AGRONOMIC UPDATE – June 30, 2021…..

 

Fun Fact:  It takes 91 gallons of water to produce one pound of corn….that’s roughly 5,000 gallons per bushel!

TOPICS FOR THIS UPDATE:

  • Temperatures/Precipitation & GDU accumulation
  • What’s going on in my fields right now….
  • Disease Update & Fungicides….
  • Insect Update
  • Soybean Update

TEMPERATURES/PRECIPITATION & GDU ACCUMULATION:

As of June 29th, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Units in 2021:

Planting Date     GDD’s2021          Average GDD     Departure from average

April 24                  1075                        932                                + 157 (+ 6 days)

April 30                  1021                        887                                +134  (+5 day)

May 6                      924                         833                                +91 (+3.5 days)

As to be expected with the hot temperatures we experienced in the first half of the month, June was above normal for GDU accumulation.  We accumulated approximately 600+ GDU’s for the month and we are currently 4-6 days ahead of average and of last year.  Let’s look further at future temperature and precipitation forecasts…..

We see that the 6-10 day and 8-14 day maps are forecasting an above normal temperature and below normal precipitation pattern for much of the western cornbelt through the first half or more of July.  This pattern is very similar to what we experienced in the first half of June.  This will spur rapid elongation by the plant, and if forecasts turn out as predicted, we will continue to trend normal to slightly above normal for GDU accumulation through this period.  We will also an see increased potential for moisture stress this year versus the past few years if this proves out to be true.

What’s Going On In My Fields Right Now?….and What’s Next?….

  • Much of the corn crop is in the 10-12 leaf stage right now.
  • At this stage, the tassel is beginning to develop rapidly now and the stalk is continuing rapid elongation.  At present, it appears that plant height will be on the tall side….
  • Stalk elongation occurs through the elongation of its internodes.  Next few weeks will see peak susceptibility to green snap….
  • By V10, the time between the appearance of new leaf stages will shorten, generally occurring every two or three days…or approximately a leaf for every 50 GDU’s.
  • In the above forecasts, we will be accumulating 25-28 GDU’s/day, so expect a new leaf potentially every couple of days.
  • At V10, the corn plant begins a rapid, steady increase in nutrient and dry weight accumulation which will continue far into the reproductive stages.
  • Soil nutrients and water are now in greater demand to meet the needs of this increased growth rate.  Keep this in mind as you think about your total N applied so far and what future needs will be….and keep in mind a post-pollination application in your N plans….
  • Kernels per row begin around V12 and continue through and up to tassel stage….’just around the corner’….
  • Overall color and N efficiency has been excellent so far this year, especially on sandier soils…..one benefit from the dry conditions.  There has been limited N leaching, while N mineralization has the potential to be higher this year if temperatures stay on the warm side.
  • Greatest yield loss from moisture stress occurs from two weeks prior to, to two weeks after tassel.  With current weather conditions and forecasts, the great majority of the crop will most likely be tasseling the week of July 13th.  This will depend upon hybrid and planting date of course.  GDU’s to silk run from 1280 – 1450 depending upon hybrid.  If forecasts turn out to be true, GDU accumulation over the next two weeks will be approximately 360-400 GDU’s….add this to 1000 and we will reach 1300-1400 GDU’s by July 15th…..In other words we should start to see tassels in 10-18 days depending upon hybrid and planting date.  Bottom line, water needs will be greatest over the next month and into early August.
  • ET rates in corn have been dramatically lower for the past 14 days versus the first 14 days of June.   From June 15-29th, ET rates have averaged .23″/day, down substantially from the .37″ in the first two weeks of June.   This, coupled with nice rainfall amounts for most of the area, has given us a good soil moisture profile in the top two feet heading into peak water use at pollination.  With the above forecasts for heat and dry conditions, expect ET rates to be .30-.40+”/day heading into and through pollination….potentially 2-3″ per week of ET usage.  You want to maintain this current soil moisture profile heading into pollination.
  • We are seeing a little leaf scorch on the tough sand knobs from the heat in the first 14 days of June.   This will be a concern at pollination as well if hot temperatures and low relative humidity is present.
  • The main nodal root system is developing with the last (5th) nodal root developing quickly now.  Brace roots will develop over the next couple of weeks.
  • Waterhemp and Palmer Amaranth control continues to be a constant battle….and sometimes I think the weeds win!….I know cultivating is a four-letter word, but it still has its place as the below picture attests to….

The grower lifted his cultivator up as he passed over his pivot road….the difference was dramatic between what was cultivated and what was not.

DISEASE UPDATE & FUNGICIDES….CORN & SOYBEANS….

