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Good afternoon,

We finally received a nice rain shower but could use more rain to help with corn pollination and soybean growth.  During the month of July, Extension rainfall reporters recorded an average of 3.96 inches of rain in Hardin County.  Last year, the average rainfall for July was 3.76 inches.  Although adequate rain has been received this year during July, some townships have had much more while others have received considerably less.  This has caused crops in some areas to need more rain at a crucial time during the growing season.  Read more about Hardin County township rainfall and its effect on crops in the attached July 2019 Rainfall Summary.  Statewide, 71% of the corn is silking and 69% of the soybeans are blooming according to the August 12 Ohio Crop Weather Report.  I have attached this report along with the previous week’s report for August 5.

July 2019 Rainfall Summary

August 12 Ohio Crop Weather Report

August 5 Ohio Crop Weather Report

The Ohio August 1 Crop Forecast has Ohio’s projected corn yield at 160 bushels per acre and soybean crop at 48 bushels per acre.  Wheat yield was estimated at 61 bushels per acre.  This attached report does mention that Ohio growers will harvest 710,000 fewer acres of corn and 810,000 fewer acres of soybeans in 2019 as compared to 2018.  That is in line with a report that came out last night with Hardin County having 91,389 prevented planting acres out there, which ranks it second only to Wood County in Ohio with 120,480 acres not planted.  Other area counties in the top ten for prevented planting were Hancock with 74,169 and Wyandot with 53,860 acres not planted.

August 1 Crop Forecast Report

Don’t forget that there is an “Essentials in Financial Risk Management” workshop with dinner coming up August 20 at Mid-Ohio Energy in Kenton at 6:00 pm.  See the attached flyer for details about how to register for this event sponsored by Nationwide Insurance, Hardin and Wyandot County Farm Bureaus, Ag Credit, and OSU.  I have also included a Michigan State University Extension Fact Sheet on Stress to this email which includes strategies of dealing with this condition.  Another event coming up locally is the Monarch Butterflies workshop being hosted by the OSU Extension Hardin County Master Gardener Volunteers on Saturday, August 17 starting at 9:00 am at the Friendship Gardens of Hardin County located in Kenton.  See the attached news release and flyer for more details about this program.  Other local events include the Soil and Water Conservation District meeting Thursday (8/15) starting at 1:00 pm at the fairgrounds shelter house and the SWCD annual meeting and customer appreciation event Thursday (8/15) starting at 5:00 pm at the fairgrounds shelter house.  The Hardin County Fair work day is scheduled for Saturday (8/17) starting at 8:30 am at the fairgrounds.  The Cattle Producers picnic is August 24 starting at 6:00 pm in the Community Building at the fairgrounds.  I hope you have the time to read the ag crops articles that I have included below.

Essentials of Financial Risk Management Flyer

Stress Fact Sheet

Monarch Butterflies Workshop News Release

Saturday Mornings in the Friendship Gardens Flyer

Mark

Delayed Corn Planting the Disease Risk in Corn – Pierce Paul

In Ohio, several foliar diseases are of greater concern in late-planted corn for a number of reasons, including: 1 – for diseases like gray leaf spot (GLS), northern corn leaf blight (NCLB), and eye spot that are caused by pathogens that overwinter in corn stubble, delayed planting allows more time for inoculum (spores) to buildup, especially in no-till, corn-on-corn fields and 2 – for diseases like common and southern rust that are caused by pathogens that do not overwinter in Ohio, planting late allows more time for spore for blow up from southern states. So, with late planting, not only are more spores likely to be available to infect the crop, they are also more likely to infect the crop at an earlier growth stage and under conditions that are more favorable for disease development.  Make sure you scout for these diseases if the hybrid is susceptible and conditions become favorable as described at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-23/delayed-corn-planting-disease-risk-corn.

Are Crops Catching Up? – Laura Lindsey, Peter Thomison

Corn. Crop development varies tremendously across Ohio because of planting dates that range from late April to early July. According to field agronomists in some areas of the state, it looks like late-planted crops are “rushing through development” …Unlike soybean, corn development is directly related to temperature, i.e. heat unit accumulation. Above average July temperatures (especially nighttime temperatures) have promoted rapid corn growth and development. After corn reaches the V10 stage (and most of our June plantings are near or beyond this stage), leaf collar emergence occurs at approximately one leaf every 50 GDDs. Late planted corn fields (especially those that have adequate soil moisture and good soil fertility and weed control) may appear to be “catching up” with neighboring fields planted earlier. The rapid growth of late planted corn is associated with greater vegetative growth and faster canopy closure, which will help optimize yields. However, it does not mean that the rate of development of later plantings is greater than earlier plantings. Finish reading this article about corn and soybean crop growth at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-25/are-crops-catching.

Drought and Heat Stress – Peter Thomison

One of the corn production scenarios agronomists least like is an exceptionally wet spring followed by a hotter and drier than normal July and August. The spring of 2019 was one the wettest on records throughout much of the state and now, as the dry weather that started in July persists, such a scenario seems to be a possibility in many Ohio corn fields. A combination of warm temperatures and inadequate rainfall is beginning to stress corn fields across Ohio. What’s exacerbating this problem are the marginal roots evident in some corn fields. Several factors, including poor planting conditions, surface/sidewall compaction and/or excessively wet soil conditions in June have inhibited good root development in many fields. Read more about drought and heat stress at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-25/drought-and-heat-stress.

2019 Ohio Wheat Performance Test – Laura Lindsey, Matthew Hankinson

Yield results from the 2019 Ohio Wheat Performance Test are online at: https://www.oardc.ohio-state.edu/wheattrials/default.asp?year=2019 Disease information will be available soon. The purpose of the Ohio Wheat Performance Test is to evaluate wheat varieties, blends, brands, and breeding lines for yield, grain quality, and other important performance characteristics. This information gives wheat producers comparative information for selecting the varieties best suited for their production system and market. Varieties differ in yield potential, winter hardiness, maturity, standability, disease and insect resistance, and other agronomic characteristics. Selection should be based on performance from multiple test sites and years. For more information about the 2019 Ohio Wheat Performance Test, go to https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-24/2019-ohio-wheat-performance-test.

“Working Lands” Forage Field Days Planned – Garth Ruff

The Ohio Department of Agriculture Working Lands Buffer Program allows for forage to be grown and harvested from field edge buffers in the Western Lake Erie Basin. Join OSU Extension, Ohio Forage and Grassland Council, and your local Soil and Water Conservations Districts to learn about the Working Lands Program. Topics to be covered at these field days include: Soil Fertility ~ Seed Bed Preparation ~ Forage Species Selection ~ Seeding Methods ~ and More!

Field Days will be held at various locations throughout the Western Basin watershed including Hancock County: August 22 at 4:00 pm – 19178 Twp Rd 65 Jenera. Gary Wilson 419-348-3500.  Find out more at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-25/working-lands-forage-field-days-planned.

Mark A. Badertscher

Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator

OSU Extension Hardin County

1021 W. Lima Street, Suite 103, Kenton, OH 43326

419-674-2297 Office

hardin.osu.edu

Hello,

Corn has been tasseling in several fields and I saw the first soybeans flowering in the county this past week.  Although crops that were planted look a lot better than before, they are still behind on the calendar.  We had some nice rains which helped with this matter, only to be followed by a week of dry conditions.  Most of the second cutting hay is now in the barn, and it appears that most prevented planting fields have been sprayed or recently been tilled and planted with cover crops.  I have attached both the July 22 and July 29 Ohio Crop Weather reports if you would like to read more about the recent crop and weather activity.

July 22 Ohio Crop Weather Report

July 29 Ohio Crop Weather Report

Ohio agricultural producers who lost property due to recent natural disasters may be eligible for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) physical loss loans.  The Farm Service Agency (FSA) offers these low-interest loans to agricultural producers in 21 Ohio counties, the primary damaged area, who incurred losses due excessive rain, flash flooding, flooding, hail, high winds, lightning and tornadoes that occurred between Nov. 1, 2018 and June 13, 2019.  Applications are due March 2, 2020 and more information can be found at https://www.fsa.usda.gov/state-offices/Ohio/news-releases/2019/stnr_oh_20190715_rel_21.   Examples of property commonly affected include essential farm buildings, fixtures to real estate, equipment, livestock, perennial crops, fruit and nut bearing trees, and harvested or stored crops and hay.

On July 25 the U.S. Department of Agriculture released details about the 2019 Market Facilitation Program (MFP).  This is a continuation of the 2018 program designed to help offset market affects from retaliatory tariffs on U.S. agricultural products.

Key differences in 2019 compared to 2018

1. Payments are based on planted acres not per bushel
2. Each county has a different payment rate See the attached document (The first payment is 50% of this amount)
3. Payment is split into three parts not two. 50% in the first round, 25% in the second and 25% in the third.  Only the first round is guaranteed at this point.
4. In 2018- adjusted gross income limit was set at $900,000.  In 2019- AGI higher than $900,000 is eligible as long as 75% of the income comes from the farming operation. Producer hampered by this restriction in 2018 can retroactively file for 2018 when they sign up in 2019.

