Callaway County
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Jarman's News Updated Weekly 1999 |
Live Christmas trees need special care and attention December 22, 1999
For those who like to buy live Christmas trees for replanting in their yards; here are some tips to make sure your tree makes it through the holidays. If you have already bought a Scotch pine, don't plant it. This tree is highly susceptible to a fatal disease called pine wilt nematode. Scotch pines will grow well for several years and die suddenly just as it gets to a respectable size. White pine is the best Christmas tree species for planting as an ornamental. Norway Spruce and White Fir also grow fairly well in the Midwest climate.
The tree should be kept outside as long as much as possible. Warm, low humidity condition in your house will dry the tree out and bring it out of dormancy. Also, your live Christmas tree should be kept indoors no more than one week, if possible. Mulch the ball with bark or cover it in moist sphagnum moss or wet burlap enclosed in a plastic wrap, which keeps the roots moist. Add some water if needed, but the soil should be moist not wet.
Dig the planting hole before you bring in the tree, and place a 6-inch-thick layer of straw over the hole and the soil to keep it from freezing. The tree should be planted in an upland site with well-drained soil. Plantings in a low spot with poor drainage is just asking for trouble. The planting hole should be at least twice the diameter of the ball, but no deeper. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch with three to five inches of bark or pine needles.
Tips for maintaining cut Christmas trees
Keep trees moist so they will remain attractive and fire resistant. Most cut trees were harvested several weeks before being offered for sale. The cut end was sealed at the time of harvest to keep the tree fresh when stored outside. Even if you harvested your tree at a local Christmas tree farm, treat it just like one purchased from other commercial sources.
Select a fresh tree and keep it fresh. Once the cut tree brought into the house, the warmth and low humidity will soon dry the tree past recovery and make it a real fire hazard. So, the very first thing to do is to cut across the trunk about 1/4 to 1/2-inch up from the harvest cut and then immediately place the tree in fresh water. Keep a close watch on the tree's water level. If it drops exposing the cut, it is necessary to start over with another cut to reopen the water conducting tissues. Christmas trees allowed to dry past recovery should be discarded immediately.
Cut Christmas trees are thirsty! They drink between a quart and a gallon of water a day, so be sure to check the water levels at least once a day. Carefully balance the trees in their stand to prevent them from tipping. Lighted trees should never be left unattended. And the big no, no, is never use lighted candles to decorate the tree. Also, keep trees away from open flames and other heat sources. That includes clueless smokers.
Discard cut Christmas trees responsibly and as soon as possible after Christmas. If you are big into long holiday season tree displays, seriously consider an artificial tree. For more information on Christmas trees check into these sources; Missouri Christmas Tree Producers Association and How to Select a Christmas tree from the Missouri Department of Agriculture, How to Safely Dispose of Christmas Trees, Pub 184 from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, and Chris Starbuck Associate Professor of Horticulture, UMC (573) 882-9630
This article and additional information is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@missouri.edu)
Drought affected only soybean size, not germination or seedling vigor
December 15, 1999
The drought of 1999 had little or no effect on the vigor of the soybean seed grown in Missouri, but the dry summer did shrink the seeds in size. Soybean producers may worry that Missouri-grown soybean seed will have lower germination and/or vigor. Fortunately, in most instances these fears are unfounded. Except when conditions are so severe that the seeds fail to mature normally, drought and heat have little effect on either germination or seedling vigor. They do, however, affect seed size.
The dry weather that occurred in Missouri during late July and August resulted in greatly reduced seed size. Normal soybean seed size is 2,700 to 3,000 seeds per pound. Seed sizes of more than 4,000 seeds per pound were common this year. Variations in seed size depend largely on soybean variety and weather conditions during seed filling. Planters and drills should always be calibrated for seed number and not for pounds of seed. This is especially true following a year with late-season drought. If you're planting rates is typically 150,00 plants per acre, 3,000 seeds per pound equals one 50-pound bag of seed per acre. At 4,000 seeds per pound, a 50-pound bag will plant one and a third acres.
Some soybean seed may have been damaged during harvest. Drought and heat may delay the rate at which the vegetative portion (stems and leaves) of the soybean plant matures, but the seeds mature almost normally. As a result, while producers are waiting for the stems to dry down for easier harvesting, the seed may become too dry for optimal seed quality. If the farmer does not pay close attention to combine settings, a mechanical damage to the seed can occur. Mechanical damage, even if difficult to detect, has a negative impact on seed germination and vigor.
If growers are concerned about seedling vigor they should request a vigor test (stress test, cold test, accelerated aging). Standard germination tests use relatively warm germination conditions and do not attempt to mimic spring field conditions typical to Missouri - cool and wet. Vigor tests are better able to detect seedling growth problems that may develop under stressed growth conditions. Contact the Missouri Seed Improvement Association or the Missouri Department of Agriculture for additional information on these tests.
Farmers are urged not to over-plant soybeans. An additional seed per foot of row in 30-inch rows adds 17,000 seeds per acre, he said, and just one extra seed dropped every 3 feet in drilled rows will add over 23,000 seeds per acre. Higher-than-normal stand counts, particularly combined with wet weather in June, will increase plant height and increase lodging. Lodging may decrease yield and makes harvesting much more difficult. Also, research conducted in Callaway and Audrain Counties sponsored by the Soybean Merchandising Council showed that increasing plant populations does not affect germination but does reduce the number of plants that survive till harvest.
Sources: Richard Arnett of the Missouri Seed Improvement Association, 573-449-0586 and Bill Wiebold (573) 882-2002
This article and additional information is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@missouri.edu)Producers cautioned about signing papers assuring buyer that their grain is GMO free December 8,1999
Even growers who have never planted a single seed of genetically modified crop should think twice before signing a certificate assuring that their grain is GMO free when requested by a grain buyer. That advice was given during the University of Missouri Ag Crop Management Conference last week in a panel on "Living with Transgenic Crops." Farmers and crop advisors attended.
A few kernels of grain in a truckload might possibly have acquired new genes through cross-pollination, through contamination from harvesting, transportation, or auger equipment. Volunteer plants in the field might also introduce GMO into the harvested crop. Farmers who have never purchased and planted genetically modified crops must maintain strict controls and sanitation if they plan to sell their crop in the non-GMO market for a premium. Producers must learn what they can say about their crop.
Kim Nill of the American Soybean Association warned grain sellers they should not casually sign an unlimited liability certificate. Carefully consider what you are certifying. If you don't, it could cost you your farm. If a load of grain from a farm is loaded onto a barge-load of GMO free grain, and it is determined that the grain did have transgenic grain, the farmer under an unlimited liability certificate could be responsible for the whole barge load of contaminated grain. A farmer could be responsible not only for all of the grain, but also all of the lawyer fees.
