May brings busy farm season in Holmes County

As mid-May arrives in Holmes County, residents are experiencing the full spectrum of Ohio’s unpredictable spring weather — sunshine, storms and everything in between. Despite the roller-coaster conditions, local farms and gardens are shifting into high gear.

On area farms livestock are transitioning to pasture after a long winter season. Horses and cattle alike are enjoying lush, green grass, with many beginning regular pasture rotations to maintain forage quality and herd health.

On my farm we are doing the happy dance as one mare has been successfully confirmed bred with a strong heartbeat while another will be resynchronized for breeding in the coming weeks.

Cattle producers also are paying close attention to herd health as fly season begins. I implemented a new mineral feeder and am trying mineral enhanced with fly-control additives. I am excited and curious to see how this management strategy might work on my operation to reduce horn fly populations and improve cattle comfort.

As warmer temperatures increase insect pressure, livestock owners are encouraged to evaluate fly-control options. I would love to hear and share strategies that work well with everyone else on their operations.

Gardening season in full swing

For home gardeners, mid-May marks a key transition point. According to the Ohio gardening calendar, planting decisions should be based more on soil temperature than air temperature — cool-season crops thrive when soil temperatures exceed 55 F, and warm-season crops such as tomatoes and corn require soils above 75 F for optimal germination. See the image attached.

With the average last spring frost having just passed for much of the region, gardeners can confidently begin planting warm-season vegetables. Those who plan carefully also can look ahead to fall gardening, as many crops can be planted from July through September with proper timing.

Tick awareness event coming next week

As outdoor activity increases for both people and animals, so does the risk of tick exposure. To help address this growing concern, Ohio State University Extension will host a Tick Talk: Protecting People, Pets and Livestock program May 26.

This free, hands-on educational event will provide participants with the tools to identify tick habitats; conduct simple tick surveys using drag methods; reduce tick exposure on farms, pastures and around the home; and learn best practices for protecting livestock, pets and people.

The program also will feature insights from tick expert Dr. Tim McDermott, DVM, along with additional local expertise on tick species and disease risks.

Two sessions are available: 1-3 p.m. at Mt. Hope Livestock Auction Ring and 6-8 p.m. at the Love Center Community Room in Millersburg.

While the program is free, preregistration is appreciated by calling 330-674-3015.

Extension educators continue to visit farms across the county, helping producers monitor ticks and address seasonal challenges. These visits provide valuable opportunities for one-on-one conversations, allowing farmers to ask questions and receive customized recommendations.

Producers and residents interested in scheduling a farm visit this summer can call 330-674-3019 or email hill.1357@osu.edu.

Staying connected this season

With planting underway, livestock on pasture and pest pressures on the rise, May is a critical time for agriculture and home gardening alike. Community members are encouraged to stay engaged, attend local educational events and share their experiences — whether it’s strategies for fly control, pasture management or tick prevention.

As the season continues to unfold, one thing remains certain: Ohio’s spring may be unpredictable, but it keeps farmers and gardeners on their toes — and growing. Hope everyone has a safe and great rest of the month.

Janessa Hill is an ANR educator with Holmes County OSU Extension.