Doyle Oerter, Senior Staff Agronomist

Ready to maximize your farm’s profit potential? You know that a healthy, rich soil will give you the best opportunity to achieve high yields. After you’ve collected a quality soil sample and delivered it to a soils laboratory of your choice, what comes next? Reviewing your soil analysis test!  The soil analysis report that you will receive back from the lab should consist of all the attributes of the soil test you selected when you sent off your samples. This can include a fertilizer recommendation for achieving the yield goal of the commodity to be grown, which are usually based on local university research for your particular area. But each laboratory can adjust these recommendations based on your specific needs and their expertise. The quantity and quality of information you receive for the cost of the analysis makes soil testing a terrific value. [READ: How Does Soil Productivity Determine Land Value?] Understanding Elements in my Soil Test Report Elements reported on a standard soil test include both macronutrients and micronutrients . Their saturations are reported in parts per million (ppm). With the exception of nitrogen, simply multiplying ppm by two will equal pounds per acre of each nutrient. 1. Nitrogen Nitrogen is tested as nitrate (NO3) form only, unless requested otherwise. By multiplying the analysis ppm number by 0.3 per inch of soil sample depth, you can determine the total pounds of nitrogen in the soil. For example: 8 inch soil sample depth equals 0.3 X 8 = 2.4 If 12 ppm of NO3 is reported, then multiplied by 2.4 equates to 28.8 pounds of nitrate nitrogen in the soil, which means your nitrogen applied should be effectively reduced by 28.8 pounds from total N needed to grow your next crop. 2. Phosphorus (P) Soils with 25 to 35 ppm P is typically adequate on most soils. There are three common analysis methods to evaluate the presence of soil phosphorus: Bray test is best with neutral and low pH soils Olsen test is used on high pH soils (this test generally reports phosphorus at lower levels) Mehlich III test can be used on most pH values of cropping soils 3. Sulfur (S) Sulfur is measured as sulfate, which is the available form of sulfur the plant can use. Sulfate is also subject to leaching. For most common soil types, soils with a range of 7-15 ppm S are considered adequate. 4. Zinc (Zn) Soil tests can also predict if adding zinc will impact your plant health and crop yields. The desired ppm for zinc ranges from 1.0 to 3.0. 5. Iron (Fe) Iron ppm of 10-20 is typically common on most soils. Iron chlorosis is a problem with iron shortage and high pH issues, so applying additional iron could potentially help to alleviate any iron chlorosis problems you might see. 6. Manganese (Mn) Manganese at 8-11 ppm is typically sufficient. Mn availability is influenced by soil pH, and low pH can increase Mn availability, while high pH can lessen it. 7. Copper (Cu) Plants only need a small amount of copper. Copper at 0.8-1.0 is adequate for most crops. The majority of the copper deficiencies occur in highly acidic soils. 8. Potassium (K) The soil test measures the exchangeable potassium in the soil. Look for a minimum of 165-220 ppm to supply the needed amounts of potassium to maximize production. 9. Calcium (Ca) Calcium is typically plentiful in soils with pH of 6.0 and higher; however, calcium can be applied as gypsum and not affect soil pH. Calcium ppm of 1400 or higher is generally right for most crops. 10. Magnesium (Mg) Magnesium is often adequate in soils with a pH 6.5 and higher, though magnesium at 100 ppm or more is acceptable. 11. Sodium (Na) This part of the analysis is primarily for use in repairing saline or alkali soils. Sodium is not a soil nutrient— adding other elements, such as gypsum or elemental sulfur, will help with water infiltration to flush away the sodium you have present. The range for sodium in most common soil types is typically 80-120 ppm. [Watch FBN® Vice President of Research and Development Matt Meisner explain how farmers ensure healthier soil through the power of FBN data .] What Other Information Is Included in a Soil Analysis Test? In addition to each element level that will be reported back, you will also receive a few other important soil characteristics as well: 1. Soil pH This a measure of acidity or alkalinity of your soil on a scale of 0 to 14, with 7.0 soil pH being neutral. Soils with a pH below 7.0 are acidic, while soils with a pH above 7.0 are alkaline. The pH is important because nutrient uptake can be affected when pH is too high or low. Row crops are typically most efficient with pH between 6.2 and 7.2. Outside of these pH parameters, certain crops can have a difficult time absorbing essential nutrients. With a low pH (less than 6.0), it may be necessary to apply calcium to adjust pH upward. Lowering the soil pH is a more difficult and expensive task — sometimes, an application of elemental sulfur can be used to lower soil pH. 2. Buffer pH This is not a characteristic of the soil. Instead, when a soil’s pH is below 5.8, this characteristic is used to estimate the lime (Ca) required to correct the soil pH to around 7.0. That is the only reason it is reported on your soil test analysis, and only on soils with a pH below 5.8. 3. Soluble Salts This measures the electrical conductivity of the soil solution to determine the risk of salt injury to plants. Soluble salts are largely affected by environmental conditions — soils that contain high salt content are called saline soils (NaCl). Soils high in sodium (Na) are referred to as sodic soils.  Salts can accumulate due to excessive fertilizer applications, poor quality irrigation water, or limited rainfall. With proper soil drainage accompanied by rainfall or irrigation, the salt can sometimes be flushed out of the root zone to correct the problem. Don’t be too concerned about correcting soluble salts unless they are reported over .75 mmhos/cm (millimhos per centimeter, which is the basic unit of measure of electrical conductivity in soil) on your analysis. 4. Excess Lime This a measurement of the amount of free lime in the soil. The reading can be important in your herbicide selection and fertilizer applications, so that you can avoid product tie-ups with the calcium present — which would render it ineffective and unavailable to your plants. 5. Organic Matter (OM) Generally speaking, the higher the organic matter, the healthier the soil. This is reported as a percent, and it measures the the ability of the soil to supply nutrients, water, and other physical wellbeing to growing plants. Organic matter accumulation is a slow process. Reduced tillage has been shown to have a positive impact on organic matter and soil tilth. Row crops should be at around 2.5% OM or higher, though it is not uncommon for sandy soils to be lower. 6. Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) This measures the ability of the soil to store and release nutrients. This number also helps to define the soil’s texture and composition. Sandy soil to loam soil CEC will vary from 1 to 40, but the most common range is from 13-25 CEC. 7. Percent Base Saturation Percent base saturation is closely related to CEC and pH. This measurement indicates the nutrient supply and balance of cations for K, Mg, Ca, H, and Na. Soils with a high percent base saturation can be more fertile because they often have a higher pH, and can contain greater amounts of these nutrients for use by plants. [READ: The Pros and Cons of Spring vs. Fall Soil Tests] What Should I Do Next? Although no soil analysis is perfect, the information and insight from a soil test can help you to improve your nutrient efficiency, diagnose in-season plant deficiencies, and ultimately prevent unnecessary yield loss. To make the best fertilizer applications on your fields, consult with your independent agronomist or fertility specialist. If your next step is to purchase soil prebiotics , soil probiotics , or other crop nutrition products to improve your soil following your analysis report results, FBN Direct® offers a range of solutions available for delivery directly to your farm. Shop online 24/7 with full insight into pricing and discounts upfront - no rebates required. Copyright © 2014 - 2023 Farmer's Business Network, Inc. All rights Reserved. The sprout logo, “Farmers Business Network”, “FBN”,“FBN Direct” are trademarks, registered trademarks or service marks of Farmer's Business Network, Inc. FBN Direct products and services and other products distributed by FBN Direct are offered by FBN Inputs, LLC and are available only in states where FBN Inputs, LLC is licensed and where those products are registered for sale or use, if applicable. If applicable, please check with your local extension service to ensure registration status. Nothing contained on this page, including the prices listed should be construed as an offer for sale, or a sale of products. All products and prices are subject to change at any time and without notice. Terms and conditions apply. Please note, this information is not intended as an agronomic recommendation, nor are we making any such recommendation. Always consult an independent agronomist if you are unsure of agronomic decisions on your operation. The reader is solely and exclusively responsible for determining the suitability of any product for his/her intended use, following the product label for proper handling and use, and for complying with all applicable local, state, and federal law. This information is a summary of product information and should not be used as a replacement for consulting the applicable product label. Please consult the label for the most complete and up-to-date information about any referenced product.

While it can be tempting to put off buying inputs until later, you can support your bottom line and put yourself in a great position to manage pressures in your fields this season by purchasing ag chemicals this winter . Take a few moments to consider what kind of performance you got out of your weed, insect and disease control strategies this year. Will you use some of the same chemistries next year? If you have a clear picture of your management strategy for next year, you don’t want to miss out on opportunities available to you now.  Why you should buy inputs in the winter Here are four great reasons to stock up on ag chemicals now: 1. Get it while you can If certain chemistries worked for you this year, chances are other farmers might have had similar success, too. By purchasing now, you can ensure you’re able to get the products you need without worrying about supply running low. [The New 2022 FBN Crop Protection Guide Is Here - Download Now] 2. Don’t miss out on savings Every dollar you save now goes toward your bottom line for the year. You can achieve great savings by purchasing chemical products in the winter as manufacturers and suppliers price their products to sell.  On FBN Direct®, we’re currently running some exciting deals for a limited time only to help you save big on your input needs, including price reductions on AgSaver Glyphosate 53.8% , Willowood Glufosinate 280SL , Willowood Glypho 6 , Willowood Mesotrione 4SC , and other key products.  [READ: Understanding Branded vs. Generic Crop Protection Products] 3. Stay ahead of inflation Historically-high inflation rates have pushed the Fed to increase interest rates repeatedly over the past months. These inflation-related price increases affect farmers through the rising cost of ag chemicals and other supplies, while interest rate increases raise the cost of capital for loans used for buying inputs, covering operational costs or purchasing land.  With the potential for inflation price increases in mind, you might be able to save money on your inputs by buying now and staying ahead of that chance for future price swells.  [READ: Has Inflation Peaked? What the Data Tells Us About Our Financial Future] 4. Plan ahead for the upcoming season’s needs Tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today , says a trusted proverb . Sitting down now to consider your needs — and build your strategy to address them — can help inform your ag chemical purchase decisions and eliminate waste this season. [READ: How to Plan Ahead for Potential Insect Effects on Crop Yields] Take action now to get ahead for the season With an incredibly diverse crop nutrition product portfolio, FBN Direct has the crop protection products you need. Take advantage of limited time pricing deals happening now to secure savings on the key products you need this season.  © 2015-2023 Farmer’s Business Network, Inc. All rights reserved. The sprout logo, “Farmers Business Network,” and “FBN” are registered service marks of Farmer’s Business Network, Inc. or its affiliates and are used with permission. Products on FBN Direct are offered by FBN Inputs, LLC and are available only in states where FBN Inputs, LLC is licensed and where products are registered, if applicable. Terms and conditions apply. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL USE INSTRUCTIONS. It is a violation of federal and state/provincial law to use any pesticide product other than in accordance with its label. The distribution, sale and use of an unregistered pesticide is a violation of federal and/or state law and is strictly prohibited. It is your responsibility to confirm prior to purchase and use that a product is labeled for your specific purposes, including, but not limited to, your target crop or pest and its compatibility with other products in a tank mix. This information should not be used as a replacement for consulting the applicable product label. Consult the label for the most complete and up-to-date information about any referenced product. Readers must have a valid applicator license to use restricted use pesticides. Please consult your state department of agriculture for complete rules and regulations on the use of restricted use pesticides, as some products require specific record-keeping requirements.

