Harvest is around the corner….but irrigation season is not quite done….

Topics:

• Growing Degree Day Update/Weather Update
• Current Corn Conditions….
• Prioritizing Harvest!
• Current Soybean Conditions….

As of September 5th, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Units in 2022:

Planting Date     GDU’s2021          Average GDU     Departure from average

April 21               2698                         2575                        +123 (+6 days)

April 28              2632                         2525                         +105 (+5 days)

May 9                  2569                        2431                         +138 (+7 days)

We have gained a little ground since the last update in mid-August.  We are really a solid week ahead of the average.  Current seven day forecast should net us another 120 GDUs.

The above maps are temperature and precipitation forecasts for the next 6-10 and 8-14 days.    As you can see, the pattern is very similar to what we have been experiencing all summer.   The should move the crop along quickly….maybe too quickly in some cases….

The above maps are the Monthly and Seasonal temperature and precipitation forecasts.   If these forecasts hold true, harvest should begin in a timely fashion and should be an open one.   However, not much to help out our dire precipitation needs.   I also would not ‘hold-my-breath’ on these either….

Current Corn Conditions…..

• Much of the corn crop is as follows:  April planting dates – 103-110 day hybrids at 1/2-3/4 milk lines with 112-118 day hybrids at 1/4 to 2/3.   May planting dates are 1/4 to 1/3 for the most part.  Majority of crop is 1/3 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 further ahead than normal by the raw GDU numbers.
• 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, especially in the later-planted fields.
• Sunlight:  We have been slightly (3-4%) above normal for sunlight over the last 45 days.   Just for comparisons sake, this is less than what we had in 2012 by quite a ways.   We are running ahead of 2021, however.   Sunlight plays a huge role in grain yield (kernel size…test weight, etc.) and plant health.    Having above normal sunlight is always a positive thing….
• On the flip side, 2022 has been as warm as 2012 for temperatures.
• Disease:  Relative Humidity during the grain-fill period has been 8% below normal.   2012, by comparison, was 12%+ below normal during this time period.  This has had a positive impact on overall disease outbreak.   We are seeing very little for white mold versus past years, while most corn fields are clean yet.   Just starting to see Gray Leaf Spot show up, which is very late.
• Currently we are looking at a good quality irrigated corn crop….kernel depth and grain color look very good overall at the present time.
• Watering:  The low RH has been a negative to ET rates over the grain-fill period…and really all year.   Since January 1st total ET has been 45.03″.  Contrast this to the normal of 29.88″ and one sees how dry we have been.   Total ET rates over the last 45 days have averaged .05″/day above normal.   Table below shows the approximate amount of water needed to reach maturity.  Keep in mind that temperatures and Relative Humidity play a role in these amounts.   Most all fields are still needing more water….

Prioritizing Harvest!

2022 crop has had its fair share of stress this year.  As such, we could have a higher probability of more risk from stalk rots than we have experienced over the last few years.  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, leading to the plant being unable to 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….may want to harvest the corners ahead of time.   Overall, the potential for increased severity of stalk rots is higher in 2022 than the previous few years from the combination of stresses experienced in 2022.   Watch for those fields that lose staygreen quickly, or that have ears drop suddenly, as these are signs of premature death of the plant.

Current Soybean Conditions…..

• Soybeans are quickly turning in much of the area.   Much of the crop is in the late-R6 stage of growth.   It is possible that some irrigated acres could be ready to harvest in the next 10-14 days.   Dryland corners are also turning fast now, keep these in mind for possible early harvest as well.   The early-group II soybeans are moving along quickly now.
• Disease:  Sudden Death Syndrome (SDS) continues to spread in the area.   We see more of this disease year-over-year.  This is a disease that can be controlled with ILeVo seed treatment.  Sudden Death Syndrome in Soybeans
• Dectes Stem Borer.        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.  We saw a high incidence of this insect in our area last year.   Expectations are that we will have the same or higher levels this year.   Keep this in mind as harvest approaches….timely harvest will limit the economic impact of this insect.
• For more info see the following link….Dectes Stem Borer in Soybeans
• The picture below shows the stage of growth for early R6 soybeans through R7.  The chart below shows water needs to finish for soybeans.    Most fields are in the R6.5 to R6.8 stage at present which still means 2-3″ of water to finish.