  • Leaf disease pressure, in corn and soybeans both, is very low at the present time.   For instance, Bacterial Leaf Streak is at as low an incidence as I can remember for the past few years.  This is one benefit from hot, dry weather!   However, due to the cooler and wetter conditions of the last 10 days or so, we expect to see an increase in overall leaf disease.  However, if conditions once again turn hot and dry, this will slow overall disease development.
  • We have seen good responses to fungicide applications in both corn and soybeans over the past few years, and we recommend a fungicide application on both crops.   Timing is best for corn right after pollination….7 days after you see the corn field fully tassled, pollination is pretty well complete.  This is when the plant is working the hardest, so this is when you want the most protection.   Soybean applications depend upon whether you are controlling for white mold or not.   Any fungicide application for white mold should be on, or going on, this week.  To get best results on controlling white mold, one needs to treat at R1 (Beg. flower) for sure.  Most soybean fields are at R1 or late-R1, early R2.   If not controlling for white mold, the best timing is at R3, or pod set.  If spraying for white mold, Aproach and Delaro give the best protection!
  • Considering how tight all products seem to be this year, we recommend you lining up your fungicide and insecticide needs early.

INSECT UPDATE….

  • We are currently finding 2-8% European Corn Borer larvae infestations in popcorn.   Keep an eye out on your popcorn and conventional corn acres for this pest.   We are getting good results from treating.  See video link….https://youtu.be/I90RD6wiP6o
  • Plan on scouting just prior to tasseling for Western Bean Cutworm, start checking next week.  We will have pheromone traps out once again to monitor flight activity.  Check back on our website for updated counts.
  • So far very little insect activity in soybeans.  Thistle caterpillars are non-existent this year.
  • Starting to see small grasshoppers show up in corn and soybeans.  Keep an eye out for this pest due to the dry, hot conditions.
  • Corn rootworm larvae are in the 3rd instar stage to pupating at present.   Begin scouting for adults as tassels and silks begin to show up to protect from any silk-clipping interfering with pollination and to help determine timing of adult beetle control for next year on the corn-on-corn acre.

SOYBEAN UPDATE

  • Soybeans are currently in the R1 (Beg. flower) to late-R1 stage.
  • They are finally starting to have some good growth with the cooler conditions of the past 10 days or so.  Soybeans do not like it hot.
  • As we have the past few years, we continue to see leaf-cupping in area fields.   Most fields are starting come out of this, but a few are still showing heavy cupping.
  • With the wet and cooler conditions of the past 10 days, we are starting to see some iron chlorosis (yellow to pale green areas) start to appear on the high pH hillsides in area fields.  This comes on when conditions turn wetter and cooler.   See link for more info….good description under the weather heading….https://corteva.showpad.biz/webapp2/results?query=iron%20chlorosis&scope=content&slug=27b46d1f-0a85-451e-834f-0f1c482b0899

25 Years and counting….

  • Starman Seed Service, Inc. is celebrating their 25th anniversary in business in 2021!
  • ‘Save the date’…our annual customer appreciation supper is scheduled for Friday, August 20th.
  • More info to follow at a later date…..

Thanks for your business and thanks for all of your support over these past 25 years!!!

Starman Seed Service, Inc.

 

 

 

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CROP WATER USE UPDATE – June 17, 2021…..HOW DRY I AM….

How dry I am….that’s what plants are singing currently!

TOPICS FOR THIS WATER USE UPDATE:

  • Crop stage of growth and rooting depths
  • ET Usage over the last 14 days
  • Crop Response to Drought Stress
  • What are the AquaSpy Moisture Probes showing?
  • What to think about going into the next few weeks heading into pollination…
 CROP STAGE OF GROWTH & ROOTING DEPTH:

We are currently at 7-9 leaf corn depending upon planting date, tillage and other factors.  From the chart, you can see that average rooting depth for V8 corn is approximately 20-25″, depending upon weather conditions, soil type and structure, etc., however, the corn crop should be rooted from 16-24″ at present going off of stage-of-growth.   We will show in the video below what the average root depth is for our crop from what the AquaSpy moisture probes are showing…

ET USAGE:

ET, or evapotranspiration, has been exceedingly high since the beginning of June.   Since June 3rd, ET usage has been 5.11 inches for Elgin.  Currently we are at 60% of normal precipitation for the past 30 days.  Normal precipitation for the month of June is 4-4.5″.   In other words, ET usage for the first half of June has been well over the normal rainfall amount we get for the whole month.  Daily ET rates for the past 14 days has been .37″/day compared to the normal of .26″/day.   This current daily average is higher than this same time period in the last major drought year of 2012.  High and low temperatures so far in June are running 6-10 degrees above normal, this has contributed to the increase in usage.   Lower than average relative humidity has also contributed to this high ET rate.   Daily RH has been running 17% below normal for the past 14 days.   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.

