Merschman Agronomy - Archives

If you don’t have an agronomist working on your farm 24/7, now you do! The Merschman Agronomy section connects you with reports from our agronomy team that will help you maximize yields and profits.

Seedling Diseases Reported in Corn and SoybeanView this resource
Agronomic Alert: Black Cutworm Management in 2012 - MissouriAccording to Dr. Wayne Bailey, University of Missouri, trap counts of black cutworm moths have been moderately elevated in southeast Missouri counties and they have arrived two weeks early in southwest Missouri. However, no "intense captures" have been reported. Consequently, Dr. Bailey believes the risk of economic infestations in field corn have been reduced with the exception of southeastern Missouri counties. There is still the possibility that moth flights could continue for several weeks and create the potential for black cutworm larvae damage in other areas of Missouri this season.Download this resource
Agronomic Alert: Black Cutworm Management in 2012 - IowaA mild winter followed by warm spring conditions have resulted in the early arrival of black cutworm moths, which creates the potential for BCW larvae damage this season.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Maximizing Soybean PotentialDownload this resource
Moths Abundant Around IowaView this resource
Black Cutworm Scouting AdvisoryView this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Warm Weather Can Create the Potential for Increased Insect PressureDownload this resource
How Long Will It Take Corn To Emerge?View this resource
Learn How to Minimize IDC DamageView this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: The Risks Associated With Planting Corn Before the Optimum Window - IA, IL, & INDownload this resource
'Early' Early-spring Weed ManagementView this resource
Best Corn Planting Dates in IowaView this resource
Mild Winter for Bean Leaf BeetleView this resource
2012 Season is Not a Good One to “Roll the Dice” with SCNView this resource
Agronomic Alert: Interaction Between Herbicides and Insecticides in CornDownload this resource
What Does This Warm Winter Mean for Insects?View this resource
Worst weeds in soybeans: Herbicide resistance a threatView this resource
Be Cautious When Interpreting Early Fall Soil-Test ResultsView this resource
Weed Control After HarvestView this resource
How to Plant Wheat for Higher YieldsView this resource
Agronomic Alert: Late Season Frost Damage to CornDownload this resource
Agronomic Alert: Late Season Frost Damage to SoybeansDownload this resource
PURDUE: WATERHEMP WEED SHOWING GREATER RESISTANCE TO GLYPHOSATEView this resource
‘Don’t do what you’ve been doing,” weed scientist advises Iowa farmersView this resource
Roundup Ready Plus™ - Minimizing Weed Seed Transfer at HarvestEvery integrated weed management plan should have steps in place to minimize or prevent the spread of weed seed through harvesting equipment.Download this resource
Harvest Tips for Lodged CornWith larger than average areas dealing with lodged or downed cornstalks in Iowa due to recent storms, it’s a good time to review steps to take when faced with harvesting significant areas of lodged corn.View this resource
Reduce Risk of Mycotoxin Contamination by Scouting Fields for Ear RotView this resource
Agronomic Alert: Identifying and Managing Goss's WiltGoss's wilt commonly occurs in areas of the Western Corn Belt such as Colorado, Kansas, and Nebraska. This year, the disease is more evident in some areas due to heavy storms during the growing season. Because this is a fairly new disease to the region, proper identification is critical to determining management practices and planning for the future.Download this resource
A New Bean Leaf Beetle Threshold Calculator is CreatedView this resource
August 2011 Iowa Corn Yield ForecastView this resource
Agronomic Alert: Crown Rot in CornEarly-season seedling diseases have caused some stalk rot issues in area corn fields. Fields that endured wet growingconditions this spring may have been infected by Fusarium species. This infection may have developed into crown rot, which iscurrently being observed as stalk lodging.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: A Closer Look at Corn PollinationCorn pollination and fertilization is arguably the most important phase of crop development, next to planting and stand establishment. Althoughmuch of the yield potential of the corn plant (particularly ear length and row number) has been established earlier in the season, successfulpollination can help determine the extent to which yield potential is met. Unfortunately, pollination is also one of the least controllable aspects ofcorn production since its success or failure is primarily influenced by environmental conditions. Better understanding the process; however, isthe first step in learning to manage for a successful kernel set and grain fill.Download this resource
Weather Impact on Midwest Corn 2011A break in the Midwest heat storm is a good thing, but is it good enough for the corn crop? A few days of temperatures exceeding 93 F – like we experienced in July – are “bad” for corn production, but consecutive days of the high temperatures are especially bad.View this resource
Will Goss’s Wilt be the “Disease of the Year” in 2011Reports of Goss’s wilt have been coming in hard and fast this past week. The disease appears to be widespread north of I-80. Despite the hot, dry weather, the disease has progressed rapidly in the field.View this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Fall Armyworm in CornDownload this resource
Begin Scouting for Sudden Death Syndrome in SoybeanIn past years, sudden death syndrome (SDS) has appeared during the last week of July or the first week of August in Iowa. Therefore we anticipate symptoms of SDS will begin appearing in the state within the next couple of weeks. Although we do not expect SDS to be as widespread or as severe as the 2010 growing season, there have been some Iowa counties that have received higher-than-normal precipitation. We expect the risk of SDS in these counties to be higher since disease development is favored by wet conditions.View this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Corn Earworm Management and MonitoringYield losses in field corn from corn earworm (CEW) damage is estimated at 2.5% annually. Between the difficulty of effectively controlling CEW with insecticides and the damage generally being overlooked until harvest, many farmers have elected to accept the lost yield potential. New tools are becoming available to combat CEW and help protect yield potential.Download this resource
