Ask the AG Team
For the week of November 25, 2007
Does fall nitrogen break down corn residue? –by Wayne Flanary, Agronomy Specialist, University of Missouri Extension, Holt County
With corn following corn expected to increase again in 2008, there will be a lot of emphasis this fall on managing corn residue in order to make planting corn next spring less troublesome. For those no-till fields on highly erodible land, avoid planting directly on the old rows. Seed buried in the old root-ball will not have good seed to soil contact and germination problems will result.
Some people apply nitrogen in the fall to try to stimulate organisms to break down residue faster. While this seems logical based on the low nitrogen content of residue and the fact that organisms need additional nitrogen to complete the breakdown of residue, attempts by researchers to show a yield advantage to fall application of nitrogen have never been successful.
The primary problem with breakdown of corn stalks is the limitation of soil moisture, temperature and contact of residues with the microbes. Beyond the physical weakening of stalks so they break more easily at spring planting, benefits from early stalk breakdown are unclear.
For more information, contact Wayne Flanary, Regional Agronomist, University of Missouri Extension at (660) 446-3724.
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Ordering soybean seed treatments –by Wayne Flanary, Agronomy Specialist, University of Missouri Extension, Holt County
With crops still in the field, plans for next season are already taking place. Seed companies are approaching growers to book seed in advance to provide discounts and manage inventories.
Often we receive questions about should I order my soybean seed with a seed treatment fungicide applied? The best test is your past field history and experiences.
Typically we have species of Fusarium, Pythium, Rhizotonia and Phytophthora in our area. All of these disease species can affect stands and reduce yields. Typically if you have emergence problems, it is wise to use a seed treatment that targets the disease. If you do not know the particular disease, then use a product that contains multiple products to control a wider range of fungi.
If you are planting early, also consider a seed treatment. Wet cool soils slow germination and these situations are ideal for fungi to attack soybeans.
Phytophthora is generally managed by resistant varieties. But Phytophthora has a lot of genetic diversity and over time the disease may change and the resistance becomes ineffective. Control of this disease is best managed by high rates of the active ingredient of Mefenoxam or Metalaxyl.
Also, be aware that seed treatments injure Rhizobium inoculants. Inoculants are used to assure that soybeans can supply their own nitrogen. Always check the seed treatment and inoculant label for any problems and some may limit the amount of time that Rhizobium can be placed with the seed treatment.
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Soybean School scheduled for December 12-13 in Oregon
This is an in-depth school on soybean management. Pre-registration is required with $150 payment per person to cover meals, notebooks, and other resources. We will apply for CEUs for Certified Crop Advisors. For more information contact Wayne Flanary, MU Extension Agronomy Specialist in Holt County, at 660-446-3724.
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Northwest Missouri Regional Office Karma Metzgar, Regional Director MetzgarK@missouri.edu Last modified January 04, 2008 by KJM |
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