July 20, 2017

Corn Production

Southern rust on a corn leaf — Figure 1. Southern rust has been confirmed in corn in eight eastern Nebraska counties and growers are urged to scout from now through August, as weather conditions are quite favorable for its development.

Southern Rust Confirmed in Corn in 8 Eastern Nebraska Counties

Southern rust has been confirmed in corn in 8 eastern Nebraska counties and growers are urged to scout vigilantly to schedule optimal timing of treatment, if needed. Most systemic fungicides can provide protection of leaves from future infections for 21-28 days.

Scout Now for Corn Rootworm Beetles to Assess Potential Risk of Future Damage

Weekly scouting of adult rootworm beetles in July and August will provide the information needed to decide whether rootworm control is necessary next year.

Probability of yield deviation for normal for irrigated corn, model ran July 18, 2017

2017 Corn Yield Forecasts as of July 18

Corn growth stages are estimated for 41 sites in 10 states and yields are estimated for select irrigated and rainfed sites, based on the Hybrid-Maize model and input from specialists and educators across a 10-state area as of July 18, 2017. The authors note that these early season yield forecasts vary widely, particularly for rainfed fields, and may change considerably by end of season.

Weed Management

Figure 1. Dicamba injury symptoms in a Roundup Ready soybean field near Geneva. (Photos by Amit Jhala)

Dicamba Injury Reports Rise in Nebraska

Reports of suspected dicamba injury to soybean and other sensitive crops are increasing. The author reviews application windows for dicamba in corn, a possible area of concern, and outlines what growers can do if they suspect dicamba injury in their fields.

Soybean Production

Although at Low Levels, Soybean Aphids Are in Northeast Nebraska

The infestations appear to have occurred recently, as the aphids were only observed on leaves that had not yet expanded completely. The economic threshold for late vegetative through R5 stage soybeans is 250 aphids per plant with 80% of the plants infested and populations increasing.

Soybean Aphid Scouting and Management

The current economic threshold for soybean aphids is 250 aphids per plant with 80% of the plant infested and populations increasing. The article discusses the basis for this threshold and two scouting methods, including a speed scouting app, and management guidelines.

Chart of historical soybean price trends after August WASDE report

Soybean Marketing: Preparing for the August WASDE Report

Mid- to late-summer price expectations and marketing strategies for old crop and new crop soybeans in light of the August WASDE report.

Wheat Production

Manure being injected in wheat residue — Figure 1. Manure injected in wheat residue can be a valuable source of phosphorus.

Is Manure a Fertility Option for Wheat?

Interested in applying manure to wheat to meet phosphorus and nitrogen needs? This article outlines factors to consider and recommendations for manure and soil sampling, application method, and timing of application to get the highest return from your manure.

Research

Plant Scientists Aim to Turn Sorghum into Jet Fuel

As members of a new federally funded bioenergy research center, two Nebraska plant scientists plan to spend the next five years working to expand the oil-producing capability of sorghum, a drought-tolerant crop that can be grown on more marginal lands than other farm crops.

IANR and Extension

Cattle grazing cover crops — Figure 1. An August 9 Nebraska Extension event offers a chance for cattle and cover crop producers to learn and network about potential opportunities. (Photo by Mary Drewnoski)

Forage Production

Crop Reports

USDA-NASS: Nebraska Crop Progress and Condition (July 17)
Dry/Drought Area Expands in Nebraska
Crop Management in Drought. If you're facing dry/drought conditions and determining how best to use your rainfed fields, these stories, posted during the 2012 drought, may be helpful.