Corn or Soybeans Looking Stressed? Nematode Damage is Becoming ApparentPlant-parasitic nematodes are microscopic worms that primarily live in the soil and feed on the roots of plants, including corn and soybean. More than 70 percent of Iowa’s fields are thought to be infested with a particularly damaging nematode, the soybean cyst nematode (SCN). And most every field in the state harbors one or more nematode species that can feed on corn. Most nematodes are not thought to be damaging to corn until their numbers increase to high levels. Now is the time of the season when obvious damage from nematode feeding on corn and soybeans is likely to become apparent.View this resource
Agronomic Alert: White Mold Potential in Soybean FieldsSoybean fields affected by white mold in 2009 have been planted to soybeans in 2011. Understanding the conditions favorable for development of the disease, in conjunction with local weather, can help determine the potential for the disease.Download this resource
Western Bean Cutworm Scouting UpdateWestern bean cutworm (WBC) moths have been reported in several Iowa counties. The first moth of 2011 was captured in Hancock County, located in north central Iowa, on June 17.View this resource
Goss’s Wilt Found in West Central IowaView this resource
Predicted Corn Rootworm Egg Hatch ApproachingView this resource
SCN Females Now Apparent on Soybean RootsA very quick and easy way to check for the soybean cyst nematode (SCN) is to dig roots and look for the presence of the telltale, swollen, white females on soybean roots. This technique is effective for checking fields for the presence of this serious yield-limiting pest and also for checking to see if SCN populations are building up on SCN-resistant soybean varieties.View this resource
What the Crops Need NowView this resource
Screening Waterhemp for Glyphosate ResistanceView this resource
Reports of Potato Leafhopper Activity and Spraying ReceivedPotato leafhoppers are active, and alfalfa should be scouted for these insects, which can inflict economic losses to stands. I received a report on June 7 that potato leafhoppers have reached densities of 1.0 per sweep in some stands (alfalfa 4 to 7 inches high) located near Greenville, in Bond County in southwestern Illinois. When alfalfa is 6 to 12 inches high, a density of 1.0 leafhopper per sweep has the potential to cause economic losses.View this resource
Importance of AMS with Roundup® Brand Agricultural HerbicidesAmmonium sulfate (AMS) is often recommended to be used with Roundup® brand agricultural herbicides. AMS conditions hard water and makes it easier for the herbicide to penetrate into the plant for better weed control.Download this resource
Stalk Borer Scouting Dates for 2011The stalk borer, Papaipema nebris, is a native insect to North America and has a wide host range (more than 175 plant species). Female moths prefer to lay eggs in narrow-leaved perennial grasses like tall fescue, giant foxtail and quackgrass. When eggs hatch, the larvae burrow into the grass and kill the top of the plant, which is sometimes referred to as leaving a “dead head” plant. Eventually the larvae get too big for the grass and migrate to larger plants like corn, sunflower and sometimes soybean.View this resource
Timing Postemergence Herbicides in CornView this resource
Start Scouting Beans for Damping OffView this resource
Early Preplant and Preemergence Applications Not Season Long ControlView this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Maximizing Soybean Yield PotentialAchieving maximum soybean yield potential will likely depend on increases in stress tolerance, efficient use of all plant growth resources, and increased biomass production. A variety of agronomic practices have shown benefit to increasing soybean yield potential. Selecting what works best on your farm requires careful consideration and implementation.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Management Options for Soybean Fields Previously Infected with White MoldSeveral soybean fields affected by white mold in 2009 are likely to be planted to soybeans in 2011. White mold, which needs moist conditions and below average temperatures, is not generally an annual threat across much of the Midwest. However, with high sclerotia pressure in fields that were infected in 2009, it is important to remember management practices that can be implemented to help reduce the risk of white mold.Download this resource
Now is the Time to Control and Manage Waterhemp in Corn and Soybean FieldsView this resource
Black Cutworm Scouting Advisory 2011View this resource
Rein in Problem PigweedsOne of the keys to managing pigweeds is more effective use of residual herbicides. Watch the weather patterns and try to get residuals out in front of rains or irrigations. Use some residual herbicide in every soybean field whether they are Roundup Ready, LibertyLink or conventional systems.View this resource
Corn Hybrids Adjust to Late Planting DatesThree percent of Iowa’s corn lies quietly in the ground awaiting warmer soil temperatures (see USDA- NASS report). That contrasts dramatically with an average of 28 percent for the last five years and is hardly worthy of mention when contrasted with the record of 61 percent last year. If temperatures warm as promised later this week, field work and corn planting will resume in earnest. We still have time to plant corn in Iowa without sacrificing significant yield potential. On average, yields within 5 percent of maximum are still attainable in all but the north central and northeast regions of Iowa if we can plant by mid-May. In past research, this area shows a greater reduction in yield as planting is delayed presumably due to the limitations in growing season length. Regardless of the exact calendar date, maximizing harvestable yield depends upon soil conditions at planting and subsequent weather during the remaining growing season. In some rare situations, later planting dates produce more yield than early planting dates.View this resource
First Step to Achieving Uniform PlantsView this resource
Three Reasons Why Soybean Planting Date MattersView this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Corn IRM - The Importance of Planting a RefugeA corn refuge is the key component of an Insect Resistance Management (IRM) plan. Proper implementation of an IRM plan is important and mandatory with corn products that contain B.t. technology or insect protection traits. Grower compliance is critical to the success of an IRM plan, and new requirements will be incorporated in refuge assurance programs for the 2011 growing season.Download this resource
Iowa State University weed experts predicting breakout year for weed resistance in the statePlease take a few moments and read the article from the link below. Iowa State University weed experts are predicting a breakout year for weed resistance in the state. As many of you know Merschman Seeds is the industry leader in helping farmers fight weed resistance while increasing yields. This story compliments what we have been saying for quite some time. Stewardship is the key to saving great technologies we presently have like Roundup and LibertyLink as well as to complement new traits coming on board in the near future.View this resource
