AGRONOMIC UPDATE – JUNE 18, 2022….As always, Mother Nature in control….

Nice looking field of P0339Q….June, 13, 2022

So far in 2022, Mother Nature has let us know that she is still in control!   We have experienced just about the whole range of weather conditions since planting began….drought & wet, hot & cold, frost, hail, wind & Derecho….while this is nothing new to our area, it has been sometime since we’ve seen all of these weather conditions show up in such a small time frame and at such extremes.

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
  • Granular Insights

PLANTING AND EARLY SPRING CONDITIONS…..

So far there are three words that have had the greatest impact on planting conditions, crop emergence and potential impact on final yields, and they would be….RESIDUE, RESIDUE & RESIDUE….with wind, and dry, hard soils also playing a role.

       

These two photos show some of the impact from the residue and the windy conditions we experienced this spring, especially the Derecho in May.   Crop residue was at the top of the list for issues one had to face both during and after planting this year….no field was spared this issue.

Along with the wind and residue, we also experienced two cold spells during the planting season which impacted overall soybean emergence and final plant stands.   It seemed like it took 3 weeks or so for soybeans to emerge regardless of planting date.   The first cold spell was April 30-May 6 with soil temps falling to 46 degrees during that time.   The second cold spell was from May 20-25 with soil temps falling to the low-50’s….this was also the same time period we had the frost.  All of this impacted soybeans by slowing down overall emergence and allowing increased time for pests to attack the seed….ex. seedcorn maggots in the tilled, sandy fields.   This was compounded if planting depth was on the deep side.   As the two photos below show….

Some management tips to keep in mind for next year:

  • If planting early (April), keep populations on the upper end….another 20,000 would’ve went along way to eliminating replant.
  • Consider treating with the new insecticide Lumiderm from Pioneer.   This will give increased control of seedcorn maggots and other seed-attacking pests….especially in tilled and sandier soils.
  • Keep planting depths at under 2″ maximum.   Too deep of planting depth delays emergence which allows the bean to be affected by cold temps and pests.

TEMPERATURES & GDU ACCUMULATION:

As of June 17, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Units in 2022:

Planting Date     GDD’s2022          Average GDD     Departure from average

April 21                  777                         776                                 even

April 28                  711                         726                                -15  (-1 day)

May 9                     648                         632                                +16 (1 days)

As you can see from the above numbers, we are basically even on GDD accumulation for the year, which puts us slightly behind 2021 at present.   We have been warmer than normal for the past week and the forecast keeps us that way.

The above temperature maps are the 6-10 day, 8-14 day and 3 month seasonal outlooks.   The maps are predicting a warm summer, much like last year.

The above precipitation maps are the 6-10 day, 8-14 day and 3 month seasonal outlooks.   Next two weeks are trending drier than normal and then the rest of the summer is predicted to be that way….again, much like last year.   And if you recall during April and May, the predicition’s

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

Other than the areas of heavy residue, much of the corn crop looks good with very good stands overall.  The majority of the April planted crop is in the 7-9 leaf stage-of-growth and the May planting dates are 5-6 leaf.   From V1-V10, corn gains a leaf collar about every 83 GDU’s…this will be about every 3 – 3.5 days with current forecasted conditions.   This would put us in the mid-July 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.   This is currently under or at the soil surface.
  • 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)…we are at the beginning, or at the end, of this stage depending upon planting date.
  • 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 heavy crop residue over the row will be slower due to cooler soil temps yet, which we are unfortunately seeing in abundance this year.  It will take a little time for that to catch up….most likely will not catch up fully in the heavy residue areas.
  • 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 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.

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.  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.   The video below presents where we are at on depth and crop water use.

Video: AquaSpy Soil Moisture Update…

ET USAGE:

ET, or evapotranspiration, has been exceedingly high over the past week.   Total ET from June 12-17 was 2.17 inches for our area, average of .31in/day.   June 13 & 14 saw ET’s over .42in/day…we would expect to see the same the upcoming Sunday/Monday.     Relative humidity over the past week has also been below normal with the increased temperatures, which increases overall ET rates.   This trend in above normal ET rates will continue over the next two weeks under the above forecasts.    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.

                                                             

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…..
  • 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.
  • In those areas that were hailed, check your sprinklers, many may need replacing….
  • 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, 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.   Photo June 12, 2022

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 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.  Our expectations, considering the mild, dry winter we had, is for high numbers of rootworm larvae to be present this year.

Corn Rootworm: Scouting & Management Practices

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!!

Starman Seed Service, Inc.

 

 

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AGRONOMIC UPDATE – APRIL 14, 2022….Cool, dry place….

Many items say to store them in a ‘cool, dry place’….right now, our soils would appear to qualify for that ‘cool, dry’ place….

With the 2022 Planting season upon us, we wanted to give a quick update as we begin planting.

The 2022 planting season is coming with different challenges than the past few years, most especially the very dry conditions of this past winter and early spring.  Below is a picture of precipitation ranks by climate districts for the period from Oct 31, 2021 to April 8, 2022     This is based on the past 130 years of data.   1 means the wettest out of 130 years and 130 means the driest out of the past 130 years.  As you can see, NE Nebraska ranks at 129, so only one year was drier than 2022 during this time period.  This means we are facing drier conditions at planting than we have seen in most of our lifetimes.   This is not a reflection on soil moisture profiles, but it is an indication of what the top few inches of soil (ie. seedbed) will look like at planting.

It has not only been dry, but we have also been on the cool side the past few weeks.   However the new forecasts are potentially showing a nice planting window opening up next week into the last week of April.   The next three photos show the current short-term forecasts for temperatures and precipitation:

The first two photos are the 6-10 day and 8-14 day temperature outlooks issued on April 12 with valid dates from Apr 18-26.  The last photo is the 8-14 day precip outlook.  It is possible that after our current cold snap, we may see temps warm up early-to-mid next week and into the last week of April….even the precipitation map shows us in the above normal category….how about that!!  Keep in mind that the first 48 hours after planting are critical for germination as the plant will imbibe the water needed for germination during that time frame regardless of soil temperature.  This means planting into a few days of warmer weather will improve the chances for the seed to imbibe warmer water.   Right now, we would expect early-to-mid next week to be a good time to begin planting, with weather conditions also conducive for irrigating as well.  Before this current cold snap, soil temperatures were averaging in the mid-40’s….this will lower over the weekend to around 40 most likely.   However, soil temperatures should warm up quickly if we get a stretch of warm weather.

