Agronomy News

One of the best ways to accomplish pasture renovation is by frost seeding, sometimes referred to as overseeding, and is an easy and relatively inexpensive way to establish legumes. Frost seeding is simply broadcasting legume or grass seed on existing grass pastures in late winter or very early spring when the ground is still frozen. Freezing and thawing, plus early spring rains, provide the only seed coverage.

The last few growing seasons have resulted in large soybeans coming through the production channels. Soybean seed size has dropped down near 1,900 seeds/lb. for some varieties and seed lots; this is a result of both genetics and the environment. In 2021, the weather in the Northeast provided ample water and heat during seed fill. The resulting soybeans are larger than they have been in previous years and this has raised concerns for planting. Although the large seed may be alarming at first, most planters are equipped to handle such seed. Below are some recommendations for running large soybean seed through some common planters. These recommendations will ensure the seed goes in the ground and proper stands are established early on.

Given the wet weather as of late, we may start seeing ear rots and molds. As we get into grain harvest, I am seeing molds and rots similar to a few years ago when we experienced mycotoxin issues due to the wet fall weather. If you are seeing these issues, you’re not the only one. Check out this article detailing Fusarium ear rot and the issues it may cause.

As we progress into silage harvest, wheat season is going to quickly approach. The best way to ensure a successful crop starts at planting. If we do the basics right, the wheat crop in the spring will be off to a
good start.

Over the last two weeks, reports of Fall Armyworm activity in Pennsylvania have been on the rise, with reports of severe injury in some cases.

Several alfalfa stands in the Northeast have shown signs of insect feeding on the leaves. Some farmers noticed that their fields were beginning to look brown, and showing little or no signs of regrowth following first cutting. After scouting the fields, it was easy to determine the presence of alfalfa weevil and some heavy feeding on the alfalfa stands which were causing setbacks in regrowth.

As we begin to get crops in the ground and start to keep a closer eye on the fields, it is best to keep in mind the early season pests that might present themselves. Scouting fields early in the season is key to ensuring healthy stands, here are a few pests to keep an eye out for that may impact overall stands.

Early season planting of soybeans has become more popular as the spring weather becomes more welcoming. When evaluating or not early planting will pay off, there are a few things that should be considered.

Growers across the region have made comments of their combines being covered in “black dust” while harvesting their corn fields. It wasn’t until the second half of October, when the rains began to set in, that these observations started to arise.

It seems that many fields across the country have been experiencing ear drop issues. Recognizing that it is not an issue with any one brand or variety, specifically is important. Collectively across brands, there have been issues with ears on the ground prior to or during harvest. This not only indicates yield loss and causes unneeded frustration, but it could lead to unwanted volunteer corn in the field next year.