Spring 2026 Newsletter - Planting Preparation, Stewardship, and Flexibility
Storm Clouds Gather Over the Farm
Spring planting season is approaching across northeast Indiana, and the work on our farm is shifting from winter preparation to execution. Equipment maintenance is wrapping up, fertility plans are in place, and attention is turning toward field conditions, timing, and readiness for the narrow planting windows that spring often provides.
Below are highlights from our Spring 2026 Newsletter, recently shared with landowners and farming partners.
What’s Inside This Newsletter:
Planting Preparation & Readiness
Over the past several weeks, we have completed final planter maintenance, calibration, and system checks to ensure accuracy and consistency across every acre. We continue to place a strong emphasis on equipment reliability and timely execution while avoiding unnecessary capital investment.
We also discuss fertility planning for the 2026 crop, including chicken litter applications on selected acres and commercial fertilizer plans for fields where litter could not be applied ahead of corn planting.
Planting Corn near Spencerville, Indiana Spring 2025
Stewardship & Conservation
Long-term stewardship remains central to our operation. This spring, one of our conservation partners conducted field surveys to help evaluate how our conservation practices are performing and where we can continue improving soil health and field productivity.
The newsletter also highlights ongoing field maintenance efforts, including erosion repairs, field edge management, and addressing minor tile issues where feasible.
Markets, Weather, and Operational Flexibility
Commodity markets continue to present both challenges and opportunities, but our focus remains on disciplined decision-making and long-term agronomic management rather than reacting to short-term volatility.
We also discuss the transition from an extended dry period into a more active spring weather pattern, along with the steps we’ve taken—including additional trained planting labor—to stay flexible and prepared when conditions allow.
Focused on Long-Term Stewardship
Across our operation, we continue to focus on preparation, communication, stewardship, and disciplined management decisions. Spring is a reminder that successful farming often comes down to being prepared when opportunities arise.
Ready to read the full update:
Download the complete newsletter for additional detail, photos, and perspective on how we approach planting preparation, stewardship, and spring management decisions.
Stay Connected – Get Future Newsletters
Want to receive our seasonal newsletters directly? Sign up below and we’ll email you updates throughout the year about crop progress, stewardship practices, and seasonal activity on the farm.
Questions About Our Farming Practices?
We value transparency and communication with landowners, neighbors, and those interested in how we care for the land. If you have questions about our operation or stewardship approach, we’re always happy to connect.
**Contact Jim Smith**
📞 (260) 413-7881
J&K Smith Family Farms has been farming in northeast Indiana for almost two decades, with family roots in Allen and DeKalb Counties spanning more than 170 years. We remain committed to long-term stewardship, disciplined management, and treating every acre with care.