Living the Country Life Radio Program: Week of January 02, 2012

John Deere Maintenance Monday: Drawbar hitch

In this edition of Maintenance Monday, we're answering a question from Jason in West Virginia. He's wondering how he can make the best use of the drawbar on his new compact tractor. With the right linkage, there are many uses for a drawbar.

Radio interview source: Phil Lauer, John Deere Product Manager, John Deere

Listen here: John Deere Maintenance Monday: Drawbar hitch

John Deere Maintenance Monday: PTO housing

In this edition of Maintenance Monday, we're answering a question from Ronnie in Alabama. He says he had a bearing break apart on the rear PTO shaft and had to replace the housing. He found it to be an expensive fix and wonders if this could happen again in the near future?

Radio interview source: Kory Ross, John Deere Senior Marketing Representative, John Deere

Listen here: John Deere Maintenance Monday: PTO housing

Nutrition for the pregnant dog

Dogs in the last few weeks of pregnancy have different nutritional needs than other adult dogs. Make sure your dog is eating right so she has the energy for her new family.

Radio interview source: Dr. Sarah Abood, Small Animal Nutritional Consultant, Michigan State University Teaching Hospital

Listen here: Nutrition for the pregnant dog

Cattle mineral supplements for winter

Minerals and vitamins are essential for proper cattle nutrition. Harvested forages are usually lower in mineral concentration than when grazed. So during winter, it's especially important to provide a supplement for your animals.

Radio interview source: Dr. Grant Crawford, Beef Extension Educator, University of Minnesota

Listen here: Cattle mineral supplements for winter

Winter care of potted perennials

If you have a container garden, it's possible to overwinter potted perennials. It makes spring gardening easier and less labor-intensive. Storage, temperature, and moisture all make a difference for proper overwintering.

Radio interview source: Justin Hancock, Senior Garden Editor, Better Homes and Gardens

Listen here: Winter care of potted perennials

Planning a pasture

Converting land into a pasture takes a lot of planning and hard work. Detailing the lay of the land and how it will be used are among the important considerations.

Radio interview source: Krishona Martinson, Equine Extension Specialist, University of Minnesota

Listen here: Planning a pasture

National Association of Trailer Manufacturers

When towing a trailer, you want the assurance that the trailer has met safety standards. The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers represents manufacturers that produce light-and-medium-duty trailers, which are towed behind vehicles. The organization provides its members with the latest rules and regulations.

Radio interview source: Clint Lancaster, Technical Director, National Association of Trailer Manufacturers

Listen here: National Association of Trailer Manufacturers

Feeding piglets

Successfully-weaned baby pigs grow to healthy market weight. The goal is to reduce the stress of weaning, and get the piglets eating solid food as quickly as possible.

Radio interview source: Susanne Petersen, Marketing Manager, Land O'Lakes Purina

Listen here: Feeding piglets

Country View: Chris and Tara Peters -- Advertising agritourism -- Rolla, MO

Chris and Tara Peters tried a variety of ways to advertising their family's pumpkin patch, but discovered quickly that social media was the way to go. Tara shares some of her tips for anyone else curious about the process.

Radio interview source: Chris and Tara Peters, Owners, Pete's Pumpkin Patch

Listen here: Country View: Chris and Tara Peters -- Advertising agritourism -- Rolla, MO

Pine bedding material

Pine bedding is a popular choice for small pets and large animals. Shavings, pellets, and flakes are absorbent, control odors, and keep animals comfortable.

Radio interview source: Andy Bowers, CEO, Callaway Farms

Listen here: Pine bedding material