Topics:

– Growing Degree Day Update/Forecast Maps

– What’s going on in my fields?…..Corn Development, etc. 

– Fungicide/Disease in Corn

– Insect Update

– Soybean Development

As of July 11th, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Days in 2023:

TEMPERATURES & GDU ACCUMULATION:

Planting Date     GDD’s2023           Average GDD        Departure from average

April 17                  1445                          1411                                 +34 (+1.5 days)

April 26                 1401                          1352                                +49 (+2 days)

May 9                     1270                         1243                                +27 (+1 day)

Since the last update on June 29th, we have continued to lose ground on GDU accumulation.   We are now just ahead of the average, whereas a month ago we were 8-9 days ahead of the average.  Last year we were 2 days ahead of average at this time.  The fields are reflecting this as well as the time to tassel has been slowed up with the cooler temperatures of the past two weeks.  The below maps point this out:

                                                                           

Both maps show departure from normal maximum and minimum temperatures over the past 14 days.  Our area is 4-6 degrees below average for daily high temperature and 4 degrees below average for daily low temperature over this time frame.   Over the past 14 days, average high temperature has been 80 degrees and average low temperature was 61 degrees.  Average high temperature in 2022 for this same period was 87 degrees with average low temperature of 66 degrees.   This equates our to about 80 GDU’s with is 3+ days.  Normal GDU accumulation is 25/day.  Currently we are seeing 20-22/day.   Hence, fields are silking about 3-6 days later than anticipated back in June.  While the temperatures of the past two weeks has been a positive for crop stress, they have greatly increased potential for disease outbreaks in both corn and soybeans.  More on this further into the update.

What’s forecasted for the next two weeks?

   

The above maps show the temperature and precipitation outlooks for the next 6-10 and 8-14 day periods.  As one can see, the outlooks are best of both worlds…above normal temperatures with above normal precipitation.  This will be great for pollination and early grain fill.   We still need some heat to keep the crop progressing.  However, while they keep predicting more heat, it never seems to quite make it, which usually happens under a wet weather pattern.  So, I’m taking this with ‘a grain of salt’…..

What’s going on in my field?….

• Baring the fields that were caught in Monday’s hail, much of the corn crop looks good overall.  Much of the corn crop is in the V16-VT-early R1 stage, with tassels starting to show up throughout the area depending upon hybrid and planting date.  This is slightly ahead of last year.   From V10-VT, corn gains a new color every 50 GDU’s, or about every other day.   Majority of the fields will tassel fully by the end of the week, with the later planted fields doing so early next week.  
• Kernels per row began around V12 and is continuing through and up to tassel stage
• Nitrogen needs will continue to grow through tasseling and into early reproductive stages.  Nitrogen uptake in corn is very rapid now through tassel (up to 4-8 lbs per day).  As we have discussed in the past, today’s hybrids use nitrogen later in the growing season and into the reproductive phases.  You will want to keep that last shot of N available for after tasseling….40-50#   Prior to the past 10 days or so, expectations have been low for N leaching from excessive rainfall.  However, many sandy areas saw heavy rains over the past two weeks, so we would expect that some N leaching occurred during these rain events.  Keep this in mind as you determine your final N applications.
• We are now into the rapid growth and accumulation of dry matter by the plant.  The window for brittle snap is still open over the next 5-10 days.
• Under field conditions, pollen shed usually occurs in the late morning and early evenings.
• Pollen shed will extend for one to two weeks, but if field is uniform in plant emergence and height, pollen shed is 80% complete in 5-7 days from full tassel emergence….this will take place end of this week thru next week for most fields.
• At tassel, vegetative development is now complete; maximum plant height and root depth is achieved.
• VT overlaps with R1 (silking stage) when visible silks appear before the tassel is fully emerged.  By definition, growth stage R1 (Abendroth et al., 2011) for an individual ear is defined when a single silk strand is visible from the tip of the husk. An entire field is defined as being at growth stage R1 when silks are visible on at least 50 % of the plants. This whole field definition for growth stage R1 is synonymous with the term “mid-silk”.
• A captured pollen grain takes about 24 hours to grow down the silk to the ovule for fertilization.
• Peak pollen shed usually occurs in mid-morning.   Some research indicates that pollen shed decreases after temperatures surpass 86F.   A second “flush” of pollen often occurs in late afternoon or evening as temperatures cool.   Pollen shed may occur throughout most of the day under relatively cool, cloudy conditions….. Crop Focus – Corn Pollination Success
• Weather conditions influence pollen shed.  If the anthers are wet, the pores will not open and pollen will not be released.   Thus, on an average summer morning following a heavy evening dew, pollen shed will not begin until the dew dries and the anther pores open.  Similarly, pollen is not shed during rainy conditions.   Cool, humid temperatures delay pollen shed, while hot, dry conditions hasten pollen shed.
• Generally 2-3 days are required for all silks on a single ear to be exposed and pollinated, with the silks on the butt of the ear emerging first.  The silks will grow from 1-1.5 inches each day and will continue to elongate until fertilized.  If not pollinated, silk elongation stops about 10 days after silk emergence due to senescence of the silk tissue. Unusually long silks can be a diagnostic symptom that the ear was not successfully pollinated.
• Silk emergence and growth is dependent upon turgid pressure within the plant, in other words how much water is available in the plant to cover all of its needs.   If this is limited, (ie. dryland, low-gallon wells, etc.) silk emergence will be slowed and delayed with potential to miss the pollen shed.   Under severe water stress conditions pollen shed will still take place like normal, however, silks can be delayed, which means potential for poor pollination.
• It takes approximately 55-60 days from silking (R1) to physiological maturity.  So if a field is silking on July 15^th, it will need until September 15^th to reach maturity, given average weather.  Current 6-10 and 8-14 day forecasts call for above normal temperatures, which should give us a GDD accumulation of 25-30 GDU’s per day.
• High nighttime temperatures (ie. any stress) begin to play a role in final yield during grain-fill as this causes the plant to work harder to maintain both yield and overall plant health, thereby lowering potential final yield.

