Lodged corn
Figure 1. Lodged corn due to stalk rot diseases. (Photo by Tamra Jackson-Ziems)

Stalk Rot Diseases in Nebraska Corn Fields

September 22, 2017
Stalk rots can be found in corn across Nebraska. This story addresses the risk factors and how to scout for stalk rots, assess stalk strength, and determine extent of damage in a field. Fields with high levels of stalk rot should be given priority at harvest to reduce yield losses due to lodging.

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Chart of ISU research on rate of corn dry down

ISU Studies on Rate of Soybean and Corn Dry Down in the Field

September 21, 2017
How fast do soybeans and corn dry down in the field? That's the question Iowa State University researchers examined in studies conducted near Ames over the last three years in corn and soybean fields. These briefs share highlights from what they found and can be useful in assessing your fields.

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Farm grain bins
Figure 1. The various sized bins on this farm allow for storing different moisture contents. Wetter, more dense grain works well in the smaller bins so that more airflow per bushel can be delivered. Drier grains where aeration is the primary need store well in the larger bins. If the grain is wetter, drying grain in layers can help increase airflow per bushel. (Photo by Paul Jasa)

Natural Air Drying of Binned Soybeans

September 20, 2017
If soybeans were harvested above 13% moisture, natural air drying can be used to reduce moisture to 13% for longer term storage. How long that drying takes will vary with several factors. This guide can help you estimate the length of drying for your soybean moisture, aeration system, relative humidity and temperature.

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Adjusting the combine feeder house chain with green soybeans can help optimize harvest.

Equipment Adjustments for Harvesting Soybeans at 13%-15% Moisture

September 15, 2017
When harvesting higher moisture soybeans, adjustments to your combine and your practices can help minimize challenges in the field, making it easier to achieve a recommended average soil moisture level of 13%.

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harvesting unloading soybeans

Plan Harvest to Deliver Soybeans at the Optimum Moisture

September 1, 2020
Most soybeans are harvested and delivered directly to an elevator. Soybeans delivered below or above 13% moisture—the elevator standard—lose potential profit. The economics illustrated here show how harvest timing can affect potential income.

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To avoid compacting more of the field, the grain cart should run down the same row middles as the combine. An auger extension may be needed on the combine to get the wheel tracks to line up. The wheel spacing on the combine, tractor, and grain cart should be adjusted to all run between the rows.
To avoid compacting more of the field, the grain cart should run down the same row middles as the combine. An auger extension may be needed on the combine to get the wheel tracks to line up. The wheel spacing on the combine, tractor, and grain cart should be adjusted to all run between the rows.

Avoiding Compaction at Harvest

October 11, 2017
If you're worried about compacting still-wet soils this fall, these recommendations can help you avoid or reduce potential compaction and its effects on next year's yields.

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