MFP Payment Rates

Here are the important takeaways so far-

1. Sign-up began Monday July 29^th and runs through December 6^th.  (Producers need to fill out form CCC-913 from the FSA office)
2. Crops and livestock eligible include:
   1. Non-specialty- alfalfa hay, barley, canola, corn, crambe, dried beans, dry peas, extra-long staple cotton, flaxseed, lentils, long grain and medium grain rice, millet, mustard seed, oats, peanuts, rapeseed, rye, safflower, sesame seed, small and large chickpeas, sorghum, soybeans, sunflower seed, temperate japonica rice, triticale, upland cotton and wheat. (the sum of acres of these crops not exceeding 2018 acreage multiplied by 50% of attached county rates)
   2. Specialty crops- almonds, cranberries, cultivated ginseng, fresh grapes, fresh sweet cherries, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, pistachios, and walnuts (multiplied by national or state payment rates per acre)
   3. Livestock- dairy and hogs. (Milk- $0.20/ hundredweight of milk registered through the Dairy Margin Coverage Program x 50%, Hogs- $11 per head of an inventory selected by the producer between April 1 and May 15, 2019 x 50%)
   4. Approved cover crops on prevented planting acres will receive $15 per acre as long as long as they were planted before August 1, 2019 x 50%.

All payments for the first portion are 50% of the total payment rate and expected to be made in August.

More information is available at https://www.farmers.gov/manage/mfp or read the attached Ag Challenges News Release for more frequently asked questions.

Ag Challenges News Release

Upcoming local events include “Essentials in Financial Risk Management” seminar on August 20, starting at 6:00 pm at Mid-Ohio Energy Cooperative in Kenton.  The workshop includes dinner and requires pre-registration.  See the attached flyer for more information about this event sponsored by the Hardin and Wyandot County Farm Bureaus, Nationwide Insurance, Ag Credit, and OSU.  Champaign County Extension is sponsoring a Precision Ag Day: Sprayer Technology on August 27 in Urbana starting at 8:00 am.  See the attached flyer for more information and how to register.  Have you watched the Cover Crops for Prevented Planting video yet?  If not, I have attached a copy of the latest Ohio No-Till News that has an article about how to access it.  There is a Pork Producers meeting scheduled for Tuesday, August 6 starting at 6:30 pm at Ag Credit.  The Hardin County Fairboard has a scheduled meeting on Wednesday, August 7 starting at 7:00 pm at the fair office.  The farming community is going through a lot of stress with this year’s growing season.  I have attached a document to this email about “How Stress Affects You” for you read.  Other than that, see the articles below for ag crops information.

Essentials of Financial Risk Management Flyer

Precision Ag Day:  Sprayer Technology Flyer

Ohio No-Till News

How Stress Affects You

Mark

Expect cornfields pollinating well into August – Peter Thomison

According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service for the week ending July 28, 2019, 32% of the state’s corn was silking compared to 75% for the 5-year average. Given the wide range in corn planting dates this year, most corn will not achieve tasselling and silking until we are well into August. The pollination period, the flowering stage in corn, is the most critical period in the development of a corn plant from the standpoint of grain yield determination. Stress conditions (such as hail damage and drought) have the greatest impact on yield potential during the reproductive stage. Read more at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-24/expect-cornfields-pollinating-well-august.

No pigweed left behind – late-season scouting for Palmer amaranth and waterhemp – Mark Loux

If you don’t already have to deal with waterhemp or Palmer amaranth, you don’t want it.  Ask anyone who does.  Neither one of these weeds is easy to manage, and both can cause substantial increases in the cost of herbicide programs, which have to be constantly changed to account for the multiple resistance that will develop over time (not “can”, “will”).  The trend across the country is for Palmer and waterhemp to develop resistance to any new herbicide sites of action that are used in POST treatments within about three cycles of use.  Preventing new infestations of these weeds should be of high priority for Ohio growers.  When not adequately controlled, Palmer amaranth can take over a field faster than any other annual weed we deal with, and waterhemp is a close second. Continue reading more about Palmer amaranth and waterhemp at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-24/no-pigweed-left-behind-late-season-scouting-palmer-amaranth-and.

What Non-Uniform Crop Stages Means for Stink Bug Management in Soybean – Kelley Tilmon, Andy Michel

With all the planting difficulties in 2019 there are soybeans in a much greater variety of growth stages than usual this summer.  What does this mean for stink bug management?  First, it means that different fields will be in the danger zone at different times.  Stink bugs feed on developing pods and seeds, with the potential for damage beginning in R3 and R4-R5 being prime damage time, with damage potential still lingering in early R6.  This year peak damage potential may be spread over a larger window of time.  Second, the latest soybeans to mature will be at extra risk at the end of the season.  Stink bug adults are quite mobile and able to move into new fields.  As earlier fields mature they will naturally be attracted to fields that are still green.  If only a few fields are still green at the tail end of the season the immigration will be magnified.   The same is true for bean leaf beetle and pod feeding.  To read more, go to https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-23/what-non-uniform-crop-stages-means-stink-bug-management-soybean.

Mid-season diseases and management – Anne Dorrance

The rains last week around Wayne County (5+ inches) provided for saturated soil conditions. Cultivars with low resistance to Phytophthora sojae are now developing Phytophthora stem rot.  These fields were planted the first week of June and the stands were good but are now beginning to thin out.  This has been the pattern, it takes 1 to 2 weeks for above ground symptoms to develop on cultivars with resistance packages that are no longer effective.  Phytophthora sojae has one host, soybean, and can adapt to some of the types of resistance that is bred into soybeans to manage this pathogen.  Scout fields of soybeans 1 to 2 weeks after a rain to look for symptoms.  If you find a plant or two, probably don’t worry but if you easily find dozens of plants and the canopy is thinning due to loss in stand – look at the resistance package of the soybean.  It is time for something new. Finish reading this article at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-24/mid-season-diseases-and-management.

Late Summer Establishment of Perennial Forages – Rory Lewandowski, Mark Sulc

We are quickly approaching the second good opportunity of the year for establishing perennial forage stands, which is in the month of August. Most of us were not able to establish forages this spring, and many existing stands were damaged by the winter followed by the heavy rainfall this year. It is time to make preparations and be ready to plant perennial forage stands in the next few weeks. Typically, the main risk with late summer forage seedings is sufficient moisture for seed germination and plant establishment. However, many parts of Ohio have adequate soil moisture from recent rains, and the outlook for the first half of August is for normal precipitation levels. Prepare now and be ready to take advantage of planting ahead of storm fronts as they occur in late July and early August. Finish reading this article at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-23/late-summer-establishment-perennial-forages.

Mark A. Badertscher

Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator

OSU Extension Hardin County

1021 W. Lima Street, Suite 103, Kenton, OH 43326

419-674-2297 Office

hardin.osu.edu

Hello,

Extension rainfall reporters recorded an average of 7.08 inches of rain in Hardin County during June.  Last year, the average rainfall for June was 6.09 inches.  Rainfall for June 2019 was 1.46 inches more than the ten-year average rainfall in the month of June.  Dudley Township received 10.24 inches, the most of the township sites.  The least rain in June, 4.51 inches was collected in Liberty Township.  For the growing season since April 15, the average precipitation in all the townships was 16.29 inches, with a wide range from 12.82 inches in Liberty Township to 19.23 inches in Pleasant Township.  See the Extension Rainfall Report for June for information about how June rainfall affected crop production in Hardin County.  I have also attached the Ohio Crop Weather Report for July 15, which shows that 64% of winter wheat has been harvested, 88% of oats are headed, and second cutting of alfalfa has begun around the state with 43% harvested.  Most of the corn and soybeans in Ohio are still rated fair in Ohio.

June 2019 Extension Rainfall Summary

July 15 Ohio Crop Weather Report

There is a miniature gardens program tomorrow morning in the Friendship Gardens of Hardin County starting at 9:00 am.  See the attached news release and flyer for this workshop which will be led by Master Gardener Volunteer Kim Thomas teaching both kids and adults about constructing their own take home garden.  Tuesday evening, state specialists Dr. Sally Miller and Dr. Melanie Ivey will be teaching our fruit and vegetable growers about plant diseases and their management.  This event is scheduled to begin at 6:00 pm at a farm located on 17051 Township Road 199, Mt. Victory.  There will be a diagnostic table for samples and a crop walk through a hoop house and produce field to identify issues and answer questions.  See the attached news release and flyer for more information about this program if you raise fruits and vegetables and are interested in attending.

Fairy Garden News Release

Saturday Mornings in the Friendship Gardens Flyer

Crop Walk News Release

Crop Walk Flyer

State Forage Specialist Mark Sulc has put together a fact sheet on “Annual Forage Agronomic Guidelines and Characteristics” which lists seeding rates, planting dates, planting depth, nitrogen rate, dry matter yield, crude protein, and other information for producers considering planting forages.  I have attached this document to this email.  Since Hardin County is contiguous to Auglaize County, the U.S. Small Business Administration has made available Disaster Loans for business physical disaster, economic injury disaster, and home disaster from the storms that occurred May 27-29, 2019.  An information sheet is attached to this email providing more details for those who may have been affected by these storms.  OSU Extension has put together a website for the 2019 Ag Crisis that serves as a one-stop location at https://u.osu.edu/2019farmassistance/home/ for information dealing with this year’s agricultural challenges.