We’ve identified plenty of reasons to buy ag chemicals now , but you may still feel a bit unsure about making most input decisions prior to spring. You’ve completed another long and challenging crop year and have entered the busyness of the holiday season, so it’s no surprise you’re feeling this way.  But you might be missing out on significant savings and the chance to start building your management strategy before the new year begins. Three myths about buying inputs now—and why you should ignore them Let’s take a moment to unpack three myths we’ve heard and how you can take advantage of buying inputs online before the year’s end to maximize your profit potential next year. 1. It’s better to wait until next season to evaluate your needs You’ll need to respond to some unexpected pest pressure in-season, for sure, but you also probably know which ag chemicals will definitely be part of your strategy. Rather than putting off buying those inputs, you can lock in year-end pricing now and position yourself to manage insects, weeds and disease heading into the next crop year. 2. You need cash flow before buying inputs Particularly on the heels of a challenging crop season and delayed harvest activities in many regions, you may be facing a capital shortfall right now. But that doesn’t mean you can’t buy inputs before the end of the year. We offer competitive rates for input purchases through FBN Direct® . Once approved for financing, you can take advantage of year-end pricing on ag chemicals to support your bottom line. It’s not too late to take advantage of 0% interest* on flexible input financing and operating lines with qualifying purchases to buy FBN inputs interest-free all season long.   3. It’s too hard to store chemicals over the winter months With a little bit of research, you can determine which chemistries require temperature control and learn about other storage precautions.  Plus, with FBN Direct you can make your input purchases now and schedule delivery on your terms. Buy your inputs now with FBN Direct Don’t wait until spring to take care of your input needs for next season. You can buy seed, crop protection, fertilizers, adjuvants and biostimulants online through FBN Direct now and start getting ready for the next crop year. Copyright © 2014 - 2022 Farmer's Business Network, Inc. All rights Reserved. The sprout logo, “Farmers Business Network”, “FBN”, and “FBN Direct” are trademarks or registered trademarks of Farmer's Business Network, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. FBN Direct products and services and other products distributed by FBN Direct are offered by FBN Inputs, LLC and are available only in states where FBN Inputs, LLC is licensed and where those products are registered for sale or use, if applicable. If applicable, please check with your local extension service to ensure registration status. Nothing contained on this page, including the prices listed should be construed as an offer for sale, or a sale of products. All products and prices are subject to change at any time and without notice. Terms and conditions apply. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS. It is a violation of federal and state law to use any pesticide product other than in accordance with its label. The distribution, sale and use of an unregistered pesticide is a violation of federal and/or state law and is strictly prohibited. We do not guarantee the accuracy of any information provided on this page or which is provided by us in any form. It is your responsibility to confirm prior to purchase and use that a product is labeled for your specific purposes, including, but not limited to, your target crop or pest and its compatibility with other products in a tank mix and that the usage of a product is otherwise consistent with federal, state/provincial and local laws.  We reserve the right to restrict sales on a geographic basis in our sole discretion. You must have a valid applicator license to use restricted use pesticides.   Financing offered by FBN Finance, LLC and its lending partners. Terms and conditions apply. To qualify, a borrower must be a member of Farmer’s Business Network, Inc. and meet all underwriting requirements. Interest rates and fees will vary depending on your individual situation. Not all applicants will qualify. Terms and conditions apply. Land financing offered by FBN Finance, LLC, provided in connection with Farmer Mac and our underwriting partners, and is available only where FBN Finance, LLC is licensed. To qualify, a borrower must be a member of Farmer’s Business Network, Inc., and meet the underwriting requirements of FBN Finance, LLC and its lending partners. All credit is subject to approval and underwriting. Interest rates and fees will vary depending on your individual situation. Not all applicants will qualify. *Qualified farmers who are approved and close an Operating Line of Credit through FBN® Finance of $250,000 to $1,000,000 between September 1, 2022 - December 9, 2022, make a minimum purchase of $45,000 from FBN Direct® and payoff the balance in full by March 31, 2024 are eligible to receive a promotional interest rate of 0% when using the Operating Line of Credit  to finance purchases of input products made through FBN Direct® between September 1, 2022 - August 31, 2023. Qualifying input products include crop protection, adjuvant, crop nutrition, seed, animal health and livestock feed. Advances on the FBN® Finance Operating Line that are not for the purchase of input products from FBN Direct® will be charged interest at the stated (non-promotional) contract rate in the Operating Line of Credit loan agreement.* Approved farmers who close a FBN® Finance Operating Line and make a minimum $45,000 purchase from FBN Direct® by December 9, 2022 will receive the benefit of automatic qualification for the 0% Club from FBN Direct®. The 0% Club offers qualified farmers a promotional rate of 0% interest on purchases of input products only made through FBN Direct® between January 21 - August 31, 2023. Qualifying input products include crop protection, adjuvant, crop nutrition, seed, animal health and livestock feed.  *Payments for all amounts owed under the associated FBN® Finance Operating Line of Credit are due March 1, 2024.  If the total balance for all amounts owed is not paid in full by March 31, 2024, interest charges on all purchases of input products made through FBN Direct® between September 1, 2022 - August 31, 2023, using an Operating Line of Credit through FBN® Finance will be imposed from the purchase date at the stated (non-promotional) contract rate in the Operating Line of Credit loan agreement.   FBN Finance, LLC commercial operating lines of credit are offered by FBN Finance, LLC and are available only where FBN Finance, LLC is licensed. Input financing provided in connection with our financing partners. To qualify for a financing offer, a borrower must be a member of Farmer’s Business Network, Inc. and meet the underwriting requirements of FBN Finance, LLC and its lending partners. All credit is subject to approval and underwriting. Interest rates and fees will vary depending on your individual situation. Not all applicants will qualify. FBN Direct products and services and other products distributed by FBN Direct are offered by FBN Inputs, LLC and are available only in states where FBN Inputs, LLC is licensed and where those products are registered for sale or use, if applicable. If applicable, please check with your local extension service to ensure registration status. Nothing contained on this page, including the prices listed should be construed as an offer for sale, or a sale of products. All products and prices are subject to change at any time and without notice. Terms and conditions apply.