The warmer temperatures would be most welcome, however, it still appears that we will be dealing with very dry conditions in the top 4-6 inches as we begin planting.   This will influence our management practices as we go through the planting season.   The good news is that, considering the past few months, our overall soil moisture profile is not that bad….in fact, I was surprised how much moisture is still available in the top 8 inches.  However, the top 8 inches (and especially the 2-4 inch range) in most fields will be much shorter on available moisture at planting than the past number of years.   Below are some bullet points to keep in mind as you begin and proceed with planting.

  • Seed/Soil Contact:  Good seed-to-soil contact this year will be key!   In dry conditions, it gets more difficult to get good seed/soil contact as air pockets are increased.  A perfect soil is 50% soil, 25% air and 25% water.  We are not at a perfect soil, so the soil structure in the top foot is somewhat screwed up.  As the water gets replaced by air, the soil particles shift and we get more air gaps.  Though the total amount of air space increases, the air spaces themselves are smaller, which can influence moisture infiltration.   In other words, under a heavy water application, one can see runoff in these dry conditions as the soil pore openings are reduced slowing water infiltration….there are a lot of pore openings, it’s just that they are very small openings.   We have seen this a lot on sandy soils that are so dried out that water just ‘sheds’ off and never soaks in….even heavier soils can be so dried out that water infiltration is slower.  The seed will be placed in conditions that are potentially more rocky and crumbly.   It may be best to make the first irrigation pass at a lower rate (.30-.40 inch) to set the irrigation track and to get the soil in better shape to take a heavier amount….and then apply .75+ amounts.
  • Even Emergence: Even emergence is always important, however, in dry conditions this gets more difficult to achieve, as some areas in the field will have adequate moisture to start germination while others will not….all of this is impacted by residue cover as well.
  • Irrigation:  With no rainfall, irrigation becomes the only tool to make sure moisture is adequate for uniform emergence.   Making sure your pivot is ready to run will be as important this year as making sure your planter is ready.   If no rainfall is occurring, the pivot needs to run as soon as the planter leaves the field, especially if temperatures warm up, which would then lead to a quick warm up of the soil.   Also keep in mind that irrigation coverage is never as good as rainfall….if you have sprinkler packages that were causing problems last year, they will cause problems for emergence this spring if not fixed.  Rye cover crop fields will also be drier as we move through the planting season.
  • Tillage & Pre-watering:  In some cases it may be necessary to pre-water, especially the light sand.   Having some moisture in the sandier soils makes for a better seedbed and better seed/soil contact.   It may be the best to make a pre-water .40-.50-inch pass before planting.   This will improve infiltration and give you a better seedbed to plant in.   Keep in mind tillage in the sand as well.   Dry soils will fluff up more, so it may be best to till the soil 2-3 days ahead of the planter….then pre-water…this will allow the soil to ‘settle’ and ‘seal’ somewhat, and then come in and plant.  It may not be best to till right ahead of the planter this year, especially in the sandy soils.   Best also, to do as little tillage as possible on the dryland acre.   Leave them untouched if you can.   Conserving any moisture you can will pay dividends if the year stays dry.
  • Crop residue: Due to the lack of moisture, last year’s crop residue has not broken down at all which will impact planting depth uniformity and crop emergence.  The high winds we have experienced this winter has also impacted where the residue lays in the fields.  Some areas in the field are bare while others are now 2-3 or more inches deep with crop residue.   This will impact seed depth uniformity (which impacts emergence)….having row cleaners that can be variably controlled from the cab will pay this year….
  • Pre-emerge Herbicide control:  If the dry conditions persist over the next month, expect pre-emerge herbicide performance to be reduced.   We get the best herbicide control in those years when we are getting .30+ inch every other day as the herbicide stays in solution.   It is more difficult to keep the herbicide in soil solution under dry conditions.  It will also take more moisture to incorporate the herbicide into soil solution in these conditions vs. other years.
  • Crop injury from fertilizer burn: Potential for crop injury from fertilizer salt burn will be higher this year due to the dry conditions.  In dry years, we usually see anhydrous burn as well as salt injury from fertilizers placed with the seed.   Not saying this will occur, but the potential is there.
  • Bottom line:  If no help from rainfall, expect to water early and often for all of the above bullet points.   In fact, one may need to slow planting down if that’s what it takes to make sure the pivots are running.
  • Dryland:  Not much one can do under these conditions for the dryland acre, however, it may be best to delay planting those dryland fields and wait for a potential rain.

Most Important Bottom Line: Keeping praying for rain….some rainfall would eliminate most of the above bullet points!  Also, stay safe and be flexible.  We’ve been here before and we got the crop planted…and up…and grew good yields….we will do the same again!

Please call us with any questions or concerns you may have as you begin planting.  We are ready to help you get the crop in and up in the best shape we can!   Thanks for you support!!!

Starman Seed Service, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

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2021 HARVEST NEWSLETTER & YIELD DATA

November 11, 2021

2021 Harvest Newsletter

2021 has seen many ‘ups and downs’, however, one positive ‘up’ was excellent overall crop yields.

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 2021 growing season.

Early Season: April & May 

This is a chart showing the corn crop planting progress by years.   The main thing to note here is the large circle at week 17 & 18.  By week 18, over 70% of the corn crop was planted across the state, with more like 80% in our area.  Last time we find that much corn planted that early was in 2021/2011 crop years.  Having corn planted by the first week of May has proven to increase yields…did the early planting this year impact corn yields?  Maybe so…. especially when we look at the rest of the growing season.

The above chart shows the number of cold days in May for NE Nebraska for the past ten years.   Note that 2021 was above average for the number of days with average temperature below 50 degrees.

On this graph of GDU accumulation, note the black box in the first week of May.  This is when we had most of the below 50 degree days in May.  This week was when the April 27-30 planting dates were beginning to emerge.  These cooler temps slowed down emergence on the no-till fields.  The darker the soil, the more uniform and consistent the stands were.  We saw this same thing in no-till soybean fields.  Many no-till fields ‘sat’ for an extended period before really growing, which delayed their maturity.

The above charts show the percentage of normal precip for March and April of this year.  First note the abundant precip received in March; this was huge for dryland and limited irrigation fields.  Second, not how dry April was overall.  These conditions led to more ‘air pockets’ in some of the fields with less than optimum seed-to-soil contact leading to some uneven emergence.  I also remember growers saying ‘how hard’ the soil conditions were at planting, especially when planting into May.  May continued this downward trend of less than normal precipitation as we received only 60% of normal for May.

