July 2016 Agronomy Update

​Mid to Late Season Corn Development
The corn crop is progressing quickly through its late vegetative stages and now entering into the first reproductive stages.  From the road and even a few steps into the end rows, most fields currently look in excellent condition!  But even across my small territory, there are drastic differences in the corn crop condition, and we need to be aware of potential problems that may arise as we enter into the critical reproductive stages.
Tassels are starting to emerge as well as silks.  I found a few ears the other day, and was able to count anywhere from 18 to 16 rows around.  We know this was set at around V5, so it’s something we can help use to determine our yield potential.  Of course this will vary greatly depending on hybrids.
I have heard rumblings NCLB lesions showing up east of us in the Sibley and Hull areas.  We know this was a big problem last year so keep an eye on fields with prior history and susceptible hybrids.  If you are concerned, be proactive and apply a foliar fungicide in the next few weeks before infections become too high. 
Another area of concern is the root mass and the condition some of these field were planted into. This has been a fairly common find in my root digs this year.  Along with that, generally smaller root masses than is normal has been prevalent.
Northwest Custom Application Partnership
I recently have partnered with my brother in law, Sam Meyer, to form Northwest Custom Application, LLC.  We are licensed, certified custom applicators, and operate a Hagie STS10 high clearance sprayer.  We recently added Y-drops for the ability to sidedress late season N.  Call us anytime, or see us at the Lyon County Fair for more information.  Thanks again!
 Kent Moser
 (712) 470-2418
 


 

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