Annual Forages-Agronomics Fact Sheet

U.S. Small Business Association Disaster Loans Fact Sheet

Upcoming events include the Manure Science Review on August 7 in Tuscarawas County (see attached flyer); Master Gardener Volunteers meeting on Monday, July 22 starting at 7:00 pm at HARCO Industries; and the Regional Forages for the Future program being held Thursday, July 25 starting at 9:00 am at St. Henry High School.  See the attached flyer and RSVP by July 22 if interested in attending this timely event.  Otherwise, see the articles below for more information about ag crops.

Manure Science Review Flyer

Forages for the Future Regional Program Flyer

Mark

Hay and Straw Barn Fires a Real Danger – Jason Hartschuh, Mark Sulc, Sarah Noggle, David Dugan, Dee Jepsen

Usually, we think of water and moisture as a way to put a fire out, but the opposite is true with hay and straw, which when too wet can heat and spontaneously combust. Most years this is more common with hay than straw because there is more plant cell respiration in the hay. This year the wheat is at various growth stages and straw seems to have more green stems than normal. When baled at moistures over 20% mesophilic bacteria release heat-causing temperatures to rise between 130⁰F and 140⁰F. These bacteria cause the internal temperature of hay bales to escalate, and can stay warm for up to 40 days depending on the moisture content when baled. If bacteria die and the bales cool, you are in the clear but if thermophilic bacteria take over temperatures can rise to over 175⁰F. Read more at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-21/hay-and-straw-barn-fires-real-danger.

Use More Caution this Year to Reduce Spray Drift – Erdal Ozkan

Spray drift not only results in wasting expensive pesticides and pollution of the environment, it may damage non-target crops nearby, and poses a serious health risk to people living in areas where drift is occurring. Drift happens! It accounts for about half of all non-compliance cases investigated by the Ohio Department of Agriculture. As you know, we are experiencing an unusual weather situation in Ohio and several other corn-belt states this year. Wet fields have made planting of corn and soybeans delayed or in many cases forced farmers to abandon it altogether looking for alternatives such as planting cover crops. Either situation presents added caution when applying herbicides in terms of spray drift which is defined as movement of pesticides by wind from the application site to an off-target site during or soon after application is done. Go to https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-22/use-more-caution-year-reduce-spray-drift to finish reading this article.

Thinking about Cover Crops…… thoughts to consider – Sarah Noggle, Alan Sundermeier

Decisions, decisions these days.  When it comes to selecting the right cover crop for your farm, there is no one-size-fits-all option. This document is to help those of you new to cover crops with the thoughts, questions, and decisions, one needs to make when selecting cover crops.  Planting cover crops on prevent planting acres protects the soil from further water and wind erosion. This is here to help you make a plan and eliminate stress. Cover Crop selection is based on many different factors. What works on one field may not work on an adjacent field. Each farmer has different goals and ideal practices for their farms. Doing your homework prior to purchasing or planting cover crops can save you time and money. Click on https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-22/thinking-about-cover-crops%E2%80%A6%E2%80%A6-thoughts-consider to read more about cover crops.

The Ohio Noxious Weed Law – A Tool in the Prevention of Waterhemp and Palmer Amaranth – Mark Loux

Waterhemp and Palmer amaranth are both now listed on the Ohio noxious weed law, which means that landowners must take steps to control infestations and prevent further spread.  Since these are annual weeds, preventing spread is achieved by preventing plants from reaching maturity and producing seed.  This is the basis for our “No pigweed left behind” effort, for which the goal is to create an understanding that the only way to beat these weeds is to prevent seed.  Prevention needs to occur in any area that might be subject to infestation, such as roadsides, parks, conservation seedings, etc, in addition to agricultural fields.  The entities managing these areas are responsible for recognizing and controlling infestations of waterhemp and Palmer amaranth, but this does not always occur.  Not everyone involved in crop production or land management is aware of the waterhemp/Palmer problem to begin with, and many managers are busy enough that preventing noxious weed problems has low priority. Finish reading this article at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-22/ohio-noxious-weed-law-tool-prevention-waterhemp-and-palmer.

Western Bean Cutworm: Numbers Starting to Increase – Amy Raudenbush, Kimberley Gault, Mark Badertscher, Lee Beers, Bruce Clevenger, Sam Custer, Tom Dehaas, Allen Gahler, Jason Hartschuh, Andrew Holden, Stephanie Karhoff, Ed Lentz, Rory Lewandowski, David Marrison, KJ Martin, Cecelia Lokai-Minnich, Les Ober, Eric Richer, Garth Ruff, Mike Sunderman, Jeff Stachler, Alan Sundermeier, Curtis Young, Chris Zoller, Andy Michel, Kelley Tilmon

Week three of The Ohio State University Western bean cutworm (WBC) monitoring network has resulted in an increase of moths captured. Last week’s trap count included WBC adults captured from July 8 – July 13. A total of 24 counties monitored 75 traps across Ohio. Overall, trap counts increased, resulting in a total of 287 WBC adults (18 total last week) and a statewide average of 3.8 moths/trap (up from 0.3 average last week) While it is not likely we are at peak flight for WBC in Ohio just yet, there are counties that reported a trap average that indicates scouting for egg masses should begin. These counties include: Champaign, Clark, Coshocton, Fulton, Hardin, Lucas and Miami.  Go to https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-22/western-bean-cutworm-numbers-starting-increase to see more details.

Mark A. Badertscher

Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator

OSU Extension Hardin County

1021 W. Lima Street, Suite 103, Kenton, OH 43326

419-674-2297 Office

hardin.osu.edu

Good afternoon,

Field work progressed this past week before some heavy rains hit parts of the county.  Wheat harvest started this past weekend, with a few fields being harvested.  Although I haven’t heard any local wheat yields or grain quality reports yet, the USDA indicates that 34% of the wheat crop is rated fair.  Fair is how 43% of the corn and 45% of the soybeans are rated in Ohio as well.  For more information about crop progress, see the attached July 8 Ohio Crop Weather Report.  The big news out of the state treasurer’s office this week is that low interest Ag-LINK loans are available at http://www.tos.ohio.gov/Ag-LINK-Extreme-Weather-Relief.  Through this round of applications, farm operators and agribusiness owners based in Ohio can receive a 2% interest rate reduction on loans up to $150,000.  The addition of a second application period can provide significant savings and much needed relief to farmers and agribusinesses impacted by recent storms and floods.

July 8 Ohio Crop Weather Report

Across Ohio, farmers are facing challenges unimagined just four months ago.  Widespread loss of established alfalfa stands coupled with delayed or impossible planting conditions for other crops leave many farmers, their agronomists and nutritionists wondering what crops can produce reasonable amounts of quality forage yet this year.  In addition, frequent and heavy rains are preventing harvest of forages that did survive the winter and are causing further deterioration of those stands.  See the attached article 2019 Challenge: Forage Production Options for Ohio written by Mark Sulc, OSU Extension Forage Agronomist and Bill Weiss, OSU Extension Dairy Nutritionist, to help address this forage dilemma.  Also, there is a Forages for the Future regional program planned for July 25 in St. Henry (Mercer County) to assist livestock farmers who need information about this topic.  I have attached both a flyer and news release about this program if you are interested in attending.

2019 Challenge: Forage Production Options for Ohio

Forages for the Future Regional Program Flyer

Forages Program News Release

Other events happening in Western Ohio include the Climate Smart: Farming with Weather Extremes program on July 18 at Der Dutchman in Plain City which I have included an updated flyer.  There is also a flyer for the Ohio Hop Growers Guild Statewide Hop Yard Open House July 20 with four sites you can visit.  In addition, I have included the July Ohio No-Till News which has an article about our “Cover Crops for Prevented Planting Acres” event that was held June 27 in Ada.  Upcoming local meetings include Farm Bureau tonight (7/9) starting at 6:00 pm at Bear Vine Winery near Ridgeway; Sheep Improvement Association tonight (7/9) starting at 7:30 pm at the Extension office; Fairboard Wednesday (7/10) starting at 7:00 pm at the Fair office; Cattle Producers Monday (7/15) starting at 7:30 pm at Fairgournds Steak Barn.  Don’t forget to check out the ag crops articles below, especially the one about the 2019 Agriculture Challenges FAQ Webpage Now Live.

Climate Smart Flyer

Hop Open House Flyer

Ohio No-till.page.July.2019

Mark

2019 Agriculture Challenges FAQ Webpage Now Live – Elizabeth Hawkins

The unrelenting rains this spring and summer have created many challenges that the farming community is now sorting through. In order to help with decisions, OSU Extension has created a Frequently Asked Questions webpage. This page provides the most up-to-date answers to questions about topics ranging from MFP and disaster payments to cover crops, forages, livestock concerns, management of crops that are out of sync with normal planting dates, as well as answers to more questions as information becomes available. There is also an option to submit questions that you would like answered. Webinars with more detailed information will also be shared here. The page is available at go.osu.edu/AgCrisis. Since the situation we are facing is constantly evolving, be sure to check back for the latest information available to help you.