Mid-Season: June

The above chart shows Cloudy Days and Sunlight for June.  Two things to note here are the low number of cloudy days and the above average sunlight – in fact, the best sunlight for June in the past 10 years.

This chart shows the departure from normal temperature and normal precipitation for June.  Note the above temps and slightly below normal precip for June.  This, along with the above normal sunlight, led to optimal growing conditions, plants ‘stretched out’ with consequent higher ear placement.  This was not the case for those fields planted in June itself. In these cases, plant height and ear height were below normal.  This is where we began to run 7-10 days ahead of normal for GDU accumulation.

Mid-Season: July

This chart shows the corn crop silking progress for Nebraska.   Much like at planting, our silking dates were ‘bunched’ together, however, the crop silked later than expectations considering the heat in June…silking was more like normal time frame.  However, there was some advantage I feel for those hybrids that silked early as they were not as impacted by the wind events, and they were better able to take advantage of the grain-fill weather.

The above chart shows the cloudy days and sunlight for July.  Just like in June, note the low number of cloudy days and slightly above normal sunlight, all conducive to yield….

This chart shows the departure from normal temperature and normal precipitation for July.  First thing to note is the slight reduction in temperatures for July.  This led to a reduction in stress on the plant as well as delaying silking dates.   Second, note the increase in precipitation in most of Antelope County…it was here that we saw some of the best overall irrigated yields. All of this led to good growing conditions for most of July.  However, July also saw our major ‘wind event’ which led to many ‘leaners’ which created problems for pollination and standability on corn for certain hybrids.

Late-Season: August

This chart shows the cloudy days and sunlight for August.  Just like in June and July, August saw a reduction in cloudy days and above normal sunlight compared to the prior ten years, even with the smoke advisories that were occurring in the first ten days of the month…we got lucky here compared to other areas of the state and country.

This chart shows the departure from normal temperature and normal precipitation for August.  Note first the increase in temperatures for August.  Temperatures, especially nighttime temperatures, were above normal for most of the month.  This allowed for continued increase in GDU accumulation but led to increased stress on the plant and consequent heavy irrigation for August.  However, mother nature gave us some relief as we see from the precipitation map.  Much of our area of Antelope County was normal to above normal precipitation.  Though we received it at the end of the month, this greatly helped our dryland corn and soybeans.   This may explain our irrigated soybean yields, as soybeans like sunlight, (which we got enough of), and they received precipitation in August which ‘makes’ soybean yield.  August also saw another ‘wind event’ on the last Saturday of the month which caused more ‘leaners’ and some broken plants in the area.

Late-Season: September

This chart shows the cloudy days and sunlight for September.  Here we start to see an increase in cloudy days, especially in the first part of the month.  However, sunlight hangs in there and is at least normal.

This chart shows the departure from normal temperature and precipitation for September.  Note the increase in overall temperatures for September and the dry conditions that returned after the rainfall in August.  This does beg the question; did we stop irrigation too soon on some fields?  September turned off hot and dry and I do think, on some fields and some hybrids, we left a few bushels on the table by not giving it ‘one last round’……

Here’s the chart showing crop progress for the whole year for Nebraska.  Main thing to note here is that the grain-fill period for 2021 was extended , but also occurred earlier than prior years.   In 2021, plants tended to extend grain-fill period vs. noted GDU requirements for black layer, more so than other years.  With good sunlight and warm temps, yields increased across the region.  We have talked a lot in past years on the impact of adequate sunlight; the last two years have shown how much influence sunlight has on yield.

CORN YIELDS: For the most part, irrigated corn yields were very good to tremendous and dryland yields were much better than anticipated considering the drought conditions, especially in the heavier soils.  Overall grain quality is very good with above average test weights, all a reflection of the adequate sunlight.

The above two charts give you some idea of the yield levels we saw this year.  Note the number of 300 bu weighs!   Also, note the increase in plot average yields for 2021 vs. 2020, both irrigated and dryland…. double digits!

SOYBEAN YIELDS:  As with corn, soybean yields, for the most part, were also very good to ‘best ever’.  Many whole farm averages were in the mid-70’s to mid-80’s to over 90+ bu/acre.  Dryland yields were also much better than expected.

 

PERFORMANCE: The corn lineup from Pioneer® again offered industry-leading performance in 2021.  As you look through the yield data, you will see that 2021 saw strong performance across the maturity line from Pioneer®.  In the early maturity area, there was strong performance from P0421, P0622 and P0950, with new product P0404.  In the mid-maturity area watch for P1082, P1185, and P1108 families with new products P0924, P0908 & P0995.  In the fuller maturity area, look for P1359, P1366, P1548 and P1563 families, with new products P1237 & P1278.  Many of these hybrids have both AM and Qrome® versions.

2021 saw continued 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 2021 lineup of Pioneer® brand A-series soybean varieties continued their industry-leading performance.  The top performers for our area include P21A28X, P25A54X, P25A04X, and P28A42X.   There are two new offerings for 2022, 20A22X and 28A51X.    This lineup offers the best yield and agronomic/disease package we have seen yet 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.  Varieties for this technology include P26T23E, P28T02E, and P29T37E.     There will also be new A-Series Enlist E3® soybeans available in limited quantity for 2022.

2021: December 3rd is the first early order deadline and offers the best product and cash discounts along with TruChoice financing options.   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 2021.

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.

–‘Shout out’ to Kevin Kowalski, Pioneer Agronomist, for the sunlight weather charts and yield trend charts!   Thanks Kevin!

2021 Plot Data

Irrigated Corn – Dual Column Report- Irrigated Corn

Dryland Corn – Dual Column Report – Dryland Corn

Soybeans – Dual Column Report – Soybeans

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AGRONOMIC UPDATE, SEPTEMBER 9, 2021…..The fields…they are ‘a changin’….

It won’t be long now and the combines will be rolling…..(don’t get nervous….not a current picture!)

Topics:

  • Growing Degree Day Update/Weather Update
  • Current Corn Conditions….
  • Stalk Rots/ Windstorms/ Tall Ear Heights = Prioritizing Harvest!
  • Current Soybean Conditions….

