Planting is in full force across Colfax, Butler and Polk counties. For the most part, these counties have picked up some hit and miss showers over the past week. Observed at the local Colfax County Extension Office was about 1.25 inches collectively over the last week. Luckily, this region has missed much of the severe weather.

Corn — Corn planting is likely over 60% (or more) completed in the region.

Soybean — Soybean is nearing 25% complete.

Alfalfa weevil is present in local alfalfa sites. Multiple sizes of larvae are being observed. Scouting will be key over the next few weeks. Please refer to the UNL CropWatch website for more information, including economic thresholds and insecticide options.

The topsoil has been somewhat wet in several locations, but farmers have been planting corn and soybeans as soon as they can get into the field.

Corn — Most of the corn that was planted in late April has emerged and some of the plants have two to three leaves.

Soybean — Soybean planting is further behind and only a few fields have emerged plants.

Wheat — Wheat is either in the boot stage or heads have started to emerge. A few fields have had wheat streak mosaic virus, but little other disease issues have been observed.

Alfalfa — Alfalfa fields are now 12-18 inches with a few plants beginning to bloom. Some of the fields have had many alfalfa weevils and pea aphids but the levels of infestation have been variable. 

Pasture condition has improved significantly with the recent rainfall.