Grain buyers asking for certificates of assurance of GMO-free grain should be willing to pay a premium because identity preservation takes extra effort and extra cost. Producing identity-preserved (IP) grain is not something that can be started at harvest time, IP starts at planting time. Producers can say that they planted seed represented by the seed company as GMO free. To back that up, farmers should keep
records listing the names of specific varieties and numbers of hybrid, along with seed sources. Farmers should also keep records of steps taken to reduce contamination from pollen drift, contaminated equipment, and volunteer crop. That is different from assuring that the crop is GMO free. A farmer has no control over how the crop might be contaminated after it leaves your farm.
Marketing of IP grains is still in transition and all of the rules have not been written. There are no standards on what is acceptable. Will one percent contamination be accepted? How many kernels will be accepted. Kim Nill added that zero tolerance is an almost impossible goal to achieve.
Source: Bill Wiebold (573) 882-2002 and Kim Nill of the American Soybean Association
This article and additional information is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@missouri.edu)
Go to Ag Home pageDrought and Herbicide Carryover Part 2 December 1, 1999
Princep use in corn is the final issue we will cover. Novartis was promoting a program in 1999 to add 1 lb ai/A of Princep to soil-applied Bicep for additional activity on common waterhemp and fall panicum, and a reduction in atrazine loading into the environment. Princep had not been used extensively in corn:/soybean rotations in quite a few years due to carryover concerns to soybeans. This argument is strengthened by the label which indicates for the 2 to 3 lb ai/A rate one should not plant anything but corn the following year. However, in 1999, most applications went out at 1 lb ai/A and Novartis personnel have indicated that they feel that this rate will not carry over to rotational crops under normal environmental conditions. However, with the droughty conditions experienced in 1999, Princep carryover potential is more likely. Keep in mind that I said more likely, not probable.
There is a quick, inexpensive and easy way to determine if Princep carryover might be a problem. You can conduct your own bioassay to determine if damaging levels of Princep remain in the field. Simply collect soil from several places in the
treated field and also from a nearby field that was not treated with Princep. Keep the samples separate and place the soil in plastic flower pots or buckets. Plant 10 to 15 soybean seeds in the pots and observe their growth and color for about 14 days. Be sure to keep the pots in a warm, sunny location. Under cool, shady conditions, some triazine-sensitive crops can survive.
If the plants grow normally in the Princep-treated soil, then carryover should not be a problem. If the plants come out of the ground, then turn yellow to brown and die after true leaves develop, then there is likely enough Princep present to cause carryover injury to soybeans in 2000. In this case one should grow corn in this field in 2000. If you have any concern over Princep carryover, please contact your local Novartis representative and ask them to address this issue.
A cold, dry winter can make carryover worse and a warm, moist winter can often alleviate carryover problems. You may be aware of several instances of rotational crops surviving in spite of label restrictions. However, the label restrictions listed here are the result of actual carryover damage to subsequent crops. If you plant a crop in spite of a label restriction and something happens, you have no recourse with the chemical company. (Bill Johnson, 573-882-2002 and Andy Kendig, 573-379-5431)
This article was written in its entirety by Bill Johnson and Andy Kendig. Additional information is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@missouri.edu)
Drought and Herbicide Carryover Part 1 November 24, 1999
Most herbicides are decomposed by living soil microorganisms. Much like plants, soil microorganisms require adequate temperature and moisture conditions to allow them to carry on their normal functions of life such as feeding and reproduction. Environmental conditions that inhibit these activities also inhibit the organisms' ability to decompose organic matter and herbicides. As a result, herbicide carryover can result and have an impact on the following year's crop productivity.
With the droughty conditions experienced in 1999, I wanted to use this opportunity to alert producers and consultants of issues regarding herbicide carryover to be aware of, as plans are made for the 2000 growing season. There are a couple of herbicides that are commonly used in Missouri that have potential to carry over and injure rotational crops if severe drought conditions develop during the growing season. Listed below are brief summaries of warning statements on the label regarding drought and herbicide carryover for several commonly used herbicides if one is planning to grow a different crop in the particular field in 2000.
Squadron or Steel used in 1999: If the planned rotation is to grow corn in 2000 and less than 15 inches of rain was received from two weeks prior to the herbicide application through November
15, plant only IMI, IR, IT or Clearfield corn. If one is planning on growing grain sorghum, the rotational restriction is 11 months for Squadron and 18 months for Steel.
Scepter applied postemergence in soybeans in 1999: If the planned rotation is to grow corn in 2000, the total amount of Scepter 70DG used was 1.4 oz/A or less and less than 10 inches of rain was received from two weeks prior to the herbicide application through November 15, plant only IMI, IR, IT or Clearfield corn. Grain sorghum can be planted 11 months after application.
Spirit used in 1999: If the planned rotation is to grow soybeans in 2000 and there has been less than 12 inches of rainfall/irrigation within the first five months after application or less than 1 inch of precipitation/irrigation within the first four weeks after application, then plant only STS (sulfonylurea-tolerant) soybeans.
Exceed used in 1999: The Exceed label is a little more ambiguous on this topic but here is my best interpretation. If the planned rotation is to grow soybeans in 2000 and there has been less than 12 inches of rainfall/irrigation within the first five months after application or less than 1 inch of precipitation/irrigation within the first four weeks after application, STS (sulfonylurea-tolerant) soybeans can be planted, but crop injury may occur. My interpretation would be that under these conditions one should plant corn or grain sorghum instead to avoid any potential injury.
A cold, dry winter can make carryover worse and a warm, moist winter can often alleviate carryover problems. You may be aware of several instances of rotational crops surviving in spite of label restrictions. However, the label restrictions listed here are the result of actual carryover damage to subsequent crops. If you plant a crop in spite of a label restriction and something happens, you have no recourse with the chemical company. (Bill Johnson, 573-882-2002 and Andy Kendig, 573-379-5431)
Watch next week for the article on Princep. This article was written in its entirety by Bill Johnson and Andy Kendig.
Additional information is available at the Callaway County Extension Center, 5803 County Road 302, Fulton MO 65251. This article is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, Agronomy Specialist, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@ext.missouri.edu
Store Or Discard Pesticides Properly November 17 1999
At the end of the growing season, many gardeners or homeowners have leftover pesticides and don't know how to dispose of them properly. The most common mistake is failure to read and follow the pesticide label. Most often, the storage and disposal information will be found toward the end of the pesticide label. The best option is to use the leftover pesticides according to label directions. Pesticide labels are legal documents. If there is not a use on your property, perhaps a neighbor has a need. Try not to let pesticides sit on a shelf too long. After several years, labels have an evil way of disappearing or fading like the memory of what it might have been.
Simply dumping the chemicals down the drain is not only environmentally disastrous but illegal. But pesticides can be discarded safely and legally at a hazardous household substances recall event periodically sponsored by various agencies. Some of these events may be free, while other organizations may charge according to the amount returned. Discarding a pesticide should be the last option considered because it may make that bargain chemical the most expensive you ever purchased.