IOWA STATE RELEASES NEW CROP PEST MONITORING WEBSITETimely management of crop pests is essential for growers to minimize crop damage and ensure maximum yield potential. But with larger farms and unpredictable pest migrations, monitoring fields for insects and other crop pests is easier said than done.A new resource developed by Iowa State University's Corn and Soybean Initiative is intended to simplify this process. The North Central ipmPIPE website, accessed at www.ncipmpipe.org, is an interactive collection of maps and related resources designed to help growers and agribusinesses more easily track and manage crop pests of regional importance.The maps consist of data on pest counts, sightings and locations gathered by a cooperative network of growers and crop professionals spread across Iowa. Casual visitors can use the site to browse pests active in their areas, or create an account to customize maps to view. Those who want to be more actively involved can join the monitoring network.View this resource
Planting Soybeans Into Cold Ground? Think About Seed TreatmentsView this resource
More Bean Leaf Beetles Predicted This SummerView this resource
Should We Plant Corn This Early When the Soil Is This Cold?View this resource
A 2011 Prediction for Stewart's Disease of CornAlthough December, January and February temperatures were somewhat warmer across Iowa, compared to the 2009/2010 winter, the risk for Stewart’s disease of corn in 2011, based on two predictive models, is negligible to very low throughout most of Iowa.View this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Getting a Good Start to Your Alfalfa CropSelecting the right variety is one of the most important decisions producers should make for a good forage-production system. Characteristics of a good, certified alfalfa variety include good seed quality with high germination percentage, high yield potential, vigorous, disease and insect resistance, and adapted to the region’s environmental conditions. These varietal characteristics determine stand, persistence and productivity.Download this resource
Going back in time for weed control"We are going to do what we have to in order to survive the herbicide resistance onslaught. Some of it will be by using residual herbicides; some of it may be with changes in cultural practices, and, yes, some may be with hoeing for a while in some cases. However, there is something wrong with going backwards."View this resource
Volunteer Corn Reduces Yield in Corn and Soybean CropsVolunteer corn has proven to be more than just a nuisance, with major yield reductions to both corn and soybean crops, says Purdue Extension Weed Scientist Bill Johnson. Problems with the weed arise when corn kernels that dropped during harvest persist in the soil, overwinter and grow in the spring.View this resource
Successful Corn and Soybean Disease Management Means Looking at Field HistoryControlling crop diseases starts with keeping accurate field records even before the seeds are planted and continuing through harvest, advises Kiersten Wise, a Purdue University Extension crop specialist. The majority of yield-limiting diseases can be managed most effectively through good selection of seed varieties, says Wise. Producers should work with seed dealers to choose varieties that have strong resistance to previously recorded diseases.View this resource
Use Facts to Make Glyphosate and Glyphosate Resistant Crop DecisionsInformation presented recently on the Web and in seminars across the Midwest has portrayed devastating consequences due to the widespread use of glyphosate and glyphosate resistant crops. It is important to recognize that there is little data published in refereed journals to support these claims. Data that are available have been taken greatly out of context to support the accusations.View this resource
Waterhemp Wins AgainWaterhemp caused significant economic losses for many Iowa growers during the mid-1990s. With the introduction of new technologies, primarily Roundup Ready soybeans, most farmers have minimized the economic impact of waterhemp in corn and soybean production. However, the selection of herbicide resistant waterhemp biotypes threatens to return us to an era where uncontrolled waterhemp causes significant yield losses across the Corn Belt.View this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Reducing Soil Compaction This SpringSoil compaction can be a serious concern in moist soils, especially this spring when getting ready to startfieldwork. Compaction has become a problem in recent years due to an increase of field equipment size andweight. Damage to soil structure occurs when working too moist of soil. Compaction can negatively impactplant growth and development, and may ultimately reduce yield potential. Reducing the potential forcompaction this spring can help avoid/prevent the negative impact of soil compaction on crops during thegrowing season.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Soil Fertility ManagementNutrients are required for water transport and photosynthesis processes, and protein and oil production in theplant. Nutrient deficiencies are one of the causes of leaf discoloration and/or chlorosis that might be observedin a soybean field and can decrease plant growth and reduce yield potential. It is beneficial to understand thefunction of a nutrient and identify deficiency symptoms to know when to apply corrective steps. Diagnosesfrom visible symptoms should be confirmed with results from soil tests and plant tissue analysis in somecases.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Understanding Corn Test WeightTest weight is a term that is often misunderstood. Confusion arises from the belief there is an economic benefit to high test weight grain and that high test weights contribute to yield. In reality neither of these perceptions are true.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Seed Size Issues in CornQuestions arise every year regarding effects of seed size and shape on plantability and yield potential. Following manufacturers' recommendations and considering tools to enhance plantability can help limit the risk of poor plantability. If plantability concerns related to seed size are managed properly, the effect of seed size may not significantly affect yield potential under most conditions.Download this resource
Residual herbicides one key with LibertyLinkTwo keys to making the LibertyLink system and Ignite herbicide consistent. The first is starting clean. Weeds must be small enough at planting that a burn-down program will work or tillage must be used. The second key is using a residual herbicide. Almost any residual will look good with properly timed applications of Ignite.View this resource