2022 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.

TEMPERATURES & GDU ACCUMULATION:

As of August 3rd, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Units in 2022:

Planting Date     GDD’s2022          Average GDD     Departure from average

April 21                  1957                           1927                               +30 (+ 1 day)

April 28                  1891                          1877                                +14  (even)

May 9                     1828                           1783                               +45 (+ 2 days)

We have not gained any extra days since the last update a week ago, which stands to reason, as it is hard to gain ground in July, as this is when we get our heat anyway.  However, temperatures for the next 6-14 days are predicted to be above normal yet, so we may gain going forward.   This may potentially be a negative though, as the crop may ‘push’ a little too fast….

We are now into the critical grain-fill period for both corn and soybeans.   How we finish the last 30-45 days will play a big role in final yield.  As such, I am including a link to an agronomy podcast that I feel is not only interesting, but has some pertinent topics for this time of year.  I encourage you to give it a listen.   The podcast is facilitated by two Pioneer Agronomists and the guest is Dr. Jeff Schussler.   They talk about a myriad of topics from nutrient uptake and placement, strip-till, residue, late-season N, crop management after flowering, among others.   Dr. Schussler was on the lead for Pioneer in developing AquaMax drought hybrids and spent most of his career with Pioneer on drought work and plant physiology and drought technology.  Dr. Schussler spoke at our Pioneer Plot Tour some 10 years ago as well, so some of you may remember him.  He has great knowledge on the corn plant itself and drought…

Kick’N Dirt Podcast – busting Myths w/ Dr. Jeff Schussler

Highlights on a few topics from the Podcast:

• Crop management after Flowering and Extended Staygreen:  For many years we have talked about staygreen.  The longer one can maintain plant health through the grain-fill period, the greater impact on final yield.   This comes about through harvesting sunlight (capturing carbon) which increases kernel size and test weight.  The hybrids of today don’t respond in the same way they did in the past.  There has been great change, with plant breeding and genetics, over the last 20-30 years.
• Late-season N:  There has been much discussion the last number on years on the corn crops need for N after flowering.  In the podcast, Dr. Schussler talks about how, in today’s environment and hybrids, we have an extended staygreen that was not present 15-25 years ago.   This extended staygreen is driving yields.  In the ‘old days’, before fungicides, trait technologies, etc., once the plant reached R1-R2, the plant would start to degrade quickly and it would be a ‘race’ to harvest.   N needs after flowering at that time were probably 20-30# in Dr. Schussler’s opinion.   Now-with the extended staygreen-after flowering N needs in today’s hybrids are, in Dr. Schussler’s opinion, potentially more like 100-120#.   With this extended staygreen an ongoing uptake of N is needed to support that.  This leads to more N management throughout the growing season.   The extra N is potentially helping the weaker plants in a field out than the stronger ones.  This is potentially where products like Pivot Bio ProveN40 and Utrisha may shine, as they are producing N throughout the growing season.
• Taller corn vs. shorter corn:  In the podcast, they discuss taller corn vs. shorter corn in relation to final yield.  It all comes down to plant biomass, specifically, leaf biomass.  If a shorter plant has the same leaf biomass as a taller plant than most likely there should be little difference.  However, it is an axiom in corn production that ‘what you see above ground, is what you have below ground’….less above means less below.   In other words, the root biomass (total root volume in a soil) is potentially less in a shorter plant than a taller plant….the total volume of soil contacted by the root system is less potentially, even though rooting depth may beyond 40+”.   Grain-fill period management then, becomes more critical to maintain high yields in this environment.  The plants are not able to scavenge as efficiently for water, nutrients, etc., with a lower root biomass.   This means that we need to make sure the water and nutrients are available within the root zone, especially in the ‘prime’ area of the top 18″.
• AquaMax hybrids and breeding:  Nice discussion on the AquaMax drought hybrids…plant physiology and genetics…heat stress vs. drought stress….leaf rolling….
• Heat stress, High daytime temperatures, plant respiration:  Interesting discussion on plant respiration and high daytime and night time temps, canopy temperature….
• Last 10-15% of yield is Kernel Size: 85-90% of yield comes from ears per acre x kernels per ear.   15% of yield is kernel weight.  Important for high yields to maintain uniform kernel size throughout the ear.  Run out of nutrients or water late and kernel size is reduced, which is reduced test weight.