                                                             

Corn Response to Drought Stress:
  • Reduced water uptake under drought conditions can limit the rate of photosynthesis in the plant.  This can be a huge factor during reproductive stages.
  • Corn plants respond to drought stress by closing stomates and rolling leaves to reduce the volume of water transpired through the plant.  This response benefits the plant by protecting it through short bouts of drought stress.
  • However, closing the stomates also reduces the ability of the plant to take in carbon dioxide, which slows down photosynthesis and growth.  This same principle affects herbicide control in weeds as well, as uptake of herbicide is greatly reduced.
  • The eventual impact on yield is determined by the severity and duration of the stress.  Drought stress lasting four or more days is likely to reduce yield (Table 2 below).t
  • Keep in mind the greatest yield loss from moisture stress occurs in the time frame of two weeks prior to, to two weeks after tassel.  We will be in this stage in two weeks or so.
What are the AquaSpy Moisture Probes showing?…..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvdRQ6d9Hhs

Considering that we are currently at 7-9 leaf stage on corn, it is good to see that rooting depths are normal, however, some fields show slightly below normal.   An interesting thing that we are seeing so far this year, is that the sand soils are currently rooting the same or, in some cases, better than the clay soils.  This is the opposite of most years, as usually the sand soils don’t root as deep as the clay.  I think that the clay soils have been slower to ‘get going’ than the sandier soils due to the cold temperatures we experienced for much of May.  We see this same temperature effect in high residue areas in the clay soils as well.   There is a height and one leaf collar reduction in the high to low residue areas within the field.    Sand fields seem to be ‘taking off’ quicker this year than the heavier soils.

What to keep in mind over the next few weeks on irrigation heading into pollination….

Also, keep in mind as we move forward in the growing season that our overall soil moisture profile is not as full as it has been the last few years.   As he has been installing the moisture probes, Bryan Bode has mentioned that the 3rd and 4th foot of the profile are much drier than he as seen for awhile.  The impact this will have will show up in the reproductive and grain-fill stages.   It may be more critical to stay ahead on irrigation this year than other years, as we will not be able to count on the lower profiles giving us as much moisture as normal.  In a worse-case scenario of continued dry conditions and hot temperatures through the next six weeks, it will be increasing difficult to ‘push’ water into the 2nd and 3rd foot of the profile when the crop is at peak water use during pollination and blister kernel stages.

If conditions stay as they currently are:

  • 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…..
  • 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.

Stay safe!  Pray for rain!!!!

 

 

 

 

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AGRONOMIC UPDATE – JUNE 4, 2021….Is Summer finally here?….

It feels like summer has finally arrived as temperatures are heating up over the next 7-10 days.  Also, it feels good to see the ‘summer activities’ also showing up in our local communities…it is nice to return to a more normal condition!

TOPICS FOR THIS UPDATE:

  • Temperatures/Precipitation & GDU accumulation
  • What’s going on in my fields right now….
  • Post Herbicide Reminders
  • Staging Corn Growth Stages
  • Rapid Growth Syndrome in Corn
  • Insect Update

TEMPERATURES/PRECIPITATION & GDU ACCUMULATION:

As of June 3rd, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Units in 2021:

Planting Date     GDD’s2021          Average GDD     Departure from average

April 24                  467                         437                                + 30 (+ 1.5 days)

April 30                  413                         388                                +25  (+1 day)

May 6                     334                         339                                -5 (0 days)

As one can see from the above numbers, current GDU accumulation is basically normal for the area.  This is a little surprising considering how cool it was in the first part of May and over last week.   However, the next 7-14 day forecast is for above normal temperatures, so we should see gain in GDU accumulation vs. normal during this time frame.   See maps below for the 6-14 day and three-month forecasts for temperatures and precipitation:

The above three maps are the  current 6-10 day, 8-14 day and 3-month temperature outlooks.   This forecast shows much-above normal temperatures for the next 7-14 days.   The three month (Jun, Jul, Aug) forecast is for somewhat above normal temperatures for Nebraska.  This is a slight change from the April forecast map of the same time period; at that time, all of the cornbelt was in a much-above normal temperature range.

The next three maps show the 6-10 day, 8-14 day & three-month precipitation forecast.  Local forecasts are calling for continued dry conditions for our area.   Rainfall has been very spotty since planting and it looks like that will continue through the foreseeable future.  However, the three-month forecast has also changed to normal precip from below-normal precip map in April.  Antelope county is currently in the Extremely Dry category on the latest Drought Monitor map.  As an update, my local weather stations shows we are currently at 49% of normal for the past 30 days and 38% of normal for the past 60 days.

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

Overall much of the corn crop looks good.  The majority of the crop is in the 4-5 leaf stage-of-growth depending upon planting date.   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.

  • At about 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.   This is currently under or at the soil surface.
  • At V6 (3-6 days from now for majority of the crop), 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)…we are currently beginning this stage!
  • The corn root system is now rapidly transitioning to the main nodal root system.  When hot temperatures occur following a cold spell (like last weekend), crop growth at this stage can be uneven.  Areas of heavy crop residue over the row will be slower due to cooler soil temps yet.  It will take a little time for that to catch up.
  • 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 low, 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 mid-upper 90’s…both for potential crop response and herbicide control.

POST HERBICIDE REMINDERS....

Timing is critical!  Your pre-emerge herbicide has probably been on 3-5 weeks and residual is running out.  Optimize your weed control success by scouting your fields:  What weeds are present?  How big are they?  What growth stage is the crop?  Once the weather warms up again both the crop and weeds will grow fast!  Waterhemp/Palmer will go from 1″ to 8″ in a few days!   Post applications should be going right now for the majority of corn planting dates.

