy, comfortable environment for your laying hens. The right bedding does more than provide a cozy space—it absorbs moisture, controls odors, improves air quality, and even contributes to soil health when composted. With various options available, choosing the best bedding depends on your flock’s needs, your management style, and your farm’s conditions.
Wood shavings, often from pine or aspen, are a popular choice. They are soft, absorbent, and widely available. Benefits:
Straw is another common choice, offering warmth and often available if near wheat/grain farms. Note: Straw and Hay are not the same. Benefits:
Sand has gained popularity for its longevity and ease of cleaning. Benefits:
Wood chips are an increasingly common option, particularly in high-tunnel setups where natural light and warmth promote winter egg production. Benefits:
For winter months, many farmers and homesteaders turn to the deep-litter method. This technique involves layering fresh bedding, such as straw or wood shavings, over the old bedding. As the bedding and manure mix, natural microbial activity generates heat, keeping the coop warmer.
Benefits of the Deep-Litter Method:
To use this method effectively, turn the bedding regularly with a pitchfork to aerate the material and prevent compacting. Add fresh bedding as needed to keep the surface clean and dry.
Good air quality is critical for poultry health, and bedding plays a key role in managing it. Manure releases ammonia, a gas that can accumulate in poorly ventilated coops. High ammonia levels irritate a chicken’s respiratory system, reduce egg production, and make birds more susceptible to diseases.
To maintain air quality:
Used bedding is not just waste—it’s a valuable resource for your farm. Composting soiled bedding creates rich, organic material for gardens and pastures. Wood chips and straw break down more slowly than shavings or paper but add structure to compost piles. Regularly turning the pile helps accelerate decomposition and control odors.
Selecting bedding depends on your management style, climate, and farm goals. Whether you opt for wood shavings, straw, sand, or wood chips, the key is to ensure that bedding supports your flock’s health, minimizes labor, and contributes to your farm’s overall sustainability.
With thoughtful planning and proper maintenance, your choice of bedding can keep your chickens comfortable, improve their health, and enhance your farm’s productivity year-round.
Raising chickens for eggs is an excellent way to engage in small-scale farming, increase self-sufficiency, and enjoy the benefits of home-raised food. For those in Indiana considering starting or expanding their agricultural efforts, January is the ideal time to begin preparations. By starting now, you can ensure your setup is ready, your flock is secure, and your efforts are set for success in the coming months.
The upcoming Veterans IN Farming Winter Conference will feature a session on poultry and related workshops, providing valuable resources and insights for those ready to begin or improve their operations.
One of the first decisions to make is whether to raise chicks from the start or purchase pullets. Chicks, which are typically available in early spring, require about 30 weeks to begin laying eggs. Pullets, on the other hand, are already near laying age, providing a quicker start to egg production.
When ordering pullets, you can tailor your purchase to meet your specific goals. For instance, you might prioritize birds raised on organic or non-GMO feed, decide whether you’re comfortable with debeaking practices, or if ordering chicks you'll choose between sexed females and a straight-run mix, which may include roosters.
A sturdy, well-ventilated coop is essential for protecting your chickens from Indiana’s variable weather and potential predators. Predators, including foxes, raccoons, hawks, and even pets like dogs, are a constant concern. Secure fencing, predator-proof latches, and buried wire to deter digging are all effective strategies for safeguarding your flock.
For the first weeks of their lives, chicks need a properly set up brooder. This includes a heat lamp or (the much safer) heating plate, clean kiln dried pine bedding, and feeders designed for their size. Thoughtful preparation will help your birds thrive in their critical early stages.
January is the perfect month to gather supplies and knowledge for the year ahead. Stock up on essentials like egg cartons, find a source of grain, grit, and shavings, and ensure you have the equipment needed for cleaning and storing eggs.
This is also an excellent time to learn about common poultry ailments, preventive care, and Indiana’s specific regulations for selling eggs. Familiarizing yourself with these laws ensures that if you choose to sell your eggs, you’ll meet all necessary requirements for packaging and labeling.
Chickens can lay eggs for several years, but their production naturally declines over time. Planning for the lifespan of your flock is an important step. Decide in advance how you’ll handle older hens when their laying days are over—whether you keep them as companions or transition them to another purpose.
The Veterans IN Farming Winter Conference is a valuable opportunity to learn from experienced poultry farmers and connect with others who share similar goals. With a session focused on poultry and workshops designed to cover practical topics like predator management and scaling operations, these resources provide a solid foundation for success.
Have you ever wondered how aerial images could help your farm? Drone photography is more than just stunning pictures—it’s a practical tool that can make managing your land easier and more efficient. From planning rotational grazing setups to identifying problem areas in fields or pastures, drone images give you a bird’s-eye view that’s hard to match.
Veteran Edward Candelario is offering his drone services to Veterans IN Farming members, providing high-quality photos and videos of your farmland. Based in Muncie, Edward is ready to travel to help you capture the images you need. Whether you're looking to improve grazing strategies, track field health, or just want a unique view of your farm, drone photography is a valuable resource.
Contact Edward directly to learn more about how his services could benefit your farm. It's a great way to take your land management to the next level!
Mark your calendars! This year’s AgrAbility National Training Workshop (NTW) will take place March 23-27, 2025, in Las Cruces, New Mexico. As the leading educational event addressing issues related to disability in agriculture, the NTW is an incredible opportunity for farmers, ranchers, caregivers, professionals, and stakeholders to come together to learn, network, and grow.
The mission of the NTW is to empower professionals and consumers to fulfill AgrAbility's core priority areas:
The NTW is attended by a diverse audience, including:
The National AgrAbility Project is pleased to offer travel stipends for a limited number of farmers and ranchers impacted by disability, as well as their caregivers. These stipends help ensure that more individuals can participate in this valuable event. If you or someone you know could benefit, apply as soon as possible—stipends are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to first-time applicants.
Applying for a stipend is easy:
If you’re unable to fill out the application online, assistance is available. Contact Chuck Baldwin at (574) 306-7329, and he will guide you through the process over the phone.
The application deadline is January 10, 2025, but stipends are limited, so early applications are strongly encouraged.
For more information about the 2025 NTW, including session schedules, speakers, and travel details, visit the AgrAbility NTW website.
If you have any questions or need additional help, please reach out to:
Attending a conference is a great opportunity for farmers to grow their knowledge, connect with like-minded individuals, and promote their businesses. Whether you're coming to the Veterans IN Farming Winter Conference or another event, a little preparation can make all the difference. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your conference experience. 1. Get Your Farm Ready to Network
Networking is one of the most valuable aspects of a conference. To make a great impression, ensure you're ready to share your farm's story:
Conferences are fast-paced, so having the right tools on hand will help you stay organized and engaged:
At the Veterans IN Farming Winter Conference, you can look forward to:
Once you're at the conference, stay open to learning and connecting:
Conferences are an investment in yourself and your farm, so take the time to prepare. We can’t wait to see you at the Veterans IN Farming Winter Conference in Bloomington, Indiana, this January. Come ready to learn, connect, and grow—Farm ON!