Wheat Survives Freeze Much of the state's wheat crop was still in the tillering stage when temperatures plummeted below freezing last week. At this point poor stands due to the lack of fall and winter moisture are of more concern than cold. More
They're Back....  Recent rains have kept producers out of the field but given summer annuals like this kochia a healthy start. Burndown and pre-emergence herbicides can limit soil moisture, nutrient, and yield loss to weeds. More

April 19, 2013

Soybean Production

• For Increased Yields Plant Soybeans in Next Few Weeks. Nebraska research shows that delaying soybean planting can cause yield losses of 1/4 to 5/8 bu/ac for every day planting is delayed after May 1. This may be the year you consider having your soybeans custom planted while you plant corn.  
• Data Show Nebraskans Planting Soybeans Earlier Each Year. Over the last 30 years, Nebraskans have shifted their average soybean planting date 15 days earlier, making it easier to achieve a crop canopy that's "green to the eye by the 4th of July."

Wheat Production

• Nebraska Winter Wheat Appreciates Moisture, Despite Lows. Recent snow, ice, and rains did more good than damage to the state's wheat crop, which is one to two weeks behind normal and still in the tillering stage. Had it been at jointing, damage likely would have been more severe. See wheat condition reports from across the state.
• Assessing Freeze Injury to Winter Wheat. If you're seeing burned and yellowing leaf tips from the recent freezing temperatures across western and north central Nebraska, check this guide to evaluate your fields.

Corn Production

• Don't till Wet Soils. As days tick by it may be tempting to start planting too soon, but that can lead to soil compaction and reduced water infiltration when you need it most.
• Shallow Corn Planting Can Hinder Root Development. Shallow planting can lead to shallow roots, and in wet soils, poor seed vee closure and inconsistent germination.

Farm Management

• ACRE or DCP? Resources to Select Your Best Option. The farm bill extension for 2013 means producers will need to reselect their farm program -- ACRE or DCP. UNL research, resources, and a spreadsheet have been updated to look at 2013 revenue projections and guarantees to help with decision making.
• Free Farm Finance Clinics for May. An ag lawyer and financial specialist are available to answer your questions.

Weather

• Forecast for Warmer, Drier Planting Weather Soon. After Monday, it looks like better conditions could prevail and lead to planting in the last few days of April.

Nutrient Management

• Biostimulants/Biofertilizers: Buyer Beware.Unlike fertilizers and pesticides, these products are not regulated and marketing is not required to show proof of effectiveness. If you decide to try one, start small and conduct a replicated field trial before you integrate it full-scale.

Weed Management

• Weeds are Emerging: Recommendations for Pre-plant and Pre-emergence Weed Control. Recent rains have given summer annuals a headstart before your crop's even in the ground. Early control can limit yield loss. Studies show that 12-inch weeds in soybean can reduce yield 10% and in corn, it's 22%.

Alfalfa Production

• Herbicides to Control Weeds in Spring-Seeded Alfalfa. Alfalfa seedlings grow slowly, while many competing weeds grow faster and can quickly use moisture, nutrients and light. Several herbicide options are available for early season control.

Market Journal

• Market Journal Looks at Planting Delays, the Market Shift, and Weed Control. Among the guests, a commodity risk manager looks at price range forecasts for corn and soybeans.

Crop Report

• USDA: Nebraska Crop Condition and Soil Moisture Update. Soil moisture is 53% short to very short and subsoil moisture is 93% short to very short.