Key reminders:

  • Spraying when daytime temperatures are above 70 will improve herbicide performance and the rate of herbicide metabolism in the crop; however, on the flip side, spraying when daytime temperatures are 90 degrees or above will decrease plant uptake and increase crop response….this will be compounded if soil conditions are dry.  When temps are approaching 90 degrees or above, do not spray in the ‘heat of the day’….
  • Coverage is key! Use 15-20 gpa for optimal weed control….will need higher gallonage as crop and weeds increase in size.
  • Check the herbicide label or website for correct adjuvants and qualified tank mix partners, especially for traited soybean applications (for Enlist E3 soybeans: enlisttankmix.com; Xtend soybeans: www.engeniatankmix.com or www.xtendimaxapplicationrequirements.com)

2021 Enlist BMP – Click Here

2021 Resicore BMP – Click Here

STAGING CORN GROWTH STAGES….

Staging Corn for Post applications Cutoff Time

Accurately staging corn growth stage can implicate post applications in corn if applied at the wrong time. With the cooler weather the nodes can stack up and what looks to be V5-V6 corn may be V7-V8. Here is a good reference picture on how to stage corn with either the collar method (which is what most of us use) and the two others.

Quick Guide: Post Herbicide Cutoffs

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, which we are now experiencing.   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.

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.

More info: Purdue Twisted Whorls in Corn

Crop Focus: Rapid Growth

INSECT UPDATE:

Alfalfa Weevil – Alfalfa weevil numbers are very high in area alfalfa fields.   High probability that treatment will be warranted on most all fields to reduce impact on regrowth.

Click Here for Alfalfa weevil control:  Click Here

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 2020.
  • CRW will go through 3 growth stages (Each last 7-10 days)
  • 3rd 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.

CRW info: Corn Rootworm Management

GRANULAR INSIGHTS:

Granular Insights imagery is now ‘live’ and running with a new image showing up every 1-3 days.  This imagery is an excellent scouting tool as well as diagnostic tool.   Many growers already qualify for this imagery.  Please contact us to get you set up on using this new tool from Pioneer and Granular.

Granular Insights Imagery and Remote Sensing: Click Here

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

John Starman – 402-843-8393

Brandon Nielsen – 402-843-8907

Peter Starman – 402-843-0445

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When To Plant?….Soil Temps….

When to Plant?…..Temperature Update….

 

The above photos are the latest 6-10 and 8-14 temperature outlooks as well as the latest three month temp and precip outlooks.  The current 7-10 day outlook is for much below normal temperatures throughout the cornbelt.  However, many recent forecasts are talking about a warming trend starting towards the end of next week.    Also, note that the latest three month outlooks continue to show above normal heat and drier conditions for May/June/July.  I don’t have the map included, but the one month temperature outlook is for above normal in May….we shall see!!

Soil Temperatures….

The photo above is soil temp @4″ depth, from April 15th @ 8:30am.  Shows just above 40 degrees.  This is in a silt loam bottom, in residue, on old soybean stubble.  Yesterday, April 14th, it was 42 degrees.   I would expect soil temps to get down to the upper 30’s before it begins to warm up.  I would expect soil temps to hover around the 40 degree mark for the next week or so.   However, the good news is that soil temps will warm up just as quickly once we return to a warm period.

Considering the current 5-7 day forecast, it is best for now that the seed stays in the bag or box.  We will continue to monitor soil temps going forward.  As always, making the soil dark at planting will improve uniformity of emergence and stand establishment….when no-tilling don’t be afraid to move trash….better to be overly aggressive with the trash whippers than not…..

From Pioneer article link…..”Corn seed is particularly susceptible to cold stress during imbibition. Warmer, moist conditions for the first 24-48 hours after planting can mitigate much of the cold stress.  Early planting often exposes seeds to hydration with cold water, which can cause direct physical damage. When the dry seed imbibes cold water as a result of a cold rain or melting snow, imbibitional chilling injury may result. The cell membranes of the seed lack fluidity at low temperatures, and under these conditions, the hydration process can result in rupture of the membranes. Cell contents then leak through this rupture and provide a food source for invading pathogens. Cold water can similarly affect seedling structures as they begin to emerge. The degree of damage ranges from seed death to abnormalities such as corkscrews or fused coleoptiles.”    If possible, it is best to plant into a warming trend than into cold soils that will continue to stay cold for sometime.   Also, feel confident in Pioneer’s stress test scores.  Pioneer leads the industry in stress emergence testing.  Please contact us if you need the latest stress emergence scores.

See attachment for article from Pioneer Hi-bred on soil temps and emergence….

https://www.pioneer.com/us/agronomy/soil_temp_corn_emergence.html

Please contact us with any questions or concerns you may have.  Have a safe and successful planting season!  Thank you for your time!

Starman Seed Service, Inc.

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March 3, 2021 Pioneer ‘Crop Shop’ Agronomy Meeting Video Links….

2021 Pioneer ‘Crop Shop’ Agronomy Meeting, March 3, 2021

If you were unable to attend the meeting, or if you would like to review again the information, below are the video links to the Pioneer ‘Crop Shop’ Agronomy meeting.

The video links cover the following topics:

 

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2020 Harvest Newsletter/Yield Data…..November 9, 2020….