Corn Leaf Disease/Fungicide

• The next four to six weeks will be critical for disease infestations and fungicide applications.  Keep in mind that if we continue to see cool temperatures and wet conditions, potential disease outbreaks will increase exponentially.
• Begin scouting now and through the next few weeks for disease infestations.  So far, leaf disease load in area cornfields is very low, mainly bacterial leaf streak, however, we have seen some Northern Corn Leaf Blight lesions and, with the wet conditions, we are starting to see the first Common Rust show up. We are not seeing any Tar Spot in the area.  We keep you posted on this disease if we find it….
• If you are planning on only one fungicide application, the best timing for this application is after pollination as the crop is working the hardest at this time and has the highest demand for energy.  We want to protect as much of the leaf surface as possible in this time frame, which is from pollination and the two weeks after.   Corn on corn acres are always a good place to start with fungicide applications.
• While any hybrid can have a response to foliar fungicides, hybrids such as P0622, P0924, P0950, P0908, P0995, P1185, P1278, P1366 & P1563 are hybrids to focus on first for higher probability of response from foliar fungicides, especially if gray leaf spot infestations are high…..2023 Pioneer Foliar Fungicide Guide – Nebraska ….This attachment is a list of Pioneer hybrids and their potential response to a fungicide application for Gray Leaf Spot and Norther Corn Leaf Blight.  The chart also shows staygreen and stalk strength ratings for each hybrid.   This chart can help with fungicide management decisions.
• See attachments on disease and fungicide management – Maximizing Foliar Fungicide in Corn and Bacterial Leaf Streak
• Fungicide Efficacy for Control of Corn Diseases     This attachment shows efficacy and posted residuals by active ingredient for different leaf diseases, for the current fungicides on the market.  This is a good reference sheet on fungicides….

Water Management

We have finally been blessed with rainfall…we have experienced the old saying, ‘when it rains, it pours’, in many areas.  As so often happens, we go from desperately needing moisture to excessive.  We have had a 200-300% increase in rainfall over the past two weeks versus the average….see map below:

 For the year, my weather station is only 1″ below normal now!

Below are some key water management tips to keep in mind:

• The greatest yield loss from moisture stress occurs in the period two weeks prior to two weeks after pollination.  For the next two weeks, the corn crop will be at its peak water usage, with ET rates of .30+ inches per day – higher when temps are in the mid-90’s and higher yet when combined with low humidity….lower under cool and cloudy conditions.
• ET rates over the past two weeks have been average…..20-.35″ depending upon temperatures, etc.  However, we are reaching peak water use in corn, and with the potential higher temps forecasted out two weeks, it will be important to stay on top of overall water needs by the crop.
• At present, we are seeing fairly good root depth according to the soil moisture probes….sandier soils are 20-32” (better than average) and heavy soils are 28-40+” (average) depending upon plant date, conditions and soil type.  Remember that maximum plant height and root depth are achieved once the plant tassels.  The recent rains have filled up soil moisture profiles.

Insect Update

Western Bean Cutworm egg masses can be found in area, sandy fields.  Keep these tips in mind over the next few weeks:

• To scout for this insect, check the sandier fields first and look on the upper side of the leaf for a white, or purple, egg mass.  These will be found on the upper 1/3 of the plant.
• We again have pheromone moth traps located west of Elgin.   Current numbers are slowing trending upwards, but too early to tell how heavy the flight will be.
• Treat when the fields are 95% tasseled.  Use high rates (5-6oz) of a Capture-like product to give you 3-4 weeks of residual control.
• WBC are attracted to those fields that are closest to tasseling, so this means the later planted and later silking fields have the highest potential for infestations.  Cool conditions will delay and extend their flight, so what may appear low numbers now can pickup in two weeks, which is why we recommend the extra residual.
• Once a field has been tasseled, any egg masses that hatch will see the larvae move straight to the ear tip, so treatment soon after tasseling is critical.
• AML versions of Pioneer hybrids offer control of WBC/Corn earworm.  No need to treat these hybrids for WBC – these include P0622AML, P0908AML, P1122AML, P1366AML, P1563AML, & P2042AML.

Corn Rootworm

Adult beetle emergence is occurring right now, and will continue over the next few weeks.  Monitor your continuous corn acres for adult beetle populations to:

• prevent high numbers interfering with pollination through silk-clipping.  Males emerge first and this is what we are mainly seeing right now.
• help with rootworm control in your continuous corn acres.  Strongly recommended to use Steward insecticide (by FMC) for control of adult beetle populations to help with next year’s control of rootworm.  This product has shown excellent results for both kill and residual, which can be upwards of 30 days.  As far as timing for control, it is best to wait until there are pregnant females present.

Grasshoppers….seeing some feeding in both corn and soybeans from small grasshoppers, mainly along borders and dryland corners and neighboring rye fields.  The recent wet conditions should reduce grasshopper numbers moving forward.  However, this insect is present in higher numbers than we normally see….keep an eye on this pest.