As harvest season quickly approaches, it’s important to keep your operation moving smoothly and efficiently. For many farms, harvest aids are an essential part of this goal. What Are the Benefits of Harvest Aids?  Harvest aids are used to desiccate weeds that can interfere with harvest. Left green, these weeds can go through your harvest equipment and impact its efficiency, causing possible harvest losses, decreased grain quality, and loss of profit potential.  While harvest aids don’t speed up maturity, expedite drydown, or increase yields, they can help reduce the production of seed from weeds, depending on the weeds present and their growth stage, as well as the herbicide used. Corn Harvest Aids Used primarily to keep weed escapes out of your combine, common corn harvest aids include AIM® EC ,  Willowood Paraquat * and Ag Saver Glyphosate. At application, corn should be at least to full dent with the milk line two-thirds down to avoid any yield losses.  Soybean Harvest Aids Similar to corn applications, soybean harvest aids are primarily used to manage weeds, but they also desiccate and remove all the green soybean material that could otherwise gum up your harvest equipment.  To avoid yield loss, soybeans need to be at least at the R7 growth stage. While there are some costs associated with harvest aid application, benefits including an earlier harvest date, less dockage at delivery and a possible bonus for early delivery can outweigh these factors.  The most commonly used soybean harvest aids include AIM® EC and  Willowood Paraquat *. As always, read and follow all label directions when using harvest aids. Coverage, rates, timing and adjuvant use may vary. Buy Harvest Aids Through FBN Direct Double down on savings and convenience when you shop for ag chemicals on FBN Direct. Using FBN’s convenient online store, simply search for the products you need with transparent pricing information and get them shipped directly to your farm. It’s just one of many ways we’re making farming better for farmers. __ Copyright © 2014 - 2022 Farmer's Business Network, Inc. All rights Reserved. The sprout logo, “Farmers Business Network”, “FBN”, "Farmers First", and “FBN Direct” are trademarks or registered trademarks of Farmer's Business Network, Inc.  “Aim” is a registered trademark of FMC Corporation. “AgSaver” is a registered trademark of AgSaver, LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. FBN Direct products and services and other products distributed by FBN Direct are offered by FBN Inputs, LLC and are available only in states where FBN Inputs, LLC is licensed and where those products are registered for sale or use, if applicable. If applicable, please check with your local extension service to ensure registration status. Nothing contained on this page, including the prices listed should be construed as an offer for sale, or a sale of products. All products and prices are subject to change at any time and without notice. Terms and conditions apply. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS. It is a violation of federal and state law to use any pesticide product other than in accordance with its label. The distribution, sale and use of an unregistered pesticide is a violation of federal and/or state law and is strictly prohibited. We do not guarantee the accuracy of any information provided on this page or which is provided by us in any form. It is your responsibility to confirm prior to purchase and use that a product is labeled for your specific purposes, including, but not limited to, your target crop or pest and its compatibility with other products in a tank mix and that the usage of a product is otherwise consistent with federal, state and local laws.  We reserve the right to restrict sales on a geographic basis in our sole discretion. You must have a valid applicator license to use restricted use pesticides.  Please consult your state department of agriculture for complete rules and regulations on the use of restricted use pesticides, as some products require specific record-keeping requirements. All product recommendations and other information provided is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for consulting the product label or for specific agronomic, business,or professional advice. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, consult with a qualified advisor. Neither Farmer's Business Network Inc. nor any of its affiliates makes any representations or warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of the statements or any information contained in the material and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. *RESTRICTED USE PESTICIDE Due to acute toxicity. For retail sale to and use by certified applicators only – NOT to be used by uncertified persons working under the supervision of a certified applicator. Herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, adjuvants, and biostimulants can be ordered online and via mobile app. Please contact an FBN Sales representative for fertilizer and seed orders.

We hear a lot of questions about applying herbicides during warm weather. Crops are currently battling with summer annuals like waterhemp, which emerge, grow and thrive in hot conditions and are naturally drought tolerant. The optimum temperature for photosynthesis in waterhemp ranges from 68 -104°F, so these weeds are thriving even with these warm temperatures. Ensuring Effective Herbicide Applications in Warm Weather Here are some quick tips on making sure your applications are still effective in the heat. 1. Use higher labeled rates of Roundup® brand herbicides to help offset thicker cuticles and lower translocation rates. Applying translocated herbicides , including Roundup® brand herbicides, in hot, dry conditions can result in delayed or reduced weed control. That’s because plants conserve water through changes in both the composition and thickness of the cuticle on the leaf surface when weather is hot and dry, which can create a barrier to herbicide absorption. Plus, herbicide movement within the plant may be reduced due to a slower rate of translocation and metabolism. 2. Use the full rate of ammonium sulfate (AMS) at 17lbs per 100 gallons of spray solution. Using the full rate is particularly important when hard water is a concern. The AMS will aid in maximizing the availability of Roundup® brand herbicides for uptake by target weeds. 3. Consider adding 0.25% v/v non-ionic surfactant for weeds like lambsquarters. Adding a surfactant, as allowed per label directions with Roundup® brand herbicides, can be a good way to counter the effects of warm weather, particularly when dealing with thick-cuticle weeds like lambsquarters. 4. Beware of crop damage when taking advantage of increased effectiveness of contact herbicides. The activity of contact herbicides is increased on all plants at higher temperatures, so the weeds will be more susceptible to those treatments when it’s hot. Increased activity may provide improved weed control, but can also result in greater crop injury potential. 5. Consider postponing PPO-inhibiting herbicide applications. Contact herbicides that contain PPO-inhibiting herbicides need to be used with caution as temperatures increase to 85 degrees and above. If the temperature is over 90°F and weed size allows, consider postponing PPO-inhibiting applications to reduce the risk of crop injury. PPO-inhibiting herbicides are most effective when applied on weeds that are 4 inches tall or less. 6. Use a surfactant with PPO-inhibiting herbicides to increase crop response. Not all PPO-inhibiting herbicides cause the same amount of crop response, so if crop response is a concern, consider adding a surfactant like Methylated Seed Oil (MSO) and/or Crop Oil Concentrate (COC) to your tank-mix when spraying in warm weather. Download Your Free Spraying Application Guide While the tips above will help ensure your chemical applications are still effective even in soaring temperatures, it's important to make sure you're not only using the right chemicals but that you're also spraying properly. Get tips from the experts at FBN in our free guide, Spraying Tips for the DIY Farmer . In the guide, you'll learn: Four key steps to a successful spray Record-keeping essentials Tips for effectively limiting spray drift Jar test best practices for tank mix compatibility Click here to download the free guide. Copyright © 2015 - 2021 Farmer's Business Network Canada, Inc. All rights Reserved. The sprout logo, "Farmers Business Network," "FBN," "FBN Direct" and "Farmers First" are trademarks, registered trademarks or service marks of Farmer's Business Network, Inc. or its affiliates. Roundup is a registered trademark of the Monsanto Company. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS It is a violation of federal and state/provincial law to use any pesticide product other than in accordance with its label. The distribution, sale and use of an unregistered pesticide is a violation of federal and/or state law and is strictly prohibited. We do not guarantee the accuracy of any information provided on this page or which is provided by us in any form. It is your responsibility to confirm prior to purchase and use that a product is labeled for your specific purposes, including, but not limited to, your target crop or pest and its compatibility with other products in a tank mix.