November 9, 2020

2020 Harvest Newsletter

2020 has been a year of unprecedented outcomes and unknown; of the world seeming to turn upside down.  However, one constant for the year has been Mother Nature; as usual, she played the final role in overall yield for the 2020 growing season.

GROWING SEASON REVIEW: Let’s look at some of the factors that played a role in the overall yields we saw this year.  We will look at some weather charts that will give us some idea of trends to look at in reviewing the 2020 growing season.

This is a chart showing the corn crop progress by years.   Main thing to note is how bunched up the planting and silking dates were for 2020 and then how extended the grain fill period was even though planting/silking were very tight.  In August it appeared that grain fill would be tight as well but that did not end up the case as will be shown below.  Note also how 2012 and 2020 are very similar.  The next chart show the Growing Degree Unit graph for 2020:

The green color indicates temperatures between 50 and 90 degrees, the blue color shows temperatures between 32 and 50, the light blue color shows below 32 and the red color is above 90 degrees.  The purple line indicates how far above or below the GDU’s were for the year on any given date.  I want to focus first on the yellow box.  This box shows the cold temperatures that we experienced just as much of the corn/soybean crop was beginning emergence.  This cold spell really delayed overall emergence and we saw some uneven emergence with some overall stand loss.  In many cases it took fields 6-10 days from beginning emergence before final stands were complete.  This is further revealed by the following Departure from Normal Temperature map for May:

Note here that we averaged 3-4 degrees below normal for the month of May.  However, this cold spell did not influence final yield as much as expected due to the following grain fill period, which is the red box on the upper chart.  Note here the purple GDU deviation from normal line.  Starting in early June, GDU accumulation began to be above normal and this trend continued right up to the end of the growing season in mid-October.  Note also, that overall temperatures were not excessively hot during this time frame; we did not begin rapid GDU accumulation until mid-August with a corresponding slowdown in the first part of September, followed by increase in the last 10 days of September.  This pattern limited the impact on crop stress due to high temperatures while extending the grain fill period.  This slowed initial corn drydown, however.  The end of the grain fill period saw a spike in the front part of October, which, if the field was watered well, gave a boost to yields right at the end, as well as giving a good ‘head start’ to grain drydown.  But this also contributed to soybean grain moistures becoming too dry at the end of soybean harvest.

Now look at the blue box, which shows the cold/snow that came in the later half of October.  This effectively stopped all grain drydown, and much of the crop sat at 17-20% until the first week of November.  This next chart just shows a comparison between years for total monthly GDU’s from 2012 to 2020.  Bottom of the chart shows average plot yields for those years.

Note how close Jun-Aug accumulation was between months.  Overall, GDU accumulation was conducive to good yields.

The next weather chart to look at will be solar radiation:

This chart shows the overall solar radiation for our area for 2020.  The yellow bars show solar radiation daily deviation from the 10-year average.  The blue line shows cumulative average from deviation as the growing season progressed. There are two boxes to pay attention in this picture.  The red box shows solar radiation during grain fill.  Note how many days were above the 10-year average.  Note also, the sharp upward slope on the blue line starting in early August.  This above average trend continued into September and early October.  Here was the key component in our final corn and soybean yields.  Sunlight is the energy source for the plant engine.  Plants harvest the sun and convert that energy into grain yield.  For both corn and soybeans, note the abundance of sunlight in August.  Solar radiation for August was 17% higher than the 30-year average, which is the first year since 2012 in which that has happened.  Soybeans love sunlight but aren’t to fond of high temperatures.  We got a taste of what soybeans can yield in a high sun environment without excessive temperatures.  This increase in sunlight also influenced final corn yields.  If one could supply enough water and nutrients (here specifically thinking of N) then the corn crop was able to keep harvesting the sunlight leading to increased test weights and great grain quality.  Overall solar radiation during grain fill was up 4% for 2020.  This also was the first year above average since 2012.   The blue box in the graph shows the lack of sunlight in the later part of October which came with the cold temperatures in that same time frame.

We now turn to precipitation, the other key component to final yields.  The first set of maps we will look at will be Percent of Normal Precipitation for the months of Jul-Sep.

Here is the map for July.  Note that Antelope county was 130-150% of normal precip for July.  This was huge for final corn yields, especially dryland as this kept our soil moisture profile in good shape heading into grain fill and through early grain fill.

This map shows the month of August.  August is where we turned off hot and dry.  Note that August was 25-50% of normal precipitation.  Keep in mind that normal precip for August is 4.5 inches.  That means that irrigation needs were 3-4 inches above normal for August….one had to irrigate 3-4 circles more than in a normal year.

This trend continued into September which was also 25-50% of normal, increasing the deficit that was starting in August.  Considering the extended grain fill period, a late watering really helped increase final yields as this helped the plant continue to harvest the sun.

This map shows the Departure from Normal Precipitation for the grain fill period, from Jul 21 to Oct 18.  Note the dark red band in southern Antelope County.  We were below 6-8 inches below normal rainfall through this period.  This equates to 7-10 extra circles above normal irrigation just to make up for this deficit.  However, dry conditions usually means increased sunlight, which usually means very good irrigated yields…. if one can keep adequate soil moistures.