Problems in Soybean Fields – Anne Dorrance

We have multiple planting dates in Ohio this year with soybeans in all different growth stages.  Management decisions are based on the stage of crop development. For soybeans that are flowering, there was a confirmed report of frogeye leaf spot.  If the soybeans in the field are in good health then managing this disease is often cost effective on susceptible varieties.  Scouting between R2/R3, if frogeye is easy to find on the newly expanded leaves a fungicide application is warranted. There are many fungicides available with fair to very good efficacy.  The one caveat is in Ohio, we have identified strains of the fungus that causes frogeye leaf spot that is resistant to strobilurin fungicides, so choose a product that has another mode-of-action. For soybeans that are in the early seedling stages that have continued to get these saturating rains, damping-off is occurring.  So these fields will continue to decline until about V2, then the resistance in the plant will take over.  So continue to monitor stands in these fields.  If stem rot develops at the later stages, then that is from Phytophthora sojae.  In these cases, a better variety is needed for the future that has higher levels of quantitative resistance.

Noxious Weeds in Cover Crop Seed and Seed Germination – Alexander Lindsey, Laura Lindsey, Mark Loux, Anne Dorrance, Stan Smith, John Armstrong

Seed quality is key to establishing a good crop (or cover crop). Some of the critical components of seed quality are percent germination, mechanical analysis for purity (% other crops, % inert, and % weeds), and a listing of noxious weeds identified by scientific/common name and quantity found. As producers are looking for seed sources to provide living cover on acreage this year that was previously earmarked for corn or soybeans, it is important to pay attention to the quality. These tests may also be required on seed lots for use in some relief programs as well. Commercial or certified seed used for cover crops should have a seed tag that shows variety and the seed quality measurements above. However, if the seed is sourced from out of state, the noxious weeds listed (or NOT listed) on the tag by name may differ from those had the seed been sourced from Ohio.  Read more at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-21/noxious-weeds-cover-crop-seed-and-seed-germination.

What is the Nutrient Value of Wheat Straw? – Laura Lindsey, Ed Lentz

Wheat harvest is now underway. What is the nutrient value of the straw? The nutrient value of wheat straw is influenced by several factors including weather, variety, and cultural practices. Thus, the most accurate values require sending a sample of the straw to an analytical laboratory. However, “book values” can be used to estimate the nutrient values of wheat straw. In previous newsletters, we reported that typically a ton of wheat straw would provide approximately 11 pounds of N, 3 pounds of P2O5, and 20 pounds of K2O. Click on https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-21/what-nutrient-value-wheat-straw to finish reading about the nutrient value of wheat straw.

Considerations for Using Soybeans as a Cover Crop – Laura Lindsey

From the USDA RMA website (https://www.rma.usda.gov/News-Room/Frequently-Asked-Questions/Prevented-Planting-Flooding): “Q. Can I plant a cover crop of the same crop I was prevented from planting? Or in other words, can I use the seed I have on hand (corn, soybeans, wheat) to plant a cover crop as long as it’s at a lower seeded rate that qualifies for cover crop? A. Yes. An acceptable cover crop must be generally recognized by agricultural experts as agronomically sound for the area for erosion control or other purposes related to conservation or soil improvement is planted at the recommended seeding rate, etc. The cover crop may be the same crop prevented from planting and may still retain eligibility for a prevented planting payment. The cover crop planted cannot be used for harvest as seed or grain.” Soybean is an acceptable cover crop as it is agronomically sound for the area for erosion control or other purposes related to conservation or soil improvement. Go to https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-21/considerations-using-soybeans-cover-crop for more information about this topic.

Mark A. Badertscher

Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator

OSU Extension Hardin County

1021 W. Lima Street, Suite 103, Kenton, OH 43326

419-674-2297 Office

hardin.osu.edu

Hello,

I hope you had a chance to attend last Thursday’s Cover Crops for Prevented Planting Acres meeting at Ohio Northern University in Ada.  If not, a video is now available for the entire program at https://www.ocj.com/2019/06/video-cover-crops-for-prevented-planting-acres-special-meeting/ that you can watch either parts or the full program.  Also, you might recall that I sent out a special email this past Friday with information about the Ohio NRCS Disaster Recovery Funding to Plant Cover Crops.  If you didn’t see that, I have included it with this email along with an Ohio NRCS fact sheet on Cover Crops to Improve Soil in Prevented Planting Fields and an Ohio NRCS Cover Crop fact sheet for seeding and selection.  Please take a few minutes to review these documents as cover crops are a viable way to protect unplanted bare fields around the county from erosion, weeds, and build soil health at the same time.

NRCS Disaster Recovery Funding to Plant Cover Crops

NRCS Cover Crops to Improve Soil in Prevented Planting Fields

NRCS Cover Crop Seeding and Selection

This past week was the best week weather-wise to do field work so far this season.  Several fields were sprayed, tilled, and even planted or replanted.  Soybeans are coming slow, corn is being sidedressed, and hay has finally been made in Hardin County.  See the July 1 Ohio Crop Weather Report for more information about the status of this year’s crops in the field.  Although the weather has finally settled down for now, most of the crop conditions are in the fair category according to this report from USDA.  Events coming up include a Western Ohio Precision Ag Field Day in Troy featuring harvesters on July 16; a Producer Workshop for “Using Native Warm-Season Grasses in a Grazing System” being held July 16 in Hillsboro; Western Agronomy Field Day being held July 17 at South Charleston; and a “Climate Smart: Farming with Weather Extremes” event being held July 18 in Plain City.  I have included flyers attached to this email that you can check for more details.

July 1 Ohio Crop Weather Report

Western Ohio Precision Ag Field Day Flyer

Using Native Warm-Season Grasses in a Grazing System Flyer

Western Agronomy Field Day Flyer

Climate Smart: Farming with Weather Extremes Flyer

Besides these upcoming events, you might want to check out the articles I have included below.  One of them discusses the Western Bean Cutworm trapping that we are doing here in Hardin County.  So far we have not caught any Western Bean Cutworm adult moths in our traps.  We also have been monitoring armyworm and black cutworm adult moths for the past two weeks.  Our numbers were down this past week compared to the previous week, which could be linked to the hot dry weather we have experienced.  Stay in touch and let me know if you have any questions that come up during this unusual growing season.

Mark

What to do about Nitrogen Fertilizer in Corn? – Steve Culman, Peter Thomison, Alexander Lindsey, Harold Watters, Greg LaBarge, Laura Lindsey

The persistent rain this year may force many growers to sidedress their nitrogen in corn much later than what is considered normal. Other growers may be supplementing their earlier N applications to replace N lost from denitrification and leaching. The following are some suggestions based on common questions we’ve been hearing. Nitrogen is one the most dynamic crop nutrients in the soil and has many pathways for loss. It’s leaky nature plus the fact that crops need it in such large quantities makes the task of knowing exactly how much N to apply very challenging. The excessive water this spring has clearly driven losses in many fields, but how much? Recent research at Ohio State has shown that ear leaf N, soil nitrate and grain yields were significantly reduced after just 2 days of standing water in the field. So N losses can occur quickly with excessive water.  Read more at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201920/what-do-about-nitrogen-fertilizer-corn.

Wet Weather and Soybean Stand – Laura Lindsey, Alexander Lindsey

Saturated soils after soybean planting can cause uneven emergence and stand reductions of varying extent depending on the stage of the soybean plant and other environmental factors including temperature and duration of saturated conditions. Additionally, increased disease incidence may further reduce plant stand. Saturated Soil Prior to Germination: While soil moisture is necessary for germination, soybean seeds will not germinate when soils are saturated because oxygen is limiting. Saturated Soil during Germination: Saturated soils during soybean germination may cause uneven emergence. In a laboratory study, soybean germination was reduced by ~15% after only one hour of flood conditions (Wuebker et al., 2001). After 48 hours of flood conditions, soybean germination was reduced 33-70% depending on when imbibition (seed taking up water) began relative to the flooding conditions. Practically, for Ohio, this means if soybean seeds were further along in the germination process when flooding occurred, the seeds will be more susceptible to flooding stress.  Continue reading this article at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201919/wet-weather-and-soybean-stand.

Corn of Many Colors – Alexander Lindsey, Steve Culman, Peter Thomison

As corn is emerging and beginning to grow, we are again seeing many colors present. In any given field, corn can appear dark green in sections, while other sections are yellow and occasionally purple. Yellowing (due to low nitrogen or sulfur uptake and/or limited chlorophyll synthesis) or purpling (reduced root development and/or increased anthocyanin production) of corn plants at this stage of development generally has little or no effect on later crop performance or yield potential. If it’s induced by environmental conditions, the yellow or purple appearance should change to a healthy green after a few sunny days with temperatures above 70 degrees F (and as soils dry). If plants remain yellow then closer inspection and assessment is needed to determine if the yellowing is caused by nutrient deficiency or some other factor. Cooler wet conditions often increase the appearance of these different colors. Some hybrids are more likely to increase anthocyanin (purple pigment) content when plants are cool. Finish reading this article at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201918/corn-many-colors.

Western Bean Cutworm Monitoring – Amy Raudenbush, Kimberley Gault, Mark Badertscher, Bruce Clevenger, Sam Custer, Tom Dehaas, Allen Gahler, Mike Gastier, Jason Hartschuh, Andrew Holden, Stephanie Karhoff, Rory Lewandowski, KJ Martin, Cecelia Lokai-Minnich, David Marrison, Les Ober, Eric Richer, Garth Ruff, Jeff Stachler, Mike Sunderman, Alan Sundermeier, Curtis Young, Andy Michel, Kelley Tilmon

The Ohio State University Western bean cutworm (WBC) network has officially started monitoring traps as of last week. Green bucket traps containing a lure were placed along the edges of corn fields during the week of June 17th. The first trap count includes WBC adults captured during the week of June 24th. Overall, 22 counties monitored 62 traps across Ohio; which resulted in 12 WBC adults captured (0.2 average moths per trap) The adults are moths that begin to emerge in late June and peak flight occurs anytime between the 2nd through 4th week of July. See more at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201920/western-bean-cutworm-monitoring.