Soybean Development

• Most of the soybeans in our area are at late-R1 (Beg flower) to late-R2 (Full flower).  I would not be surprised to see early R3 (pod set) on some fields next week.   Most fields are finally coming around and growing.
• Soybeans should be nodulating heavily at this stage.   At the beginning of the reproductive stage, soybeans will still put on 50% of their vegetative growth.
• Crop water use in soybeans starts to increase rapidly at full flower, peaks at R3 and will stay high through R6, or full seed  Flower stage is usually the time when the soybean plant begins to pull from the deeper root zones….we see this happening on the soil moisture probes in the area.  Heavy soil moisture profiles are full enough that very limited irrigation will be needed on soybeans through July, unless temps turn off hot.
• With the wet conditions of the past 10-14 days, we would not be surprised to see Iron Chlorosis symptoms show up again in high-pH areas…wet bottoms, clay hillsides.  For this to ‘fix itself’, the fields will need to dry out.  Variety tolerance to Iron Chlorosis will also play a role here.
• We continue to see a yield response from a fungicide application in soybeans, either at R1 for white mold (applications of which should be on or going on) and/or a later R3 (pod set) stage of growth.  Environmental conditions over the next two months will determine disease incidence and overall level of disease infestation.  Just a reminder, keep an eye out for Frogeye Leaf Spot  in soybeans as not all fungicides control this disease.  This disease is normally not an issue in our area and many varieties have very good tolerance to this disease.  See attachment for more info on this disease….Frogeye Leaf Spot in Soybeans
• Recent weather conditions have increased the potential for White Mold.   If current weather trends continue into August, expect White Mold outbreak to be heavier than we have seen the past few years.    For White mold management see attachment:  Managing White Mold in Soybeans

Palmer Amaranth Pictures

   

Palmer Amaranth/Waterhemp continue to be a difficult weed to control.   The above pictures are re-growth after 6oz of Status applied five-six weeks ago.  you can see how the plant was ‘burned’ down to a stem, but was not controlled for every node and eventually re-growth started.  We continue to see more and more of this in both corn and soybeans across herbicide platforms.  This weed needs to be controlled early…anything over 4-6″ and almost impossible to fully control.  The herbicides have had value as they ‘set back’ the plant (reduced competition, etc.), but full control was not achieved (still have seed production).  The last photo shows how hardy these buggers are!  They can grow anywhere and don’t need much for soil depth….how healthy that plants looks in a rain gutter!….

Thank you for your business!!   Please let us know any questions or concerns you may have!!

Starman Seed Service, Inc.

 

 

TOPICS FOR THIS UPDATE:

• Planting and Early Spring conditions….
• Temperatures & GDU accumulation
• What’s going on in my fields right now….
• Crop Water Use
• Rapid Growth Syndrome in Corn
• Insect Update
• Soybean Update

PLANTING AND EARLY SPRING CONDITIONS…..

2023 planting season started off very cold.  The month of April was on the cold side with the only real period of warmth around April 17-20.  May, however, saw warmer temperatures from about May 5 and on.  As usual this all impacted emergence.  The below photos show some of the potential issues that caused uneven emergence.  The first photos show the impact of residue from harvest conditions last fall along with cold soil temperatures.  The streaks are spreader issues from the combine.  This field was planted right before a down turn in temperatures.  Overall stand is good, but was uneven due to the residue.  Considering the early cold temperatures at planting, corn stands are very good overall.  Pioneer hybrids showed strong emergence and stand establishment.  The last photo shows the difference on emergence between P1170AM and a 112 day competitor.  Along with the genetics, Pioneer seed treatments give an extra boost.  We are seeing very good early growth out of some of the new hybrids like P1164AM & P1170AM.   As of today, the early planted corn (ie. April) looks best…

TEMPERATURES & GDU ACCUMULATION:

As of June 9th, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Units in 2023:

Planting Date     GDD’s2022          Average GDD     Departure from average

April 17                  756                        629                                 +127 (+7-8 days)

April 26                 712                         570                                 +142 (+8 days)

May 9                     656                         506                                +150 (+8 days)

As you can see from the above numbers, we are much ahead of the 30-year average.   The corn crop is reflecting this as well as overall growth has been rapid.  These numbers are a week ahead of 2022 as well.  After a cold planting season, the crop has really ‘taken-off’.  We are off to a ‘fast start’ which is usually a positive for yield…now, if we can just snag a good rain!

The above images are the temperature and precipitation forecasts for the next 7-14 days with the current drought monitor map for Nebraska.  We have been much above normal temperatures for the past two weeks; however, it looks like we may potentially be cooling off somewhat over the next few days compared to the last few days.  Average high temperatures so far in June have been 6-7 degrees above normal and average low temperatures are 2-4 degrees above normal.   After a cooler weekend, temps are forecasted to be back in the 80’s.   Hopefully the precip maps will turn out true and we will snag a good rain….some areas around us have received moisture the last two days.  It’s a pattern where one is lucky or not….

WHAT’S GOING ON IN MY FIELDS RIGHT NOW?...

As mentioned above, overall corn stands are very good.   The majority of the April planted crop is in the 7-8 leaf stage-of-growth and the May planting dates are 5-6 leaf…this is one week ahead of 2022.  From V1-V10, corn gains a leaf collar about every 83 GDU’s…this will be about every 3 – 4 days with current forecasted conditions.   This would put us in the July 10-15 time frame potentially, for tasseling.

• At V5, leaf and ear shoot initiation will be complete and a microscopically small tassel is initiated in the stem apex tip, or top of the growing point.
• At V6, the growing point and tassel will be above the soil surface and the stalk is beginning a period of greatly increased elongation.
• Determination of potential kernel rows around will be completed around V7 (range of V5-V8)…all fields are now is this stage….
• The corn root system is now rapidly transitioning to the main nodal root system.  When hot temperatures occur following a cool spell, crop growth at this stage can be uneven.  Areas of heavier residue will start to look shorter.  It will take a little time for that to catch up.
• At V9, an ear shoot will develop from every above-ground node, except the las six to eight nodes below the tassel.  Growth of most of the lower stalk ear shoots eventually slows, and only the upper one or two ear shoots will develop into a harvestable ear.
• At V10, the time between the appearance of new leaf stages will shorten….generally every 2-3 days.
• We are now heading into the rapid growth and accumulation of dry matter by the plant.  The window for brittle snap will start to grow exponentially over the next few weeks.
• Watch temperatures as you are spraying post-herbicides on corn or beans over the next several days.  When temps are in the 90’s and humidity is very low or high, the potential for crop response from post-application of herbicides will increase.  It is not recommended to be spraying during the heat of the day if temps are in the low-to-upper 90’s…both for potential crop response and herbicide control.