For reference, this map is the current drought monitor map for Nebraska.  We are currently in a moderate drought with severe drought on our borders.

Along with the increased heat and sunlight, we saw lower overall relative humidity through the grain fill period.  From mid-August thru mid-October, relative humidity was down an average of 15% from normal.   This too, was the first year this happened since 2012.  This led to an increase in ET rates up to a 10% increase at the end of August over normal ET usage.  This low relative humidity reduced overall disease infestations in soybeans, as we saw minimal white mold and frogeye outbreaks.  In corn, overall disease was also lower than normal; however, southern rust showed up in some fields later in the grain fill period, well after fungicide protection was gone.  Initial yield data for 2020 still shows a 10-20+ bushel advantage for a fungicide application.

CORN YIELDS: For the most part, irrigated corn yields were very good to excellent and dryland yields were much better than anticipated, especially in the heavier soils.  Overall grain quality is very good with above average test weights, all a reflection of the increased sunlight.  Biggest harvest hiccup has been slower than anticipated drydown.

SOYBEAN YIELDS:  As with corn, soybean yields for the most part, were very good to excellent to ‘best ever’.  Many whole farm averages were in the mid-70’s to mid-80’s to over 90+ bu/acre.  This is a direct result of the increased sunlight and overall drier conditions on irrigated, as we didn’t experience the saturated ‘wet’ bottoms like we have in the past few years.  Dryland yields, while down from a year ago, were much better than expected.

PERFORMANCE: The corn lineup from Pioneer® again offered industry leading performance in 2020.  As you look through the yield data, you will see that 2020 saw strong performance across the maturity line from Pioneer®.  In the early maturity area, there was strong performance from P0421, P0622 and P0950.  In the mid-maturity area watch for P1082, P1185(new), P1138 and P1108 families.  In the fuller maturity area, look for P1359(new), P1366, P1415, P1548(new) and P1563 families.  Many of these hybrids have both an AM and Qrome® versions.

2020 saw the first wide-spread use of Leptra® hybrids from Pioneer.  Optimum® Leptra® hybrids have a powerful pyramid of traits with three modes of action to provide superior control of above-ground pest, including corn borer, corn earworm and western bean cutworm.  These hybrids will have the letters AML behind the hybrid number.

The 2020 lineup of Pioneer® brand A-series soybean varieties continued their industry-leading performance.  Now that Roundup Ready 2 Xtend® technology was re-registered, the full lineup of Xtend® soybeans from Pioneer are available. The top performers for our area include P21A28X, P25A54X, P25A04X, P27A30X and P28A42X.   This lineup offers the best yield and agronomic/disease package we have seen from Pioneer.  Pioneer® also has available the new Enlist E3® soybeans.  Enlist E3® is the blend of 2,4-D and either glyphosate and/or Liberty.  Hybrid’s for this technology include P22T18E, P26T23E, P26T57E, and P28T14E.

2020: December 3rd is the first early order dealine and offers the best product and cash discounts along with TruChoice financing options.  Corteva Crop Protection incentives and Corteva Cash® will also be available for 2020.

We will do all we can to offer you a package of products and services that will provide you with the best opportunity to achieve the most return from your operation in 2020.

We want to THANK YOU for your confidence in us and letting us be a part of your operation!!  THANKS also for your continued support and to all who helped gather the data!

Stay safe and healthy!!

Starman Seed Service, Inc.

 

2020 Yield Data files: Irrigated Corn – Dryland Corn – Soybeans

DualColumnReport_20201109075358.pdf

DualColumnReport_20201103084243.pdf

DualColumnReport_20201102025841.pdf

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Agronomic/Harvest Update – September 29, 2020….Things to think about and watch for….

 

Topics:

  • Growing Degree Day Update
  • Harvest Weather Update
  • Harvest update…things to think about and watch for….

As of September 28th, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Days in 2020:

Planting Date     GDD’s2020          Average GDD     Departure from average

April 21               2938                        2729                         +209 (+14 days)

April 26              2885                        2690                         +195 (+13 days)

May 1                  2834                        2655                         +179 (+12 days)

The month of September has continued to see the 2020 growing season to be ahead of average on GDUs.  In fact, there has been a net gain of 3 days over the last two weeks.

Harvest Weather Update

The above maps show the 6-10 temp/precip and 8-14 day temp/precip forecast maps.    Temps over the next week will be cooler than average.  After this period it looks like there will be a warmer than average spell.   Overall precip forecast over the next two weeks continues to be dry.  This should allow for good harvest conditions, however, drydown on irrigated corn will continue to be somewhat slow overall due to the cool temps next week.   Our season’s first frost is predicted for this upcoming Friday morning.  A frost/freeze should not hurt much of anything at this stage – unless corn was planted late-May or after – as most all fields are black-layered, or close to it.

Soybean Harvest Update….things to think about and watch for….