Forages for the Future Regional Program – Dennis Riethman

Many alfalfa and forage stands across the state took a beating this winter and the wet spring has added insult to injury.  Forage stands were damaged this past winter, and the wet spring has further deteriorated stands that appeared they might recover.  So what are the options to assuring a forage supply for the future? A Forages for the Future Program will be held on July 25, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the St. Henry H.S. Commons located at 391 E. Columbus St. in St. Henry, Ohio.  During this program discussions will be held addressing the current forage situation and look at best practices for forages.  Discussions will include alfalfa variety selection and establishment, forage options other than alfalfa, weed control in alfalfa and other forages, forage harvesting best practices, and feeding considerations with a varied forage inventory.  Presenters include Dr. Mark Sulc, OSU Extension Forage Specialist, Dr. Jeff Stachler, OSU Extension Educator from Auglaize County, and Dr. Maurice Eastridge, OSU Department and Animal Sciences.  The program is free to attend but registration is requested by July 22 by contacting Denny Riethman at Riethman.24@osu.edu or calling the Mercer County OSU Extension Office at 419-586-2179.  Thank you to St. Henry FFA, Mercer Landmark, and Dairy Farmers of America as sponsoring supporters of this program. Find flyer at https://agcrops.osu.edu/sites/agcrops/files/imce/July%2025%202019%20Forages%20for%20the%20Future%20Regional%20Program.pdf.

Mark A. Badertscher

Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator

OSU Extension Hardin County

1021 W. Lima Street, Suite 103, Kenton, OH 43326

419-674-2297 Office

hardin.osu.edu

Good evening,

Even though there has not been much field work lately, farmers have been busy thinking about what to do with their fields that are unplanted.  Much thought goes into a decision about unplanted acres and the options for those fields, along with the crop insurance decisions that come with prevented planting.  I submitted an article to the media last week about this topic and have included it with this email.  As I write this edition of the Hardin County Agriculture and Natural Resources Update, today marks the end of the late planting period for corn.  Some additional corn will be planted, mostly to be chopped for silage as needed for dairy cattle.  Even so, it will be pushing the limit for quality silage but when it is needed for feed, it will need to be planted.  Now that June 20 has passed, we have several fields in the county that will be claimed for prevented planting for soybeans.  These fields, along with the prevented planting corn fields have weeds that need to be managed and other decisions to make about cover crops and possible forage harvest.  There are several factors that need to be considered and OSU Extension and the Ohio No-Till Council have planned a special meeting with several experts to help answer those questions on Thursday, June 27 from 6:30-9:00 pm at Ohio Northern University Mcintosh Center (402 W College Ave, Ada).  We will address weed control, crop insurance, and cover crops for unplanted acres.  See the attached news release for this meeting.  You won’t want to miss it.

Prevented Planting Decisions News Release

Cover Crops Meeting News Release

The USDA Risk Management Agency announced just the other day that cover crops planted on prevented planting acres can be grazed, chopped, or hayed for livestock beginning September 1.  This will help address the lack of forages for livestock producers.  See the attached news release from USDA to read more about this change.  However, it is important that you discuss this with your crop insurance agent to make sure you are following all rules before deciding to plant cover crops or harvest forages on prevented planting fields.  Also, if you have land in NRCS – EQIP or CSP programs, you will need to get any cover crop changes approved by your local NRCS office before you plant.  There are guidelines that need to be followed to make sure you remain eligible for these programs.  Also, make sure you do the necessary reporting with FSA for crops planted and crops that will be prevented planting.  Although the June 24 Ohio Crop Weather Report that I have attached says that 80% of the corn is planted and 65% of the soybeans are planted across Ohio, this is now intended planted acres as of this date.  Wheat harvest is just around the corner, so a timely harvest is important to maintain yield and quality.  Often times wet weather causes problems with yield, test weight, and grain quality so don’t delay harvesting this crop.

RMA Announces Change to Haying and Grazing Date News Release

June 24 Ohio Crop Weather Report

The Ohio Department of Agriculture has announced that the Ohio Working Lands Buffer Program sign-up period has again been made available as of June 17.  This program encourages producers in the Western Lake Erie Basin Watershed to establish year‐round vegetative cover on eligible cropland.  The program promotes the conversion, establishment and maintenance of forage/hay land on certain cropland acres.  As the name implies “Working Lands Buffers” act as a buffer on cropland and provides another line of defense to filter surface water while allowing participants to harvest forage from established areas.  See the attached flyer and stop by the Hardin SWCD office to apply.  An annual payment of $120 per acre per year over a 5‐year period is available for establishment and maintenance.

Working Lands Buffer Program Flyer

The Small Grains Program is also available through ODA.  It is a voluntary program that encourages producers in the Western Lake Erie Basin Watershed to plant small grains such as wheat, barley, oats or cereal rye on eligible cropland.  This program promotes the planting of small grains not only for the conservation benefits, but to provide livestock producers with a longer time period to land apply manure and nutrients.  As the “working lands” name implies participants can plant and harvest small grains, land apply manure, and plant a cover crop to receive a cost-share payment of $75 per acre to help offset operating costs.  Livestock producers are encouraged to work with neighboring grain farmers that are able to utilize manure as a source of nutrients for their crops.  Again, stop by the Hardin SWCD office if you want to apply.  See the attached flyer for more details about this program if you are interested.  Well, that is a lot of information to digest, but if you want more I have included some ag crops articles below.

Small Grain Program Flyer

Mark 

Cover Crops for Prevented Planting Acres at ONU Thursday, June 27 – Mark Badertscher

Do you have questions about what cover crops should be used on Prevented Planting acres?  Do you have concerns about weed control for unplanted fields?  What are the rules regarding crop insurance and planting forages to be used for grazing, cutting, and haying for livestock?  Get these and other questions answered this Thursday, June 27.  The Ohio No-Till Council, in cooperation with OSU Extension, will host a meeting at Ohio Northern University Mcintosh Center in Ada.  The address is 402 West College Avenue, Ada, Ohio 45810.  The meeting will be from 6:30 to 9:00 pm and will be free to attend.  Read more about this meeting at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201919/cover-crops-prevented-planting-acres-onu-thursday-june-27.

How to store treated seed – Anne Dorrance

Let me say upfront that much of the information in this piece is based on a study published (Crop Science 53:1086-1095 in 2013) by Dr. Susan Goggi’s lab and others at Iowa State University, Dept. of Agronomy & Seed Science Center. As a scientist, we store both untreated and treated seed over years, but it is healthy and it is in cool and always dry conditions.  But this year we have several issues.  The seed raised in 2018, due to the rains through our long drawn out harvest, left a lot to be desired.  Last week, we had one day to plant and now we are making decisions on what to do with the seed we purchased that is treated.  Treated seed cannot enter the market and must be disposed of through planting, incineration, or burial based on the label. All of these are costly. Finish reading about proper storage of treated seed at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201918/how-store-treated-seed.

Using Corn as a Cover Crop – Peter Thomison, Ben Brown, Sam Custer, Greg LaBarge, Sarah Noggle, Mark Sulc, Eric Richer, Harold Watters

Based on information from across the Corn Belt, including states where they have more experience with delayed planting of corn (University of Wisconsin – http://wisccorn.blogspot.com/2019/06/B102.html) and Iowa State University – https://crops.extension.iastate.edu/cropnews/2019/05/cover-crop-options-prevented-planting-fields), these are our best recommendations for using corn as a cover crop. Although the yield potential of corn planted in July for grain and silage is very low, corn makes an excellent “emergency” forage when planted in July. Moreover, unlike some other forage crops, Ohio producers know how to grow it. We also are aware of limited seed supply for several alternatives that typically could be used. Farmers should consult with their insurance agent to see if harvesting as forage will affect any current or future insurance payments on prevented plant acres.  Read more at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201919/using-corn-cover-crop.

Forage Shortage and Prevented Planting Acres… think OATS! – Allen Gahler, Stan Smith

Last week, USDA released the declaration that a cover crop planted onto prevented planting acres can now be harvested as a forage after September 1st, rather than the normal date of November 1st, which provides a small glimmer of hope for some livestock producers and those equipped to harvest forages.  While Ohio is also experiencing a severe shortage of forages for all classes of livestock, weed control on prevented planting acres is a major concern, and with USDA’s declaration, we can now address both problems in one action – seeding cover crops that will be harvestable as a forage after September 1st. As with everything else this season, however, patience is the key!  Although an ideal situation would be cover crops that can be put out immediately and reduce the need for tillage, chopping, or spraying of weeds already present, there are unfortunately not many species of cover crop that will accomplish this and still provide significant tonnage or feed quality as a forage in September. Finish reading this article at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201919/forage-shortage-and-prevented-planting-acres%E2%80%A6-think-oats.