If you decide to keep the chemicals this brings up several questions, the first of which concerns proper temperature requirements. Some pesticides require storage at temperatures above freezing to retain their shelf life. Their labels often carry cautions like or similar to; "do not allow to freeze" or "low temperatures may cause crystallization". Pesticides that have separated, jelled, or crystallized will be difficult to impossible to mix and use next season. Products formulated in water-soluble bags require special winter storage. They have a high affinity for moisture and become brittle when frozen. If handled while brittle, they can easily break open. Those materials require a storage area that is both dry and relatively warm.
The shelf life of pesticides is highly variable. Generally wettable powders and granules are not affected by low temperatures. However, moisture can wreak havoc on these types of materials. "Caking" or "clumping" of the dry material caused by excessive moisture can make it hard or impossible to spread, sprinkle, or spray. Excessive moisture can change the chemical makeup of the pesticide and reduce its effectiveness. Moisture will also make the packaging material breakdown over time. Cans will rust and paper or cardboard containers will fall apart. Plastic containers can also feel the affects of time by cracking, splitting, softening, or dissolving.
Pesticides and other household materials such as cleaning fluids and paint thinners should always be stored in their original containers except under extenuating circumstances. Never, ever put pesticides or other household materials like cleaning fluids and paint thinners in food or drink containers or in containers that even look like they may hold food or drink. If it is necessary to transfer the contents to a new container, the original label should be transferred and attached as well. Remember, the label is the final word regarding the use of that pesticide.
Thanks to Fred Fishel, MU Extension assistant professor and coordinator of the Integrated Pest Management Program at the University of Missouri (573) 884-6361 for the information.
Additional information is available at the Callaway County Extension Center, 5803 County Road 302, Fulton MO 65251. This article is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, Agronomy Specialist, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@ext.missouri.edu.
Oh No, Now It's Frankenbeer! November 10, 1999
One of the popular articles on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) used for foods was named "Frankenstein Foods". Now it seems that beer is not going to escape from this controversy. I guess nothing is sacred. It seems that once the situation has started growing, it is not going to stop. Three of Japan's breweries including Kirin, began refusing to use any genetically modified corn and barley. Last month our own Anheuser-Busch said they were going to begin brewing a GMO-free line of beers for export to Europe. And not to be left out, Canadian brewers Labatt and Molson may also make GMO-free beer for export. Studies from them indicate this would raise costs about 10 to 20%. Of all the products containing food substances, beer may be the one that stretches the idea of GMO free products since it contains only about 1.2% food solids.
I can remember the excitement when the first transgenic crops were about to come out. The idea was to be able to use fewer, or less toxic, or no pesticides plus have crops that were more drought resistant, stay fresh longer, give higher yields, and produce drugs and plastics. They were going to make the food supply easier to grow, cheaper, safer, and more environmentally friendly. It just shows that the best intentions often get turned around like the saying, "no good deed goes unpunished".
Now it appears that we, as well as Europe, may have GMO food labeling. A November 5th, letter to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from 49 members of Congress calls for food labels to include information on ingredients from GMO sources. A number of consumer organizations including the American Corn Growers Association have sent letters to Congress supporting this action. We already have one of the most complete food labeling regulation in the world. So, will one more little piece of information make that much difference? It is going to take some time to really tell if all this will make a difference in the selection of food here and across the world. If you have an opinion on GMO labeling in the U.S., now is the time to contact your Senator and Representative.
The one big problems is that the producers of these crops have been largely forgotten. Farmers were given some new tools to make their jobs easier and, at least in the beginning, make the food supply better for everyone else. There is the possibility that this could provide an opportunity. Separating GMO crops from non-GMO crops could work as value enhanced marketing. A premium could be offered for non-GMOs for specialty markets. It will cost more and be more trouble for farmers to keep different grains. It will be more trouble all through the supply system to keep different products that look the same separated. What ever happens, everyone needs to remember that it is our farmers who are responsible for the high quality foods we enjoy. The outcome should provide an opportunity not cause problems.
One last note from Japan to make things more confusing. Japanese scientists from Nihon University report they have genetically engineered a rice plant that requires as much as 40-fold less pesticide to control pest insects. They have incorporated a virus-enhancing factor into the rice that greatly enhances the action of a biological pesticide known as NPV, for nucleopolyhedrovirus. Hey, I though they were one of those countries who are really against GMOs. With that, I only have one more thing to say, Ricezilla.
Information for this article has come from the Soy Doc, Dr. William Wiebold. Additional information is available at the Callaway County Extension Center, 5803 County Road 302, Fulton MO 65251. This article is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, Agronomy Specialist, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@ext.missouri.edu.
It’s The Time To Sample for Soybean Cyst Nematode November 3, 1999
Soybean cyst nematode (SCN) is the most damaging and yield limiting pest of Missouri soybeans. It is estimated that SCN causes annual losses of $267 million or 48.6 million bushels in the north central region of the United States that includes Missouri.
It is often difficult to identify fields with SCN infestations because lower yields may be the only noticeable symptom. Unfortunately, yields may decrease slowly for several years before it becomes obvious. The detection of stunted spots across a field is a difficult symptom to diagnose. Most fields have different plant heights from weather conditions and soil variations.When SCN is present and plants are under stress, symptoms such as leaf margin or general yellowing, plant stunting, and (in extreme cases) plant death can occur. However, these indicators are similar to those observed with other crop production problems such as nutrient deficiencies, herbicide damage, and drought stress.
White (or yellow) females on roots are the only visible sign of SCN infection. From late June through July, plants exhibiting yellowing or stunting can be dug in the field and the roots examined. Do not rely on visual inspection because the cysts are very small and disturbances during the roots collection can dislodge them and once matured, they turn brown and fall off the roots. Typically, it takes a laboratory analysis to detect them in the soil.
Management is the answer for SCN infestations. It can survive in the soil under adverse conditions within cysts. The soil environment is difficult to manipulate, so SCN lives in a relatively protected place. Soybean resistance is not complete so use of resistant varieties must be carefully managed. Rotations are helpful but SCN can reproduce on at least 97 legume hosts and on 63 other plant species. Because of its adaptability, SCN can build up new races to attack previously resistant varieties. Do not depend on a single resistant variety. The SCN can be suppressed through management but not eliminated.
The University of Missouri recommends that fields are sampled for soybean cyst nematode (SCN) after harvest but before soybeans are planted the next spring. If soil sampling for nematodes is to provide meaningful results, the soil sample must be representative of the entire area to be tested. Proper collection of samples is extremely important since your are sampling for a something that is alive. The samples should be taken when the soil is moist. Collect one pint of soil for each sample. When possible, sample directly in the root zone from the top 8 inches of soil. One sample should not represent more than 40 acres. For a more representative sample, especially from precision agriculture and large fields, divide fields into smaller sampling areas of 10 acres, collect and combine soil from 20 sites within each area, and submit one pint sample from each area. Care of samples is essential after collection since nematodes are sensitive to heat and drying out.