Spread of Glyphosate Resistant WeedsAfter more than a decade of discussions about glyphosate resistant (GR) weeds, three GR species (horseweed, waterhemp and giant ragweed) have been verified in Iowa. Research conducted by Iowa State and others has confirmed glyphosate resistance in isolated fields across Iowa. Although GR weeds are found throughout the state, at this time it is estimated less than one percent of Iowa’s corn and soybean fields are infested with GR at levels of economic concern. This article will discuss how GR weeds can appear in fields where they currently are not problems.View this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Hybrid Selection in Corn ProductionMaximizing yield potential and minimizing risk are two main goals when planning for the next growing season. Planting a well-planned package of hybrids with different relative maturities (RM) and different growing degree unit (GDU) requirements until mid-pollination, as well as rotating germplasm in continuous corn fields can help reduce risks associated with various environmental conditions.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Nematode Management in CornNematodes are microscopic, worm-like soil organisms. Certain species can be detrimental to the growth and developmentof corn as well as other crops. While nematodes have typically been of minor importance, they have receivedmore attention in recent years. In the past, traits and insecticides have provided control of key corn pests. Nematodesare now being viewed as a more important yield limiting factor in corn production.Download this resource
Starting clean best foundation for pigweeds in soybeansA key to success with the LibertyLink system is starting clean at planting. If you have glyphosate-resistant weeds, the days of planting into those and controlling them with a burndown are over. Changing the program is required. One step toward starting clean can be through the use of a preplant residual herbicide.View this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Red Root Rot in CornRed root rot in corn is caused by a complex of fungi, of which Phoma terrestris is the primary pathogen. While the disease has historically been common in the Atlantic states, areas of Oregon, Colorado, Nebraska, and Missouri have also reported its presence. Yield losses of 15-20% have occurred in localized areas. Because of its reddish-pink discoloration of the root system and stalk tissue, red root rot can be misidentified as Fusarium or Gibberella stalk and root rot.Download this resource
Update SDS Management After 2010 OutbreaksThe 2010 outbreak of sudden death syndrome (SDS) showed that many SDS management recommendations need more thought. I received several reports suggesting that the way SDS occurred were inconsistent with text books. At Iowa State’s Integrated Crop Management Conference, people shared their unique observations and asked some excellent questions. Below is summary of what we learned after 2010 flood.View this resource
Disease Considerations for 2011 Soybean Variety SelectionAs producers plan for the 2011 soybean growing season, many will make disease management a high priority because of the outbreaks of sudden death syndrome (SDS) in 2010. Some soybean producers will select soybean varieties for the coming season according to what happened during the last season. While picking up SDS resistant or tolerance varieties may seem to be a good decision, the risk of white mold should be considered as well, particularly in northern Iowa where white mold was wide spread in 2009. Merschman Seeds has a great lineup of LibertyLink® and Genuity® Roundup Ready 2 Yield® soybeans for 2011 with awesome disease packages and outstanding yields. Contact your local Merschman dealer or Area Sales Manager today to ensure you are planting the highest quality seed with the best yields on your farm.View this resource
Effects of Fall Tillage on Soybean White Mold and Sudden Death Syndrome in 2011Because of the summer flooding and outbreaks of soybean sudden death syndrome (SDS) this past growing season, more tillage has been made this fall in Iowa than the past few years. This can be seen while driving on Iowa highways, a similar situation we saw after 1993 floods. Fall tillage practices will impact two important soybean diseases, soybean white mold and sudden death syndrome. The former was wide spread during 2009 growing seasons and the later was prevalent in both 2009 and 2010. In this article, we will discuss the implications of tillage on these two diseases.View this resource
LONGER ROTATIONS COULD PROVIDE KEY TO FIGHTING SDS IN SOYBEANIowa State agronomist Matt Liebman has been studying various aspects of extending the conventional corn-soybean rotation with small grains and forages for eight seasons. He has documented many benefits, including the need for fewer purchased inputs made from fossil fuels while maintaining high levels of production.View this resource
When to Sample for Nematodes on Corn - It DependsA recurring question often asked concerning plant-parasitic nematodes that feed on corn is, “When should samples be collected to check for these pests?” The answer depends on the details of each specific field situation. In most cases, fall sampling to test for nematodes that feed on corn is not recommended.View this resource
Enjoy the Fall Weather –Take a Walk and Collect Some Soil SamplesOnce harvest is completed, a very productive way to enjoy the fall weather is to collect soil samples for soybean cyst nematode (SCN). In the 1990s and much of the past decade, fall soil sampling for SCN was strongly recommended as a way to scout fields for the presence of this pest. If fields have not yet been tested for SCN, soil samples should be collected for this purpose. But many fields infested with SCN in Iowa likely have already been discovered.View this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Proactive Weed ManagementGlyphosate-resistant Palmer pigweed (amaranthus palmeri) continues to be an issue with farmers in the Southeast and MidSouth regions and it is impacting new areas every growing season. This challenging weed has caused farmers to alter their production practices and weed management strategies by opting for a more proactive approach to weed management with use of various residual herbicides and additional postemergence herbicides. While resistant weeds may not be prevalent in your area yet, the best long-term approach to delay resistance is to adopt the strategies outlined in this article.Download this resource
Warm Fall Temperatures, SCN and Winter Annual WeedsThe winter annual weeds chickweed, henbit and purple deadnettle are good hosts for the SCN. But SCN juveniles do not develop in roots when temperatures are below 50F. So cool fall and spring temperatures usually keep SCN reproduction on these winter annual weeds in check. Such may not be the case this fall.View this resource