2019 Challenge: Forage Production Options for Ohio – Mark Sulc, Bill Weiss, Dianne Shoemaker, Sarah Noggle

Across Ohio, farmers are facing challenges unimagined just four months ago.  Widespread loss of established alfalfa stands coupled with delayed or impossible planting conditions for other crops leave many farmers, their agronomists and nutritionists wondering what crops can produce reasonable amounts of quality forage yet this year. In addition, frequent and heavy rains are preventing harvest of forages that did survive the winter and are causing further deterioration of those stands. With July 1st just around the corner, Mark Sulc, OSU Extension Forage Agronomist and Bill Weiss, OSU Extension Dairy Nutritionist, help address this forage dilemma.  If one is looking for quality and quantity, what are your best options? Read more about forage options at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201919/2019-challenge-forage-production-options-ohio.

Mark A. Badertscher

Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator

OSU Extension Hardin County

1021 W. Lima Street, Suite 103, Kenton, OH 43326

419-674-2297 Office

hardin.osu.edu

Good afternoon,

The 2019 planting season is one that will be remembered for a long time.  Soils stayed wet from the April heavy rains through the month of May with persistent rainfall.  Cool temperatures during these months did not aid drying of fields and kept most planters in the barn.  A few small windows of opportunity existed for field work, but were short lived as constant rains returned.  Fields were saturated most of the time, with several wet areas having ponding.  This is a summary so far of the current planting season as described in the Extension Rainfall Report for May.  For the time period of May 1-May 31, 2019 Extension rainfall reporters recorded an average of 5.12 inches of rain in Hardin County.  Last year, the average rainfall for the same time period was 3.40 inches.  Rainfall for May was 0.89 inches more than the ten-year average rainfall for the month.  See the attached report for more information about rainfall received in Hardin County which has led to the wet June that we are experiencing now.  Although the attached Ohio Crop Weather Report for June 17 has Ohio listed at 68% corn planted and 46% soybeans planted, I would suggest that Hardin County is lower than that.  Some corn fields are up, although much corn is in wet, saturated soils or even ponded at the current time.  I did see a field of soybeans in the first trifoliate stage in Goshen Township Friday, the first soybean field that I have noticed emerged.

May 2019 Rainfall Summary

June 17 Ohio Crop Weather Report

I am in the process of setting armyworm, black cutworm, European Corn Borer, and Western Bean Cutworm traps near corn fields around the county.  Let me know if you would like a trap set near one of your fields to monitor these insect pest populations. The Hardin County OSU Extension Master Gardener Volunteers along with the assistance of the Men’s Garden Club are sponsoring “An Evening Garden Affair” on Monday evening, June 24 at the Friendship Gardens of Hardin County located at 960 W. Kohler Street in Kenton.  The event is from 6 to 9 pm and will feature Sarah Noggle of OSU Extension-Paulding County with a program about how to grow vegetables with limited space.  This event is free and open to the public, rain or shine with the program inside the HARCO workshop with seating and air conditioning.  It will then move outside for a demonstration and questions.  The guest speaker will begin at 7:00 pm so you will want to mark this event on your calendar if you or someone you know is interested in vegetable gardening.  I have included both a news article and a flyer with more information about the event attached to this email.

An Evening Garden Affair News Release

An Evening Garden Affair Flyer

On Friday, July 12 the Ohio Forage and Grassland Council (OFGC) will offer a farm tour beginning in Jackson County and traveling through Ross and Vinton Counties to sheep farms in South Central Ohio.  This tour will take place the day before Ohio Sheep and Hay Day at the Jackson Agricultural Research Station on Saturday, July 13.  See the attached news release and flyer for more information about how you can register to participate in one or both of these upcoming events.  Other local event in the next week or so include a Soil and Water Conservation District meeting at the SWCD office starting at 7:30 am on Thursday, June 20; and I plan to discuss the current crop situation with Dennis Beverly of WKTN at 7:30 am Saturday, June 22 on 95.3 FM as part of the “Public Eye” radio program.  Until then, I have included some ag crops articles below.  June 20 is the prevented planting date that is coming up for soybeans so be sure to read the information provided about this option for farmers who have crop insurance coverage.

OFGC Tour 2019 News Release

2019 Sheep and Hay Day Flyer

Mark

Mid to Late June Prevented Planting Decisions – Ben Brown, Sarah Noggle, Barry Ward

Consistent rains across Ohio and the Corn Belt continue to delay planting progress as the June 17 USDA Planting Progress report showed that 68% of intended corn acres and 46% of intended soybean acres have been planted in Ohio. Nationwide, roughly 27 million acres of corn and soybeans will either be planted or filed under prevented planting insurance. Across Ohio, the Final Plant Date (FPD) for soybeans is June 20. Soybeans can be planted after the FPD, but a one percent reduction in the insurance guarantee occurs. This brief article outlines economic considerations for soybean prevented planting under three scenarios: planting soybeans on corn acres, planting soybeans late, and taking prevent plant soybeans. There are three sections to this article: a brief market update on corn and soybeans, a policy update on Market Facilitation Payments, and then finally the scenarios listed above. This article contains the best information available as of release, but conditions may change. Farmers should check with their crop insurance agents when making prevented planting decisions. OSU Extension is not an authorizing body of federal crop insurance policies. Read the rest of this article at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201918/mid-late-june-prevented-planting-decisions.

Don’t leave your fields naked if taking the prevent plant option on corn and soybean ground – Farms underwater won’t have a choice but farmers still have options – Sarah Noggle, Alan Sundermeier

It’s been a rough spring for much of Ohio and the counties that have received the most rainfall typically have less than 20% of the county planted. Many unplanted acres remain across the Corn Belt and in Ohio. The decision to plant or not to plant still lingers in a farmer’s mind. Farmers truly want to plant but with the June 20 deadline for planting soybeans or declaring prevent plant, many farmers will be taking the prevent plant option. Additionally, on the acres not planted, weed pressure is becoming more and more of a problem.  Prevent Planted fields should not be left bare/naked. Without competition for sunlight, weeds will continue to germinate and grow to create a weed seed bank for many years to come. Soil erosion on bare soil can occur even on flat fields. Therefore, make a plan to prevent planted fields: control weeds first to prevent seed set, if the soil surface is uneven, then tillage should only be done when soil is dry to avoid compaction. Cover crops can then be sown which will protect the soil until 2020 crop planting. Read more about this topic at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201918/don%E2%80%99t-leave-your-fields-naked-if-taking-prevent-plant-option-corn.

Don’t Delay Wheat Harvest (Well…If the weather cooperates) – Laura Lindsey, Pierce Paul

Wheat harvest date impacts both grain yield and quality. Delaying wheat harvest puts the crop at risk for increased disease, vomitoxin contamination, lodging, sprouting, and harvest loss. With funding from the Ohio Small Grains Marketing Program, we conducted wheat harvest date trials for three years. However, none of the years were similar to what we are experiencing this year. The biggest impact on wheat grain yield and quality seems to occur when the dry grain is re-wetted in the field prior to harvest. In 2016 in Clark Co., we evaluated wheat harvested on June 29 (at 12% moisture content) and July 8 (at 14% moisture content). Grain moisture increased between June 29 and July 8 due to 0.58” rain between the two dates. When the wheat harvest was delayed until July 8, yield decreased by 9 bu./acre, test weight decreased by 2.9 lb./bu., and vomitoxin level increased by 0.86 ppm. Using a grain price of $4.50/bu. and discounts from a local elevator, the difference the delayed wheat harvest resulted in a loss of $87/acre compared to the June 29 harvest.  Click on https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201918/don%E2%80%99t-delay-wheat-harvest-well%E2%80%A6if-weather-cooperates to finish reading this article about harvesting wheat.

It’s All About the Weed Seedbank – Part 2: Where Has All the Waterhemp Come From? – Mark Loux

Weed populations are constantly shifting, in response to the pressure from our cultural and herbicide use practices, and how good our management of weeds is (or isn’t).  Two weeks ago in CORN, we wrote about the apparent decline in marestail in parts of the state, although in subsequent communication we heard fairly clearly that not everyone’s populations had declined yet.  And there is bad news – waterhemp is spreading at a rapid rate, and it’s a considerably more challenging pest than marestail for several reasons.  The question really is – why has waterhemp taken off over the past several years?  And not Palmer amaranth which we were more worried about? The difference may be is the initial source of the infestations as much as anything.  We did not know of any Palmer in the state prior to 2011 when we became aware of an infestation near Portsmouth.  We think of Palmer as still coming almost exclusively from distinctly new introductions, deriving from outside the state.  Go to https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-12/it%E2%80%99s-all-about-weed-seedbank-%E2%80%93-part-2-where-has-all-waterhemp to read more about waterhemp.

Agronomic Field Day June 20 – Alan Sundermeier

The Northwest Ag Research Station will be hosting a field day on June 20  at 9 am emphasizing “Lake Friendly Farming Research”.   Topics include Soil Drainage research, precision fertilizer placement, ultra-early corn, manure nutrient balancing, and soil health.  Management of prevented planting fields will also be discussed.  RSVP for lunch, no cost to attend.  See the flyer or www.wood.osu.edu for information. Some topics have been changed since this writing as a result of the weather events that have happened this planting season. There will be no wagon tours as part of this special field day.

