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| Field Crop Advisory Team Alert newsletter | |||||||
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| Vol. 23, No. 8, May 29, 2008 |
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| In this issue Fungicide tank-mixtures with sugar beet herbicides: What are the risks?
Maximize glyphosate activity with a few simple tips Herbicide sensitivity in potatoes Cold weather stress on corn and soybeans Michigan’s soil nitrate test for corn Considerations for raising irrigated wheat Agricultural labor statistics for spring 2008 Regional reports Weather |
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| Fungicide tank-mixtures with sugar beet herbicides: What are the risks? As we are on the front edge of the fungicide applications for Rhizoctonia management in sugar beets, many of these applications often coincide with herbicide applications for weed control. While tank-mixing these two pest management practices could save extra trips across the field, there are some risks associated with tank-mixing certain herbicide programs with fungicides. Quadris with micro-rate or standard split herbicide programs Quadris is the most commonly used fungicide for Rhizoctonia management in Michigan. When Quadris is applied with Betamix or Progress micro-rate herbicide programs excessive sugar beet injury occurs. The methylated seed oil (MSO) component used in the micro-rate herbicide program “heats up” Quadris leading to injury. Some may think that the use of a different adjuvant in the micro-rate may reduce this risk. This approach may work, however then the micro-rate herbicide program is not effective for weed control. The best way to get both weed control and Rhizoctonia management is to apply the fungicide and micro-rate herbicide programs separately. From MSU research, our general recommendations are for Michigan growers to apply Quadris or any other fungicide for Rhizoctonia management no less than three days prior to or three days after a micro-rate herbicide application to avoid sugar beet injury. What about tank-mixing fungicides with standard split herbicide programs? Most of our research has shown that Quadris can be tank-mixed with a Betamix standard split program without severe sugar beet injury. However, in our plots and in growers’ fields there have been reports of sugar beet injury (leaf burn) from tank-mix applications of Quadris and a Progress standard split herbicide program. Again the best way to avoid this injury is to apply the fungicide and herbicide programs separately. |
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| Fungicides with glyphosate in Roundup Ready sugar beets While we have more extensive data on fungicide tank-mixtures with conventional herbicide programs in sugar beets, last year we conducted a study where we wanted to determine if there would be any injury or sugar beet yield loss from tank-mixtures of glyphosate (Roundup OriginalMax) with different fungicides. We applied glyphosate alone and tank-mixed with Quadris, Gem, and Headline when sugar beets were at the 2- and 6-leaf stages. Very little injury was observed from these mixtures. However, if we added Dual Magnum or Outlook to the glyphosate plus Quadris tank-mixture injury was 31 percent and 13 percent respectively, seven days after application. The injury was mostly leaf necrosis (burning) and the beets quickly recovered. We also looked at combinations of glyphosate with fungicides typically used for Cercospora leaf spot management. At the time of a typical fungicide application for Cercospora (55 DSVs), we applied glyphosate with Copper Sulfate (Champ II), Penncozeb, Eminent, Gem, Headline, SuperTin and Topsin M plus Penncozeb. We did not observe any sugar beet injury from these treatments. Yield was not reduced in any of the treatments as compared with glyphosate alone treatment. So from one year’s research, we found that glyphosate could be tank-mixed with fungicides. However, Dual Magnum or Outlook should not be added to these combinations or injury may occur. Even though glyphosate can be tank-mixed with a fungicide without causing sugar beet injury, differences in nozzle types and application timings may affect both disease and weed control. Caution should be taken in matching up the correct application methods and timings. |
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| Maximize glyphosate activity with a few simple tips Postemergence herbicide applications for weed control in soybean are quickly approaching. There are several things that should be considered to maximize weed control with glyphosate from these applications in Roundup Ready soybean. Following these guidelines can help reduce the risk of glyphosate failures, as well as reduce the chances of lower soybean yields due to weed competition. Glyphosate formulations There are over 30 different glyphosate products that growers in Michigan can choose from for weed control in glyphosate-resistant soybean. With all of these choices, it is important to keep in mind that not all glyphosate formulations are created equal. Knowing your glyphosate product is essential to achieving optimum weed control. There are two main differences in the many available glyphosate products. Glyphosate products can differ in the concentration of glyphosate acid in the formulation (glyphosate acid is what