Throughout the growing season I will post information on different pests or issues I am seeing in our fields in Knox County.
We are making a lot of planting progress this week. Maybe not the most ideal conditions, but, we are getting seeds in the ground! Below are a some to observations to keep an eye on.
Alfalfa
Not many changes this week, continue to scout fields for Alfalfa Weevil.
Click here for Alfalfa Weevil Scouting Guide
Corn
Soil Crusting
When heavy rains occur after planting, soil crusting can become a concern, inducing a shallow hard layer on the soil surface that forms due to rapid drying (e.g., warm days and wind). This can affect seedling emergence. Click here for more information.
Planting Depth
Occasionally check and verify planting depth. When we get in a hurry sometimes we let a few things slide. Improper planting depth can haunt you later in the season.
Plant Stand
Most of our early planted corn has emerged.
Now is a good time to take a few stand counts to evaluate your plant stand. For 30 inch rows, measure 17′ 5″ and count the number of plants. Multiply the number of plants you count by 1,000 to determine your plant stand. Click here for more information. Plant Stand Table
Click here to read the following post from OSU Agronomists Osler Ortez, Laura Lindsey, Alexander Lindsey
Soybeans
Same story as corn. Check for emergence issues, planting depth and stand counts for early planted beans. Check back next week for more detailed information on these issues.
Wheat
Continue to scout wheat, especially if you are considering a fungicide application. More information can be found in this post.