Agronomic Alert: Green Stem Syndrome in SoybeansSoybean harvest is underway in many regions and some farmers are reporting fields with symptoms of green stem syndrome. Green stem syndrome occurs when soybean pods and seeds mature but the stem remains green.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Fall Fertilizer RecommendationsWith an early harvest and good weather conditions, a more active fall fertilizer application season is expected this year. As crop harvest continues, plan on applying fertilizer this fall prior to the ground freezing. There are some things to consider when planning for soil sampling and fertilization this fall.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Harvesting Dry SoybeansHarvesting dry soybeans can be a challenge. Gathering losses, including shattering, are responsible for a large percentage of harvest loss in soybeans. Harvesting excessively dry soybeans can add to this problem because when pods are too dry the risk of shattering increases. Also, when soybean seed becomes very dry (10% moisture or less), seed damage can occur. Several steps can be taken to minimize harvest losses when dealing with dry soybeans.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Managing the Effects of Crop Residue in Continuous CornCrop residue in continuous corn can be difficult to manage. If residue is not dealt with, it can decrease seed to soil contact, emergence, and vigor. Residue can also tie up nitrogen (N) during much of the season making it unavailable to the corn crop.Download this resource
Iowa Floods of 2010: A Guide to Handling Damaged or Contaminated GrainIn an article posted October 7 on the Center of Agricultural Law and Taxation (CALT) website, staff attorney Erin Herbold outlines the legal background and details of the statement made by the Iowa Department of Agricultural and Land Stewardship (IDALS) regarding the harvest of flood-damaged grain in Iowa.View this resource
UNIV OF ILLINOIS ISSUES RECOMMENDATIONS ON CONTROLLING WEEDS AFTER HARVESTFall herbicide applications are becoming a common practice for Illinois farmers. Recent interest has focused on applying herbicides after fall harvest to control winter annual weed species, such as common chickweed, henbit and various mustard species.View this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Interpreting Yield Results - Data Variability and AccumulationEven the most superior products do not win every plot. When looking over plot data, one may question why the product with the best average yield across multiple locations, does not have the highest yield at every location, why it does not win every plot, or possibly why its average ranking across multiple locations changes as the harvest season progresses.To find the answers to these questions and understand how to properly analyze yield results, click below to read on for more information.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Interpreting Yield Results - Data Evaluation & Statistical MeasurementsYield trial results offer an opportunity for compare corn and soybean products in a geography similar to one's own farm and can assist growers in selecting quality products for next season.Download this resource
In-Field Drydown Rates and HarvestAs of Sept. 27, nearly 91 percent of Iowa’s corn rates are “safe from frost” according to the USDA- NASS report indicating the majority of the crop is physiologically mature (R6). The crop’s development is five days ahead of normal, 68 percent mature, and dramatically outpaces the 43 percent mature recorded in 2009 for the same week.View this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Considering Corn Harvest Losses and Drying CostsThe moisture level to harvest corn is often an economic decision weighing excess harvest losses against energy costs for drying corn. Growers need to consider the risk of severe lodging and yield losses when allowing corn to dry too long in the field.Download this resource
Minimize Amount of Corn Left on the Ground Behind CombineLeaving corn in the field during harvest always results in a yield penalty. A recent soybean Sudden Death Syndrome article shows data that suggest corn kernels may be one of the most likely sites for survival of SDS pathogens with potential to harm subsequent soybean crop.View this resource
Towards a Successful Harvest: Stalk Rots and Standability IssuesIt’s hard to believe the 2010 growing season is almost over. Most of the corn across the state is nearing or at black-layer, which means it is time to scout fields for stalk rots in an effort to evaluate standability and plan a successful harvest.View this resource
Video Offers Guidance for Coping with Soybean Sudden Death SyndromeTo help answer questions and offer guidance in managing the disease, Iowa State University has produced a video that explains why SDS is so severe this season; tells how to assess and manage SDS; offers practical advice growers can follow now to prepare for next year; and highlights new and ongoing ISU research on the problem.View this resource
Good Harvest in Corn Should Help Manage Soybean SDSThis year is one of the worst soybean sudden death syndrome (SDS) epidemics since the disease was found in Iowa in 1994. Preliminary research data suggest that corn has much to do with SDS pathogen and there are things we can do about the disease as we begin harvest. Management of SDS should start when we harvest corn fields.View this resource
Agronomic Alert: Stalk Lodging and Harvesting Down Corn in the MidwestFactors contributing to stalk lodging in corn include high winds, stalk cannibalization, and stalk rots. Stalk lodging complicates corn harvest and can lead to yield loss and storage issues. Understanding some of the contributing factors and how to most effectively manage the harvest and storage of lodged corn can assist in this year's harvest and next year's planning.Download this resource
Answers to Questions About Soybean Sudden Death Syndrome in Iowa 2010Sudden death syndrome (SDS) is now among the top four yield robbing diseases in soybeans. From 1999 to 2004, average losses in the U.S. were estimated at $190 million a year, and the disease is spreading and intensifying. SDS has been widespread and severe in Iowa this growing season, generating many questions of researchers. The most frequently asked questions are included in the following series of questions and answers.View this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Benefits of a Timely Corn HarvestEarly planting dates and above average temperatures have set the stage for an early start to corn harvesting. Growing degree day accumulations since planting are far ahead of what would be considered typical for this time of year. Now is the time to monitor fields to reap the benefits of a timely corn harvest. A timely harvest is essential to help maximize potential grain yield and profitability.Download this resource