CROP WATER USE

 CROP STAGE OF GROWTH & ROOTING DEPTH:

From the chart, you can see that average rooting depth for V6-V8 corn is approximately 20-25″, depending upon weather conditions, soil type and structure, etc.  Currently the AquaSpy moisture probes are showing 12-24″ rooting depths across soil types and planting dates, so we are very much in the normal on rooting depth.  However, soil moisture profile is low overall and it is now easier to pick out dryland corners, etc.

ET USAGE:

ET, or evapotranspiration, has been exceedingly high over the past week.  Total ET from June 1-9 was 2.41 inches for our area for an average of .27in/day.  Relative humidity over the past week has also been below normal with the increased temperatures, which increases overall ET rates.   The above forecasts will see this trend slow down somewhat if cooler temps stick around.  The two charts below show ET rates for vegetative and reproductive stages for corn.   The chart on the right breaks down ET rates for weather conditions.  Note the increase under hot/dry conditions.  We have been running .10 inches above what the hot & dry figures show over the last week….

                                                             

Things to keep in mind over the next weeks on irrigation management:

• Good idea to check to make sure your pivots are applying what the timer says it is.  Being short .20-.30″ each circle adds up to a lot over the irrigation season.  You want to catch this early…..
• Be ready to begin irrigation ‘season’ earlier this year due to the reduced soil moisture profile.  We will need to start irrigating sooner to help ‘push’ water into the lower profile if no help from mother nature.  This will be critical for pollination and grain-fill.  Remember, the greatest impact yield loss from water stress occurs from two weeks before to two weeks after tassel.
• Keep in mind control hours on electric pivots, you may want to change control hours as the year progresses.
• Be prepared for wells to lose pressure over time in heavy irrigation periods.   May want to check on acid supplies for acidizing wells later in the year.
• Check satellite imagery often starting now and through August to catch any sprinkler issues or water patterns in time for them to be corrected.
• Always keep safety in the forefront as you irrigate….take your time when around power boxes, motors, etc.

RAPID GROWTH SYNDROME IN CORN

Rapid growth syndrome usually occurs when corn leaves fail to unfurl properly and the whorl becomes tightly wrapped and twisted. It is generally associated with an abrupt transition from cool temperature to warmer conditions.  This syndrome usually occurs in the late V5 to early V6 stage, but can occur through and beyond V8-V9.   Hybrids can also vary in there susceptibility to this.   So far, we are not seeing much of this condition.

The Good News: Yield doesn’t seem to be affected by the twisted growth.  Once the plant is chest high the only evidence that remains is the leaves can have a crinkled appearance….this is also the yellow leaf phenomenon.

Crop Focus: Rapid Growth

INSECT UPDATE:

Corn Rootworms –

It’s about that time to start seeing our annual rootworm hatch. When we see the cotton start to fly, or the famous lightning bugs, we will know rootworm hatch is underway because it takes about the same GDU’s (680-750 soil based degree days) for all of these things to happen.

Some fun facts:

• Larvae in sandy soils can become scratched and lacerated causing more mortality
• Flooded or saturated soils will cause more mortality
• Dry soil in late summer creates deep cracks for adult egg laying for better winter survival….which we had in 2022.
• CRW will go through 3 growth stages (Each last 7-10 days)
• 3^rd Instar will create the most damage to corn roots
• Begin scouting continuous corn acres mid-to-end of next week and throughout the month of June.

There are many management practices that can help mitigate the risk of yield loss or lodging due to corn rootworm. The best recommended strategy is to rotate to soybeans.  Overall pressure was much less in 2022, so hopefully, overall larvae populations are starting from low numbers.  The new Vorceed Enlist technology from Pioneer will be a new ‘tool’ in the toolbox for CRW control for next year.  Vorceed will offer three distinct modes of action for protection against CRW.  More on this technology as the summer progresses.

Corn Rootworm: Scouting & Management Practices

European Corn Borer:

We have yet to see ECB moth flight.  However, we should begin to see moth over the next two weeks with egg-laying taking place the third week of June most likely.  For those of you who have conventional corn and/or popcorn, begin scouting for this pest the week of the 19th and beyond.  We will keep everyone updated on this pest….

SOYBEAN UPDATE:

Per what seems to be the norm now, soybean emergence and growth has been slow.  However, fields are starting to take off as of late.  Heavier residue fields will continue to show some unevenness for the next few weeks.  We are starting to hear of soybeans randomly dying in dryland corners or dryland fields.  We have yet to take a look at these spots, but most likely is a result of the dry conditions….dry conditions leading to little moisture in the rootzone…greatly increased potential for herbicide carryover from prior year.  Usually something like this does not have ‘one’ cause for its happening, but is a combination of stresses.  We are not seeing much for insect activity currently…very little bean leaf beetle and very little painted lady larvae.

Herbicide Applications:

The next couple of weeks will see the great majority of post applications for Enlist and Xtend soybeans.  Below are some attachments for BMP’s for Enlist along with nozzle recommendations and tank cleanout.  Please monitor wind direction and speeds as you begin applications to limit off-target movement of herbicides….

2023 Enlist Best Management Practices

Qualified Enlist Nozzles

Tank Cleanout Recommendations

What are some important reminders that are good to keep in mind before applying POST herbicides?

• Impact of weed height
• Influence of temperature
• Significance of rainfast period

Each of these alone or in-combination can lead to lessor than expected performance.