So far soybean harvest has been progressing right along, with yields coming in very good to excellent…..many ‘best ever’ whole field averages in the area….even dryland yields have been better than expected.  Some things to keep in mind as soybean harvest progresses:

  • There is an average yield reduction of 7-8% when going from 13% moisture to 8% moisture soybeans.  This means an average loss of 6 bushels/acre (using an 80 bu yield) just in moisture, along with potential reduction from header loss, etc.   Many soybean fields are now in the 9-10% moisture range, and given the above forecast maps, they will continue to dry quickly, especially the early group maturities.   The below chart shows the average yield lost from lower harvest moisture and delayed harvest over five year on-farm study from Pioneer.
  • So far seeing minimal impact from white mold….SDS is around but limited to certain fields.  The increased solar radiation over the past two months along with ‘drier’ overall soil moisture profiles (ie. drainage) under irrigated fields versus past years, are two key factors in the excellent soybean yields that we are seeing.
  • Water was still a key factor….those areas that saw a little more rainfall than others have a tick better overall yields as well.
  • Keep in mind that this year saw the ‘earliest ever’ overall planting dates for soybeans as well….

Corn Harvest Update….things to think about and watch for….

Corn harvest has so far been pretty limited….a little wet corn and dryland coming out.  Much of the irrigated is ranging from 24-34% in grain moisture, with some fields still not black-layered as this is being written.  Grain moistures on dryland are now starting to come down…seeing 14-20% moistures now.  Too early to tell yield trends yet.  We are definitely getting an extended grain-fill period which should be good for yield and standability!  Some things to keep in mind as corn harvest progresses:

  • Grain moisture drydown is dependent upon temperature and ear husk structure.  On average, it takes 15-20 GDU’s to lower grain moisture each point from 30% down to 25%, 20-25 GDU’s per point of moisture from 25% to 22% and 25-30 GDU’s per point from 22% to 20%.  A high of 75 degrees and a low of 55 degrees equate to 15 GDU’s, which should roughly take a point of moisture out per day when grain moisture’s are 25%+.  So temps in the mid-70’s for highs and mid-50’s for lows should take corn from 30% to 25% in a week’s time.  We will need to see some warmer temps later in October to get moisture’s into the upper teens and low-20’s.   So, taking into consideration the above forecast maps, grain moisture drydown on irrigated looks to be pretty limited over the next week to 10 days yet….a frost/freeze will likely speed this process up however.
  • Sunlight.   Overall sunlight for the past 60 days has been 8% above normal…it was over 10%+ above in August and slightly below average in September.  For some perspective, sunlight was down 30+% from average during those days in which smoke from the fires out west was present in our atmosphere.  Just like in soybeans however, the overall increase in sunlight is having a positive effect in corn.  Couple this increase in sunlight with an extended grain-fill, and we should expect very good test weights and grain quality (deep grain color).
  • Test weights from the wet corn that has been harvested so far are very good.  Average test weights are in the 54-56# range at 25-32% moisture.   This equates to 60+# test weight at 15% moisture.  Expect to see improved grain quality (denser kernel) versus past years as well….should lead to easier and longer grain storage.  A denser kernel also means longer grain moisture drydown.
  • Harvest Priority…I am seeing plant health deteriorate over this past week in many fields in the area, especially those fields that experienced the July storms.  Late-season plant health will become more of an issue as harvest gets delayed, especially if we continue to see cooler than normal temps slowing grain drydown.     Late Southern Rust infestations have also taken over spots in some fields….shutting down plants earlier than normal; may not affect yield but will impact stalk quality.   Don’t just assume the fields are ‘okay’.  Also, how well the fields were watered up late will be a key to overall plant health, even more so maybe than fungicide applications.   Seeing this is area fields already, especially in storm related areas….having made that ‘last’ circle will help staygreen and stalk quality.   Keep an eye on those fields that lose color rapidly, or that have ears fall over in a quick time frame, as these would be indicators of possible poor stalk quality, and would need to come out first.  As of now, I am thinking overall late-season stalks will not be as good as the past few years….too much stress tends to lead to poor late-season plant health.
  • Dryland.   As mentioned above, much of the dryland crop is testing 14-20% in grain moisture.  Dryland acres should be coming out anytime.  Keep an eye on dryland corners.  If dryland sits ‘to long’, there is a potential for ear slip due to the ear shank shrinking and drying out due to drought conditions and premature plant shutdown.  I don’t expect to see much of this, but it is possible if dryland corners are still standing 3-4 weeks from now.

Alfalfa and newly seeded rye….if the current dry conditions persist into October, much of the newly-seeded rye will need more irrigation to keep it coming.  Alfalfa needs adequate moisture to improve winter hardiness….keep this in mind as we head into late fall-early winter.   If the winter is colder than normal and more open, a good soil moisture profile will be important to helping the alfalfa survive any potential winterkill.

As always, please call with any questions, comments, or concerns.   Have a safe and successful harvest!!

Starman Seed Service, Inc.

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Agronomic Update – September 5, 2020….how ‘low’ will temps go?…..

This should be the only ‘frost’ warning we should be seeing this time of year, and we don’t even get to experience this one….however, temps forecasted next week are too close for comfort!….2020 just keeps on giving….

Topics:

  • Growing Degree Day Update/Weather Update
  • Current Corn & Soybean Conditions….