Mark A. Badertscher

Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator

OSU Extension Hardin County

1021 W. Lima Street, Suite 103, Kenton, OH 43326

419-674-2297 Office

hardin.osu.edu

Hello,

There was progress made in the county this past week planting corn before it rained again.  It seems as though this weather pattern will continue with the possibility of another considerable rain event later this month.  This will continue to open small windows of opportunity to get crops planted as the calendar advances.  See the article below for more information about the weather forecast for June.  Statewide, 50% of the corn is now planted and 32% of the soybeans are planted.  It is difficult to estimate the amount of corn that will be in prevented planting acres.  I have attached the latest USDA Ohio Crop Weather Report for June 10.  Locally, some forages have been harvested, and more and more fields are being sprayed to control the weeds.  Several of the farmers I have spoke with have some corn planted with very little soybeans in the ground.  Some wheat fields are starting to turn, and some fertilizer and manure has been applied.

June 11 Crop Weather Report

Summer garden programs have been scheduled by our OSU Extension Master Gardener Volunteers for June, July, and August.  The first program, ‘Getting Started in Beekeeping’ will be this Saturday at 9:00 am in the Friendship Gardens of Hardin County (960 W Kohler Street, Kenton).  See the attached news article and flyer advertising these events.  Soon I will be setting out traps for common armyworm, black cutworm, European Corn Borer, and Western Bean Cutworm.  If you are interested in having traps set near a corn field, let me know.  I try to locate them throughout the entire county.  These traps are set in mid-June and are checked weekly until they are pulled in late August.

Summer Friendship Garden Programs News Release

Saturday Mornings Garden Flyer

I have included a flyer for a farm bill Dairy Margin Coverage program workshop being held in Mercer County on June 19 in Celina.  Also, I have attached this year’s Ohio Sustainable Farm Tour booklet to this email.  There are several tours taking place with the closest being in Union County.  Other upcoming local events include Ag Council breakfast Friday, June 14 starting at 7:30 am at the Kenton McDonalds; Soil and Water Conservation District meeting, Thursday, June 20 starting at 7:30 am at the SWCD office; and the Farm Bureau Ag Policy breakfast Friday, June 21 starting at 7:00 am at the Plaza Inn.  See the articles below for ag crops information from the CORN Newsletter.

DMC Mercer Flyer

Ohio Sustainable Ag Tours

Mark

More Wet Weather Ahead – Jim Noel

After the wet spring which was forecast, we expected a transition in early/mid-June from the spring pattern to summer pattern with a relaxation of rainfall for a brief period. This appears to be happening. However, it won’t last too long as we expect above normal rainfall to return for the second half of the month. Over the last week, rainfall has been all over the place. Northern Ohio and far southern Ohio saw above normal rainfall above 1 inch. Central sections and far northwest Ohio saw below normal rainfall below an inch. Read more about the June weather forecast at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201917/more-wet-weather-ahead.

Ponding and Saturated Soils: Results of Recent Ohio Corn Research – Alexander Lindsey, Peter Thomison

Persistent rains during May and early June have resulted in ponding and saturated soils in many Ohio corn fields and led to questions concerning what impact these conditions will have on corn performance. The extent to which ponding injures corn is determined by several factors including (1) plant stage of development when ponding occurs, (2) duration of ponding and (3) air/soil temperatures. Corn is affected most by flooding at the early stages of growth.  Continue reading about ponding and saturated soils at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201917/ponding-and-saturated-soils-results-recent-ohio-corn-research.

Average Fall Freeze Dates for Corn Considerations – Aaron Wilson, Sam Custer

In last week’s C.O.R.N. newsletter, Peter Thomison provided useful information on tools available for switching corn hybrids (https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-15/more-switching-corn-hybrid-maturities). As Dr. Thomison points out, Dr. Bob Nielsen at Purdue University wrote an article describing the U2U Corn GDD Tool, available from the Midwest Regional Climate Center (https://mrcc.illinois.edu/U2U/gdd/), with caveats to keep in mind as one is making their decisions. Specifically, users are encouraged to modify their black layer GDDs within the tool in order to reflect a more accurate assessment of days to maturity. To aid in these decisions, we have provided two maps showing the average median date of the first fall freeze (based on 1981-2010 conditions) for selected sites across Ohio. To see these maps and their average fall freeze dates, go to https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201916/average-fall-freeze-dates-corn-considerations.

Insecticidal Seed Treatments in Late-Planted Crops – Kelley Tilmon, Andy Michel

Many producers are planting late this year due to continued wet weather and may be wondering how insecticidal seed treatments should factor into their planting decisions.  While individual situations vary, here are some rules of thumb to consider. The most commonly available class of insecticidal seed treatments are neonicotinoids such as thiamethoxam, clothianidin, and imidacloprid.  The conventional wisdom is that late-planted crops stand to benefit less from these products than early-planted crops.  Warmer soil and air temperatures get the plant get off to a faster start and faster growth, allowing it to outpace insect pests.  Another important factor to keep in mind about insecticidal seed treatments is their window of activity. Finish reading this article at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201916/insecticidal-seed-treatments-late-planted-crops.

Fungicide for Scab Control: Late Application and Rain-fastness – Pierce Paul

Most of the wheat fields in the northern half of the state reached anthesis last week. The remaining fields will reach this critical growth stage during this week. According to the scab forecasting system (www.wheatscab.psu.edu), the risk for Fusarium head blight (FHB; commonly referred to as head scab) has been moderate-to-high over the last 5-7 days on susceptible varieties planted in the northwest corner of the state. However, persistent rainfall, soggy fields, and difficulties scheduling an aerial application, prevented some fields from being sprayed to control scab and vomitoxin at the anthesis/flowering growth stage. But although anthesis is the recommended growth stage for head scab fungicide application, missing this window does not necessarily mean that you have lost the opportunity to use an effective fungicide to suppress head scab and vomitoxin. Go to https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201916/fungicide-scab-control-late-application-and-rain-fastness to finish reading.

Mark A. Badertscher

Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator

OSU Extension Hardin County

1021 W. Lima Street, Suite 103, Kenton, OH 43326

419-674-2297 Office

hardin.osu.edu

Good afternoon,

Field work has begun in some parts of the county as conditions allow.  I saw corn up in the Hog Creek Marsh and was told that there is also corn up in the Scioto Marsh.  There were also some fields being sprayed and tilled around the county in areas that had less rain and good drainage.  According to the USDA Crop Weather Report that came out yesterday, Ohio is now at 33% corn planted with 18% emerged and 18% soybeans planted with 9% emerged.  65% of the winter wheat has headed, and first cutting of alfalfa (22%) and other hay (21%) has started.  The Prevented Planting date for corn is coming up tomorrow and I have included an article that I submitted to the media this past week.  See the articles below for timely information about ag crops.

June 3 Crop Weather Report

Prevented Planting News Release

One of the first field days to be held this summer is the Agronomic Field Day that is planned for June 20 at the Northwest Agricultural Research Station in Wood County.  This year’s topics are centered around ‘Lake Friendly Farming Research.’  Lunch is provided courtesy of Pioneer Hybrids but you need to register by June 14.  See the attached flyer for more information about this annual event and how to register.  One of the first programs to come out the 2018 Farm Bill is the Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC).  I have included a news release about this program and a flyer for a June 25 event in Darke County on which will provide information about changes in coverage levels, premiums and discounts, feed cost calculations, and more.  Join OSU Extension and the USDA Farm Service Agency for a free program to learn about the DMC and how to use decision tools to evaluate your farm’s coverage options and costs.

NW 2019 Agronomic Field Day Flyer

2019 Dairy Margin Coverage News Release

Dairy Margin Coverage Flyer

Parasites are the top issue facing sheep and goat producers in the Eastern United States.  FAMACHA© eye scores and fecal egg counts are helpful tools for small ruminant producers seeking better parasite control in their flocks. These workshops will provide training for producers to conduct FAMACHA© eye scores and fecal egg counts at home.  If you are a sheep or goat producer who wishes to be trained in these methods, there is a workshop being held in Noble County at the Eastern Agricultural Research Station on June 28.  I have included a flyer with more details if you are interested.

FAMACHA – Fecal Egg Count Flyer

Hopefully the weather will cooperate and allow more crops to be planted the rest of this week.  Be safe and good luck!

Mark

More on Switching Corn Hybrid Maturities – Peter Thomison

Corn GDD Tool to Identify “Safe” Hybrid Maturities for Late Planting.  Dr. Bob Nielsen at Purdue University has written an article describing a powerful decision aid, U2U Corn GDD Tool, which can be used to identify “safe” hybrid maturities for late planting. The GDD Tool is currently available for Ohio and it can estimate county-level GDD accumulations and corn development dates based on current and historical GDD data plus user-selected start dates, relative hybrid maturity ratings, GDDs to black layer, and freeze temperature threshold values. The article can be found here: (http://www.kingcorn.org/news/timeless/HybridMaturityDelayedPlant.html ). To read more about silage corn, ultra-early hybrids, and other hybrid maturity information, go to https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-15/more-switching-corn-hybrid-maturities.

Delayed Soybean Planting – A Yield Perspective – Laura Lindsey

Across the state, soybean planting is still on-hold due to continued wet weather. A few weeks ago, I wrote an article on recommendations for June-planted soybeans: https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-12/recommendations-late-planted-soybeans You can also find recommendations for late-planted soybeans in the Ohio Agronomy Guide available to download as a pdf here: https://stepupsoy.osu.edu/soybean-production/ohio-agronomy-guide-15th-edition (click on the picture of the guide to download). I think June-planted soybeans still have a great deal of yield potential; however, it will depend on how the rest of the year turns out. (Will there be water limitations during pod-setting and seed fill? Will we have an early frost?) Read more at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-15/delayed-soybean-planting-yield-perspective.