kills the weed). This concentration is expressed as pounds acid equivalent per gallon (lb a.e./gal). Different glyphosate concentrations will change the amount of product used for the various formulations. Table 10 in the MSU Weed Control Guide for Field Crops (E-434) is a compiled list of several glyphosate products and the product use rates for equivalent amounts of glyphosate acid per acre. Another difference in glyphosate products is whether a surfactant needs to be added to the spray solution or if the formulated glyphosate product has a built-in adjuvant package. Products like Roundup WeatherMax, Touchdown Total, and several others have built-in adjuvant systems. Even though all of these products have a built-in adjuvant system there can and many times are differences in the type of surfactant formulated in the product. These differences may equate to differences in weed control under extreme conditions. However, under most conditions there are no differences between these products especially when they are used at the correct rates, at the appropriate application timings. For products where the addition of a surfactant is recommended add a high quality non-ionic surfactant at 0.25 to 1.0 percent v/v. Table 10 also includes information on whether the addition of a surfactant is recommended for a particular glyphosate product. Addition of ammonium sulfate (AMS) Ammonium sulfate (AMS) should always be added to all glyphosate products. We recommend adding dry spray grade AMS at 17 lbs/100 gal or the equivalent of 17 lbs/100 gal of liquid AMS products. The addition of AMS minimizes the negative effect of hard water on glyphosate activity and is important for velvetleaf control, regardless of water quality. Application rate Applying the appropriate glyphosate rate in glyphosate-resistant soybean is important for consistent weed control. Proper glyphosate rates should be based on weed type, weed size and spray volume. In most cases the appropriate rate to use for weed control in glyphosate-resistant soybean is 0.75 lbs a.e./A of glyphosate. This rate will effectively control several annual weed species between two and eight inches tall. However, if weeds become larger or if harder to control species such as common lambsquarters or giant ragweed are present, increase the glyphosate rate to 1.1 lbs a.e./A or 1.5 lbs a.e./A to adequately control these weed species. In addition, by matching the appropriate glyphosate rate to the correct weed size you reduce your chances of weed control failures under extreme conditions. Application timing Glyphosate application timing is everything. It is important to make timely glyphosate applications to minimize the chances of soybean yield loss due to early-season weed competition and to maximize weed control. The optimum time for glyphosate applications is when weeds are four inches tall in narrow-row (7.5 and 15 inches) soybean and six inches tall in wide-row (30 inches) soybean. Controlling weeds at these times reduces the chances for soybean yield loss, as well as reduces the risk of weed control failures of larger weed that may be under stressful conditions (drought, stem-boring insects, coverage issue, etc.). Application technologies Windy conditions in the narrow application windows that we see this time of year make the use of drift reducing nozzles or drift reducing agents almost a necessity to reduce or prevent off-site particle drift. When using these technologies, it is important to know their limitations. Using these technologies without the proper spray pressure and spray volumes can lead to reduced weed control with glyphosate. To maintain effectiveness with these technologies make sure to follow manufacturer’s recommendations on pressure and volume, apply the appropriate glyphosate rate for the target species, and always check for a uniform spray pattern. Combinations of some of these technologies can reduce spray coverage that may result in reduced weed control. Following these guidelines, particularly checking the spray pattern, can help determine if the weeds are receiving an adequate dose of the herbicide for weed control. Following these guidelines will help maximize glyphosate performance and reduce the risk of soybean yield loss due to weeds in the 2008 season. |
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| Herbicide sensitivity in potatoes Potatoes have a wide variation in growth habit and response to environment, particularly due to genetic variation which can be attributed to its polyploidy nature. It is therefore no surprise to those who grow potatoes that varieties respond differently to herbicide applications. Herbicide options for weed control in potatoes are limited to several compounds that have been around for decades with a few newer ones mixed in. Herbicide injury in potato varieties with Sencor is well documented and is taken into consideration when planning Sencor use for weed control. The cool weather this spring has created conditions that favor the enhancement of herbicide injury in crops. Cool weather slows the metabolism of herbicides in the crop, which allows the herbicides to block pathways and induce injury not normally observed in potatoes. Coupled with the inherent sensitivity of some varieties, severe injury can occur. Potato varieties, such as Atlantic or the newer Silverton Russet, grown in Michigan that show