Agronomic Alert:: Soybean Bloom and Small Pod Abortion Due to Extreme HeatDuring the early reproductive stages, a soybean plant may abort flowers and small pods as it adjusts to the surrounding environmental conditions.Download this resource
Video on Sudden Death Syndrome and Brown Stem Rot in SoybeansThe September 3, 2010 issue of Purdue University Pest & Crop Newsletter contains an excellent video on sudden death syndrome and brown stem rot in soybeans. These diseases can do major damage to soybean fields depending on when the diseases start showing up in your fields. Check out this video today to learn more about the differences on sudden death syndrome and brown stem rot and what you should be looking for in your fields.View this resource
Update on Cobra plus White Mold and SDS SuppressionCobra® Herbicide controls over 54 problem weeds faster than other herbicides with noconcerns to rotated crops. Additionally, it may suppress both white mold and sudden deathsyndrome (SDS).Download this resource
August 27, 2010 Purdue University Pest & Crop NewsletterThis issue of the Purdue University Pest & Crop Newsletter discusses updates and shows videos of SDS, nematodes, and Western Bean Cutworm. It also discusses agronomic issues surrounding Popped Kernals, the Kernal Weight Factor, and Tassel-Ears in Corn. View this resource
Agronomic Spotligh: High Night-Time Temperatures & Stalk Cannibalization in CornGrain fill is a time of high physiological demand for the corn plant of which the developing ear becomes a very strong sink. If a stress such as high night-time temperatures occurs during grain fill, the plant may compensate through early maturation or a stalk cannibalization resulting in potential yield loss.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Soybean Cyst NematodeSoybean Cyst Nematode (SCN) has been estimated to have reduced soybean yields on average in the United States by over 159 million bushels annually. Yield loss can occur with or without visual symptoms. Soil sampling can help identify population levels and management options.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Biology and Management of Soybean Cyst NematodeSoybean Cyst Nematode (SCN) has been estimated to have reduced soybean yields on average in the United States by over 159 million bushels annually. Yield loss can occur with or without visual symptoms. Soil sampling can help identify population levels and management options.Download this resource
Agronomic Alert: Understanding & Managing Aflatoxin in CornAflatoxin accumulation on grain can be a concern for corn growers in the southern and mid-western states. Aflatoxin is produced by two fungi, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus and can be produced on infected corn kernals in the field and during storage.Download this resource
Agronomic Alert: Spider Mites in CornSpider mites can cause serious damage to corn. Hot, dry weather favors mite reproduction and survival. Many factors must be evaluated to determine the need for a miticide application including all of the following: the current and the anticipated mite population, the history of the mite population in a given field, the forecasted weather patterns, and the potential for a mite population increase along with maturity of the corn crop.Download this resource
Agronomic Alert: Minimizing Weed Seed Transfer at HarvestEvery integrated weed management plan should have steps in place to minimize or prevent the spread of weed seed through harvesting equipment. A little planning prior to harvest can help minimize the potential to spread weed seed during harvest, reduce the size of the seed bank and potentially slow the spread of hard to control weeds to additional fields.Download this resource
Agronomic Alert: Anthracnose Leaf Blight, Top Die-Back and Stalk Rot in CornAnthracnose in corn has a leaf blight phase and a stalk rot phase. Top-die back is a significant symptom of the stalk rotphase. The leaf blight is an indicator that the pathogen is present in the field, but does not confirm that the stalk rotphase will be an issue. The stalk rot phase is of greater concern than the leaf blight phase in terms of potential yieldloss. The majority of lost yield potential from anthracnose can be attributed to premature plant death that interruptsfilling of the grain, and stalk breakage and lodging that causes harvest loss and complications. Early identification ofanthracnose can help prioritize fields for harvest, which can help minimize loss at harvest.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Bouquet Ears in CornBouquet ears in corn is generally an uncommon occurrence. Some territories are finding morebouquet ears than normal. There are several theories about factors that may potentially increase therisk for bouquet ears, but a definite cause is not known.Download this resource
Agronomic Alert: Soybean PodwormAs soybean progresses into the critical reproductive stages of pod formation and and seed fill, it is important to scout for potential yield-impacting pests. Late in the season, insects that feed directly on pods are problematic in terms of yield. Soybean podworm, also known as corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea) is a pod-feeding insect that growers should be on the ready to scout and manage.Download this resource
Agronomic Alert: Distinguishing Corn Ear MoldsCorn is susceptible to a number of ear mold fungi that reduce yield potential, grain quality, and feed value. Damage potential isgreatest in the period from silking to harvest, when above average rainfall occurs. It is often coupled with kernel damage from insectsor birds, hail damage, or with kernel damage from early frost. Common ear molds are Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Diplodia, Fusarium,Gibberella, Penicillium, and Trichoderma. To aid in distinguishing corn ear molds Table 1 lists differences in ear mold color,appearance, conditions, and toxicity to livestock.Download this resource
Agronomic Alert: Distinguishing Corn Ear Molds—MissouriCorn is susceptible to a number of ear mold fungi that reduce yield potential, grain quality, and feed value. Damage potential isgreatest in the period from silking to harvest, when above average rainfall occurs. It is often coupled with kernel damage from insectsor birds, hail damage, or with kernel damage from early frost. Common ear molds seen in the region are Aspergillus, Cladosporium,Diplodia, Fusarium, Gibberella, Penicillium, and Trichoderma. This year many areas of Missouri experienced high amounts of rainthrough June. July turned dry in some areas and stayed excessively wet in others. High heat finished off July and continued into earlyAugust. To aid in distinguishing corn ear molds Table 1 lists differences in ear mold color, appearance, conditions, and toxicity tolivestock.Download this resource