We all know that weeds during the growing season can have a negative impact on crop yields.  It is important to remember, though, that winter annuals—such as marestail, henbit, downy brome, field pennycress, annual ryegrass and shepherd’s purse—can also be detrimental to your operation. Winter weeds can: Rob the soil of nutrients and water; Delay soil warm up in the spring; and  Impact the efficiency of planting equipment.  All of these issues can lead to decreased yield potential in the following year’s crop. Winter annual seeds germinate from early fall into December. Broadleaf species generally form a rosette to overwinter and will flower and produce seed by late June to complete the life cycle. Use a fall-applied herbicide to treat winter annuals Treatment of winter annual weeds in the fall is a reliable way to get acceptable weed control. Fall treatments can often be less expensive and deliver better control than spring-applied herbicides. The concern of off-target drift is also less of an issue in the fall because there are no actively growing crops. There are many herbicides from which to select for winter annual weed control. For fields you’ll be planting to corn, some options include the following: 2,4D LV6 dicamba flumioxazin , glyphosate paraquat , Autumn™ Super 51 WDG Basis® Blend On fields planned for soybeans, here are some options for your herbicide toolbox: 2,4D LV6 dicamba flumioxazin glyphosate paraquat Aim® Willowood Sulfen Chlorim Enlite® Application rates will vary according to soil type, weed density and weed stage of growth, so be sure to consult with an agronomist before spraying this fall. When choosing a residual herbicide, remember to check for any plantback restrictions that could impact the next year’s crop. If a long residual herbicide is fall-applied, annual spring emerging weeds can sometimes be controlled into mid-May. That could mean a more timely spring planting with reduced competition.  Herbicide resistance in winter annuals might be an issue in your region. If that’s the case, you might want to consider spray mixes that utilize multiple modes of action for more effective control. Why don’t more farmers control weeds in the fall? There seem to be two primary reasons why farmers hold out on fall herbicide applications: 1. Not enough time or labor Most years, harvest takes every hour and every person available. But when harvest delays occur, there may be sufficient time to apply herbicides. Even hiring a commercial sprayer can be cost effective in some situations. 2. Not enough cash left in the current year’s cropping budget Remember that the price of the chemistry chosen for next spring will likely be higher when compared to the price of fall-applied herbicides. Also, weed control will most likely be less effective in the spring, due to the size of overwintering weeds. Find the right inputs for your operation with FBN Direct® You can double down on savings and convenience when you shop for ag chemicals on FBN Direct . Simply buy the products you need online and get them shipped directly to your farm. It’s just one of many different ways we’re making farming better for farmers . Autumn™ Super 51 WDG is a trademark of Bayer CropScience. Basis® Blend and Enlite® are registered trademarks of DuPont Crop Protection. Aim® EC Herbicide is a registered trademark of FMC Corporation. Copyright © 2014 - 2020 Farmer's Business Network, Inc. All rights reserved. The sprout logo, "FBN" and "Farmers Business Network" are registered service marks of Farmer's Business Network, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. FBN Direct Services are offered by FBN Inputs, LLC and are available only in states where FBN Inputs, LLC is licensed. FBN Direct is a service mark of Farmer's Business Network, Inc. Herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, adjuvants, and biostimulants can be ordered online and via mobile app. Please contact an FBN Sales representative for fertilizer and seed orders. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS. It is a violation of federal and state/provincial law to use any pesticide product other than in accordance with its label. The distribution, sale and use of an unregistered pesticide is a violation of federal and/or state law and is strictly prohibited. We do not guarantee the accuracy of any information provided on this page or which is provided by us in any form. It is your responsibility to confirm prior to purchase and use that a product is labeled for your specific purposes, including, but not limited to, your target crop or pest and its compatibility with other products in a tank mix.