Current Weed Issues II: Revised Herbicide Management Strategies for Late Planting – Mark Loux

We’re running about a month behind in many cases, and with respect to weeds we are a month later than normal in implementing herbicide programs.  The most important thing to know about this is that we are well into the period of summer annual weed emergence, most of which occurs between early May and the end of June, which overall shortens the period of weed control that we need and allows earlier application of POST herbicides.  There are some advantages to this – here’s what it means for those fields just planted or that will still be planted within the next couple weeks. Because we are this late, the burndown has become a major part of what is usually our in-season herbicide program, and is taking care of a good portion of the summer annuals that residual and POST herbicides would usually control. Finish reading this article at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-15/current-weed-issues-ii-revised-herbicide-management-strategies.

Forages Continue to Mature – Mark Sulc, Rory Lewandowski, Jeff Stachler

Forage stands that have survived this year continue to advance in maturity. Some producers in northeast Ohio were able to harvest last week, and many wet-wrapped the forage. Unfortunately, in other parts of Ohio, the rains have continued, and the forecast is not good for drying conditions this week. Although forages are ready for harvesting, keep in mind that harvesting when the soil is too wet and soft will do non-reversible compaction damage to the stand and will lower the productivity the rest of this year and into future years. Continue reading about forages at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-15/forages-continue-mature.

Fungicide for Scab Control: Late Application and Rain-fastness – Pierce Paul

Most of the wheat fields in the northern half of the state reached anthesis last week. The remaining fields will reach this critical growth stage during this week. According to the scab forecasting system (www.wheatscab.psu.edu), the risk for Fusarium head blight (FHB; commonly referred to as head scab) has been moderate-to-high over the last 5-7 days on susceptible varieties planted in the northwest corner of the state. However, persistent rainfall, soggy fields, and difficulties scheduling an aerial application, prevented some fields from being sprayed to control scab and vomitoxin at the anthesis/flowering growth stage. But although anthesis is the recommended growth stage for head scab fungicide application, missing this window does not necessarily mean that you have lost the opportunity to use an effective fungicide to suppress head scab and vomitoxin. Click on https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/201916/fungicide-scab-control-late-application-and-rain-fastness to read more about fungicides for scab control.

Mark A. Badertscher

Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator

OSU Extension Hardin County

1021 W. Lima Street, Suite 103, Kenton, OH 43326

419-674-2297 Office

hardin.osu.edu

Good afternoon,

It’s been a couple of weeks since I sent out the previous issue of the Hardin County Agriculture and Natural Resources Update.  Field-wise, nothing much has changed as we have been in the same weather pattern with the rain storms and not much opportunity for conditions to improve.  The USDA Ohio Crop Weather Report that came out yesterday has Ohio at 22%  corn planted and 11% soybeans planted.  Some forages have been cut around the state.  For more details, see the attached reports for  May 20 and 28.  I have seen both wheat and cereal rye that has headed and in some fields has flowered.  In Hardin County, our progress levels are much lower as I have only seen some burndowns and very little corn or soybeans planted.  Weed growth is progressing in fields so you may need to rethink your burndown if you haven’t already.  See the attached article about delayed weed control for options to consider as weeds get harder to manage and the window between spraying and planting changes.

May 20 Crop Weather Report

May 28 Crop Weather Report

Delayed Weed Control News Release

I am expecting about 40 people tomorrow (5/30) evening at 7:00 pm for the fertilizer recertification training.  If you have a fertilizer card that expires on May 31, 2019, this is your last opportunity to recertify.  Call the Extension office at 419-674-2297 tomorrow or show up by 6:45 pm if you still need to do this.  There is a $10 class fee payable to OSU Extension that you can take care of when you arrive.  If you are unsure of your recertification date, you can call the Ohio Department of Agriculture at 614-728-6987.  See the attached news article for more information about the May 30 Fertilizer Recertification meeting.

Fertilizer Recertification News Release

OSU Extension will hold a Prevented Plant meeting on Friday, May 31, 8-10 am. Location: Auditorium in Champaign County Community Center, 1512 South US Hwy 68, Urbana.  Ohio State University and Crop Insurance Providers will provide information on the details of prevented plant insurance as well as decision making strategies regarding government payments, agronomy and more.  Please email Amanda at douridas.9@osu.edu or fill in the survey at http://go.osu.edu/preventedplant if you plan to attend so we can arrange accordingly.  There are a lot of questions about this topic, so see the articles I have included below for more information as the June 5 corn date is coming up soon for crop insurance in Ohio.

Mark

Prevented Planting…What’s That Again? – Eric Richer, Chris Bruynis

Wet conditions in Ohio and the Eastern Corn Belt has slowed (halted?) planting progress for Ohio producers. According to the May 20th Crop Progress Report by USDA National Ag Statistics Service, Ohio had only 9% corn planted. Surprisingly that was ‘double’ what was planted the week before and well behind the 5-year average of 62% planted. In 2018, Ohio was 69% planted by this report date. Certainly, the Prevented Planting (PP) crop insurance tool has become a hot topic this year. Many of you have had the chance to attend PP meetings or speak with your crop insurance agent. If not, we will try to briefly summarize your options and strongly suggest you talk to your agent or utilize one of the calculators (see associated “Decision Tools” article by Sam Custer) to determine which option best suits your farm operation.  Read more at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-15/prevented-plantingwhats-again.

Prevented Planning Decision Tools – Sam Custer

We have reviewed two prevented planting decision tools that can serve as a resource in your decision making process with your crop insurance agent. Both tools also provide resources for determining replant decisions. In a recent Farmdocdaily article Schnitkey, G., C. Zulauf, K. Swanson and R. Batts. “Prevented Planting Decision for Corn in the Midwest.” farmdoc daily (9):88, Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, May 14, 2019 they highlighted their decision tool. The farmdoc tool can be used to make calculations for expected returns from three options: 1. Take a prevented planting payment and not plant a crop to be harvested or grazed. 2. Plant corn. 3. Plant another crop. The farmdoc Prevented Planting Module is used to aid in making calculations for each alternative. The Prevented Planting Module is part of the Planting Decision Model, a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet within the FAST series available for download.  Click on https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-15/prevented-planning-decision-tools to get more details and the links to use these decision tools.

Corn vs. Soybeans in a Delayed Planting Scenario – Profit Scenarios – Barry Ward

Wet weather and planting delays throughout much of Ohio and the eastern Cornbelt have many producers thinking about switching corn acres to soybeans or the taking the prevented planting option of their Multiple Peril Crop Insurance policy. Ohio had 9% of intended corn acres planted by May 19th which is far behind the 5 year average of 62%. Farms with pre-plant nitrogen or herbicides applied for corn production may have no option to switch to soybeans. Seed availability may also limit choice for some. Other factors, such as strict adherence to a crop rotation or landlord considerations may limit farmer choice when it comes to switching from corn to soybean plantings in a given year. Finish reading this article at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-15/corn-vs-soybeans-delayed-planting-scenario-%E2%80%93-profit-scenarios.

Forage Options for Prevented Planting Corn and Soybean Acres – Stan Smith

Today, as we sit here on May 28, we know three things for certain: Ohio has the lowest inventory of hay since the 2012 drought and the 4th lowest in 70 years; Ohio’s row crops will not get planted in a timely fashion this year; Despite improvement in the grain markets over the past week or two, for those with coverage, Prevented Planting Crop Insurance payments may still yield more income than growing a late planted corn or soybean crop this year. Prevented planting provisions in the USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) crop insurance policies can provide valuable coverage when extreme weather conditions prevent expected plantings. On their website, RMA also says “producers should make planting decisions based on agronomically sound and well documented crop management practices.” Today, insured corn and soybean growers throughout Ohio find themselves at the crossroads of a decision that pits the overwhelming desire to want to plant and grow a crop against the reality that financially and agronomically it might be a more sound alternative to accept a Prevented Planting insurance payment. Continue reading this article at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-15/forage-options-prevented-planting-corn-and-soybean-acres.

Current Weed Issues I: Controlling Weeds in Prevented Planting Areas – Mark Loux

As we get closer to decisions about cropping versus prevented planting, weed control may be one of the factors to consider.  The season-long weediness of bare areas that occur in some crop fields from flooding and crop loss give a good idea of what can be in store on prevented planting acres.  Some observations follow on all of this. The goals for unplanted acres are really to: 1) prevent annual weeds from going to seed and increasing the soil seedbank – anything that goes to seed will have to be dealt with in the future; and 2) treat any perennial weeds in the appropriate growth stage to reduce their population.  Winter annual weeds have already gone to seed or are in the process of doing so.  Summer annuals will keep emerging in a bare ground area for much of the summer, depending upon rain.  At some point later in the season, though, newly emerging summer annuals will run out of time to mature and develop much seed before frost, and the overall goal is to control them from now until then. Finish reading this article at https://agcrops.osu.edu/newsletter/corn-newsletter/2019-15/current-weed-issues-i-controlling-weeds-prevented-planting-areas.

Mark A. Badertscher

Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator

OSU Extension Hardin County

1021 W. Lima Street, Suite 103, Kenton, OH 43326

419-674-2297 Office

hardin.osu.edu