If no eggs are detected, a SCN susceptible soybean may be planted. Still, the field should be sampled periodically for SCN to prevent yield loss during following years. Be sure to monitor areas of fields where SCN is likely to be introduced - field entrances, areas that flood or places where waterfowl congregate.
If any eggs are detected the field should be planted to non-host or SCN resistant soybean varieties. Sources of resistance in soybeans should be rotated. Then the SCN-resistant soybeans should be planted in a rotation with non-host crops. Yield losses can occur even if resistant varieties are planted when egg population densities are high. Other plant stresses such as drought, other diseases, or low fertility will make SCN-induced symptoms (including yield loss) more pronounced.
If egg counts increase over several years of sampling and SCN resistant soybeans have not been grown, start rotating non-host crops with SCN-resistant soybean varieties, and increase the years of non-host crops in the rotation. If SCN resistant soybeans have been grown for a number of years, a race test is suggested. Soybean cyst nematode count to determine SCN presence (above detectable levels) and severity of infestation requires at least 1 pint of soil and costs $12 per sample. Soybean cyst nematode race determination is suggested if SCN-resistant soybeans have been grown for several years and SCN egg counts are rising. Race determination tests requires at least 1 quart of soil from a heavily infested field and costs $50 per sample.
The nematode sample should be taken to your local Extension Center or sent with completed nematode sample form to: 108 Waters Hall, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211
Additional information is available at the Callaway County Extension Center, 5803 County Road 302, Fulton MO 65251. This article is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, Agronomy Specialist, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@ext.missouri.edu.
Do You Know About Jack of the Lantern? October 27,1999
It's a legend about an Irishman named Jack who lived a wild life and outsmarted Satan. When Jack died he could not go to heaven and Satan did not want him either. Jack had no place to go and just wandered the world. His only help came from Satan who gave him a glowing coal from down under to carry in a hollowed out turnip. This turnip was Jack's lantern or Jack-O-Lantern. Actually, turnip lanterns used to ward off evil sprits were used for a long time. The actual origin of turnip lanterns is hard to trace. It is attributed to the Celts living in Briton and northern France, the Irish and the Scots. Wherever it came from, carved turnips with candles in them were the original Jack-O-Lanterns. Gradually, a face appeared to aid in the scaring off all sorts of evil. The custom of carving turnips was set at the end of October when it was believed dead souls visited the earth.
During the eighth century Christian churches set the first of November as All Saints' Day, known then as Allhallowmas. Gradually, these two observances combined with October 31st called Allhallows Eve eventually becoming Halloween.
When people immigrated to this country, they continued those customs. Someone, somewhere at sometime began using pumpkins as a substitute for the traditional turnip Jack-O-Lantern. Pumpkins are plants native to the Americas. They are larger and more easily hollowed out than turnips. Slowly, a new tradition was established, an American tradition. Best of all, Halloween is now a joyous observance full of sharing with the carved Jack-O-Lantern pumpkins as its most common and easily recognizable symbol.
The pumpkin diversity gives the once-a-year artisan ample opportunities to exercise their talents. The sizes can range from thousand plus pound record holders to palm sized varieties like the ornamental Jack-be-little. Most pumpkins come in some hue of orange. White pumpkin varieties like Lumina and Little-boo or the small, brownish tinted Baby Bear pumpkins add to the mix of shapes and sizes. A new twist is carving the stem end and using the stem for a nose.
Looking back, Halloween pumpkins were likely planted in June when the soil is warm and the expected maturing date is just late enough. Popular varieties include the old favorite Connecticut Field, and Howden, Jack-O-Lantern, and Autumn Gold. Gardeners with little space should consider a bush variety such as Bush Spirit that produces about a 10 pound pumpkin. Generally, pumpkins should be harvested as soon as they are mature and put into dry storage at about 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Freezing temperatures should be avoided during storage and display.
When selecting from commercial sources, choose pumpkins formed to your liking, firm, free of disease and injuries. Recent improvements in the art of carving have provided additional fun. Saws should have replaced the knife as the tool of choice. Thin bladed pumpkin saws have make carving more artistic, easier and most important, safer. Either battery or plug in electric lights have made lighting the carved faces or scenes safer. More traditional Jack-O-Lantern artists can still use candles. A votive candle and container combination makes lighting wind resistance and relative safe. The cap or top on the Jack-O-Lantern should have a vent hole for a candle. Caps are easier to refit if they are cut in a pentagon, irregularly shaped, or have a bump at the back. Once a pumpkin is cut, disease will work quickly to rot the Jack-O-Lantern. Watch cut pumpkins closely to avoid having to dispose of mush. Painting the faces or scenes will allow pumpkins to last much longer.
Pumpkins not carved for Halloween can be kept longer as attractive decorations for fall displays. They can be used for a long time if they are in good shape and kept from freezing. All pumpkins are edible. Although, some are especially bred for use in cooking like the New England Pie and Small Sugar. Pumpkin seeds are also edible and can be roasted in the oven. A versatile variety called the Triple Treat pumpkin is said to have better tasting seeds as well as being suitable for carving and pies. The most recent development is a small pumpkin variety with hull-less seeds that will puff like popcorn when heated. It is not generally available but is something to look for in your favorite seed catalog or gardening center next spring.
Additional information is available at the Callaway County Extension Center, 5803 County Road 302, Fulton MO 65251. This article is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, Agronomy Specialist, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@ext.missouri.edu.
It's Autumn Bug Tourist Season October 20,1999
As daylight get shorter and temperatures cool, any insects that overwinter as an adult will begin searching for a place to overwinter. It was almost a year ago when the Asian multicolored lady beetle (AMLB) began to mass on the outsides of houses and make their way inside. Their invasion continued during most of the unusually warm winter. Only time will tell if it or some of the other small fall visitors will try to test our hospitality and patience. The numbers of these insects is difficult to predict until they actually start entering homes. Even during years with light numbers, there are a few homes that seem to be unfairly singled out for attack.
There are a few things that may help in avoiding such problems even during heaviest fall overwintering insect invasions. Winterization of homes helps exclude insects and cold winter winds. It's a win, win situation. Making sure that doors and windows have good weather strips, screens on windows and roof vents are in good repair, and cracks and crevices are sealed which makes it harder for the smaller bugs to work their way inside and helps lower heating bills. Next is to remove excessive growth of grass, weeds and/or other plants such as flowers and shrubs from against the house. These may attract and give shelter to invading winter pests as they try to enter our homes. Pesticides may or may not be effective in controlling these pests. Cooler temperatures make insecticides less active. When overwintering insects mass around houses, sprays may kill many but many more are there to take their place. Overall, it looks like the pesticide is not doing its job. Also, some of these insects seem to be resistant to recommended insecticides. Do not mix the spray stronger or make up some "witches brew" especially for this season. You do not want to stain or contaminate the outside or inside of your home.
