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| Agronomy Tips |
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Fertilizer prices are at an all time high, and grain prices are nearing record high levels. This combination can make fertility decisions difficult. There are several factors to consider in your decision. For example… cropping rotation, current fertility levels, application equipment, timing of application and placement of fertilizer. Talk to your West Central agronomist to review your needs and make sure you get the biggest return for your investment. Now is the time to wrap up your spring planting plans with West Central. Work with your agronomist to finalize seed, chemical, and fertilizer plans. Great prepay discounts are still available! Be sure and check on your soybean germination percentage and adjust for proper plant population. Many soybeans are testing 85% germ but were purchased assuming 90% germ. Another wet spring! Heavy rains can cause poor planting conditions which could result in crusting soils, as well as side wall compaction. Both can cause damage to plants and put them under stress, which can ultimately reduce yields. Iowa State University has determined corn yield can be effected with delayed planting, but be patient when deciding when to plant a field and make sure the conditions are right. If crusting or sidewall compaction occurs contact your West Central agronomist for advice on determining how to deal with the problem. Early season weed pressure in soybeans is causing more yield loss than once thought. It is imperative that the first application of glyphosate be applied at V2 (2 leaf) stage in a total post program. Beans are over $10/bushel and it is affordable and rewarding to properly time post herbicide applications. Delaying application of glyphosate to the v4 stage of growth can result in significant yield losses. |