varietal sensitivity to herbicides on a normal year, may show greater injury when the weather has slowed potato growth. Potatoes are commonly sensitive to Sencor/Lexone (metribuzin), however, herbicides that potatoes are not generally sensitive to, including Dual Magnum /Cinch/Parallel/Stalwart (metolachlor), Outlook (dimethenamid-p), Lorox (linuron) and Matrix (rimsulfuron) can cause injury under adverse conditions, such as cool, wet weather, when soil applied. Injury can also be observed after herbicide application in hot, humid weather. It is important to time herbicide applications to avoid coinciding with stress-inducing conditions to help avoid injury. Some herbicides such as EPTC can cause wrinkled leaves and other injury if applied at a rate exceeding label recommendations. Drift is also a concern during the growing season with glyphosate and phenoxy herbicides, such as 2 4-D, causing injury to emerged plants. This spring injury due to the cool weather has been observed after Sencor and Lorox applications. Injury symptoms for Sencor (Figure 1) include interveinal whitening and yellowing of the leaf, generally most evident on the older leaves. Similar injury symptoms occur with Lorox (Figure 2), however whitening and chlorosis often occurs on the leaf margin. Many nutrient deficiencies and environmental stress responses can resemble herbicide injury, therefore if you suspect you have herbicide injury, contact your local Extension educator to help diagnose symptoms accurately. Herbicide rates and recommendations for weed control in potatoes can be found on pages 118 to 123 with weed and crop response ratings on page 125 in 2008 Weed Control Guide for Field Crops
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| Cold weather stress on corn and soybeans It appears that most of Michigan’s emerging corn and soybean crop has made it through the recent cold snap in fairly good shape. Regional reports from MSU Extension educators located in the primary corn and soybean growing areas indicated overnight temperatures in the low 30s, and upper 20s the past week. Most of the state did not quite reach the critical 28°F threshold and avoided significant frost injury. However, some northern areas and isolated areas throughout the state will likely experience frost injury, and in extreme cases, mortality to soybean seedlings. Check low-lying areas of fields where natural “air drainage” is restricted for frost damage first. To assess seedling viability, split a plant lengthwise through the stem. The growing point should be relatively firm and white or cream colored. Darkening or softening of the growing point indicates a nonviable (dead) plant. |
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| Replanting of frosted areas in soybean may be warranted if these areas are extensive, however, as indicated above, it appears that most of Michigan escaped critical frost damage conditions. Seedlings that have not emerged were protected by the soil and should not have been affected by this week’s cold temperatures. Keep in mind that the growing point in corn seedlings stays below the soil surface until plants are at about the six-leaf stage. Therefore, corn seedlings can recover from frost injury even though much of the above ground part of the plant may die off. The relatively warmer temperatures forecast for the next few days should go a long way towards improving the condition and appearance of emerged corn and soybean in Michigan. | |||||||||||||||||
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| Michigan’s soil nitrate test for corn Why test soil for nitrates Nitrate testing of soil is an excellent and inexpensive way of evaluating the available nitrogen (N) status of your soil. Nitrogen available in the soil is nitrogen that does not need to be purchased. Michigan State University research and demonstration studies have shown that many farmers could reduce their N fertilizer application rate on corn without risk of reducing yields if they used the nitrate soil test. Nitrate testing also helps to prevent over-use of N fertilizers. Excess N fertilizer use may increase nitrate contamination of groundwater. What does the test measure The soil nitrate test measures only nitrate N. It does not measure ammonium N or organic N. If samples are taken in late May or early June when corn is near V3 or 4, much of the ammonium and some of the organic N will have been converted to nitrate and will show up in the test. When to take soil samples Soil samples may be taken any time, however, samples taken in early June after the soil has warmed up usually contain the greatest amount of nitrate N. The June test measures both residual nitrate N from the previous year and recently mineralized N from organic matter. Soil samples taken in early spring, April or early May, measure primarily residual nitrate and a limited amount of the mineralized organic N. Therefore the amount of N credit will be smaller. However, testing in early spring may still be well worth the effort. Samples taken just prior to sidedress time can be used to the greatest advantage to determine the appropriate rate of sidedress N. The soil nitrate test is most reliable in fields receiving less than 50 lbs N per acre prior to planting. When sampling fields where 28 percent N solution (UAN) or anhydrous ammonia has been knifed in pre-plant, you will need