In some areas of North America, harvest is already underway; for others, those activities are fast approaching. This is a culmination for farmers: a time to see what your hard work and investment—along with some occasional worrying—has produced.  But harvest season isn’t just about yields. This is a perfect opportunity to evaluate the decisions you made throughout the year. Questions to ask yourself during harvest Take time as you roll through the fields to jot down any details about this year’s production while they are fresh in your mind. No detail is insignificant, and most will be valuable for future planning. Here are a few questions to ask yourself as you begin harvest this year: 1. How did my seed selection meet expectations for this field? Consider all the traits and characteristics you selected for, including any GMO traits, plant population, early vigor, disease tolerance, standability, etc. Did you need everything in the bag or could you have done without some traits? Could conventional seed have achieved the same yield level at a lesser cost per acre? 2. What weeds, diseases or insect damage were present? Identify the weeds, diseases and insect damage present at harvest. Considering the pesticide program used, was control acceptable? Could anything have been done differently to obtain a better result? And would generics have saved some input dollars? Is it time to utilize some different actives or modes of action? Look out for stalk rots and check grain quality to ensure that disease and insects weren’t a bigger issue than you originally expected. Start maximizing your profit potential. 3. Did my fertility program make the grade? Examine the plants and the grain being harvested. Was the fertility program adequate throughout the season and did it produce quality grain? Were any nutrient deficiencies identified, and would your farm have benefited from tissue testing throughout the growing season? Also, make sure that your crop is getting the nutrients it needs at the times when it needs them the most.  4. How did the recommended nutrients impact my soil?  An annual soil test should be done at the same time each year to ensure proper fertility for the crop to be grown. Soil tests can also aid in locating areas with issues that need to be corrected.  5. Did my equipment do what my farm needed? Machinery that is worn out, or not properly calibrated, can have an impact on your planting and harvest. Using the wrong equipment can lead to compaction and other soil issues. Did the equipment you have do an acceptable job during cultivation, planting, spraying and harvesting? Would replacing or updating equipment improve on-farm efficiency or soil health? Could there be a tax advantage to purchasing new equipment? 6. Did I purchase the right crop insurance policy and coverage?  Crop insurance is part of your overall risk management plan. Consider if there are any changes you should make for 2021. Know the options that are available to you, and if necessary, get a second opinion. Evaluate your fields separately to get the most out of your acres. Check with your agronomist and your neighbors to see what worked—and what didn’t—on farms in your area. Proper chemistry selection leads to increased pesticide efficacy, and substantial savings could be a reality in many fields. Your observations will be a valuable tool in making cropping plans for 2021 and beyond.  Find the right inputs for your operation with FBN Direct℠ You can double down on savings and convenience when you shop for ag chemicals on FBN Direct . Simply buy the products you need online and get them shipped directly to your farm. It’s just one of many different ways we’re making farming better for farmers . Copyright © 2014 - 2020 Farmer's Business Network, Inc. All rights reserved. The sprout logo, "FBN" and "Farmers Business Network" are registered service marks of Farmer's Business Network, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. FBN Direct Services are offered by FBN Inputs, LLC and are available only in states where FBN Inputs, LLC is licensed. FBN Direct is a service mark of Farmer's Business Network, Inc. Herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, adjuvants, and biostimulants can be ordered online and via mobile app. Please contact an FBN Sales representative for fertilizer and seed orders. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS. It is a violation of federal and state/provincial law to use any pesticide product other than in accordance with its label. The distribution, sale and use of an unregistered pesticide is a violation of federal and/or state law and is strictly prohibited. We do not guarantee the accuracy of any information provided on this page or which is provided by us in any form. It is your responsibility to confirm prior to purchase and use that a product is labeled for your specific purposes, including, but not limited to, your target crop or pest and its compatibility with other products in a tank mix.

Keeping control of mid-season insect pests in your corn crop is vital to protecting yield potential. We’ve discussed how corn rootworm , European corn borer and western bean cutworm can inflict harm to your crop, so you’ll want to stay on top of pressure with good scouting and timely applications when needed. Let’s turn our attention now to three more pests—spider mites, grasshoppers and fall armyworms—that, while less prolific, can nevertheless impact your bottom line.  Spider Mites Spider mites are a pest to watch for as corn plants approach VT growth stage or better. Adult mites are the size of a grain of salt and are prolific.  There are two common types of spider mites found in the Corn Belt: Banks grass mites (BGM), which can be found on the lower leaves of corn plants and do not normally cause economic losses; and two-spotted mites (TSM), which are identified in the adult stage by a yellowish-brown body with two dark spots on their backs and can cause substantial yield loss.  How to control spider mites in corn TSM populations favor drought conditions and windy dusty areas. Scouting should start at VT and focus on field borders on the south and west sides of your fields. Dusty roads adjacent to these borders can also further movement of the mites and can create a larger infested area.  The webbing the TSM creates to protect the egg and nymph stages is difficult for an insecticide to penetrate, so a systemic insecticide such as bifenthrin , lambda-cy or chlorpyrifos may be required to gain control. Spot treatment for TSM is possible if they are found early enough. Are you paying a fair price for insecticide applications? Grasshoppers While not a typical pest, grasshoppers can potentially become an issue in corn when drought is present. These conditions push grasshoppers to scour for food sources, causing damage by feeding on corn leaves, silks and ears. In extreme cases, they can strip leaves to nothing but a midrib. Grasshopper eggs overwinter in clusters in the soil, with nymphs hatching in late May or early June. If food is scarce, nymphs will move to nearby vegetation or crops for food. Areas prone to grasshoppers such as grass waterways should be scouted for any that may be migrating into corn fields.  How to control grasshoppers in corn If grasshoppers are present in the field, check five separate locations, noting the number of nymphs and adult grasshoppers per square yard. If levels of 15 nymphs or 8 adult grasshoppers per square yard near field borders—or 3 adults per square yard within a part of the field—are found, treatment with bifenthrin or chlorpyrifos may be needed. You may be able to perform a targeted spot treatment without having to treat a whole field, depending on where the populations are located. Fall Armyworms Fall armyworms are a common pest that rarely meets the economic threshold for treatment. Adult moths are attracted to late-maturing corn, where they will lay their eggs. Larvae arrive late in the season and feed on corn leaves, causing damage in patches throughout the field that is similar in appearance to that of hail injury. Applying an insecticide is usually not economical for control unless larvae are less than 1.25 inch long with plants are under stress and 75 percent of plants have whorl feeding damage. Address pest pressure all season long with FBN Direct℠ You can double down on savings and convenience when you shop for ag chemicals on FBN Direct . Simply buy the crop protection products you need online and get them shipped directly to your farm—or schedule free pick-up at your local FBN Hub . It’s just one of many different ways we’re making farming better for farmers . Copyright © 2014 - 2020 Farmer's Business Network, Inc. All rights reserved. The sprout logo, "FBN" and "Farmers Business Network" are registered service marks of Farmer's Business Network, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. FBN Direct Services are offered by FBN Inputs, LLC and are available only in states where FBN Inputs, LLC is licensed. FBN Direct is a service mark of Farmer's Business Network, Inc. Herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, adjuvants, and biostimulants can be ordered online and via mobile app. Please contact an FBN Sales representative for fertilizer and seed orders. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS. It is a violation of federal and state/provincial law to use any pesticide product other than in accordance with its label. The distribution, sale and use of an unregistered pesticide is a violation of federal and/or state law and is strictly prohibited. We do not guarantee the accuracy of any information provided on this page or which is provided by us in any form. It is your responsibility to confirm prior to purchase and use that a product is labeled for your specific purposes, including, but not limited to, your target crop or pest and its compatibility with other products in a tank mix.