Some of the pests you may expect are the Asian multicolored lady beetle, boxelder bugs, Asiatic oak weevil, clover mites, and cluster flies. If you remember, the multicolored Asian lady beetle is a beneficial insect. It eats various soft-bodied pest insects such as aphids, scales, adelgids, and psyllids. In Asia, it was primarily a predator of tree infesting pests. Sometime during 1992 or 1993 the multicolored Asian lady beetle arrived in Missouri after entering the U.S in the late 1980s. The first records of it moving into houses came during the fall of 1993. In Japan, the multicolored Asian lady beetle overwinters in caves. Our homes must be much more inviting than the caves of Japan. Each multicolored Asian lady beetle larva eats from 600 to 1,200 aphids before becoming an adult. An adult eats 90 to 270 aphids per day. Adults are known to live for 2 to 3 years.
Boxelder bugs are about 1/2 inch long, black with red lines, and its wings lie flat on the back when at rest. They normally feed on leaves, flowers and seedpods of boxelder trees and other trees of the maple family. However, greatest concern usually is during the fall when the adult bugs gather on the south side of homes and then enter in search of winter hibernation quarters. They hide in small cracks and crevices in the attic, walls, doors and window casings. They also may hide under siding and under trash around the foundation of the home and even in leaves left in gutters. During warm winter days and in early spring, they are a nuisance as they crawl or fly in the home. They produce no odor, nor do they damage or injure wood, cloth, fruits, vegetables, humans or other animals.
The Asiatic oak weevil is about 0.25 to 0.3 inch long and greenish-gray in color. The larval stage is a root feeder, while the adults attack the leaves. They attack many species of woody plants but seem to prefer oak and chestnut. They are attracted to houses during the fall, presumably in search of hibernation quarters. Physical removal is best with a vacuum sweeper.
Clover mites are very small, reddish-to-green relatives of spiders and ticks. They are plant feeders, usually preferring clovers, lawn grasses, and certain ornamental shrubs and trees. Although harmless to pets and humans, they are considered a nuisance because of the tremendous number that may be present and the red stains left from crushing them. Vacuuming and brushing them off surfaces are much better than more physical methods of control.
Face flies and cluster flies hibernate in attics, wall voids and other, often-inaccessible, places. When these hibernating places are accessible, you can treat the fly-resting surfaces with a spray or hang resin pesticide strips. When and if these flies enter living spaces, fly swatters are an excellent method of control and outlet for winter insect frustrations.
Information for this article came from the University of Missouri guide sheets G7360 - Boxelder Bugs, G07368 - Household-Invading Beetles, G07358 - Clover Mites, and G7388 - Fly Control in and Around the Home. All are available from the Callaway County Extension Center (573-642-0755). For specific control information contact Jim Jarman at the Extension Center.
Additional information is available at the Callaway County Extension Center, 5803 County Road 302, Fulton MO 65251. This article is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, Agronomy Specialist, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@ext.missouri.edu.
A Beetle To Look Out For October 13, 1999
In 1996 a new tree-destroying insect was discovered in New York City. The unfortunate problem when any exotic insect is discovered is that it has probably been around for a while. It is unknown when it arrived but it had infested over 2,000 trees. Because the Asian long-horned beetle is extremely damaging, all the infested trees were immediately cut down and burned. Later that year and next year two more cities in New York State were found to have infested trees. Then 1998 and 1999 several localized infestations were discovered around the Chicago area. Over 800 trees were destroyed in just one Chicago suburb. The jump from New York to Chicago was great enough to make lots of people worried that ALBs may be in other cities.
Fortunately, none have been found in MissouriFortunately, none have been found in Missouri. But, we need to be aware of this insect. Most of the damaged trees and beetles have been found by aware citizens. Adult Asian long-horned beetles are 1 1/2 inches long, shiny black with bright white speckles on their backs, and long slender antennae (horns). The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) considers ALB to be as serious an insect pest as gypsy moth and Mediterranean fruit fly.
ALB will attack several different trees although their favorites are the maples. Norway and sugar maples are especially attractive. The extremely hard wood of Japanese maples is resistant. Some of the other trees susceptible are black locust, elms, hibiscuses, horse chestnuts, mulberries, true poplars, and Russian olive. More research is being done to see if other common U.S. trees may be infested.
They bore through the tree bark to lay their eggs leaving a cup or cone shaped spots about the size of a nickel. Since all but the summer months are spent inside the tree, it is almost impossible to kill them with insecticides to save the trees. The adults emerge through dime sized round holes. Relatively large white grubs bore tunnels throughout the tree eventually killing it.
No effective trap has been developed so the only way to eradicate the ALB is to cut down and destroy infested trees. New York City and State, and the Federal Government spent over $4 million in 1996 destroying infested trees. Researchers are hoping to develop a better and cheaper method of control.
Asian long-horned beetles are believed to have entered the U.S. in pallets, boxes, and crates made from untreated wood out of China. Now, all Chinese goods must be packed with treated wood or non-wood materials. Still, beetles have been captured in warehouses in several states on both coasts plus Texas and Wisconsin. State and government agencies are trying to eradicate current infestations and keep others from starting.
Information for this article is from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and United States Forest Service. See the web page: http://www.aphis.usda.gov under "Hot Issues", for additional information. Jim Jarman
Additional information is available at the Callaway County Extension Center, 5803 County Road 302, Fulton MO 65251. This article is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, Agronomy Specialist, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@ext.missouri.edu.
AFLATOXIN in CORN October 06,1999
Aflatoxin is a word that should get the attention of most people. It is a toxin produced by the fungus Aspergillus flavus (Af). The word "a-fla-toxin" is a contraction of the fungus name plus toxin. Laboratory test animals have shown that a few parts per billion (ppb) of aflatoxin in their feed can cause serious illness, including fatal liver cancer. Grain will be rejected at the elevator if found to have 20 ppb of aflatoxin.
The problem is that the fungus is stimulated by hot, dry conditions and the crop damage caused by an associated drought. In 1997 and 1998 grain from south eastern Missouri was found to contain aflatoxin causing concern among that area's farmers. Droughty conditions in central Missouri should alert local farmer to be aware of this problem. One corn field in our region has been identified to contain very high levels of aflatoxin. Because of the toxin and low yield, this field will not be harvested. More important, farmers need to remember that this fungus will multiply in improperly stored grain more easily than in the field. Drought damage along with insect, bird, or mechanical damage to the grain sets up a situation where this fungus will grow. Some of the things that will reduce the chance of aflatoxin contaminated grain are:
- harvest when grain moisture is about 24% and then dry quickly (within 24 hours or less) to 15% moisture (The mold grows best when 18% moisture corn is stored at 86 F),
- harvest drought damaged fields separately and keep the grain separate from undamaged fields,
- minimize broken kernels and trash through proper combine adjustments, clean out and dispose of grain from trucks, trailers, grain buggies, holding bins, drying facilities and storage bins between loads,
- frequently clean up and dispose of grain from auger wells and pits around dump stations before and after use,
- aflatoxin is often associated with waste grain, broken and light-weight kernels, called trash, that hinders drying and promotes mold growth,
- use screens to remove damaged kernels and aflatoxin, and for long-term storage, dry the grain to 13%, protect from insects and ventilate periodically to maintain low moisture and proper temperature.
