I have had a good number of calls, emails and texts with photos of soybean plants with classic potassium deficiency symptoms showing in the upper leaves. Some fields may also have some SDS as well which is a separate issue. After a little investigating, it appears that the plants are experiencing a K deficiency in th Continue reading
Insects are predictably unpredictable, but some general observations for this current week are below. Continue reading
As reported by NASS on August 18, 2014
DRY WEATHER PERSISTS OVER SOUTHERN MIDDLE TENNESSEE
While rains and cooler temperatures occurred throughout most other parts of the state, dry conditions continued in the southern parts of Middle Tennessee, causing stress on row crops and pastures. Statewide, insect pressure increased slightly, but still remained light compared to historic levels. Lower night-time temperatures slowed cotton progress. Continue reading at Crop Progress 8 17 14.
Insect infestations have been generally mild in soybean fields thus far, but as usual, I am starting to get more calls about stink bugs and a few other pests. As other crops mature, including early maturing soybean fields, late season insect populations often concentrate in the remaining soybean fields. Let’s not forget to keep our eyes open. This may include corn earworm infestation in our latest maturing fields. Continue reading
As reported by NASS on August 11, 2014
LATE-WEEK RAINS HELP CROPS
Farmers welcomed much-needed rains at the end of last week. These rains provided a shot in the arm to soybeans, corn and pastures. High temperatures early in the week assisted cotton growth. These same high temperatures caused some stress in cattle. Hay producers took advantage of the dry weather early in the week until they were forced out of the fields by rain. Continue reading at Crop Progress 8 10 14.
Corn harvest will likely start toward the end of this month. As the corn dries down the next couple weeks expect a new flush of Palmer amaranth. Moreover, with all the rain the first week of August any thin corn stand areas will likely have a new heavy flush of Palmer amaranth. Though no one wants to spend more money with corn commodity price so low, it will pay off next spring to have less Palmer amaranth to mange in soybean or cotton. Continue reading
Don’t forget the UT corn and soybean field day today at the Research and Education Center in Milan (3 Ledbetter Rd, Milan, TN 38358). Registration opens at 9:00 and tour will be begin at 9:30 a.m and will conclude with lunch.
Information on corn and soybean diseases, insects, and weed management, as well as agronomic information will be presented. Pesticide re-certification and CCA CEUs will be available.
As reported by NASS on August 4, 2014
MOST AREAS IN NEED OF RAIN; COTTON IN NEED OF HEAT
There is general consensus that a good, soaking rain is needed across most of the State to minimize plant and pasture stress. Even through these weather conditions, both corn and soybeans are expected to produce good yields. Cool temperatures last week limited heat units for cotton, causing some producer concern. Continue reading at Crop Progress 8 3 14.