to double the number of sub-sample cores to avoid problems associated with sampling N fertilizer bands. Samples taken in June from fields where N has been broadcast prior to planting can be used as a guide to adding additional N through the irrigation system or for planning next year’s application. If the soil test in June indicates more than 25 ppm, no additional N is needed. Soil test levels in excess of 40 ppm at this time indicate excess soil N. Samples taken in the fall may be used to evaluate how much N is left at the end of the season. Soil test levels in excess of 15 ppm at harvest indicate excess soil N. Growers who have excess soil N in June or at harvest time, should consider reducing next year’s fertilizer rate or use the presidedress test to determine the appropriate N rate. What fields should be sampled Sample all fields where corn is to be planted. Fields receiving manure and following legumes, which are sampled in June, will likely contain the most nitrate. Sampling these fields earlier will result in less than the maximum N credit that should be taken because easily decomposed organic N will not be measured by the test. See Extension Bulletin E-2344 and E-2567 for determining the appropriate N credit from manure and legumes if samples are taken in early spring. Fields that show the most nitrate N are those with fine textured soils (i.e. loam, clay loam and clay) that were heavily fertilized with N the previous year. Sandy soils even though heavily fertilized the previous year may not show much N carryover. Where to get soil sample boxes Soil sample boxes and information on taking soil samples for the nitrate test are available from your county Extension office or the MSU Soil and Plant Nutrient Laboratory, East Lansing, Michigan 48824-1325. How to take soil samples Each sample should be a composite of 15‑20 soil cores taken from a uniform field no larger than 20 acres. Use a soil sampling tube. Take each core to a depth of 12 inches. Place the 15-20 cores in a clean pail and mix thoroughly. Save one quart of the sample for drying. How to handle soil samples Air dry the soil sample immediately in a warm room. Spread out the sample and place it in front of a fan. Placing the sample near a hot air vent or space heater will speed up the drying process. Do not hold wet samples in a plastic bag for any length of time. Microbial action in wet samples can significantly change the nitrate test results. Where to get samples analyzed Soil nitrate tests are done in the MSU Soil and Plant Nutrient Lab. See your county Extension office for assistance in delivering your samples to the MSU lab. Dry soil samples may be mailed directly to the MSU Soil and Plant Nutrient Laboratory, East Lansing, Michigan 48824-1325. If the samples are still moist, do not put them in the mail. Moist samples should be transported directly to the county Extension office for drying or to the MSU laboratory. Nitrogen recommendations for corn Currently N recommendations for corn use the Maximum (economic) Return To N (MRTN) rate based on several years of field research. Nitrogen recommendations vary with the productivity of the soil and the N:Corn price ratio. The accompanying table gives the current MSU N recommendations for corn. The amount of N credit given is obtained by multiplying the concentration (ppm) of nitrate in the surface soil sample by a factor of 6. EXAMPLE: If the test shows 10 ppm of nitrate in the soil sample, the estimated N credit is 60 lb/A.
Economics of nitrate testing The cost of soil nitrate analysis by Michigan State University is $9.00 per sample. Each sample should represent no more than 20 acres. Assuming it costs $9.00 to take the sample, the total cost is $18.00 per 20 acres or 90 cents per acre. Reducing your N fertilizer rate by 5 lbs per acre on 20 acres will more than cover the cost of the test. Results from research and on-farm demonstration studies indicate that nitrogen adjustments based on the test would return more than $7.00 per acre. Send your samples to: MSU Soil and Plant Nutrient Lab A18 Plant & Soil Sciences Bldg., MSU East Lansing, MI 48824-1325 517-355-0218 Website: http://www.css.msu.edu/SoilTesting.cfm |
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| Considerations for raising irrigated wheat Raising wheat or other small grains on irrigated land has not been a common practice in southwest Michigan. However, with high wheat prices and the expansion of production of short season vegetable crops in the area, many producers are trying double cropping on irrigated wheat fields. Late spring to early summer soil moisture deficits can dramatically reduce small grain yield potential on our non-irrigated loamy sand to sandy loam soils. Providing water through irrigation can raise yield levels to better than we might expect in heavy rainfall years on these soils. We tend to see fewer problems with wheat leaf diseases such as septoria and powdery mildew, and lower incidence of fusarium head blight in wheat produced under irrigation during dry years. Many producers report that they can achieve target yields on irrigated sandy soil in the 80 bushel per acre range. Even with excellent timed irrigation, it is hard to reach the yield levels that producers routinely raise in the Saginaw Valley and Thumb regions in Michigan, where soils are heavier soils and the climate is cooler than in