As of September 8th, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Units in 2021:

Planting Date     GDU’s2021          Average GDU     Departure from average

April 24               2714                         2465                        +249 (+13 days)

April 30              2660                        2428                         +232 (+12 days)

May 6                  2581                        2375                         +206 (+10 days)

As you can see, we are way ‘ahead of the game’ on GDU accumulation for this year.    We are a solid 10-14 days ahead of normal and a tick ahead of 2020 by about 2 days or so.  This is across all planting dates.   From the above GDU numbers, we have almost enough accumulated to mature hybrids like 1366 and more than enough to mature shorter season hybrids, if planted on April 24th; and even early maturity hybrids have enough GDU accumulated, if using a May 6 planting date.   Current seven day forecast should give us another 100-120 GDU’s.   By the raw numbers then, we will have accumulated enough GDU’s to mature even hybrids like 1563 and fuller by first of next week if using an April planting date.

The above maps are the 3-month temperature and precipitation forecasts.  If this holds true, we will have a drier and warmer than average harvest season.

Current Corn Conditions…..

  • Much of the corn crop is as follows:  April 24 planting dates – 105-110 day hybrids 7/8-3/4 milk lines with some almost black layer – 112-118 day 1/2 to 2/3.   Later planting dates are 1/4 to 1/2 for the most part.  Majority of crop is 1/2 to 2/3 milk line.   Most fields will take another 7-14 days to finish meaning we are still seeing an extended grain fill period even though we are much further ahead than normal by the raw GDU numbers.
  • So far staygreen in the irrigated is holding up for now, but starting to see some ears droop on the irrigated along with very late-season N deficiency….this weekend’s heat will speed this process up.  Having a good soil moisture profile will slow this process, but not stop it.
  • Sunlight:  Since the last update three weeks ago, we have seen a 12% overall decrease in sunlight versus normal.   When compared to 2020 at this time, we are off over 20% in sunlight.  For the whole of grain fill, we are 3% below the normal.  I would expect to see the biggest impact from less sunlight show up in late-season plant health, especially when coupled with the wind damage in many area fields.
  • Disease:  Since the last update, relative humidity has average 3% above normal.   By comparison, 2020 was below normal in RH by 14% during this same time period.   This increase in RH has led to an increase in white mold disease in the area….more on this below.
  • Currently we are looking at a good quality irrigated corn crop….kernel depth and grain color look very good overall, even with the wind damage.
  • As one would expect, dryland corn is all-across-the-board….pockets of good corn…..to….’not much in there’….
  • Corn at 1/2 milk stage needs approximately 2.5-3″ of water to finish.   Keep this in mind when thinking about hybrid maturities and planting dates.  Many sand fields still need a round of water to finish right.  This goes also for late-planted/still green soybean fields.

Stalk Rots/ Windstorms/ Tall Ear Heights = Prioritizing Harvest!

Tall plants, high ear placement, windstorms, lodged plants… more than one reason to start harvest early and have the combines ready.  With the taller than normal ear heights and very good yield potential out in the fields, we could have a higher possibility of more risk from stalk rots.  Stalk rots appear each year with varying degrees of severity. They are caused primarily by fungi and bacteria, but they can also result from environmental stresses (such as drought stress). When these diseases or conditions happen they weaken or destroy vascular tissue in the stalk, the plant cannot transport water or carbohydrates effectively, which ultimately results in premature plant death and reduced grain fill.   With this being said, keep in mind dryland acres and corners as these will be some of the first to lodge or to drop ears from moisture stress.    Overall, the potential for increased severity of stalk rots is higher in 2021 than the previous few years.   Watch for those fields that lose staygreen quickly, or that have ears droop suddenly, as these are signs of premature death of the plant.

Current Soybean Conditions…..

  • Soybeans are quickly turning in much of the area.   It is possible that some irrigated acres could be ready to harvest end of next week, especially with the heat that is predicted for this weekend.   Many dryland corners look to possibly be ready next week as well.  The early-group II soybeans are moving along quickly now.
  • One note of interest….there is a definite difference in how fast soybeans are maturing between tilled and no-tilled fields.  Tilled fields are maturing quicker, even across varieties.   This is due to the fact that the tilled fields grew faster early and ‘kept growing’ in the heat of June, whereas many no-tilled fields ‘sat’ so to speak and did not ‘take off’ until later.  This is just an observation with no comment on yield outcomes between the two.   However, it will be interesting to see what impact the timing of our rainfall may have on each field, especially dryland corners.
  • Disease:  Sudden Death Syndrome (SDS) continues to spread in the area.   We see more of this disease year-over-year.
  • However, this is a disease that can be controlled with ILeVo seed treatment.  Photo is a comparison of satellite imagery taken on August 29th.  The darker the blue color, the healthier the plant.  The left picture is from 2021 using a variety with good tolerance to SDS and treated with ILeVo and the right is from 2019 using no ILeVo.  Notice the excellent control of SDS in 2021 vs. 2019.       
  • For late-season diagnosis see the following photo.     Not the best quality, but want to point out the cobalt blue fungal growth on the root system from SDS.
  • For more info see the following link….Sudden Death in Soybeans
  • Dectes Stem Borer.   Recently found our second incidence of Dectes Stem Borer just SW of Elgin.   Not much for pressure by present.    This insect enters the plant at a node and proceeds to ‘hollow out’ the stem leading to early plant death.   So far not much one can do in the way of management for this insect yet.
  • For more info see the following link….Dectes Stem Borer in Soybeans
  • Lodged Beans….now what?    With the storms and rain of the past two weeks, most all soybean fields have lodged.   Some area fields were lodging already at the beginning of August.  Typically, if you see lodged soybeans White Mold usually tags along with it and this is the case this year.  We are seeing heavier amounts of White Mold this year than the past 3-4 years.   So far we like the tolerance for White Mold that we are seeing in the Pioneer soybean lineup compared to many competitor hybrids.    For more White Mold recommendations click here
  • How do we improve efficiency for harvesting lodged soybeans?    How much yield are you losing from lodging?   How do you minimize harvest losses?To find these answers click the following link on Lodge Soybean Recommendations

2021 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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AGRONOMIC UPDATE – AUGUST 17, 2021….HOW DRY WE ARE….

 

Just a Quick Agronomic Update…..