Farmers should not blend aflatoxin-contaminated corn with uncontaminated. If it is not done properly, a great deal of good corn can be contaminated (like in spoiled) by a small amount of contaminated corn. It is legal in Missouri to blend corn to safe feeding levels if it is to be used for animal feed. The maximum levels of aflatoxin that can be fed to livestock is determined by the animal's species and age.
Detoxification with anhydrous ammonia is not legal in Missouri.
There are several methods used to determine if aflatoxin is contaminating grain. Blacklight (long wave ultraviolet light) will often produce a characteristic bright greenish-yellow fluorescence (BGYF) when broken kernels infected with Aspergillus flavus are examined in a darkened room. This fluorescence is the result of properties of kojic acid, a compound produced by Aspergillus flavus but not related directly to aflatoxin. So, fluorescence is not a positive test but should be followed up with a laboratory analysis.
Samples for aflatoxin testing can be submitted to the Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 6023, Columbia, MO 65205. The sample should be a half pound sample that is representative of the entire load or volume of grain. There is a $15.00 fee for aflatoxin analysis.
The Missouri Department of Agriculture is also offering aflatoxin testing for $20.00 per test. Those wanting grain tested should provide the department with approximately two pounds of grain. The grain sample should be representative of all the grain stored, so grain should be pulled from more than one area to make the sample. Each sample must include some type of identification along with the name, address and telephone number of the person to receive the test results.
Information for this article came from J. Allen Wrather, Extension Plant Pathologist, University of Missouri-Delta Center, and Laura E. Sweets, Plant Pathologist, Commercial Agriculture, University of Missouri - Columbia, 573-882-2002. Jim Jarman.
Additional information is available at the Callaway County Extension Center, 5803 County Road 302, Fulton MO 65251. This article is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, Agronomy Specialist, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@ext.missouri.edu.
Demands To Separate GMO Grains May Lead To Harvest Storage Woes September 29, 1999
It's too early to tell how Missouri farmers will be affected by the insistence of large corporate grain buyers that farmers separate genetically modified grains from conventional grains. But the policy could lead, at the least, to problems with storage. At least half the soybeans grown in Missouri are genetically modified organisms. With corn, it's a substantial percentage -- probably about a third.
Genetically modified organisms, or GMO, is the term for technology in which a gene from one species is inserted into another. In soybeans, the gene makes the bean herbicide-tolerant, making weeds easier to control. In corn, the "borrowed" gene makes the corn plant resistant to the European corn borer and some other insect pests. However, under the recent changes, such advantages might well be outweighed by problems with storage and harvesting.
Storage could be a big issue. It is always a problem for the individual farmer to separate the grain. There could be a bottleneck for drying, in corn, depending on how a farmer is set up. If a farmer believe he has to take the step to separate genetically modified corn from conventional corn, he will have to look at extra storage and possibly additional drying capacity.
It is a difficult time for farmers. The reality is that most farmers could get by with just one new bin. It depends on their current system, but it's just like adding a new type of crop to the farm. Is it really worth going to that expense, or would it be better to just steer clear of problems with genetically modified crops?
If there's a little bit of a genetically modified crop in a traditional crop, is that going to matter? It may be the farmer has to be even more sure to clean the combine, elevator and augers to get rid of any traces of a genetically modified crop. That also applies to trucks and any other place grain is handled. No one knows the rules. What's the maximum allowable contamination? One seed in a million? There's going to be contamination, no doubt of that. The requirements might not be all that different from if a farmer was growing some sort of identity-preserved grain, like white corn, where even a small amount of yellow corn is unacceptable. Some talk of pollen cross contamination between GMO and non-GMO fields has yet to be answered.
The big question is whether the corporations will pay the farmers a premium for conventional grain, and if so, how much. Farmers don't like being told what to do. If a farmer had alternatives, it is a lot easier to take your grain to an elevator that accepts both. But as soon as someone says, 'I'll give you a premium of 5 cents or whatever for conventional grain,' everyone may have to take another look. Companies might have trouble finding non-genetically modified grain unless there is a premium paid for it. They've almost got to pay it or the industry, as a whole has to say to farmer that they must separate GMO and non-GMO grains.
The market eventually will sort itself out. Whether there ends up being a premium for non-GMO or a dockage for GMO. The trouble is, farmers can't just wait and see because most seed is sold before the end of the year. It's difficult to know what the picture will be by harvest time 2000. Seed companies are probably expecting a larger share of GMO plantings for next year.
Much depends on the actions of Brazil and Argentina, the biggest soybean producing nations behind the United States. Argentina allows genetically modified crops, while the Brazilian government has been more restrictive. It's chaos right now, and commerce doesn't like chaos.
In Callaway County, this seems to be not an issue. The grain is evidently being handled as a single crop with no separation. When the grain is ready to harvest, farmers can not wait for corporations or governments to make a decision. The answers will not come until those farmers who have kept non-GMO grain separate, get the opportunity to sell with or without a premium and seed sales for next season's crops have been totaled.
Source from the University of Missouri: Bill Casady (573) 882-2731; Joe Parcell (573) 882-0870; Ray Massey (573) 884-7788; and Bill Wiebold (573) 882-2001, Jim Jarman (573) 642-0755
Additional information is available at the Callaway County Extension Center, 5803 County Road 302, Fulton MO 65251. This article is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, Agronomy Specialist, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@ext.missouri.edu.
Questions on Drought and Fertility September 22,1999
A question that has been coming up a lot lately is on the amount of fertilizer needed next year since this year's crop did not use the nutrients because of the drought. I have to say this is a good question since there is no one answer. Most of the information available is on the use of fertilizer and nutrients not on their lack of use. Several tables and guidelines are listed below. A little simple math gives approximate use per pound, ton, or bushel per acre.
Phosphorus and potassium removal by selected Missouri crops.
Crop |
Yield |
Phosphorus (Lbs. P2O5) |
Potassium (lbs. K2O/acre |
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Alfalfa hay |
4 tons/acre |
40 |
180 |
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Fescue |
3 tons/acre |
27 |
100 |
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Corn (grain) |
120 bu/acre |
54 |
35 |
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Corn (silage) |
20 tons/acre |
72 |
180 |
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Sorghum (grain) |
6,000 lbs./acre |
56 |
35 |
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From the UMC Guide Sheets G9180
Phosphorus in Missouri Soils, and G9185 Potassium in
Missouri Soils
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These figures are based on "normal" or "typical" years growth and production. This year the production and growth of crops varied greatly. Each individual farmer must evaluate their individual field to evaluate the level of production and removal of crop and nutrients.