If you’ve ever dealt with significant pressure from corn rootworm beetles in your fields, you know how severely this insect pest can impact corn production if not properly controlled. In fact, you might see as much as 15 percent yield loss on average for each root node that is pruned due to larval feeding. 1 High populations of rootworm beetles can scrape the chlorophyll from corn leaf surfaces. This results in less leaf area to manufacture sugars to be translocated to the corn kernels, limiting kernel fill and translating to significant economic damage.  Adult rootworm beetles also feed on corn silks during pollination, leading to poor pollination and limiting the number of kernels to be produced.  To make matters worse, adult beetle feeding can also provide entry points for secondary pests and disease.  Planting Bt hybrids is one way to reduce the threat of rootworm pressure. But if you’ve planted non-Bt and/or conventional corn—or if you’re experiencing resistance issues after planting Bt corn—it’s important to know what to look for and how to control rootworm beetles in your fields. And while control is most ideal in the larval stage, sometimes a mid-season rescue treatment is necessary and can help you protect your crop against rootworm beetles. Are you paying a fair price for insecticide applications? What should you look for when scouting for rootworms? Emerging from the soil between late June and the middle of August, adult beetles will mate and, approximately 14 days after emergence, the female rootworm beetles deposit their eggs into the soil near the corn plant’s root zone.  There are three types of corn rootworms, and the way to identify which species is present in your fields is to find the pest in its adult beetle stage of the life cycle. Here is a bit more information about each species: Western Corn Rootworm  Western Corn Rootworm (WCR) is the most common rootworm beetle and most damaging species across the Corn Belt. The adult beetle is yellow with black stripes to almost completely black. Northern Corn Rootworm Northern Corn Rootworm (NCR) are usually found in smaller numbers than WCR in the northern portion of the Corn Belt. NCR have the unique ability to enter an extended diapause stage, meaning they can remain in the egg stage of its life cycle for an extra year. This allows NCR to survive in a one-year crop rotation system. NCR are lime green in color. Southern Corn Rootworm Southern Corn Rootworm (SCR) generally causes the least damage of the 3 types, but there can be situations where adult SCR beetles must be controlled to protect against silk clipping during corn pollination. SCR eggs do not survive the winter in most of the Corn Belt, but they are still of some concern in the southern Corn Belt. The adult beetles are yellow to light-green with black dots on the back.  How do you control rootworm pressure in your corn crop? Timely scouting and treatments are needed, but you can achieve acceptable corn rootworm control growing non-Bt and/or conventional corn hybrids. Here are a few methods: Crop rotation practices One method is to utilize a one-year crop rotation to another crop, such as soybeans or wheat. Crop rotation practices work quite well for Western Corn Rootworm (WCR) but not for Northern Corn Rootworms (NCR), which can enter an extended diapause and require a 2-year rotation. Spraying for larval control There is no reliable method to achieve total control over rootworm larvae once your corn is planted, but many insecticides are available for in-furrow application to provide larval control. Scouting beetle populations during the growing season in fields planned for corn next year will indicate if a soil insecticide will be required in the spring. Using a Group 3A insecticide product such as Bifenthrin LFR —or, if not adding it to your starter fertilizer, an emulsifiable concentrate like Willowood Bifenthrin 2EC —will help you address rootworm pressure at planting. You can achieve some degree of control by timing your insecticide application for when female beetles become gravid , or full of eggs, and before egg deposition takes place. This will sometimes require two treatments in highly populated fields. You may also want to consider spraying when silk clipping is evident in order to protect your corn during the pollination period. Spraying for adult rootworm beetles Several insecticides are labeled to control the adult beetles, as well, and can be applied by air, by ground or through a sprinkler system. You’ll want to again use a Group 3A insecticide such as Willowood Lambda-Cy 1EC or Willowood Bifenthrin 2EC to manage adult rootworm beetles in your fields. Always read and follow the label directions for any insecticide to be used. Address pest pressure all season long with FBN Direct℠ You can double down on savings and convenience when you shop for ag chemicals on FBN Direct . Simply buy the crop protection products you need online and get them shipped directly to your farm—or schedule free pick-up at your local FBN Hub . It’s just one of many different ways we’re making farming better for farmers . Sources: Willowood is a trademark of Generic Crop Science LLC. 1. Corn Rootworm Management Update , Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Copyright © 2014 - 2020 Farmer's Business Network, Inc. All rights reserved. The sprout logo, "FBN" and "Farmers Business Network" are registered service marks of Farmer's Business Network, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. FBN Direct Services are offered by FBN Inputs, LLC and are available only in states where FBN Inputs, LLC is licensed. FBN Direct is a service mark of Farmer's Business Network, Inc. Herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, adjuvants, and biostimulants can be ordered online and via mobile app. Please contact an FBN Sales representative for fertilizer and seed orders. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS. It is a violation of federal and state/provincial law to use any pesticide product other than in accordance with its label. The distribution, sale and use of an unregistered pesticide is a violation of federal and/or state law and is strictly prohibited. We do not guarantee the accuracy of any information provided on this page or which is provided by us in any form. It is your responsibility to confirm prior to purchase and use that a product is labeled for your specific purposes, including, but not limited to, your target crop or pest and its compatibility with other products in a tank mix.