Topics:

– Growing Degree Unit Update

– Quick Crop Update/Water Use/Weather

– Corn/Soybean Insect Update

GROWING DEGREE UNIT UPDATE
As of August 16th, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Days in 2021:

Planting Date     GDU’s2021          Average GDU     Departure from average

April 24               2214                        2015                        +199 (+9 days)

April 30               2160                        1955                       +205 (+9 days)

May 6                   2081                       1920                       +161 (+4.5 days)

We have gained about 2 days since the last update on August 6th.  The crops show this as well, as much of the corn crop is Dough to Full Dent depending upon hybrid maturity and planting date. and soybeans are late-R5 (Beg. Seed) to mid-R6 (full seed) stage.    Compared to last year, we are basically the same for GDU’s and growth stage….soybeans seem a little ahead of last year though. We like the kernel counts that we are currently seeing in the fields, however, the final kernel depth and test weights will determine overall yield.  The wind event from July 9th, however, will have an effect on final yield as the more severely leaning plants have reduced ear size and spottier pollination, along with potential for weaker stalks.

WEATHER UPDATE
  • Relative Humidity – Since last update RH has been 10% below normal, or 65% vs. a normal of 75%.   This has influenced a couple of things….reduced potential disease outbreaks but has increased crop ET rates and the potential for increased numbers of spider mites.
  • ET rates – ET rates over the past 10 days have averaged .23″/day, or 2.3″ total for this period.   This is equivalent to four circles in ten days @ .60″/circle.    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 breezy, south winds.  If current temps and conditions continue, expect much of the same over the next 10 days.  See tables below for Water Use for soybeans and corn.
  • Precipitation – Yeah, I know….what is that?  We should normally receive 4″ or rainfall in August.   You can see by the map what we have actually received, which is next to zero for the month.
  • Hopefully it will rain on Friday/Saturday.   Hope springs eternal….and remember, we are always one day closer to a rain than the day before…..
  • Sunlight – Since the last update, we sunlight has been 9% above average over the past ten days.   This should be a positive to yield and plant health.   For more info on the affects of the smoky haze, please see the following link from Pioneer…..https://corteva.showpad.com/share/OUqawYGy93kP4v4p9IhpB
CORN/SOYBEAN INSECT UPDATE
  • Spider Mites – Just starting to see an increase in spider mite colonies in some area fields.   The weather conditions as of late are conducive for an increase in infestations of this insect.  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 – Currently seeing low infestation levels of this insect, however, numbers have increased this week vs. last week.  If you have popcorn or conventional corn acres, keep this pest in mind also.   Treatment for this pest should go on this week for best results, which means any treatment is as much a preventative treatment as a ‘must do’ treatment.
  • Soybean pests – so far, insect activity in soybeans continues to be very light.  This is the lightest current leaf defoliation that we have seen for some years.  We have not seen much for soybean aphids or bean leaf beetles so far.  Expectations for major outbreaks of these pests are low.
In the FYI category:

The following link https://www.agry.purdue.edu/ext/corn/news/timeless/YieldTrends.html is an interesting article on Historical Corn Grain Yields in the US.  Highlights of the article:

  • Corn grain yields in the U.S. have steadily increased since the late 1930’s.
  • Only two major shifts in U.S. corn yield trends have occurred since statistics were first published in 1866.
  • Year-to-year departures from trend yield are influenced primarily by year-to-year variability in growing conditions.  (so true…italics mine)

Below are two tables from the article….

 

Reminder that the Pioneer Customer Appreciation Supper is this Friday evening, August 20th.  Celebrating 25 years of business!   Bring the family!

Thanks for your time!

Starman Seed Service, Inc.

 

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AGRONOMIC UPDATE – AUGUST 6, 2021….those SMOKY days of summer….

Topics:

– Growing Degree Unit Update

– What’s Going On In My Fields?…..Corn Development, Sunlight, Crop Water Use, Disease, etc….

– Corn/Soybean Insect Update

– Soybean Development – Disease and more…

 

GROWING DEGREE UNIT UPDATE
As of August 5th, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Days in 2021:

Planting Date     GDU’s2021          Average GDU     Departure from average

April 24               1941                        1772                        +169 (+7 days)

April 30               1887                        1735                       +152 (+6 days)

May 6                   1808                       1699                      +109 (+4 days)

We have gained one day in GDU’s since the last update on July 21st.   Temperatures have been normal since the last update for the most part, so we have stayed steady to gained a little.   Heat continues to be forecasted (see maps below) over the next couple of weeks.

The above maps are the latest 6-10 & 8-14 day forecast maps for temperature and precipitation.  You can see that above normal heat and below normal precip is predicted for the next two weeks and forecasts are calling for temps into the 90’s over the next 10-14 days…..however, if the smoke continues to hang around like it has the past 7-10 days, the temps will not get as warm as predicted.