There were some fields that were not going to produce enough crop to economically harvest the usual way. These farmers used several options like to chop the chop for silage or green chop, bail for forage, standard harvest anyway, or leave in the field. Even where cutting for silage, green chop or hay, variables in nutrient removal are present. Some corn had high nitrate levels. Most of the nitrates are concentrated in the lower stalk. So, leaving part of the stalk in the field reduced the amount of potentially toxic nitrate in the harvested forage but left nitrogen behind.
The easiest of recommendations for next year would be to use any "leftover" nutrients that might remain to build the soil. The University of Missouri's fertility recommendations follow an eight year building process. That is, there is an additional amount of fertilizer is recommended to bring fertility levels up to optimum levels during eight years of fertilizer applications.
If that is not good enough, as an Agronomist, I am compelled to suggest soil testing. An analysis of the soils in each field will give an answer for the proper nutrient applications for next year. Apply lime if needed to bring the pH to an optimum level. Lime makes the other nutrients applied more efficient. One last comment. Anyone who used this year to cut back on fertilizer is feeling a double hit from the drought. Proper fertilization has been shown to make the use of available moisture more efficient during dry weather.
We need to congratulate these participants in the junior division of the State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest. Callaway County placed second with team members Sally Casteel, Aimee Alton, Ashlie Alton, all of Auxvasse, Mo., and Mariah Brandt, Steedman, Mo.
Additional information is available at the Callaway County Extension Center, 5803 County Road 302, Fulton MO 65251. This article is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, Agronomy Specialist, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@ext.missouri.edu.
Woodland Management -
What the Landowner should know before the sale. September 15,1999
Most landowners do not acquire woodlands for income purpose and are pleased if, somewhere along the way, it is the source of some income. Many farmers consider it "wasteland" or "other" land. Absentee landowners may often treat it as low-cost investment and utilize it primarily for hunting or hiking, or other uses on weekend visits. Harvests are often unplanned, made just prior to selling the land and considered a "once in a lifetime" activity. Many horror stories abound about low-returns, elderly ladies "ripped-off", timber stolen, farm roads wrecked, fences ruined, neighbor's trees cut by "accident", and others. Occasionally stories are heard that "the timber paid the off the mortgage", "one tree brought $2,000", or the "timber put the children through college". All of these events can happen. It just takes a little prior thought and planning to optimize the financial gain from wooded lands.
One advantage of timber is that it possesses marketing flexibility. With a few exceptions, such as natural disasters, it does not require timely harvesting as do annual crops. Farmers who may be facing cash flow problems after the drought, may benefit from timber sales. Begin by looking at trees that have just died. Do not put yourself into a "horror story" because you acted too fast.
Tree value is usually a product of tree size, quality, and species demand. To some degree all of these are in part determined by the quality and past history of the location (site) where the tree(s) are growing. The landowner should develop a basic understanding of woodland ecology and woodland management (silivicultural) systems to make and understand management decisions.
Woodland profitability is to a large extent a product of optimizing the number of salable trees that an acre will support, at different tree sizes, while maximizing the rate of growth in producing a final high-quality product.
The last, and probably most important, step is marketing. Marketing is often done in haste, under pressure with little thought and quite often only once in the seller's lifetime. Low-quality trees should be sold for low-value product and high quality trees for high-value product, periodically, on a continuous basis.
The woodland owner should seek advice from a professional forester, Extension forester or some other trusted, knowledgeable person. The best time to do this is when the timber is young and when management can make a major difference in the woodland's potential. The woodland owner needs to know what is presently in his woodland and what potential the woodland has if it is managed properly. No matter what goal a woodland owner has-timber, wildlife, recreation, or some of al these uses, management can provide more of it and do it sooner than if it is not managed. The are a number of sources of assistance available to the woodland owner to help evaluate the woodland's potential and the management options available. There are a number of University of Missouri Guide Sheets available on woodland subjects such as: G5150 Increase Woodland Products Through Timber Stand Improvement, G5054 Forestry Terms for the Woodland Owner, G740 Maintaining Woodland Tax Records, G5999 Forestry Assistance for Landowners, G5051 Selling Walnut Timber, G5151 Determining the Profitability of Timber Stand
Improvement Investments, G5050 How to Measure Trees and Logs, and G5450 Wood Fuel for Heating.
Information for this article came from John P. Slusher, Extension Forester, School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri - Columbia 573-882-4444.
Additional information is available at the Callaway County Extension Center, 5803 County Road 302, Fulton MO 65251. This article is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, Agronomy Specialist, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@ext.missouri.edu.
A New Wasp in Callaway County September 1, 1999
It was one of those "you go to do one thing and something else comes up". While looking at a tree next door to the office, I saw a large wasp flying around. I captured it and identified it as the European hornet. Darryl Sanders, the University of Missouri's Professor in charge of insect identification (now retired), gave a seminar on locating this insect. It is really easy to identify since they are BIG and BROWN. Some of the other names for these wasps are the German hornet, brown hornet, giant hornet, Vespa crabro Linnaeus, common hornet, and sand hornet even though they do not nest in the sand or ground.
The European hornet first entered the United States in the mid 1800s. Since then, it has slowly spread. So slow that the first ones were seen in Missouri just a few years ago. An infested tree was found near Marble Hill, Missouri. It was considered to just be in the southern part of Missouri, south of Highway 44. It is dark to reddish brown with yellow and reddish markings. It usually nests in a hollow tree or log, or within buildings. The nest is covered with a brown envelope of coarse wood fibers. The European hornet preys on other insects and should be left alone unless the nest is located near human activity. If control is necessary, follow the same instructions as given for the baldfaced hornet. From G7391, Bee and Wasp Pests by Bruce Barrett.
Speaking of the baldface hornet, at almost an inch long, it was considered the one of the largest paper wasps commonly found across Missouri. The cicada killer is a larger wasp at 1 1/2 to 2 inches long. European hornets falls between these two at a little under 1-1/2 inches. Cicada killers are solitary wasps and not nearly as aggressive as social wasps and bees. As a solitary wasp, their main interest is self-preservation not defending a hive or nest. An intersting characteristic of European hornets is they are not nearly as aggressive as the baldface hornet, yellowjackets, or paper wasps. Still, just messing with their nest is a really DUMB MOVE. As a large wasp they are said to have a equally large sting.
Currently, the only known hive or nest must be around the Hawk Lake area. Upon Dr. Bruce Barrett's conformation that they were officially identified as European hornets, two graduate students appeared from the University of Missouri to collect the nest. Unfortunately, they could not find the nest but did collect a dozen or more specimens. Since the nest is still there, residents of that area are cautioned to be careful. If anyone locates the hive, remember that there are two industrious graduate students who will come to your rescue. Just contact the Extension Center.
