USDA-NASS: Corn 61% Good-Excellent; Soybean, 60%
July 31, 2017
Winter wheat harvest has been completed across most of Nebraska, according to the July 30 report from USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Significant rainfall of an inch or more was received across most of the state during the previous week and a few north central counties received as much as four inches of rain.
Should You Hay or Cut Silage from Drought-Damaged Corn Fields
July 28, 2017
Drought conditions across much of Nebraska will limit grain yields in dryland corn this year, leading growers to look at other options for harvesting value from these fields. In some cases, harvesting this plant material may contribute to nutrient and water removal from the soil and may not be the best solution for your rotation or cropping system.
Making Silage from Dry Corn
July 28, 2017
Most dryland corn fields may be too dry for making the best silage. Dry silage is difficult to pack well enough to force out all the oxygen and it often spoils, lowering its energy and protein digestibility. It also can heat up, leading to spontaneous combustion fires.
Spider Mite Reports Increasing
July 28, 2017
Spider mite populations are increasing in Nebraska. Fields should be scouted and the species correctly identified to provide proper management. Population levels should also be considered when treating fields with other insecticides that may knock out all natural predators, leading to population explosions of spider mites.
Corn Disease Update: Southern Rust Increasing; Diplodia New to Nebraska
July 27, 2017
Warm, wet conditions across Nebraska the past two weeks created optimal conditions for crop diseases. This update looks at identification and management of three diseases in corn: southern rust, which is expanding in the state, bacterial leaf streak, and diplodia, which is new to Nebraska.
Nebraska Counties where Southern Rust Has Been Confirmed in Corn
August 3, 2017
As of Aug. 3 southern rust had been confirmed in 26 Nebraska counties by the University of Nebraska Plant and Pest Diagnostic Lab. This map is updated as new confirmations are made.
2017 Corn Yield Forecasts as of July 18
July 19, 2017
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.
Southern Rust Confirmed in Corn in 8 Eastern Nebraska Counties
July 19, 2017
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.