southwest Michigan. Irrigation scheduling is the term given to deciding how much and when to apply irrigation water. The over-arching principle in irrigation scheduling is to replace the water used by the plant for evaporation and transpiration. (Evapotransporation or E.T). The evapotransporation rate for crops are established by raising plants in a container of know volume on scales (called weighing lysimeters) that record reduction in the weight of the soil in the root zone as the crop uses water and as rainfall or irrigation increases the soil root zone weight. The maximum water use by wheat and most small grains is 0.19 inches of water per day at flowering for a 75ºF average temperature day. This means that a one inch irrigation or rainfall event would last a little more than five days during this critical period. The accompanying chart shows how wheat E.T. increase, peaks and declines as the crop matures and how crop water use increases as average daily temperatures increase. Wheat water usage in inches per day
While there may be lower incidence of leaf diseases and fusarium head blight (scab) in irrigated wheat in dry years, unanticipated rainfall following irrigation can lead to more disease challenges. Most of the fungal pathogens that impact wheat thrive when extended periods of leaf wetness or soil saturation occur. The most critical time for fusarium head blight infection is during flowering (Feeke’s Growth Stage 10.5.1), which unfortunately occurs during the period of the highest crop water usage. Fields planted to commercial or seed corn the previous year may be more at risk of fusarium head blight development because infected corn residue may serve as the inoculum for the disease. The University of Minnesota article that references wheat crop water usage in this article recommends that producers consider irrigating as the head develops, but suspending irrigation while the wheat is flowering to ensure that adequate soil moisture is available but to avoid applying water during this critical period for fusarium head blight development. This may be especially important if your irrigation system has the tendency to over-apply water to portions of the field, as may be the case with some cornering arm systems. These areas are usually confined to small arcs in the field, but can provide valuable locations to scout for the detection of wheat disease problems. Producers that raise irrigated wheat should be aware that applying irrigation water can increase the potential for these diseases, and should be prepared to apply fungicides if wetter conditions occur following irrigation, particularly during flowering. There are excellent resources available on controlling wheat leaf diseases and fusarium head blight at the MSU Field Crops Small Grain website at: http://fieldcrop.msu.edu/Default.aspx?crop=3&catagory=15 There are several paper and computer systems available to help irrigators schedule irrigation applications. These tools are “checkbook type systems” that view the water in the soil root zone as your checking account. Rainfall or irrigation serve as deposits in your account and water used by the crop is considered a withdrawal. Overviews of irrigation scheduling tools that are available in the Michigan area are available at the St. Joseph County MSU Extension website at: http://www.msue.msu.edu/stjoseph. Follow the irrigation link in the left column. |
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| Agricultural labor statistics for spring 2008 This April, the hourly wage for agricultural workers in the United States stood at $10.60, up 40 cents from a year ago. Field workers received $9.65, up 30 cents from a year ago. Livestock workers made $10.32, up 63 cents from a year ago. This wage rate includes supervisors and other workers, such as bookkeepers and pilots. Wage rates do not include the value of benefits. Total hired workers are estimated at 919,000 individuals, down by 7 percent compared to last year. The number of hours worked is up only slightly at 41 precent Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin make up the Lake region. For the three states, the number of hours worked stood at 39.0 hours during this April. The total number of workers, excluding agricultural service workers, is estimated at 52,000 individuals, compared to 56,000 during last April. The average wage rate for all hired workers was $11.25 per hour, up 17 cents from a year ago. Only, Hawaii with $13.28, the Cornbelt I region (Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio) with $11.43, and the Cornbelt II region (Iowa, Missouri) region with $11.88 paid higher wages. Field workers in the Lake region earned $10.57 per hour, up 46 cents. Livestock workers earned $10.78 per hour, up 79 cents. In addition to analyzing wage rates by type of worker, NASS provides wage data by type of farm with slightly different results. These data combine field workers and livestock workers, but exclude other typically higher paid groups. The average hourly wage rates in 48 states, excluding Alaska and Hawaii, during this April were $9.87 overall, $9.84 for field crop farms, $9.66 for other crop farms, and $10.20 for livestock and poultry farms. Last year those rates were $9.41, $9.36, $9.39, and $9.47, respectively, indicating notable wage increases. The hourly wage rates in the Lake region were $10.70 for all