Caution, as fall approaches, the nest will become more aggressive as the next year's queens are produced. European hornets will fly during the day or night and can be attracted to lights. They are active later in the year than other wasps, will attack and eat honey bees and other insects, will damage ornamental shrubs for their sap, and feed on sap from tree wounds. Information for this article has come from Drs. Bruce Barrett, Darryl Sanders (retired) from the University of Missouri Entomology Department and European hornet web pages from universities in Vermont, Ohio, and Kentucky. For more information contact your local Extension Center, by Jim Jarman, 642-0755.
The new "Winter Wheat" Crop Performance Special Report 526 is available now at the Callaway County Extension Center. This publication give information on yields of 64 soft red and 7 hard red winter wheats from 7 locations across Missouri including Boone County.
Special congratulations are to be given to Tim Borman from Kingdom City. His 3rd cutting alfalfa was judged the Grand Champion hay at the 1999 Missouri State Fair.
Additional information is available at the Callaway County Extension Center, 5803 County Road 302, Fulton MO 65251. This article is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, Agronomy Specialist, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@ext.missouri.edu.
Drought-damaged corn still useful as silage. August 25, 1999
Harvesting drought-damaged corn for silage can salvage an otherwise useless crop. There is corn that essentially will produce no grain or so little that combining is not a good option. Silage from drought-damaged corn, although usually not as good as silage from non-stressed corn, still makes good livestock feed. As a rule, drought- damaged corn will have
85 to 95 percent of the feeding value of normal corn silage.
A word of caution: Silage from drought damaged corn might have high nitrate levels, especially when high levels of nitrogen fertilizer were applied or when the corn is chopped a few days after a rain, he said. Other contributing factors include cloudy weather, extremely high plant populations and shortages of soil phosphorus and potassium. Anything that keeps the corn from using the nitrates so the plant accumulates them. Tests are available that will show if high nitrate levels are present.
Ensiling drought-damaged corn is preferred to greenchop because the nitrate content will be reduced by about half during the fermentation process. Nitrate levels can actually increase if greenchop is left sitting too long like overnight. If producers suspect their crop may have high nitrate levels, they should have it analyzed before harvest, if possible. Farmers seeking to test for nitrate should contact their local University of Missouri Extension office. The Extension Center can test for the presence or absence of nitrates. If the actual level of nitrates is needed, a laboratory analysis is required.
When nitrate levels are high, producers have several options. First, they might delay harvesting until the plant begins to outgrow the nitrate accumulation. Usually, once the drought ends, stressed corn will have normal levels of nitrates after two weeks of normal growth. Also, because nitrate levels are usually highest in the lower part of the stem, increasing the cutting height to 8 or 10 inches can help lower nitrate levels in silage. Finally, if they have high nitrate corn silage in the silo, they could dilute the silage with other feed grains or hay at feeding. This is where the analysis is essential to know just how much other feed is needed.
Ideally, corn silage should be 60 and 70 percent moisture at harvest. If drought damaged corn contains less than 60 percent moisture, add some water at the silo. Moisture content is often higher than the appearance of the crop suggests, however, and checking moisture content before harvesting could save a lot of trouble later. MU Guidesheet 3151 contains detailed information on how to measure the moisture content of silage using a microwave oven. Drought-damaged corn should be chopped to 3/8 to 3/4 inch in length, which helps in packing the silage to exclude as much oxygen as possible. Producers should sharpen the knives on their equipment before making silage, fill the silo quickly and pack the silage as tightly as possible. Remember, to make good silage, oxygen should be excluded at all points.
Several producers have asked about 'big round bale silage' -- or baleage -- from drought-stressed corn, The practice is essentially the same as baling high moisture forage, then wrapping the bales with plastic film to exclude oxygen. In theory, this could be a way to store the crop if silage-making equipment were not available. However, many people who try this with corn are disappointed. Often the corn stalks poke holes in the plastic film, and the silage spoils." In addition, it is difficult for many big round balers to tightly compact 60- to 70 percent moisture corn stalks or partially mature ears. For these reasons, baleage is not wholly recommended for ensiling drought stressed corn. Although one local farmer has put up corn bailage in the past, his results were not perfect, but he plans to do it again this year.
Remember, pay close attention to moisture content, length of cut, packing, excluding air, and nitrate levels to make the most of a bad situation. Sources of information were Rob Kallenbach, University of Missouri State Forage Specialist, (573) 884-2213 and University of Missouri Guide Sheets G4590, "Corn Silage"; G9811 "Qualitative Nitrate Detection for Toxicity Potential"; and G3151 Using a Microwave Oven to Determine Moisture in Forages.
Additional information is available at the Callaway County Extension Center, 5803 County Road 302, Fulton MO 65251. This article is available on the Callaway County Extension web page, http://extension.missouri.edu/callaway or at the Callaway County Extension Center. (Jim Jarman, Agronomy Specialist, 573-642-0755, jarmanj@ext.missouri.edu.
Toxic Pasture Plants August 18, 1999
Drought conditions may make toxic plants attractive enough to poison livestock. Try to avoid turning livestock into pastures where poisonous plants occur. Also, making hay, cutting green chop or silage containing poisonous plants is especially risky. Attractive forages may mask the harmful plants encouraging livestock to consume toxic levels.
Several species of poisonous plants are distributed throughout Missouri, and many of them are commonly found in native or improved pastures. Selected species that are toxic to various livestock are listed below. Others may be involved in livestock poisonings, but these are the most common species.
A common characteristic of several poisonous plants is a disagreeable taste that ordinarily discourages livestock from grazing them. Some species are poisonous only during certain stages of growth. The common cocklebur, a good example, is most poisonous shortly before reaching the two-leaf stage. During this period of growth, cocklebur is exceedingly toxic to pigs but can also harm cattle and sheep. Young, second growth or drought stressed sorghum is another example of toxicity during specific growth periods.
If livestock poisoning occurs, carefully examine the grazing or forage cutting areas for poisonous plants. Jimsonweed, snow-on-the-mountain, croton and wild indigo are commonly found in open areas of the pasture. Shade-loving species include white snakeroot, bracken fern, pokeweed and buckeye. Black nightshade, water and poison hemlock, and horestail grow in moist areas and along creeks or ditch banks. Poisonous plants found in cultivated fields include cocklebur, jimsonweed, milkweed, pigweed and johnsongrass. Wild cherry poison ivy, milkweed, and pokeweed are found along fences and hedgerows.
Procedure in Case of Livestock Poisoning
Remember, many poisonous plants remain toxic long after they are dead
- Provide an adequate supply of salt and minerals for grazing livestock
- Make sure that animals have ample supplies of wholesome forage.Practice good pasture management
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