IOWA STATE RECOMMENDS GROWERS TO BE ON WATCH FOR LATE SEASON SOYBEAN APHIDSAs soybean fields enter seed set, growers are getting concerned about late-season soybean aphid infestations. So far, much of Iowa has experienced very low aphid populations. Some fields in northern Iowa exceeded the economic threshold and were treated last week. But in general, most fields have only patchy aphid colonies well below the threshold.View this resource
Soybean Sudden Death Syndrome in a Flood Year - What to Do NextSoybean Sudden Death Syndrome (SDS) is widespread in Iowa. This year has had one of the worst epidemics since the disease was found in Iowa in 1994. Severely infested soybean fields can be found in every region in Iowa. It is easy to spot brown patches caused by SDS while you are driving the highways. Fields with large portions of premature defoliation can be found in early August.View this resource
Agronomic Alert: Sudden Death Syndrome in Soybean - Northern U.S.Foliar symptoms of sudden death syndrome (SDS) have appeared in local soybean fields. Yield losses fromSDS have ranged from slight to nearly 100% and are dependent on disease onset and severity.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight on Post-harvest Management of Palmer AmaranthControl of Palmer amaranth is essential in maintaining profitable cropping systems in the Midsouth and Southeast, and post-harvest management can benefit long-term control of this difficult weed. When fields are harvested in late summer or early fall, weeds can continue to germinate and grow to cause management problems for the following season. Palmer amaranth can be especially problematic since it only has to reach a few inches in height to produce a seed head with thousands of viable seeds. Control of Palmer amaranth needs to be continued even after a crop is harvested.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Southern Rust in Corn – MidwestSouthern corn rust, like common corn rust, may appear in the Midwestern region. It is a fungal disease andaffects corn after silking. Weather conditions can have a significant impact on the development and spread ofthe disease. Late infection with southern rust may not impact yield directly but can provide an avenue forstalk rot pathogens to enter the plant. It is important to monitor infected fields for stalk rot issues and decideon a harvest schedule accordingly.Download this resource
Video on Western Bean Cutworm Ear DamageThis video shows how to determine whether western bean cutworm larvae are feeding within the ear. Some damaged ears are obviously infested, whereas others show no outward sign. The treatment window for this pest is closed - insecticide will NOT reach the large larvae now under the cover of ear husks. Scouting now in suspect areas/fields, especially where moth flights were abundant (see table of moth counts from past weeks) will confirm western bean cutworm absence/presence and help pest managers make planting and scouting decisions for 2011. Remember that their distribution in a field is often spotty, so sampling multiple areas of the field is necessary.View this resource
Agronomic Alert on Loss of Soil Nitrogen along with Nubbin and Zipper Ears in CornRain and warm weather have caused loss of soil nitrogen (N) this season. In addition, nubbin ear and zipper ear have been spotted in the same fields. These ear abnormalities may be caused by stresses such as drought or nutrient deficiencies. These occurrences appear to be caused by different environmental conditions; however, periods of excessive rain followed by hot, humid and dry conditions, have resulted in a loss of soil N and made nubbin ears, and zipper ears a concern this season.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Tillers in Corn — Separate the Fact from FictionTillers are vegetative or reproductive shoots that grow from the base of grass plants. Corn is a highlyspecialized grass plant. While tillers are an essential part of wheat, barley, and oat production, they areperceived to be far less desirable in corn. They are commonly referred to as “suckers,” because of the oldwives tale that they “suck” the nutrients from the main stem. Research from the University of Illinois hasshown that this is not the case. Many agronomists agree that the overall effect of tillers is usually neutral.There may be some benefit to tillers if corn is produced for silage because more dry matter is produced perunit area.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Common Rust in Corn – Central Corn BeltCommon corn rust is a fungal disease that affects corn after tasseling. Weather conditions can have asignificant impact on the development and spread of the disease. It is important to scout fields during theonset of these weather conditions to identify and potentially manage the disease.Download this resource
Identifying Green Cloverworm, Soybean Looper, and Velvetbean CaterpillarGreen Cloverworm, Soybean Looper, and Velvetbean Caterpillar are foliage feeding insects that are present in practically all soybean fields throughout the growing season most years. In most cases these pests do not reach thresholds to warrant insecticide treatment. Properly identifying the pest in each field can help determine the appropriate control strategy.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight: Evaluation of Corn Silage Quality for Beef CattleCorn silage is widely used as an energy and roughage source for beef cattle. It can be used as themain forage source for cattle raised in feedlots or it can be fed in conjunction with other foragesincluding pasture grasses. Corn silage is popular because it can generally produce more nutrientsper acre than other crops. Harvesting corn for silage furnishes 50 to 60% more nutrients per acrefor beef cattle than harvesting the grain alone. It is relatively high in metabolizable energy (ME)but is low in protein content. The grain in corn silage makes up about half the dry weight and two-thirds of the nutrient value. Cattle are easily transitioned from corn silage to a high-grain finishingration. Corn silage is often used to furnish minimum roughage levels in high-grain finishingrations.Download this resource
Goss’s Bacterial Wilt in Corn - Western Corn BeltGoss’s bacterial wilt has also been called leaf freckles and wiltof corn, Nebraska bacterial wilt and leaf freckles, and Goss’sbacterial wilt and blight. The disease was first found inNebraska during 1969 and has since been found in Kansas,Colorado, South Dakota, west central Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois,and Indiana. In order to make appropriate managementdecisions, it is important to know life cycle of the pathogen,identify symptomology, and the geographical impact onmanagement options.Download this resource
Crop Production Update: Tank-mixing Glyphosate and MicronutrientsThere is interest in tank-mixing foliar micronutrient fertilizers with glyphosate (the active ingredient inRoundup® brand agricultural herbicides) to save time and application costs. However, this practice isnot recommended because it can result in reduced weed control.Download this resource