Quick Crop Observations:

• ET rates continue to be high.   The past 7 days saw total ET for corn of 2.30″…compared to 1.20″ last week in the cooler temperatures.   The last 7 days had a .08″ daily ET rate above average…..0.33/day vs. average of 0.25″.   With the predicted high temperatures, expect ET rates to continue to be higher than average for both corn and soybeans over the next 7-10 days.
• We are seeing more NCLB lesions in the area.   Not heavy, but the disease is present.  Still highly recommended to apply a fungicide if you have not already done so.  This needs to go on ASAP if you do.
• The hot, dry conditions are conducive for spider mite development in corn.  Please keep this mind as you are scouting your fields for any potential outbreak.

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

Starman Seed Service, Inc.

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

Topics:

– Growing Degree Day Update/Forecast Maps

– Corn Plant Height…no two years alike

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

– Fungicide/Disease in Corn

– Insect Update

– Soybean Development

As of July 12th, we have accumulated approximately the following for Growing Degree Days in 2022:

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                  1401                         1328                                + 73 (+ 3 days)

April 28                  1335                         1277                                +108  (+4 days)

May 9                     1272                          1187                                +85 (+ 3 days)

Current GDD numbers are running 3-4 days ahead of normal across all planting dates.  We have picked up some ground from the warm temperatures over the past month.

The above maps are the 6-10 & 8-14 day temperature and precipitation outlooks issued July 12th.  The hot, dry weather will continue the current GDD trend.

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 should approximately be silking on this hybrid on any April planting dates and 3-4 days yet on May dates.   Hybrids such as P0622 (1270 GDU’s to silk) are starting to tassel.   In other words, we can expect to see most all April planted fields begin tasseling this week, with heavy pollination shed occurring mid-next week into the following week….May dates the following week   How the crop emerged this spring will play a role in tassel timing.  However, we are tasseling about 3-4 days ahead of what we thought we would a month ago.

Corn Plant Height…no two years alike…

To quote some information from Bob Nielsen from Purdue and Tom Hoegemeyer from UNL.

The mature corn plant height depends on three factors:

1. Amount of solar radiation on the top leaves during growth
2. Water
3. Temperature

We usually don’t have issues with solar radiation in Nebraska.  This year water was more of a factor. Much of the young corn plant’s development was in drier than normal growing conditions. There was adequate moisture for growth but nothing like we have experienced in recent years….in fact, we are currently 6+ inches below normal for the year, even counting the nice rains we received last week.

Water availability and temperature impact growth rate. Cell division is affected much less than cell expansion, and slower growth rates lead to slower root development, further limiting water uptake and nutrients. Slower cell expansion leads to shorter internodes and smaller leaves, and this leads to less water uptake and light interception, CO2 uptake, further impacting growth. Because of these changes, we have less internode elongation and thus early planted corn tends to be shorter than later planted corn.   June temperatures were also the exact opposite between 2021 and 2022.  First half of June was above normal temperatures in 2021 with normal temps after that.  In 2022, the first half of June was normal temperatures and the second half above normal temps…the same period we had reduced rainfall and had to rely on irrigation….

Will conditions leading to shorter corn impact yield? Not necessarily. More important to the final yield of this year’s crop is the heat and moisture stress that the crop is now experiencing as it moves into pollination.  With high heat forecast for the coming week, this could be a concern in reduced water areas.

What’s going on in my field?….

