MSU Webinar Guides Farmers on Dry Bean Planting Success

By Andi Anderson

Farmers are preparing for the upcoming planting season, and dry beans are becoming an important focus. To support growers, Michigan State University Extension is organizing a special session in its Field Crops Virtual Breakfast Series on May 28.

The session will feature dry bean specialist Scott Bales, who will discuss key planting practices. His presentation will cover important topics such as the right planting time, proper seed depth, and effective fertilization methods. These factors play a major role in ensuring healthy crop growth and good yields.

After the main session, agricultural meteorologist Jeff Andresen will provide a detailed weekly weather update. His reports are highly valued by farmers, as weather conditions directly affect crop planning and field operations. Many participants regularly attend the series to gain insights into upcoming weather patterns.

The Virtual Breakfast Series is conducted every Thursday morning from 7 to 8 a.m. during the growing season, which runs from March to September. The sessions are held online through Zoom and can also be accessed by phone. This flexible format allows farmers to join easily from their homes or fields.

Each session includes a 20 minute question and answer segment, where participants can interact directly with experts. Farmers are encouraged to join a few minutes early to check their connection and receive important updates before the session begins.

The program also offers educational benefits. Participants who attend live sessions can earn restricted use pesticide credits and certified crop adviser education units. These credits support professional development in agriculture.

Joining the webinar series is simple and free. Farmers need to sign up once to receive weekly reminders and access details. Recorded versions of each session are also available for those who cannot attend live. These recordings can be viewed on multiple platforms, including YouTube and social media channels.

The Virtual Breakfast Series provides a valuable learning opportunity. It helps farmers stay informed, improve crop management practices, and adapt to changing conditions. Through expert guidance and easy access, it supports better decision making and successful farming outcomes.

Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu-extension