Category: Farm

  • Heat Stress and Shade Seeking: Summer Comes to Stella Manor

    Heat Stress and Shade Seeking: Summer Comes to Stella Manor

    June 21, 2025 – Westmoreland County, PA: As of this morning, the National Weather Service issued a Heat Advisory for much of the region, with heat index values expected to reach up to 103°F in some parts of eastern Ohio. While we are not quite touching triple digits here, our temperatures in Westmoreland County are…

  • Summer Heat, Crop Stress, and the Curious Disappearance of Rain

    Summer Heat, Crop Stress, and the Curious Disappearance of Rain

    Here in Western Pennsylvania, summer has made itself known. After another abnormally wet spring, we’ve suddenly hit a wall — mid-June rolls in, and the rain just… stops. The past couple years have followed this same pattern: saturated fields through May, then weeks of dry heat with barely a cloud in sight. For farmers trying…

  • Building a Regenerative Medicinal Pasture: The Stella Manor Approach

    Building a Regenerative Medicinal Pasture: The Stella Manor Approach

    At Stella Manor, our goal has always been to develop agricultural systems that heal the land while supporting healthy livestock. As the founder of Stella Manor and Deluisio Angus, I’ve spent the past several seasons experimenting with pasture mixes that provide long-term soil health, nutritional diversity for cattle, and year-round ecosystem benefits. This spring, I…

  • Spring 2025 Calving: A Great Season at Stella Manor

    Spring 2025 Calving: A Great Season at Stella Manor

    Spring calving at Stella Manor went smoothly this year, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. Every calf was born naturally without any help, showing how strong and healthy our herd is. It’s always rewarding to see new Black Angus calves running around the pasture, full of energy. Healthy Calves Growing on Pasture Now…

  • Welcoming Our First Calf of 2025 at Stella Manor

    Welcoming Our First Calf of 2025 at Stella Manor

    We’re excited to announce the arrival of our first calf of 2025! Born on March 2nd, this beautiful black Angus heifer is the product of 78L Rough Rider and Craftsman, and she’s already showing great promise. 78L has proven herself once again as an excellent mother, delivering this 68-pound calf unassisted and taking exceptional care…

  • Expanding My Breeding Toolbox: Seeking Tips on Artificial Insemination & Breeding Plans

    Expanding My Breeding Toolbox: Seeking Tips on Artificial Insemination & Breeding Plans

    Expanding My Breeding Toolbox: Seeking Tips on Artificial Insemination & Breeding Plans Hello fellow ranchers, I’m excited to share some updates about my herd and get your valuable insights as I venture into new territory. For years, my focus has been on embryo transplant programs with my registered Angus cattle, a system that has served…

  • Why I Transitioned My Cattle Herd to Black Angus

    Why I Transitioned My Cattle Herd to Black Angus

    When I started raising cattle, I was drawn to the idea of managing a herd that could thrive on my pasture while also offering financial rewards. Over time, I transitioned my herd to Black Angus—a decision influenced by their strong reputation, financial advantages, aesthetic appeal, and the robust support offered by the American Angus Association.…

  • Improving Soil Health: Techniques and Benefits

    Improving Soil Health: Techniques and Benefits

    Healthy soil is the foundation of productive agriculture and a vital component of a sustainable ecosystem. Improving soil health not only boosts crop yields but also enhances water retention, reduces erosion, and increases resilience against pests and diseases. This article explores various techniques to enhance soil fertility and structure, contributing to both environmental sustainability and…

  • How Regenerative Agriculture Helps Combat Climate Change

    How Regenerative Agriculture Helps Combat Climate Change

    Climate change poses one of the most significant challenges of our time, with far-reaching impacts on ecosystems, economies, and societies worldwide. While agriculture is often highlighted as a contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, it also holds immense potential as a solution. Regenerative agriculture, in particular, offers promising strategies to sequester carbon and restore environmental health.…

  • Top 10 Sustainable Farming Practices for Beginners

    Top 10 Sustainable Farming Practices for Beginners

    Embarking on sustainable agriculture is a rewarding journey that benefits not only your farm but also the environment. Whether you’re starting a small garden or managing a larger plot of land, these actionable tips will help you adopt sustainable practices from the ground up. 1. Soil Testing and Management Actionable Tip: Begin by testing your soil to…