• Overall much of the corn crop looks good!   The unevenness from the residue remains, but is now somewhat hidden.  Much of the corn crop is in the V14-VT stage, with 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….40-50#   This year so far, we haven’t experienced conditions that usually lead to N loss from leaching or denitrification….overall color looks good!   The warm temps should see more N potentially available in the soil profile through mineralization.
• 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….. Crop Focus – Corn Pollination Success
• Weather conditions influence pollen shed.  If the anthers are wet, the pores will not open and pollen will not be released.   Thus, on an average summer morning following a heavy evening dew, pollen shed will not begin until the dew dries and the anther pores open.  Similarly, pollen is not shed during rainy conditions.   Cool, humid temperatures delay pollen shed, while hot, dry conditions hasten pollen shed.
• Generally 2-3 days are required for all silks on a single ear to be exposed and pollinated, with the silks on the butt of the ear emerging first.  The silks will grow from 1-1.5 inches each day and will continue to elongate until fertilized.  If not pollinated, silk elongation stops about 10 days after silk emergence due to senescence of the silk tissue. Unusually long silks can be a diagnostic symptom that the ear was not successfully pollinated.
• Silk emergence and growth is dependent upon turgid pressure within the plant, in other words how much water is available in the plant to cover all of its needs.   If this is limited, (ie. dryland, low-gallon wells, etc.) silk emergence will be slowed and delayed with potential to miss the pollen shed.   Under severe water stress conditions pollen shed will still take place like normal, however, silks can be delayed, which means potential for poor pollination.
• It takes approximately 55-60 days from silking to physiological maturity.  So if a field is silking on July 15^th, it will need until September 15^th to reach maturity, given average weather.  Current 6-10 and 8-14 day forecasts call for above normal temperatures, which should give us a GDD accumulation of 27-30 GDU’s per day.
• High nighttime temperatures (ie. any stress) begin to play a role in final yield during grain-fill as this causes the plant to work harder to maintain both yield and overall plant health, thereby lowering potential final yield.

Corn Leaf Disease/Fungicide

• The next four to six weeks will be critical for disease infestations and fungicide applications.
• 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 and a few GLS lesions.  We are not seeing any Tar Spot in the area.  If it shows up, it will be much later in the season and at low incidence as this disease has to move in from the east.
• 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 P0622, P0924, P0950, P0908, P0995, P1185, P1366 & P1563 are hybrids to focus on first for higher probability of response from foliar fungicides, especially if gray leaf spot infestations are high…..2022 Pioneer Corn Fungicide Response Considerations ….This attachment is a list of Pioneer hybrids and their potential response to a fungicide application for Gray Leaf Spot and Norther Corn Leaf Blight.  The chart also shows staygreen and stalk strength ratings for each hybrid.   This chart can help with fungicide management decisions.
• See attachments on disease and fungicide management – Maximizing Foliar Fungicide in Corn and Bacterial Leaf Streak
• Fungicide Efficacy for Control of Corn Diseases.   This attachment shows efficacy 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….the hot, windy days we experienced recently saw .45-.50 ET rates/day!
• ET rates over the past two weeks have been above normal.  Normal daily ET rates for the past two weeks is .28/day…we have averaged .36/day in 2022….30% higher than average…no wonder it was difficult to keep up on sands!  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 24-40+” (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.   Current numbers are trending higher than last year at this time.  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, P0908AML, P1366AML, P1563AML, & P2042AML.

Corn Rootworm

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

• prevent high numbers interfering with pollination through silk-clipping.  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.  The uneven plant emergence and slower growth in the residue areas means the adults will have an extended period for silk-clipping.
• 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.

Soybean Development

• Most of the soybeans in our area are at late-R1 (Beg flower) to late-R2 (Full flower).  I would not be surprised to see early R3 (pod set) on some fields next week.   Most fields are finally coming around and growing, but like the corn, some 30″ row, sand fields may not fully canopy….some fields are still showing leaf cupping…..crop growth is also uneven in some fields in those areas with high crop residue….much like many corn fields.
• 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 can see this happening on the soil moisture probes in the area.
• 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.  Just a reminder, keep an eye out for Frogeye Leaf Spot  in soybeans as not all fungicides control this disease.  This disease is normally not an issue in our area and many varieties have very good tolerance to this disease.  See attachment for more info on this disease….Frogeye Leaf Spot in Soybeans
• White mold attachment:  Managing White Mold in Soybeans

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

Starman Seed Service, Inc.

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.

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.