Natalie Hoidal and Marissa Schuh , Extension Educators, University of Minnesota Extension. Originally published 2021, updated 2025. Our series on the issues Minnesota's major vegetables continues. This week we want to inoculate you with information on common issues and considerations in peas and beans. Inoculating peas and beans Peas and beans are legumes. They form symbiotic relationships with rhizobia bacteria to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. In some soils, these bacteria are naturally abundant, while in others they need to be added. How do you know whether your soil contains native rhizobia populations? If peas, beans, and other legumes are a regular part of your rotation, you will likely have some rhizobia present in your soil. If your soil is acidic (pH <6), rhizobia are less likely to survive naturally in your soil. Ultimately, it is difficult to know whether you have existing rhizobia populations in your soil. There are a few important factors to consider when ...
Marissa Schuh , Integrated Pest Management Extension Educator, University of Minnesota Extension. Reviewed by Annie Klodd. Originally published April 2021, updated April 21, 2024. With their long season and spreading growth habit, pumpkins often present a weed control challenge. Here are some important factors and considerations when working to manage weeds in pumpkins and winter squash. Waterhemp in a pumpkin patch. While a few sporadic weeds may seem insignificant, one average waterhemp plant produces about 250,000 seeds. Photo: Annie Klodd, University of Minnesota Extension. First, know your weeds. This is beyond knowing you have general issues with grasses or broadleaves. Some cultural techniques and herbicide chemistries are more effective against some weeds than others. Being familiar with the specific weed issues in the fields you are planting into will help you tailor your weed control program for success. Most farms have three to four main problem ...