Strategic Farming: Field Notes

Delayed planting and high soil moisture issues for existing plantings were the focus of this week’s episode with UMN Extension Agronomists Drs. Jochum Wiersma (small grains), Jeffrey Coulter (corn) , and Seth Naeve (soybean). Many areas of the state are still dealing with wet conditions, especially northwestern and west-central regions. While delays are decreasing potential yield, current crop prices may help buffer some of the effects of those delays. Growers should discuss with their insurance agent what options they may have for prevented plant acres. Areas with heavy flooding or erosion immediately after planting are a concern in central MN, especially for corn, so now is a time to assess plant stand and health. For information on common issues to avoid with herbicides in delayed planting, visit: http://farmdoc.illinois.edu/field-crop-production/weeds/emerging-crops-and-delayed-pre-herbicide-applications.html PDF version if link does not work: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1a06W0ALTu4kxS6LlnwR8mTDpXJrndeHj/view?usp=sharing