As of September 4th, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Days in 2020:

Planting Date     GDD’s2020          Average GDD     Departure from average

April 21               2610                        2400                        +210 (+10 days)

April 26              2557                        2360                         +197 (+9 days)

May 1                  2506                       2325                         +181 (+8 days)

As you can see, we are way ‘ahead of the game’ on GDU accumulation for this year.    We are 14-18 days ahead of 2019.   However, a big cool down is on its way next week!

The above maps are the precipitation and temperature forecasts for the next 6-10 and 8-14 days.  As one can see, we are looking at a dramatic cool down.  It is amazing that we can go from 90’s to 40’s & 50’s in just two days.  To put some perspective on this:   this weekend and Monday will add approximately another 50-55 GDU’s to the above totals before GDU accumulation goes to zero after that for a few days.   This will put us in the 2555 to 2660 range for GDU accumulation…..enough for 110 day and less, but still short 50-150 for 112 and higher depending upon hybrid and planting date.  Will there be a potential for frost next week?….more on that below.

 Current Corn & Soybean Conditions…..

  • Much of the corn crop is as follows:  April 21 planting dates – 105-110 day hybrids 1/3-2/3 milk with some 3/4 milk lines – 112-118 day 1/4 to 1/3.   Later planting dates are 1/4 to 1/2 for the most part.  Majority of crop is 1/2 milk line.
  • So far staygreen in the irrigated is holding up for now, but starting to see more ears droop on the irrigated….this weekend’s heat will speed this process up.  Having a good soil moisture profile will slow this process, but not stop it.
  • Sunlight:  The last month has seen a 12% overall increase in sunlight versus normal.  The last time we had this trend was 2012.  In fact, sunlight this past month has been better than the same time frame in 2012.  This should be a real positive to yield and late-season plant health.  I can see the impact on this sunlight through the nice, dark grain color and the deep kernel depth.  All of this should lead to high test weights and good grain quality.
  • However, the above cool temperatures will dramatically slow down crop development.  What this means is most likely not as early of a harvest as we first thought.  It appears that we will lose a week of growing season/crop maturing through next week’s weather.  While we could sure use a rain, it will be better for grain quality (ear mold development, etc.) if we stay on the drier side through this cold front.  However, due to the sunlight and extended grain fill period so far, I would expect overall grain quality to be better than the past couple of years even if conditions turned wet.  An extended wet period (7-10 days of fog, drizzle, etc.) will still impact grain quality, especially if we do get a frost in this time frame.
  • Disease:  relative humidity has been 8% below normal for the month.   Last time this occurred at this time period was 2012.  This has kept our disease pressure down, but increased the overall ET rates for both corn and soybeans over the past month.  It is recommended that you still scout your corn fields over the next few weeks for southern rust to determine harvest priorities.  This disease has continued to increase within fields over the past few weeks.  If heavy enough, this disease could impact late-season plant health.
  • Ok, now to Frost….Current forecasts are showing low temps for Tuesday and Wednesday nights into the mid-to-upper 30’s.  This is too close for comfort as even a 34 degree frost temperature can lead to leaf death in draws and bottoms.    Hopefully temps won’t get this low, but if they do this will impact the above discussion on test weights and grain quality.  Here is a link for more info on frost/freeze damage in corn that has not matured……https://www.agry.purdue.edu/ext/corn/news/timeless/FrostFreezeImmatureCorn.html#:~:text=Frost%20damage%20to%20immature%20corn,Maier%20%26%20Parsons%2C%201996).
  • Bottom line is…..whole plant death yield loss at 1/2 milk line corn is approximately 10-12%….whole plant death at 1/4 milk line is 20%….and 3/4 milk line is less than 5%.  Just leaf loss would lower these numbers,…for instance, 1/2 milk line would be potentially just a 5% loss.  One positive here is that our crop is mostly 1/3 to 1/2 milk line, so any impact will hopefully be on the light side.  If we do see a frost, this will be the earliest in September that I have ever seen in my career…..just perfect for 2020, eh?     Since many soybean fields still have a healthy canopy, damage from frost will be limited to the upper canopy, however, there will still be some loss regardless.
  • On a positive note, currently we are looking at a good quality irrigated corn crop….and, while dryland has suffered as of late, some fields, even here, will be surprising I think…..
  • Irrigated soybeans look good in the area as well…’lots and lots’ of 4 bean pods in many fields.   However, this year we will see a bigger separation in irrigated vs. dryland yields.   It takes rain in August to make soybeans and this was sorely lacking this year.  SDS will be the disease that will have the biggest impact in our area on yields.

Let’s hope that Mother Nature gives another two weeks of grain-fill and we will have a heavy and good quality corn crop!

2020 Yield Data

Please check this website throughout harvest and this winter for local area yield data.   We will continue to text yield results as they come out, but they will also get posted here for timely and organized viewing.   The data will be under Ag Update – Harvest Data.     Please contact us if you would like help calibrating your yield monitor and/or want a yield check!

Thanks for giving us the opportunity to be a part of your farming operation!

Starman Seed Service, Inc.

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2020 Harvest Data

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