farms, $10.08 for other crops, and $10.78 for livestock and poultry farms. There was insufficient data to calculate the wages for field crop farms. Last year the wages in the Lake region were $10.05 for all farms, $10.82 for field crop farms, $9.72 for other crop farms, and $10.13 for livestock and poultry farms. Overall, the Lake region has seen considerable wage increases. To read Dr. Bitsch’s complete newsletter go to her website at http://www.msu.edu/user/bitsch. Under “News” click on “U.S. Agricultural Labor Statistics for Spring 2008” or click on “Agricultural Labor Issues in Michigan” for a list of available newsletters. For more details, the NASS release is available at http://www.usda.gov/nass/. Select “Publications” and then “Reports Calendar” or “Publications” and then “Search,” by “Title” or “Subject” (Farm Labor). |
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Regional reports Weather has continued to be cooler and drier than normal. Except for two days on Monday, (May 26) and Tuesday (May 27), the soil temperatures have continued to stay in the 50°F range. Crop report Alfalfa first cutting has started. Yields may be down a bit, but the quality will be much improved. I have even seen a wheat field being baled into big, round bales. Corn sidedressing has started. Cutworms have been reported in a no-till field. Weed growth remains as slow as the crop growth. Most fields are green to yellow, but no purple corn was noted. Most fields are at the V3 stage. The first herbicide drift complaint is underway, part of the problem may be the sprayer boom was higher than recommended. The first corn nitrogen sidedressing rate study went in yesterday for Monroe County. Nitrogen rate studies are planned in Lenawee and Washtenaw counties, probably within the next week. Soybeans are emerging slowly with most fields at the VC to V1 stage. Three soybean planting rate studies have gone in, one in Monroe one in Washtenaw and the third in Lenawee County.. Wheat is heading out with most fields in the Feekes’ 10.1 to 10.5 stage. The relatively cool and dry weather has meant there is little disease pressure. A field day is planned for the MSU Wheat Variety Trial in Lenawee County for Monday, June 23 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM with a pork-burger supper. Miscellaneous Soil Nitrate testing and samples going to MSU will start next Wednesday, June 4, and then June 11. Farmers concerned about applying an agronomic rate of nitrogen, and who are planning to side dress should consider this soil test. |
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2 -- Southwest Temperatures have begun to moderate following an extreme cold snap after the Memorial Day weekend (May 24-26). Soil moisture conditions were nearly perfect for the final major push of soybean planting over the long weekend. The anticipated rainfall associated with an approaching cold front on Sunday left the area with only light to moderate precipitation totals, ranging from trace amounts to about 0.4 of an inch in many places. Crop report Commercial corn planting is pretty much wrapped up in southwest Michigan. Early emerged corn is approaching V3 with the majority of the last planted corn at spike. Stands look pretty good. Pre-emergence herbicide applications look to be working well, but there apparently is going to be a lot more total post programs going on in southwest Michigan fields than in the past. Black Cutworm activity is on the increase, but few corn fields have had to be treated. Cutworms appear to be feeding on buried chickweed in fields at this point, but fairly sizable larvae can be found without much trouble. Larger cutworm larvae tend to clip plants, smaller larvae will eat leaf margins in corn. There tends to be a large range in sizes and colors of the cutworms I have seen in fields, which means that you may see a little of both kinds of damage. In addition, you can find areas of fields where sandhill cranes have begun to pull out seedlings. Look for crane tracks in the soil, or for places where plants have been pulled out down a row and the seed has been eaten from the bottom of the root mass. Some producers have irrigated commercial corn fields presumably to help with emergence on later planted fields and to assist with incorporating soil applied herbicides. Seed corn planting continues to progress rapidly with the dry soil conditions. We may be around 70 to 80 percent completed with at least on inbred in the field on many of those not yet finished. Fields that were planted early continue to look good. Soybean planting progress is moving towards completion with great planting conditions last weekend. Probably 50 to 60 percent of the crop has emerged with most stands looking good, especially on the lighter soils. We have seen some emergence issues for soybeans planted during the extended cold period. Cutworm activity has been light at this point, but can been seen on soybeans, perhaps more than on corn. Some fields have been treated for cutworms. Cass County CED Dan Rajzer reported that some soybean seedlings seem to have exhibited a horizontal growth pattern instead of emerging. Winter wheat continues to look good. Early planted wheat along the Indiana border is approaching flowering (Feekes’ Stage 10.5.1), while some fields are still in the late boot stage. We have seen some evidence of head curling on a few fields. Leaf diseases have not been an issue. Wheat is approaching the time where it would be susceptible to fusarium head blight if unexpected heavy rainfall occurs. First cutting alfalfa harvest is underway. Yield levels appear lower this year than normal. Many fields have been treated for alfalfa weevil this year. |