Brown Stem Rot and Sudden Death Syndrome in SoybeanTwo soybean diseases that are easy to misdiagnose are brown stem rot (BSR) and suddendeath syndrome (SDS). In fact, brown stem rot may have been more of an issue than growersrealize during past years. Misdiagnosis no longer has to be a problem by utilizing some easyand helpful identification characteristics.Download this resource
Foliar Fungicide Applications in CornIt is important to apply fungicides in a timely manner before significant corn leaf damage has occurred. Fieldsshould be scouted prior to tasseling (V10 to V14), applications made from full tassel through blister (VTthrough R2), with the goal of protecting foliage from the ear leaf and above during grain fill (silking throughblack layer or R1 through R6).Download this resource
SOYBEAN FARMERS URGED TO BE ON LOOKOUT FOR WHITE MOLDWhile this season is progressing much more quickly than last year, one thing remains the same -- lots of rain. Wet conditions may be ideal for an unwanted soybean disease -- white mold, warns Daren Mueller, Iowa State University plant pathologist.View this resource
Agronomic Spotlight on Diplodia Rot in Corn: Stalk, Ear, and KernelCommon stalk rot diseases that can occur in every corn field every year include Gibberella, Anthracnose,Diplodia, and Fusarium. Diplodia rot is caused by a fungus Diplodia maydis, that commonly infects the stalkand ears several weeks after silking. Proper identification and timing of the disease can help to evaluatemanagement options for next year in an effort to reduce potential yield losses.Download this resource
Common, Weird and Unusual Spots Showing up on CornThere have been several recent reports of leaf spots showing up on corn in addition to the eyespot and Goss’s wilt reported earlier this growing season. Some of these are expected – Northern corn leaf blight and gray leaf spot, but some such as southern rust are a little less common, and others are just weird.View this resource
Agronomic Alert on Spider Mites in SoybeansSpider mite outbreaks in soybeans can occur in hot and dry weather conditions. Scouting offields helps to detect outbreaks early and facilitates timely and effective control measures.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight on Soybean Seed Quality: More Than Meets the EyeAs soybean planting proceeds this spring, it is important to remember that seed appearance does not always equate to quality.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight on Soybean Plant Health and Foliar FungicidesMore frequently, growers are considering the use of foliar fungicides in soybean management. The potentialspread of Asian soybean rust in the U.S. along with higher commodity prices allow greater use of yieldenhancing and protecting inputs. New claims of “plant health” effects with strobilurin fungicides have alsoexpanded the use of foliar fungicides. These effects include longer green leaf retention, increased waterefficiency, and increased stress tolerance during flowering and pod fill.Download this resource
Agronomic Alert on Western Bean Cutworm in CornWestern bean cutworm (WBC) is a relatively new pest to the Midwest. Although it was originally apest of dry bean, WBC is now a serious pest of corn in some parts of the Corn Belt. Properlyidentifying WBC and understanding the thresholds can help determine if control options are needed.Download this resource
Mid-Season Soybean Diseases: Scouting and ManagementSuch a unique season leads to the occurrence of different diseases in corn and soybean, testing disease management skills of the producer. In corn, gray leaf spot risk is higher than last year and common corn rust spores arrived in Iowa two weeks earlier than normal. Both diseases can be found in almost any corn field with varying severity from south to north and from field to field. Soybean brown spot has been wide spread since early season and other diseases are likely to show up when fields are scouted this summer.View this resource
Disease OutlookCheck out this information on the Disease Outlook for corn and soybeans this summer and whether or not it has affected the location of your fields.Download this resource
Corn Insect Control ChartAbove and Below Ground Insect Control - Traits and Seed Treatment ActivityDownload this resource
Agronomic Spotlight on Soybean Seedling DiseasesWet, poorly drained soils and air temperatures below 68° F can be typical during spring planting and crop emergence. These characteristics favor development of the fungal pathogens that cause soybean seedling diseases as well as slow germination and plant growth. Therefore, it is important to take steps that mayprevent soybean seedling diseases and also scout for these diseases after planting.Download this resource
Weed Control in Weather Stressed CornIowa State University Department of Agronomy provides insight on weed control for weather stressed corn this Spring.View this resource
Black Cutworm Scouting Advisory 2010The latest information on black cutworm issues from Iowa State Univeristy.View this resource
Crop Protection UpdateManaging Common Ragweed in Corn and SoybeansDownload this resource
Crop Protection UpdateManaging Giant Ragweed in Corn and SoybeansDownload this resource
Agronomic Alert on Frost and Cold Temperature Damage to Small SoybeansRecent weather patterns have exposed soybean fields to frost and cold temperatures. Understanding the effects of these weather conditions on soybeans at different growth stages can help determine the best management options.Download this resource
Agronomic Alert on Frost and Cold Damage to Small CornRecent weather patterns have exposed corn to frost and cold temperatures. Understanding the effects of these weather conditions on corn at different growth stages can help determine the best management options.Download this resource
Agronomic Alert on Corn Replanting DecisionsCool temperatures and wet conditions have put a stress on corn germination and emerging seedlings. This may cause some concern about reduced corn stands. Before deciding to replant, evaluate the stand for population and uniformity.Download this resource
Agronomic Alert on Corn Management in Flooded FieldsRecent heavy rains have caused flooding in corn fields, which could negatively affect yield potential and cause other problems. Plant survival and potential nitrogen loss should be considered when deciding what management action to take.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight on Black CutwormBlack cutworm is one of the most damaging cutworm species in the Corn Belt.Download this resource
Agronomic Spotlight on Planting PopulationsIn recent years, recommended soybean seeding rates have been decreasing in response to advancements in weed control, seed treatments, and planters.Download this resource

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