By the time you’ve reached the middle of the growing season, your corn crop is hopefully standing tall with ears that are developing kernels.  But that also means now is the time to keep a keen eye out for the mid-season insect pressure that could get in the way of your yield potential.  Let’s take a closer look at two pests—the European Corn Borer and Western Bean Cutworm—to be on the lookout for in order to protect your corn crop this growing season. Are you paying a fair price for insecticide applications? European Corn Borer The European Corn Borer (ECB) is a species of moth whose life cycle has four stages: egg, larva, pupa and adult moth. When second-generation ECB moths mate, the female moth lays eggs in clusters of 5 to 30 on the underside of the ear zone leaves, usually near the midrib. These eggs are creamy white in color and resemble fish scales.  Once they hatch, the larvae feed on remaining pollen in leaf axils and corn silks, eventually entering the shanks of ears, ear tips and upper half of corn stalks.  How will ECB affect your corn crop? ECB larvae can inflict harm to your crop in the following ways:  Stalk Damage ECB-inflicted damage to the stalk can translate to harvest issues due to weakened, broken and lodged stalks. This also provides an entry point for additional insects and possible disease. Shank Feeding When ECB larvae feed on the ear shank, it may cause ear droppage and make the ear unharvestable. This can result in significant yield loss at the end of the season. Ear Tip Feeding Ear tip feeding by ECB larvae can lead to kernel loss, which will also impact your yield. How do you scout for and control ECB?  Most farmers in North America protect against the pest by planting Bt-corn, but you can still control ECB when growing conventional corn with effective scouting and timely insecticide applications. ECB does its most damage in its larval stage, and that is where control measures should be applied. Once the larvae have entered the stalk, shank or ear tip, it is very difficult for any insecticide to achieve acceptable control.  Local extension agencies usually report black light trap information regarding ECB moth flights in your area, which helps in knowing when egg and larva scouting should begin.  Scouting needs to be done on a weekly basis, as small larvae are far easier to control. You’ll want to examine 20 to 25 plants in five random locations across each field to look for the presence of eggs and larval evidence.  Generally speaking, when 25 to 30 percent of plants are infested with ECB, control is going to be economical; this depends, however, on the cost of treatment and the current price of corn.  Treatment Options and Application Rates:  Warrior® with Zeon® Technology or Willowood Lambda-Cy 1EC (Rate of 2.56-3.84 oz/a) Capture® 2EC CAL or Willowood Bifenthrin 2EC (Rate of 2.1-6.4 oz/a) Western Bean Cutworm Western Bean Cutworm (WBC) is another pest that is capable of causing significant yield losses in corn production.  WBC moths emerge from the soil in early July and begin to lay eggs a week before tassel emergence. This can continue for 3 to 4 weeks, through the milk stage of your corn. Eggs are laid in clusters from 5 to 50 on the surface leaves in the top half of plants.  How will WBC affect your corn crop? WBC eggs hatch within 5 to 10 days, and the small larvae begin to feed on pollen in the tassel.  After all the pollen has been shed, larvae move to the ears, feeding on the silks and developing kernels. Unlike the cannibalistic corn earworm, multiple WBC larvae can exist on each ear. And each larva can feed on and destroy up to 12-20 kernels.  This damage also allows secondary insects and disease to enter the ear, lowering the grain quality.  How do you scout for and control WBC?  Once the WBC larvae enter the ear, they are protected from insecticides. But with diligent weekly scouting and properly timed insecticide applications, WBC control is possible. Treatment is suggested when 4 to 8 percent of corn plants exhibit infestation.  Treatment Options and Application Rates:  Warrior® with Zeon® Technology or Willowood Lambda-Cy 1EC (Rate of 1.92-3.20 oz/a) Capture® 2EC CAL or Willowood Bifenthrin 2EC (Rate of 2.1-6.4 oz/a) Address pest pressure all season long with FBN Direct® You can double down on savings and convenience when you shop for ag chemicals on FBN Direct . Simply buy the crop protection products you need online and get them shipped directly to your farm—or schedule free pick-up at your local FBN Hub . It’s just one of many different ways we’re making farming better for farmers . Warrior® with Zeon® Technology is a registered trademark of Syngenta Crop Protection, LLC. Capture® 2EC-CAL is a registered trademark of FMC Corporation. Copyright © 2014 - 2020 Farmer's Business Network, Inc. All rights reserved. The sprout logo, "FBN" and "Farmers Business Network" are registered service marks of Farmer's Business Network, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. FBN Direct Services are offered by FBN Inputs, LLC and are available only in states where FBN Inputs, LLC is licensed. FBN Direct is a service mark of Farmer's Business Network, Inc. Herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, adjuvants, and biostimulants can be ordered online and via mobile app. Please contact an FBN Sales representative for fertilizer and seed orders. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS. It is a violation of federal and state/provincial law to use any pesticide product other than in accordance with its label. The distribution, sale and use of an unregistered pesticide is a violation of federal and/or state law and is strictly prohibited. We do not guarantee the accuracy of any information provided on this page or which is provided by us in any form. It is your responsibility to confirm prior to purchase and use that a product is labeled for your specific purposes, including, but not limited to, your target crop or pest and its compatibility with other products in a tank mix.