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3 -- West Central Another dry week has allowed field work to continue over the region. Soils and crops are getting quite dry and irrigation rigs have been running in many locations. The big weather news for the week has been the widespread frost covering most of the region on the morning of Wednesday, May 28. Damage from this frost, appears to be limited with some areas receiving more damage than others. High temperatures have been in the mid-60s to mid-70s. Low air temperatures have been in the 30s and 40s with a low of 31°F recorded at Entrican weather station on Wednesday morning. Some farms have reported air temperatures as low as 26°F though these reports have not been, and are difficult to confirm. Low soil temperatures have been in the low to mid-50s. Crop report Alfalfa growth is progressing; many stands are at 18 to 24 inches in height. Low levels of alfalfa weevil damage have been observed with small larvae present. Growing degree day base 41 (GDD 41) are near 600 at weather stations around the area, and buds are present and swelling. Using the PEAQ stick confirms the ADF at around 35 associated grassess especially orchard grass are heading out. Pasture growth is rapidly maturing. Newaygo County is hosting a major Grazing Twilight Seminar in Hesperia June 12. The majority of the corn crop is planted. Early planted fields are at V2 to V3. Much of the crop has emerged and is still somewhat pale green to yellow due to the cool temperatures. The majority of the soybean crop has been planted. Fields that were planted into good soil moisture are emerging. A few early fields are at V2. Wheat is in growth stage Feekes’ 9-10 with the majority in boot. Disease pressure remains low with powdery mildew present in some varieties low in the canopy. The soils in many fields are getting quite dry in the Montcalm area. Oats are doing well in the cool weather with good stands. Early fields are at Feekes’ 6-7. Many of these fields are getting quite dry. Very few dry beans have been planted as of today in the Montcalm area as soil and air temperatures remain cool. |
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4 -- Central The cool and dry conditions are slowing crop progress. Soil temperatures remain in the low fifties. A little warm weather and an all day soaking rain would be just what the doctor ordered. Wednesday, May 28 in the morning there was wide spread frost with low temperatures reported at 29ºF. It is a little early to tell the extent of damage, but early reports are that there is minimal crop damage. Crop report The corn crop is planted with 75 percent emerged. There are no reported problems at this time. Scout no-till and high residue fields for cutworm and other insects. Now is a good time to take the nitrate tests. With the high cost of nitrogen, it will be more important than ever to apply the proper amount of nitrogen for optimum yields. Contact your county Extension office for details. Soybean planting is wrapping up. About 50 percent of the crop has emerged with the early planted field have the first trifoliate out. Growers are advised to get the herbicide applications on those fields that did not get adequate burndown. Waiting too long can result in yield loss. The wheat crop is in the boot stage. Disease pressure is very light. The cool, dry weather is near ideal. If you are considering a fungicide application, time the application just prior to flowering to maximize crop protection. Alfalfa harvest is well under way. No reports of serious alfalfa weevil feeding. Most are reporting average yields, but that varies from farm to farm. New seeding is doing very well. Oats and barley crops are progressing very well with the cool weather. Dry bean planting is under way and will continue as weather conditions permit. |
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5 -- Thumb Temperatures warmed up over the weekend with mid- to upper 70s on Sunday, May 25, and low to mid-80s on Monday, May 26. We received spotty rain with most of the area receiving between 0.1 and 0.2 inches Monday evening. Temperatures turned cool again with a low of 31ºF recorded at the Pigeon weather station Tuesday night. The resulting frost has raised the question of crop damage, and we will wait for warmer temperatures to see if replanting is necessary. Crop report Alfalfa harvest has not yet begun. Expect harvest to begin by about the beginning of next week. Base 41 Alfalfa GDD totals through May 27
Again, a goal of 40 percent NDF is usually attained at approximately 750 alfalfa GDD from March 1, 38 percent NDF is attained at approximately 680 alfalfa GDD. Alfalfa GDD are different from corn GDD and calculated using a base of 41 degrees F from March 1. Most wheat is either in the boot or beginning to head out. Disease and insect pressure is low. Most corn is at the three to four leaf stage. Probably young enough yet that the cold temperatures received Tuesday night will not kill the corn, since the growing point should still be below the ground. Time and warmer temperatures will tell for sure. Soybeans range from not yet emerged to the first true leaf stage. Keep an eye on soybeans that were just emerging or in the cotyledon stage at the time of the frost, especially in low areas for possible replanting. Sugar beets continue to grow slowly and range between the four to six leaf stages |