Impact of Weed Height

Something to share that could easily get overlook is how much faster weeds grow per day in June than in April.   As you know well, Palmer amaranth grows rapidly; much faster in June than April

• Data from University of Delaware on Palmer amaranth growth in 30 day period
  • April 5^th planting date – 2.5” up to 5”
  • May 12^th – 5” up to 10”
  • June 12^th  – 10” up to 16”
• To learn more…https://extension.umd.edu/sites/extension.umd.edu/files/publications/FS-1192_ControlLargePalmerAmaranth_CommonRagweed_Soybean_or_Corn_feb2022_ada.pdf
• So how does the performance of Enlist One® herbicide + Liberty change with increasing weed height?
  • Multi-state study funded by Corteva & BASF – Enlist One 2 pt + Liberty 32 oz
    • 3-4” Palmer amaranth verses 6-8”
      • 90% vs. 78%
    • 3-4” Waterhemp verses 6-8”
      • 98% vs. 82%

• Learn more about the importance of tank-mixing to optimize Palmer amaranth control
  • Click to watch video…https://aaes.uada.edu/videos/2020-pigweed-size-influence-on-herbicides/

Influence of Temperature

Most research suggests weeds are best controlled when air temperatures are between 75-86F

So what happens when air temperatures are colder or hotter than ideal?

• Glufosinate performance declines under colder night/day temperatures
  • Decreases basipetal (movement to base of leaf) translocation
    • Best results with 68F night and 75F day temperatures
      • Read more…https://www.jstor.org/stable/4046882

• Mesotrione performance declines with hotter day temperatures
  • Under high temperature stress; reduced mesotrione translocation & faster metabolism by weeds
    • Best results with 72.5F night and 90.5F day temperatures
      • Read more…https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/stories/2015/06/weed-control061715.html

Significance of Rainfast Period

 Many different factors are at play when determining the success or failure from an unanticipated rain shower; herbicide characteristics, adjuvant type, RH, temp., intensity of rain

Important to know as well, weed species will respond differently

• Glyphosate – rainfast period of 4 hours needed to control goosegrass and Palmer amaranth, while 24 hours needed for pitted morningglory
• Glufosinate – rainfast period of 1 hour was needed for goosegrass and pitted morningglory, while 24 hours was needed for Palmer amaranth
• • Read on to learn more…https://repository.lib.ncsu.edu/bitstream/handle/1840.16/4809/etd.pdf?sequence=1
• Reference rainfast period for POST herbicides by clicking this link…https://www.canr.msu.edu/weeds/extension/weed-control-guide/2018WG-table-11.pdf

Thanks to Jason Gibson, Market Development Specialist, Corteva Crop Protection for the above info and tips!

Please reach out to us with any questions or concerns you may have over the next few weeks.  Stay cool and stay safe!   Thank you for all of your support!!

STARMAN SEED SERVICE, INC.

With the 2023 Planting season upon us, we wanted to give a quick update as we begin thinking about planting.  One thing that is certain is that 2023 spring planting conditions will be different from the 2022 spring conditions, in both residue and soil moisture.   There is decent moisture in the top ten inches currently, versus bone dry a year ago….sand knobs, on the other hand, are starting to get dried out.   However, conditions are not ‘wet’ and this can change in a hurry if dry conditions persist along with strong winds.   Another change from last year is the impact on crop residue.  This winter, crop residue stayed put for the most part, which hopefully means that residue conditions at planting should be more like ‘normal’ versus last year.   The increase in moisture this winter should help with crop residue breakdown as well.   On the flip side, we still are not seeing the ‘rotting’ stalks, etc., that we normally experience, even though we received more moisture this winter than last winter.

Topics for this Update:

• Early Spring conditions and weather outlook…
• Cold soils and Corn Emergence….
• Things to Keep in Mind when Planting Early…
• Plant First & Hybrid Stress Emergence Ratings…

EARLY SPRING CONDITIONS & WEATHER OUTLOOK

Keeping all of this in mind, let’s look at a few weather maps to put things into perspective as we plan to begin planting.  We will look at the drought monitor maps first.

               

The first map is the latest drought monitor map dated April 4th.  The second map is from end of December, 2022.   Note the overall improvement from last the beginning of the year.  While this is a good sign, note that we are still under extreme to severe drought conditions.   So, while we have moisture in the upper profile that is improved versus 2022, the overall soil moisture profile (0-3′) has only slight improvement from 2022.   If dry weather and windy conditions persist through planting, we will see dry conditions similar to last year.   Hopefully, with a little more moisture in the upper profile, we won’t experience the hard soil conditions that we had to plant into the past two years.

The next few maps show the latest seasonal (Apr-May-Jun) and monthly (Apr) temperature and precipitation maps.  Please note that the seasonal maps were issued March 16th and the monthly maps on March 31st.   This is just to show the latest trends….

What do things look like over the next one to two weeks?   The above maps show temperature and precipitation outlooks for the next 6-10 and 8-14 days. These maps were issued on April 6.  After a colder than normal March and first few days of April, we are finally getting a warming trend showing up.  Next weeks temperatures will be in the 70’s to 80 degrees for highs.  While finally seeing some warmer temps, we are currently behind normal in soil temperatures by the calendar, due to the cool conditions of the past weeks.   It will take a number of days of 70-80 degrees to warm up the soil to even minimal temperatures for planting….I’m sure there are still a few spots of frost to come out of the ground.   Local 4″ soil temperature in soybean stubble was 34 degrees at 10:30am on April 7th.   As far as precip is concerned, the outlook is at least positive.   Hopefully this pans out as there is nothing that a good 1-2″ rain would not help fix.