WHAT’S GOING ON IN MY FIELDS?….
  • Crop Development – Much of the corn crop is in the R3 (Milk) stage.  At this stage, there are approximately 40-50 days left of the growing season, so the key question now is, what can we do to maintain and/or increase overall yield?….finish strong!….
  • At Milk stage, the kernels are now well into their rapid rate of dry matter accumulation and are about 80% moisture.  Final yield depends upon number of kernels that develop and the final size or weight of the kernels.  Although not as severe as at R1, stress now can still have a profound effect on yield by reducing both of these.
  • Kernel abortion from stress can occur through the Milk stage(18-22 days after silking), however when the plant reaches Dough, kernel abortion will no longer take place, and any yield reduction from then on out will be from lower test weight.   The next 7-10 days will show what effect from stress, like reduced sunlight or water or lack of N, will have on ear tip back.  Keep in mind that some hybrids have a ‘normal’ ear tip back anyway but still maintain adequate kernel count.
  • So far much of the crop looks pretty good.   There are fields where the July 9th wind storm caused a reduction in ear size, zipper ears and spotty pollination, but overall the crop seems in good shape for the most part…..P1082AM in area field….
  •  Sunlight – As hard as it may seem to believe, considering all of the haziness we have experienced over the past 10 days, sunlight intensity is not that far off from the average.   Since pollination (past 21 days) sunlight is off only 1-2%….for the past 14 days, sunlight is off 3%….and for the past 7 days, sunlight is off 6% from the 30-year average.  Looking at the data, there have been other years in the past 10 that have seen less sunlight than 2021 in this time frame.  Here are a couple of charts referencing this:
  •        
  • The first chart shows sunlight for a plot in our area.  Notice that overall sunlight since July 19th (pollination) has, for the most part, been normal to slightly above normal over the 10-year average.   The second chart shows sunlight deviation over the past six years for the cornbelt for the last two weeks of July 2021.  Blue indicates below-average solar radiation due to clouds or smoke.   Yellow areas are greater sunlight than the past six years.  Note the bright yellow band over the north and northeast of Nebraska….sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good….and we have maybe been lucky versus the rest of the cornbelt.   Here is a twitter link that shows a time-lapse video of the second chart…https://twitter.com/ranaedietzel/status/1422317322212098055?s=10
  • It is still to early to tell what effect, if any, this will have on final yield.  However, the safe bet, is that this will, at the minimum, impact late-season stalk quality.  We will update this as the year progresses.   Here is a another chart showing results from a shading study…..
  • Crop Water Use – At Milk stage, the corn crop is still under high ET demand.   ET rates of .25-.30″/day are typical under hot, dry conditions.   ET rates over the past two weeks have averaged .20-.24″/day.  Over the next 40-50 days, water will become the #1 management practice to maintain yield.   We are hearing more reports of wells starting to lose pressure or need column added, especially to the NW of Elgin.
  • With the dry conditions, we are seeing some of the following start to show up in area fields…..irrigation coverage being reduced in fields with low drop nozzles, especially with the taller than average corn this year.  For best coverage, drop nozzles should not be any lower than the truss of the irrigation tower.  Also seeing the upper canopy get ‘beat up’ from the drops…..satellite imagery is starting to show reduced coverage from irrigation due to plugged nozzles and/or spans….rainfall tends to ‘hide’ these issues, but we are not getting that right now.  Bottom line is…. there is still a lot of irrigating left to do if no rain.
  • Disease – Still not seeing much for leaf disease in the crop.  The upper canopy is staying pretty clean so far.   What we are observing is new lesions of Grey Leaf Spot and Bacterial Leaf Streak has increased over the past few weeks, but still less incidence than the past few years.   We have found our first Southern Rust as well.  We will continue to monitor for outbreaks over the next few weeks.
CORN/SOYBEAN INSECT UPDATE….
  • Western Bean Cutworm flight has pretty much come to an end as of the first of August.   We are seeing some outbreaks in untreated fields, but overall pressure has not been heavy this year.
  • Corn Rootworm adult beetles continue to show up in area fields.   Corn rootworm pressure and numbers have been much higher this year versus the past few years.   If looking at 4 or more years of continuous corn, continue to monitor for the adults in case a second treatment is warranted to help control for next year.
  • Overall insect pressure in soybeans has continued to be low.  Bean Leaf Beetle is causing some light defoliation, but not a concern.  Have not observed any Soybean Aphids yet.
SOYBEAN DEVELOPMENT…..
  • The soybean crop has been moving right along.   Much of the area is in the R5 (Beginning Seed) stage with some early planted, early maturity varieties in the early R6 (Full seed) stage.
  • Soybean plant height is on the tall side this year.   We are starting to see more areas of lodged beans over the past week or so.
  • We are starting to see more White Mold and SDS show in area fields now.   Expect to find White Mold in the lodged areas especially.   It is now a race to see if the soybeans move along faster than the disease.
  • ET rates for soybeans will continue to be high through the R6 stage.   Soybeans ET rates are now higher than corn.   See table….
  • One will need to be careful not to water constantly to help reduce disease potential due to a constantly ‘wet canopy’.   If White Mold becomes a problem, it will be best to water at night and leave off during the day so the canopy has some chance to dry out.    In heavy soils, when irrigation is needed, we recommend running a heavy irrigation amount (.80 to inch) and then leaving it sit for a while.
PIONEER CUSTOMER APPRECIATION SUPPER….

The Pioneer Customer Appreciation Supper is Friday evening, August 20th at the Pioneer Warehouse in Elgin, NE.    Help us celebrate our 25 year anniversary as we thank you, our customer, for all the great support you have given us over the past 25 years!

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

Starman Seed Service, Inc.

 

 

 

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AGRONOMIC UPDATE – July 21, 2021….

Corn Fun Fact:  One acre of corn eliminates 8 tons of carbon dioxide from the air….that’s 1200T from a 150 acre field.

Topics:

– Growing Degree Day Update

– What’s going on in my fields?…..Corn Development, Disease, Crop Water Use….

– Corn/Soybean Insect Update

– Soybean Development – Disease and more…

As of July 21st, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Days in 2021:

Planting Date     GDU’s2021          Average GDU     Departure from average

April 24               1569                        1424                      +145 (+6 days)

April 30               1515                        1387                       +128 (+5 days)

May 6                   1439                       1350                      +89 (+3.5 days)

Since the last update on July 9th, we continue to be a few days ahead of the average and the same, to slightly behind, 2020.  The cooler temperatures of the past couple of weeks has not cost us to much as far as time is concerned and the cooler temps meant less stress on the crop….which is ALWAYS a good thing.

The above maps are the latest 6-10 & 8-14 day forecast maps for temperature and precipitation.  You can see that above normal heat and below normal precip is predicted for the next two weeks and forecasts are calling for temps into the 90’s over the next 10-14 days.  This will move the crop along and increase crop water usage….more on this below.

WHAT’S GOING ON IN MY FIELD?…..Corn Development, Disease, Crop Water Use..

Most of the corn crop is in the R1 (silking) to Early R2 (Blister Kernel) stage.   So far I would estimate that most fields in the area are 50% to Done pollinating.   I would expect to see some uneveness in pollination/silking due to the uneven emergence we saw this past spring and from the willowing effect from the storms of July 9th.

