Halfway to Harvest: Scouting Fields Is Imperative

MIKE MULLINS 

 July is a critical time for corn farmers as they approach the halfway point to harvest. At this stage of the season, it’s a good time to get out and scout fields for compromised plants that can reveal any early season stressors that may have stymied ear development and, ultimately, yield potential. Identifying the root cause of plant stress may lead to a critique of planter settings, the planting process and tillage practices. Spending time in the field now provides an opportunity to implement changes and improvements not only for the remainder of this season but also looking ahead to 2024.

To maximize corn yield, it is important to ensure consistent plant-to-plant development. Every plant should have equal access to water, nutrients and light for healthy growth. If plants experience delayed emergence or early season stress, they may fall behind in development. Ear development delayed during silking and pollination may ultimately result in reduced kernel set.

Farmers scouting their fields should keep an eye out for plants that may be shorter than their peers and have lower ear placement and smaller-diameter stalks. If smaller, less robust corn plants are found, take some time to discover the cause. Farmers can dig up the roots to evaluate the health status. Farmers should check planting depth, look to see if root growth was restricted horizontally or vertically, and look for evidence of root injury from diseases and insects. Additionally, it is crucial to assess the soil surface for evidence of ponding water, excessive residue or an open seed slot. Uneven spacing between plants should also be considered as uneven spacing can accentuate inequities in growth.

 By conducting thorough evaluations and identifying early season stressors, corn farmers can take proactive measures to optimize their yields. This timely assessment allows them to make adjustments and implement improvements for the upcoming spring, setting the stage for a successful growing season in 2024. Through careful observation and analysis, farmers can address the challenges they face and work toward achieving optimal plant health and productivity.

 As the growing season continues in Missouri, farmers can consider these tips to enhance yield potential. Farmers need to make a conscious evaluation on whether or not they need to add extra nitrogen to their corn crop to maximize yield potential. With this year's variable weather patterns, earlier-applied anhydrous may not be fully available to the corn plant. Also, as corn starts to tassel, farmers need to be scouting for the possibilities of plant diseases. Gray leaf spot, common rust, southern rust and tar spot are watch-outs that need to be closely monitored. Timely application of fungicides can increase not only plant health and disease control but also can increase yield potential in the plant. The bottom line is the more farmers who scout fields, the better management decisions they can make that will help increase the fullest yield potential of our corn crop.  

MIKE MULLINS: Channel Technical Agronomist