Reflecting on the 2022 growing season we saw wheat yields across our area were above average… Then the taps turned off for most of us in the region. Our luck stopped there for 2022. Corn and soybean yields were left uncertain. Luckily, there were few pest or disease concerns with only the usual pocket pressures affecting fields to get us through to harvest. The “tar spot” buzz word of 2021, was rarely mentioned or seen until later in the growing season. The later, (if at all), the better for tar spot! Why? Less time to make an impact on the crop yield or standability. However, talk to your crop input advisors to be making management strategies for the following year if it is a concern.
Rolling into fall… Most have completed soybean harvest at this point with low – average yields. Getting into the corn now we are seeing much of the same with earlier flowering hybrids tending to have a tougher bid this year. Remember, performance this year should be taken with a grain of salt when comparing to year over year data for future crop decisions. Another notable consideration, input increases appear to remain constant again this fall, and as it comes time to talk to your seed suppliers, discuss the investment in research and development. There is more than seed in the bag, and it is an interesting dialogue to understand what more is working for that seed. Last, there is still time to organize soil sampling with your provider this fall. Be curious! Consider fields where you see variability if you’re not on a soil sample schedule, pivot to these fields where a high response to fertility action is probable.
Another note I will make as we look to improve our use of sustainable practices and producing a resilient crop: check out the On Farm Climate Action Fund. The next intake is January 4th – January 18th. For farmers who want to implement a new practice within their field-based nitrogen management activities, including application of a commercial fertilizer substitute such as manure. A new practice is a practice that has not been previously implemented by the applicant on the acres included in the application. Cover cropping and rotational grazing grants are also available.
Stay safe. Happy Harvest.
Kristen Carberry, President, Georgian SCIA.
Cell: 226-343-1344