  • Plant height on the corn crop this year is as high as I can remember for quite a few years….ear height as well.   This is across all hybrid families.   While not an indicator of yield, extra-tall plant height brings its own management issues.   Right now this is mainly connected to irrigation.   Irrigation coverage using drop nozzles will potentially not be as even if the nozzles extend to far into the canopy, watch for this over the upcoming heat that is predicted (I have seen years like this where it is wet on one side of the plant and dry on the other, and water never gets to the dry side the rest of the year).  Also, the upper canopy of the plant can become stripped up from irrigation equipment, potentially impacting grain fill.
  • A captured pollen grain takes about 24 hrs. to grow down the silk to the ovule where fertilization occurs and the ovule becomes a kernel.
  • At R1, potassium uptake is essentially complete, and nitrogen and phosphorous uptake are rapid.  Last round of N should be going on over the next 7-10 days.
  • Blister Kernel occurs approx. 10-14 days after Silking.  Starch has begun to accumulate in the watery endosperm and the kernels are beginning a period of rapid, steady, dry matter accumulation that will continue until physiological maturity in approx. 50-60 days after silking.
  • At Blister Kernel, maximum ear length is achieved.  Although not as severe as at Silking, stress over the next two weeks can still have a profound effect on yield through kernel abortion.
  • Kernel abortion from stress can occur through the Milk stage(18-22 days after silking), however when the plant reaches Dough, kernel abortion will no longer take place, and any yield reduction from then on out will be from lower test weight.
  • As far as sunlight is concerned, we are currently running about 10% percent below normal over the last 14 days, or from V14-Pollination.  Sunlight, of course, is now a much bigger yield factor, since we are now beginning the crucial grain fill period.   As such, how much sunlight and when it occurs during the grain-fill period, will play a role in overall yield and late-season plant health.   Lack of sunlight early in the grain fill period (i.e. right now)  can lead to the ear tipping back as well.
  • Extra stress will occur if sunlight is reduced and temps (especially nighttime) are higher than average.  This stress occurs because, since temps are high (especially nighttime temps) the energy demand on the plant is higher than average; couple this with reduced photosynthesis, and this leads to greater energy in the plant just going to maintain itself and not to filling the ear.  It is an axiom in corn production that when you have to run your air conditioner at night, it is not good corn growing weather.
  • Relative Humidity over the past two weeks has been 9% higher than normal, with a daily average of 81% RH during this time frame.   This, coupled with average high temps in the upper 70’s to low 80’s (average high temperatures have been 6 degrees below normal during this time period), increases the probability of seeing a greater incidence of leaf disease, especially Gray Leaf Spot and Northern Corn Leaf Blight.   We are just starting to see the first Gray Leaf Spot lesions this week.   This is about 7-10 days earlier than the last few years.   Currently we are seeing very low leaf disease pressure in area fields, however, the past two weeks has allowed good incubation of diseases and we would expect to see an outbreak occur over the next couple of weeks.  If we experience warmer temps and lower RH than forecasted, the potential for impact from diseases will be reduced.
  • The forecasted temperatures will also increase the potential for Northern Corn Leaf Blight, a disease we normally do not see here but that can blow up in cool temps.  https://www.pioneer.com/us/agronomy/northern_corn_leaf_blight_cropfocus.html
  • Keep an eye out for Southern Rust as well…..https://www.pioneer.com/us/agronomy/southern_rust_cropfocus.html
  • Fungicide application should be going on now and into next week, for best yield response.  You want to protect the plant when it is working the hardest, which is silking through milk stage.  Fungicide will not help control bacterial leaf streak.
  • The past two weeks have seen a daily average of .17-.19 in/day.  This is very much a reflection of the lower temperatures and higher relative humidity during this time frame.
  • The corn crop is now at its peak water usage, so expect average ET rates to be .25-.35 in/day through the Milk stage.  Maintaining an adequate soil moisture profile will be key over the next three weeks or so.   As you think about irrigation needs over the next two weeks, keep temperatures and relative humidity in mind as we move forward to see what actually occurs to help reduce potential water stress or potential over watering.  If dew points are low (dry mornings), that means relative humidity is low, and ET rates will ramp up quickly and be higher than normal.  On the flip side, if heat indices are high in which a 95 degree actual temperature feels like 110 degrees, then relative humidity is high and ET rates will be average to below average.  Forecasts for next few days are calling for low dew points meaning potentially higher ET rates than normal.

SOYBEAN UPDATE

  • Much of the crop is in the late-R2(full flower) to R3(pod set) stage of growth.
  • Peak water use, nutrient demand, and overall energy demand in the plant occurs at R3 and into R4 stage….i.e. right now and into the next few weeks!
  • ET rates in soybeans reach peak at R3 stage (.30+ in/day) and will continue to stay high through R6(full seed).    See comments above on corn ET rates, as the same applies for soybeans.  One will need to be careful not to water constantly to help reduce disease potential (see below on white mold) due to a constantly ‘wet canopy’.   If White Mold becomes a problem, it will be best to water at night and leave off during the day so the canopy has some chance to dry out.    In heavy soils, when irrigation is needed, we recommend running a heavy irrigation amount (.80 to inch) and then leaving it sit for a while.
  • R3 is the prime growth stage for fungicide/insecticide applications….some early planted and early maturity fields are in this stage right now.  Same goes for any nutrient application such as N, as well.  Now and into next week will be excellent time for application.
  • We saw our first infected plants with White Mold earlier this week.   This is about two weeks ahead of the last couple of years.  Weather conditions of the past two weeks have been very conducive for White Mold to occur.  White Mold infestations could be on the severe side this year.   Any 2nd treatments for White Mold need to go on at R3 and should be going on now and into next week.   See the attached link for White Mold management.    http://www.pioneer.com/us/agronomy/managing_white_mold_soybeans.html    We recommend Aproach or Delaro fungicide for any white mold control.   High temps and dry mornings will slow the disease down.

INSECT UPDATE – Corn & Soybeans

  • Keep scouting for Western Bean Cutworm larvae.  Moth flight has been somewhat erratic over the past week.  From GDU data, we expect that the flight is 75% complete.  However, I do think light numbers will continue to fly over the next few weeks, leading to a potential slow buildup of infestation levels.  However, any potential treatments should be on, or going on ASAP, as we are now finding small larvae on the ear tips, at top of the silks.  Any delay in treating, and they will be too far into the ear tip for control.  Overall infestation levels are not super high, but many sandy fields still have the potential to have infestation levels that will cause economic damage.
  • Corn Rootworm pressure has been much higher this year than the past few years.  Adult rootworm beetle control should already be on, or going on now if planned….Steward insecticide by FMC is an excellent choice for control
  • Overall insect pressure in soybeans has been very light.   Begin scouting next week for Bean Leaf Beetles as they will begin feeding on developing pods over the next few weeks.  So far we are not seeing much for Soybean Aphids.   If you have made an insecticide application already, this should give you season long control unless a severe outbreak of one of these insects occurs.
  • Dectes Stem Borer – be on the lookout for this insect starting now and into harvest.  This is a new insect that borers into the stem and we saw our first case of this insect in August last of 2019.  Watch field edges first and let us know if you are seeing wilted and dying plants as they move in from the grassy edges.   https://www.pioneer.com/us/agronomy/stem-borer-dectes.html
  • Seeing very small colonies of Corn Leaf Aphids(dark green aphid) in area corn fields.   They tend to proliferate under cooler and damper conditions, so we may see their numbers increase in the area.   They are not an economic concern, but you may begin to notice them as you walk through your fields.
  • We are just starting to see our first Spider Mite colonies…..very small and on the very bottom leaves.   However, if temperatures turn out as forecasted and relative humidity stays lower than average, infestation levels will increase.  Keep an eye out for this insect over the next month or so.