COLD SOILS AND CORN EMERGENCE

Optimal soil temperatures for planting corn is 50 degrees and above.   Imbibition of cold water can lower germination rates and cold soil temperatures can delay emergence allowing for more diseases to set into the seedling.  If temperatures go as predicted above, we have a good chance for rapid soil temperature improvement, however, it will still take 4-5 days of such temperatures to reach minimal planting temperatures, especially on a consistent basis.  Here is a quick look at how a seed germinates.  Imbibition of soil water happens within the first 48 hours and is why it is critical to plant when soil conditions and soil temperatures are right.  Main point to keep in mind is that the best time to plant is heading into a 2-4 day warm temperature period right after planting.  Most reduced stands occur when planting into a cold spell, or before giving the soil temperatures time to warm up some right after a cold period….remember, soil temps are currently colder than normal for this time of year.   See link below for more info.

Soil Temperature and Cold Emergence

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN PLANTING EARLY

• Fluctuating soil temperatures can cause imbibitional seed chilling, erratic emergence and cold temperature injury
• Average last freeze date:  3^rd-4^th week in April for Central Nebraska…last year we had a frost on May 22nd…
• Seed Soil Contact is key to fast emergence and stand establishment…..soils that are too wet can lead to side wall compaction, crusting and poor seed to soil contact.  In dry conditions, it gets more difficult to get good seed/soil contact as air pockets are increased due to loose and crumbly soil structure.
• Herbicide injury can occur more often in cool, wet soils where the plant isn’t growing at an optimal pace.
• Planting Depth….Optimum planting depth is 1 1/2 to 2″, with 2″ best under normal conditions as this is best for optimal nodal root development.  Soil temperature fluctuates more in the top 1” = one reason why we plant at 1 1/2  to 2″ deep.   Never plant shallower than 1 1/2″ and we see no reason to go deeper than 2 1/2″.   Always err on the deeper side vs. the shallow side for depth.  More bushels are lost from too shallow than too deep planting.   Optimum soybean planting for soybeans is 1-2″…err on the deeper side under cold conditions.
• Plant populations….Consider increasing population drop under heavy residue and cooler conditions.  This is especially so for soybeans….if planting in April consider bumping up seed drop by 10% to offset adverse weather conditions….even more needed if planting in April and no-tilling.  Most of the time any replant discussions would’ve been eliminated had seed drop been bumped up at planting.

See links below for more info…

Corn Planting Depth and Spacing

9 Steps to a Perfect Corn Stand

Preseason Planter Checklist

PLANT FIRST RECOMMENDATIONS

One of the most frequently asked question is “What product should I plant first?”  With the cooler soil temperatures at the beginning of planting we believe that it is important to start with a hybrid that shows strong emergence and early vigor.  The below bullet points show our recommendations for “plant first” products if soil temps are cool. The hybrids are listed by maturity not by how well they emerge.  These are products that have shown to have strong emergence and early vigor over the past several seasons.  Selecting one of these hybrids to start with can help provide the best chance for optimum emergence when soil temperatures are cooler at the start of planting.   However, considering how fast our soils can warm up and if one is planting into a warm stretch, we don’t have an issue with starting with most any hybrid…key is the first 48-72 hours after planting.  Keep in mind the 2-5 day forecast ahead of anytime you are planting.  Remember also, that we will continue to experience soil temperature fluctuations as we go through planting….whether planting in April or May….

Also keep in mind that Pioneer has the industry-leading seed treatments on corn and soybeans.  No company has more active ingredients.   We have seen the difference over the past few years!

• 105-109 CRM – P0404, P0622, P0924
• 110-118 CRM – P1082, P1164, P1122, P1278, P1366, P1563

PIONEER STRESS TEST

You can have confidence in the Stress Emergence scores from Pioneer as they use their own proprietary stress test.  The Pioneer Stress Test (PST) is the highest stress level test in the industry which induces cold shock levels not likely to occur unless you would be planting corn today!   These tests are replicated numerous times from seed harvest thru planting.  Replications help reduce variability.  Also, Pioneer field calibrates the results of PST scores in numerous plots throughout the Midwest each year so a PST score can be turned into real world stand establishment values.

Specifics of the Pioneer Stress Test

• The Pioneer Stress Test (PST) is a proprietary vigor test used on all Pioneer brand corn products.
• It was developed in early 2000s as an improvement upon the saturated cold test.
• The Pioneer Stress Test imposes extreme imbibitional chilling and anaerobic stresses, beyond that of the saturated cold test.
• PST remains a competitive advantage for Pioneer; Hence protocol and scores are not published
• Stress Emergence scores are the best way to differentiate products for early stand establishment under stress

 

Please contact us with any questions or comments you may have.  Thank you for your business!!

Starman Seed Service, Inc.

 

Harvest is very close…a few dryland corn and soybean acres are starting to come out….hearing low 30’s to upper 20’s on the dryland corn moistures and 13 or so, on soybean moisture on dryland.

Topics

• Growing Degree Day Update/Weather Update
• Current Corn Conditions….
• Pre Harvest…

As of September 14th, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Units in 2022:

Planting Date     GDU’s2021          Average GDU     Departure from average

April 21               2876                         2716                        +160 (+8 days)

April 28              2810                         2646                       +164 (+8 days)

May 9                  2747                        2575                         +172 (+8.5 days)

As of the above numbers, we have accumulated enough GDU’s to mature just about all hybrids in the April planting dates and very close in the mid-May planting dates.   Only hybrids that are true black layer currently, are 106 and earlier, planted in April….and quite a bit of dryland of course.

Current Crop Conditions….