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| Weather news Jeff Andresen Agricultural Meteorology Geography A strong area of high pressure centered over Lower Michigan in the morning Thursday, May 29, will move eastward and give way to a strengthening area of low pressure approaching from the central Great Plains. Showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop in Michigan overnight Thursday and Friday as the low moves through the state. Some scattered showers may linger in spots early Saturday, followed by clearing late in the day. Significant rainfall is expected over much of Michigan through Saturday morning, although latest computer model guidance has backed off somewhat regarding earlier predictions of widespread coverage and moderate to heavy rainfall totals. Best chances for rain are now forecast for northern and extreme southern sections of the state. Temperatures during the next several days will moderate to seasonable levels with highs ranging from the mid-60s north to the upper 70s south and lows from the upper 40s north to the upper 50s south. Following the passage of the low pressure area Saturday, fair weather with seasonable temperatures is expected in most areas of the state Sunday and Monday. A second area of low pressure is expected to bring another chance for rainfall by Tuesday of next week. In the medium‑range forecast period, a broad upper air ridge across central sections of the United States with troughs on both west and east coasts is expected to gradually give way to a trough across the western United States with southwesterly flow across the Midwest. The National Weather Service 6‑10 day outlook covering June 3 through June 7 calls for an active weather pattern with temperatures ranging from below normal levels in Upper Michigan to near normal levels in the Lower Peninsula and for above normal precipitation totals statewide. The 8‑14 day outlook for June 5 through June 11 reflects the upper air transition noted above and calls for temperatures to increase to near to above normal levels with precipitation ranging from near normal in the Lower Peninsula to above normal levels in the Upper Peninsula. New NOAA long lead outlooks In our discussion of the new long lead outlooks, it is worth taking note of the recent series of tornadoes and severe weather across the Midwest and other sections of the country. As of the May 26, NOAA=s Storm Prediction Center had tallied 1,191 tornadoes across the United States so far this year which is more than 500 more than normal for the date and approaching the normal annual total of 1,270. One of the tornadoes this past weekend in Iowa was an extremely violent Enhanced Fujita scale level 5 tornado (the most severe type) with winds in excess of 200 mph and a path more than one mile wide. If this unusual frequency and pace of accumulation were to continue throughout the entire 2008 severe weather season into the fall (very unlikely), this year=s total would break the all time record of 1,819 tornadoes set in 2004. Causes of the unusually active season are not completely clear at this point. One important issue was the abnormally early start of the severe weather season in January (including a very rare tornado outbreak in Illinois and Wisconsin on the January 7) across sections of the south and midwest. Climatologically, a very likely link was/is the presence of a La Niña event in the equatorial Pacific, which in turn was linked with an abnormally active jet stream storm track from the southwestern U.S. into the Midwest (and to record heavy seasonal snowfall totals in portions of the Upper Midwest). Tornado outbreaks in the central U.S. are typically associated with an upper air trough in the western United States and a ridge across the east, a strong southwesterly jet stream, and to a warm and humid air mass (Gulf of Mexico origin) on the surface. These key ingredients have unfortunately been present together much more frequently than usual so far this year. There is some suggestion in the long lead outlooks that the pattern so conducive to severe weather may gradually come to an end at some point during the next several weeks. La Niña conditions in the Pacific are expected to gradually diminish by mid- or late summer, which is reflected in the new NOAA outlooks. For June, the outlook is linked to recent weather patterns and to medium-range forecast guidance in suggesting cooler and wetter than normal weather for nearly all of Michigan and other adjacent sections of the Great Lakes region. For the 3-month June through August period, the outlook for mean temperatures and precipitation totals remains in the climatology scenario of near equal odds of below-, near- and above normal levels. The outlook generally calls for Michigan to remain between areas of cooler and wetter than normal weather across southern sections of the country and warmer and drier than normal to our west (see http://ipm.msu.edu/cat08fruit/pdf/5-27weather.pdf). |
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