PIVOT BIO

Pivot Bio announces their next generation product!   With Pivot Bio’s next generation product for corn, PROVEN 40, farmers can turn to a more dependable nitrogen. Learn more about this revolutionary offering here:  https://blog.pivotbio.com/press-releases/series-d  We are excited to see what Pivot Bio has to offer and what performance we may see as we move towards harvest….we have many trials out in our area.   

Reminder that the Pioneer Annual Customer Appreciation Supper is Friday, August 20th…..it’s our 25th Anniversary, and we ask you, our customer to help us celebrate!!   Invite will be coming out soon!

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

Starman Seed Service, Inc.

/by

AGRONOMIC UPDATE – July 9, 2021….Sex in the Corn Field….

I knew that title would generate some interest…..it’s not what you are thinking!

Fun fact: A single tassel produces approximately 5+ million pollen grains….

Topics:

– Growing Degree Day Update

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

– Fungicide/Disease in Corn

– Insect Update

– Soybean Development

As of July 9th, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Days in 2020:

Planting Date     GDD’s2021          Average GDD     Departure from average

April 24               1294                        1159                      +135 (+3 days)

April 30               1240                       1141                       +98 (+2 days)

May 6                   1161                        1099                      +67 (+2.5 days)

 We have lost a couple of days compared to normal since the last update at the end of June.   Other than over the 4th of July weekend, temperatures have not been as warm as predicted and humidity levels have been more like normal for this time of year.   So far we have been lucky to dodge any storm damage….hopefully this trend will continue.

Based on the above numbers, when can we expect to silk?  If we look at P1366 genetics we see that it takes approx. 1380 GDU’s to silk, this means that we would be looking at a potential silk date around July 12-15.  Hybrids such as P0622 (1270 GDU’s to silk) are close to tasseling and should be pollinating next week.   In other words, we can expect to see most all fields begin tasseling next week, with heavy pollination shed occurring mid-next week into the following week.   This is slightly ahead of the average and of last year.

What’s going on in my field?….

  • Overall much of the corn crop looks very good!  Very good color and uniformity for the most part.  Much of the corn crop is in the V14-V16 leaf stage, with some tassels beginning to poke out along tree lines, etc., 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.   
  • 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 – very rapid now through tassel (up to 4-8 lbs per day).  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.    This year so far, we haven’t experienced conditions that usually lead to N loss from leaching or denitrification….overall color looks great!   Expectations are that more N is potentially available in the soil profile.
  • 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 7-10 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.
  • 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….. https://www.pioneer.com/us/agronomy/corn_pollination_success_cropfocus.html
  • 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 to physiological maturity.  So if a field is silking on July 15th, it will need until September 15th to reach maturity, given average weather.  Current 6-10 and 8-14 day forecasts call for slightly above normal temperatures, which should give us a GDD accumulation of 26-27 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.

Corn Leaf Disease/Fungicide

  • The next four to six weeks will be critical for disease infestations and fungicide applications.
  • 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 (see attachment below).  Bacterial Leaf Streak incidence is the lowest we have seen over the past few years.   However, overall temps and humidity levels the past couple of weeks have been conducive for an increased development of leaf diseases.
  • 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 and has the highest demand for energy at this time.  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 P0589, P0950, P1138, P1244, P1185, P1138 & P1366, are hybrids to focus on first for higher probability of response from foliar fungicides, especially if gray leaf spot infestations are high…..Fungicide response probabililty….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 – https://www.pioneer.com/us/agronomy/maximizing_foliar_fungicides_corn.html and https://www.pioneer.com/us/agronomy/bacterial-leaf-streak.html
  • https://crop-protection-network.s3.amazonaws.com/publications/fungicide-efficacy-for-control-of-corn-diseases-filename-2021-03-09-163332.pdf.   This attachment shows efficacy by active ingredient for different leaf diseases, for the current fungicides on the market

Water Management

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 low humidity.
  • ET rates over the past week or so have been normal to slightly above normal.  Thankfully we have received some timely rainfall in this period.  However, we are now fast approaching peak water use in corn, and with the potential higher temps forecasted for the next couple of 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 16-28” (better than average) and heavy soils are 20-32+” (somewhat below average) depending upon plant date, conditions and soil type.  Remember that maximum plant height and root depth are achieved once the plant tassels.

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 will again have the pheromone moth traps located west of Elgin.   We caught our first moths at end of this week.   Check back on this website, under Grower resources, for updated moth flight counts.
  • Treat when the fields are 95% tasseled.  Use high rates 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.
  • Once a field has been tasseled, any egg masses that hatch will see the larvae head 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, P1138AML, P1366AML, P1563AML, P2042AML and P2089AML.

Corn Rootworm pressure appears to be higher this year versus the past few years.  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.  There is a higher potential for this to occur this year than past years due to timing emergence of the adults and potential for high overall numbers of beetles.
  • 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, upwards of 30 days.

Grasshoppers….seeing light feeding in both corn and soybeans from small grasshoppers.   Keep monitoring for this insect if conditions stay dry.

So far we are not seeing much insect activity in soybeans.  Gall Midge in Soybeans – There is a continued increase of reports of Gall Midge in the counties to the east of us.  I would assume that we have this insect somewhere in our area in very light numbers.  Keep an eye out for plants dying on the edges of your field, or in the end rows, as this insect is most common on field borders.   See attachment for more info.   https://www.pioneer.com/us/agronomy/Gall-Midge-New-Pest-In-Soybeans.html

Soybean Development

  • Most of the soybeans in our area are at late R1 (Beg flower) to mostly 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….some fields are still showing leaf cupping…..crop growth is also uneven in some fields in those areas with high crop residue.
  • 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 continue to see a yield response from a fungicide application in soybeans, either at R1 for white mold (applications of which should be on already) 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.  In 2019 we saw a lot of Frogeye Leaf Spot occur in soybeans, keep an eye out on this disease as well.  See attachment for more info on this disease….https://www.pioneer.com/us/agronomy/frogeye_leaf_spot_on_soybeans.html     Not all fungicides control this disease, so make sure you check the label to see if this disease is controlled.  Much like in corn, we are not seeing much for leaf disease pressure in soybeans at the moment.
  • White mold attachment:  https://www.pioneer.com/us/agronomy/managing_white_mold_soybeans.html

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

Starman Seed Service, Inc.

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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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