• Much of the corn crop is at 2/3 milk line to almost black layer, depending upon planting date and hybrid.
•  
• The photo above compares ear size and type across new and current hybrids from the Pioneer Show Plot.   Ear size and length is very similar to prior years here.  The other photos are the same ears, but showing maturity line and grain color.  It may be a little hard to tell in the photos, but grain quality and color are looking very good right now.   The new hybrids are looking good for both kernel depth and test weights.  The high test weight hybrids, like 1185, are almost ‘candy corn’ color right now.  One can see that we are very close to black layer here.   Keep in mind the mid-May planting dates yet, on full season hybrids (1278, 1563), for another watering first of the week if no rain.
• Over the past two weeks, we have been seeing more and more late-season N deficiency show up on lower leaves across both heavy and lighter soils.  These symptoms are slowly working there way up the plant as each week goes on.  We normally see some of this is dry years, as conditions have not been as conducive for N mineralization as the past few years.  Also, as mentioned in a prior update, overall root mass is most likely less than in previous years (what you see above ground, is what you have below ground).  A reduced root system size would mean a reduced area to scavenge for both nutrients and water, compounded under drought and limited water availability.
• Video link on current staygreen conditions in the Pioneer Show Plot – September 15, 2022….Pioneer Show Plot – Staygreen

Pre-Harvest….

• From all appearances, it looks like the key word to use to describe yields (both corn and soybean) in 2022 will be variable.   The amount of available water, the early planting conditions, residue, hot temperatures and areas of spider mites, have all created more variability in area fields than we have seen for a few years.   This is related to harvest stands and overall ear size and kernel depth/weight.  The continued dry weather has exposed more center pivot issues over the past few weeks as well.
• The main key overall on yield will almost certainly be water availability.
•                                  
• The above photos show Stateside Precipitation Ranks for June-August 2022 and August 2022.   As you can see, Nebraska has the dubious honor of being the driest in the country over these periods.   NE has had the 3rd driest June-August over the past 125+ years and the 2nd driest August (hard to believe when you consider this includes the ‘dirty 30’s!).   We see the impact of this dry weather in the dryland acres, but it has to have some impact on the irrigated as well.  Its hard to believe that we can have above trendline irrigated yields over a wide spread area when our dryland looks this rough.
• Especially when you consider how much water was needed in 2022.   Since January 1, we have had ET rates of 47″ as of September 14th.   10 year average is 31+”.  This is over 15″ above average for total ET.   Couple this with the fact that we are almost 11″ below normal for the year in total precipitation and one can readily see why our dryland looks as it does.
• Of the 47″ of total ET, 40″ has been from April 1 to Sep 14th.   Over the growing season, we needed to come up with 20-25″ of water to cover the increased ET and rainfall deficit.   This is why the sand acre never shutoff all year and why we may find out that the heavy soils needed more water than what was actually applied.  In many cases, irrigation just replaced the normal rainfall deficit, plus a little more…meaning we were potentially short of overall water needs….    Irrigation was never meant to supply all the water needs of the crop….
• It has to rain in August to make soybean yield!   This is something we did not get in 2022.   Expectations would be for lower dryland soybean yields than we have seen for some years.  Keep in mind the yield loss on soybeans from low harvest moistures.   Be ready to ‘get them’ early if conditions stay hot and dry….
• The amount of stress, from the above factors) that has been on this crop has been the highest we have seen in 10+ years.  This has the potential to lead to increased late-season standability issues….especially on those irrigated fields that had increased moisture stress over the summer.   Most all fields have some plants that are shutting down prematurely as of this update.
• Bottom line….this will be a good year to have everything ready to go for harvest and to not ‘wait’ for the perfect conditions or harvest moisture.   Getting finished with harvest in a timely manner will pay dividends this year….harvesting earlier means better conditions to ‘air-dry’ the grain in storage as well.
• The Good News!…yes, there is good news….Kernel counts, grain color and grain quality look very good.   We expect high test weights (irrigated).   This should lead to good grain storage.  However, keep in mind the amount of ‘fines’ that will go in a grain bin if mixing dryland corners and irrigated together in a bin.
• Yields have the potential to be very good in many fields….whether as good as the last few years remains to be seen….

Thanks for your support and please contact us with any questions or concerns you may have!

Starman Seed Service, Inc.

Topics:

• Growing Degree Unit Update
• Quick Crop Update/Water Use/Weather
• Impact of Pivot Issues
• Corn/Soybean Insect Update
• Enlist E3 Soybeans and Weed Control System

TEMPERATURES & GDU ACCUMULATION:

As of August 14th, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Units in 2022:

Planting Date     GDD’s2022          Average GDD     Departure from average

April 21                  2228                           2198                               +30 (+ 1.5 days)

April 28                  2162                          2148                               +14   (even)

May 9                     2099                          2054                               +45 (+ 2 days)

The above numbers continue to show us slightly ahead of normal for GDU accumulation since the last update 12 days ago.  Average daily GDU accumulation the past 12 days has been 23.  Average daily GDU accumulation over the next 14 days is forecasted to be 19, so we will definitely slowdown over the rest of the next two weeks if forecast holds true.   Forecast for GDU accumulation over the next two weeks is 274 GDUs.  If this holds true, this would give us 2502 GDU’s by September 1 for an April 21 planting date and 2328 GDU’s for a May 9 planting date.   For perspective, it takes approximately 2550 GDU’s for P1082AM to reach maturity and 2760 GDU’s for 1366AM.  The cooler temperatures will give the crop a break and extend the grain-fill period which is normally a very good trend for yields.   More info in the weather update below.

The above the 6-10 and 8-14 day forecasted temperature and precipitation maps.  As you can see from the maps, we are forecasted to be normal to slightly below normal for temperatures through the rest of this month, and normal to below normal precipitation.  The cool temps will slow down development and reduce irrigation needs, however, they will increase the potential for more late-season disease pressure to show up as cool temps means more dew and wet crop canopy’s.  Usually cool temps means more cloudy weather, so we will see what happens to sunlight over the next few weeks.    Much of the April planted corn crop is in the Dough to Beg. Dent stage, with some early maturity hybrids at 1/8 milk line.  The May planted crop is in the late-Milk to Dough stage.  Most soybean fields are in the R5 (Beg. Seed) to R6 (Full seed) stage.

