This season has already started off on an interesting note, and it is just the beginning. As farmers face what is shaping up to be a wet and constricted planting window, Syngenta agronomists are fielding questions and offering advice to help make the most of the 2019 season. Below are 5 crucial questions they’re recommending that farmers discuss with their agronomists — and why.
1. At what point should I consider swapping my full-season hybrids/varieties for shorter-season hybrids/varieties?
- Switching from a full-season product can mean giving up the yield potential that such a hybrid/variety provides, so any decisions regarding changing to a lesser maturity group should be carefully considered.
2. Is it better to plant early in wet conditions, or is it better to wait until the wet conditions subside and plant later?
- The desire to plant as early as possible is real, but so is the soil compaction that can result from working in the field in wet conditions.
3. Is my soybean seed protected against early-season pests and diseases?
- It’s no secret that wet, cool soils inhibit germination and stand establishment. Additionally, given the known connection between these conditions and the presence of Soybean Cyst Nematode/Sudden Death Syndrome, we may see heightened SCN/SDS pressure this season.
4. What do I need to look for in a herbicide program this year?
- It’s important to be aware that recent flooding may have transported weed seeds. Additionally, soils may be slow to warm up, resulting in delayed weed emergence. Meanwhile, there’s a stopping point for applying many herbicides – generally, after corn gets to be 30” tall, or when soybeans reach R2 or R3.
5. What can I do to prepare for potentially high disease pressure?
- Since wet weather combined with warm temperatures increases the risk of disease infection, farmers need to be prepared for diseases like tar spot and white mold in 2019.
For agronomic insights throughout the season, visit Syngenta’s Know More Grow More website.
