I found a Pleated Inkcap mushroom
I found a Pleated Inkcap mushroom last summer, Friday, June 13th, 2025. Friday the 13th is typically a lucky day for me, and this one was no exception. This one was found outside the Heckart…
Sunset after the storm
Sunset after the storm was captured by me at the end of the day. A thunder stormy day had finally passed us by, and this gorgeous sunset was the reward! – Mike
Beehives in the snow
Beehives in the snow was taken after an overnight snow storm. Of course, the bees are huddled inside, awaiting a spring thaw and warmer temperatures to bring the flowers they need for pollen and honey.
Fall foliage at sunset
Fall foliage at sunset was taken by me at sunset. A thunder storm passed through shortly before. The evening light was muted by clouds in the west, with the sun peaking underneath them.
Large Necklace Moth (Hypsoropha monilis) larvae denuding persimmon tree
EDIT:This post is edited 4/22/26 to reflect updated information on the pest. The initial Identification of a sawfly larvae was incorrect. The UM Extension Entomology team has ID’d this pest as Large Necklace Moth (Hypsoropha…
My High Tunnel Grape Vine is growing
My experimental high tunnel grape vine is growing. I noticed bud swell beginning in the week starting March 15th. We had a couple of cold nights, with one frost/freeze warning. Fortunately, this was not a…
I attended the Great Plains Growers Conference
I attended the Great Plains Growers Conference in St. Joseph, Mo. on Jan. 8th-10th. I went to the Produce Safety Alliance’s Grower Training Course on Thursday, and had a wonderful session. This course taught me…
High Tunnel Site Preparations Continue
My high tunnel site preparations continue. Today is the second day of dirt work to level the high tunnel site for my seedless grape vineyard. A big thanks to Patriot Dirtworks for doing this job…
High Tunnel Site Preparation
Site preparation is key for high tunnels. High tunnels require a relatively straight and level site. I need a site that is level side to side and on a slope of not greater than 2-5%…
SARE application submitted
Yesterday evening December first, I submitted my Farmer/Rancher SARE application for establishing a blueprint for specialty farmers wishing to develop a seedless grape vineyard in a high tunnel in the central US. The application now…