WEATHER/CROP WATER UPDATE

• Relative Humidity – RH has been running 10% below normal through the first half of August.   This has influenced a couple of things….it has reduced potential disease outbreaks but has increased crop ET rates and the potential for increased numbers of spider mites.   From the above forecasts, expect RH to increase the rest of this month, increasing disease potential but lowering crop ET rates.
• ET rates – ET rates over the past 14 days have averaged .30 inch/day versus a normal of .25 inch/day, or a total of 4.25″.   This is equivalent to roughly 7 circles in 14 days @ .60″/circle.   ET rates over the past 30 days have also been .30 inch/day.  ET usage for 2022 over the past 30 days has been equal to the 2012 growing season so far.   As such, it has been difficult to increase soil moisture profiles in this time frame.   It has been especially hard to shut down much at all in the sandier soils.   This has been driven higher by the lower RH and hot temps.  However, the cool temps forecasted should lower the ET rates over the next two weeks, this will extend out the irrigation season but will at least give our wells a break…hopefully our rain chances and amounts will increase also.  The below charts are Crop Water Usage for corn and soybeans during the reproductive phases of growth.   From the tables below, current corn and soybean needs are still in the 6-8 inch range to finish the crop depending upon temperatures, RH, etc.

                           

• Sunlight – As always sunlight becomes a huge player during grain-fill for both yield and late-season plant health.   Sunlight over the past 14 days and the past 28 days has been 3.5% above normal.   This trend is very similar to 2021 but is still below the peak of 2012.   This should be a positive to yield.   On the flip side, with cooler temps usually comes increased cloudy weather.  If this occurs, and for how long of time, will determine any impact on kernel size/test weights plus any impact on late-season plant health.  Hopefully, we still get a lot of sun in the cool temperatures….
• Temperatures – The first half of August saw above average daily high and low temperatures.   Average Daily High was 4 degrees above normal and Average Daily Low as .5 degrees above normal.  Once temperatures get over 85 degrees photosynthesis slows down…the higher the temp, the slower the rate.   Let’s hope that in the cooler temps it is still sunny as overall photosynthesis rate will be higher.

IMPACT OF SPRINLER ISSUES & OTHER PIVOT PROBLEMS

Photos courtesy of Peter Starman

Above photo is a drone picture showing sprinkler issues, be it plugged nozzles or pressure regulators.  Just as in 2012, we are seeing a few more of these issues crop up.  The photo of the ears shows the difference from the good irrigated versus the sprinkler ‘rings’.   The other two photos are pictures of the plant canopy within the good irrigated versus the ‘rings’.  Just ‘food for thought’ as you finish the irrigation season and move into harvest and plan for next year….

CORN/SOYBEAN INSECT UPDATE

• Spider Mites – We are finding more spider mite colonies, mostly in sandier fields, than the prior few years.   The weather conditions this year has been conducive for an increase in infestations of this insect.  The cooler temps and dewy mornings should slow this insect down….plus, in these conditions, a natural fungus starts which drops their populations down.  We still have a month of grain fill left, so keep an eye out for this pest to keep it from ‘turning’ your corn field too ‘fast’.
• European Corn Borer – Still seeing very little in the way of ECB.  However, we just started to see moths fly this week, so expectations are for an increase.  If you have popcorn or conventional corn acres, keep this pest in mind also.
• Soybean pests – so far, insect activity in soybeans continues to be very light.   We are not seeing much for soybean aphids or bean leaf beetles so far.  Expectations for major outbreaks of these pests are low…

One pest you may run across in your soybeans is the Green Cloverworm.   This insect is in most soybean fields every year, but is usually not an economic pest.  It wraps itself up similar to a Painted Lady.  Numbers are very low, but, since there is not much activity, you may notice this one…

ENLIST E3 SOYBEANS AND ENLIST WEED CONTROL SYSTEM

Introducing the Enlist E3 Soybeans from Pioneer.   Enlist herbicide was approved for Antelope County last spring and the Enlist technology is available to spray going forward into 2023..

Pioneer Brand A-Series Enlist E3 Soybeans – These are exclusive, next-generation varieties that combine the world-class Pioneer genetics of A-Series soybeans with Enlist E3 soybean technology.   These varieties have the same yield potential and agronomics that you have come to expect in the Pioneer A-series soybeans.  They offer best-in-class yield potential with very good tolerance to White Mold, SDS, Iron Chlorsis, etc.   Below are links to profile sheets on the top varieties for our area.

P18A73E Soybean

P23A40E Soybean

P25A16E Soybean

P28A65E Soybean

Enlist Weed Control System – The Enlist weed control system delivers clear advantages.

• On-target Applications: Enlist herbicides feature near-zero volatility and reduced potential for physical drift.  It is neighbor friendly….
• Freedom to Spray: Growers face no calendar cutoff dates and no time-of-day restrictions for application.  It is not a Restricted Use Pesticide….no special training necessary to use..
• Ease of Use: Wide application window (through R1 stage) with greatly reduced buffer zone needed for sensitive crops.
• Exceptional weed control: Offers consistent weed control performance with more weed control options than other trait technologies.  It can be applied tank-mixed with Liberty and/or multiple forms of glyphosate.  This combination offers the best weed control.

Going forward into 2023, Pioneer will continue to have the current lineup of Xtend A-Series soybeans plus the Enlist E3 soybean technology.

Reminder that the Pioneer Customer Appreciation Supper is this Friday evening, August 19th.  Pioneer warehouse – Elgin, NE….5:30-8:30.   Bring the family!

Thanks for your time!

Starman Seed Service, Inc.