Tar Spot is a relatively new disease in the US but is one that can cause severe yield loss if conditions are right.

Crown rot infections are caused by both fusarium and pythium species. These fungi enter the plant via the root system during periods of prolonged saturation, predominately between the V2 and V7 growth stage. Because these fungi persist in higher moisture environments, infections are more prevalent in wetter soils, tighter clay soil textures, higher magnesium soils, and ponded areas of fields. While these infections occur early in corn development, they can persist much longer as the visual signs are not easily detected until later in the grain fill period.

In this latest agronomy update, Beck’s Field Agronomist, David Hugues, addresses some of the seed quality issues farmers have been seeing in soybean fields across Missouri.

In 2016, many parts of southern Indiana experienced a bad outbreak of Southern Rust that caused yield loss in a lot of areas. Many farmers have seen an influx of this disease present in their fields again this year. However, there has also been a large presence of Common Rust in corn fields this year as well.
 
Check out this latest video to learn more about the visual differences between the two diseases and what you can expect in terms of long term effects and yield loss. 

Bigger roots? Taller plants? Yes please! 

This year, Beck’s PFR team in Iowa is conducting a FurrowJet™ study to test fertilizer placements and rates to find the most effective method for delivering fertilizer to the plant.

We are midway through March and have experienced some above average temperatures that have left many of us feeling as though our corn planters should be running. We have actually heard a few reports of corn being planted around the state, but I believe it is in your best interest to be patient and postpone your planting operations for just a little bit longer.

Smaller sized seed corn will be the norm for 2015. As you know, this is a result of an excellent growing season which had very few stressors during the pollination and grain fill periods. Overall, smaller size seed corn poses fewer planting challenges than heavier, larger sized seed. Here are a few pointers for planting small size corn seed.

Hello, I’m David Hughes, your new Beck’s agronomist in Missouri. I wanted to take the time to introduce myself to the Beck’s family of employees, dealers and customers, and especially to Missouri farmers whom I now have opportunity to serve as a Beck’s agronomist. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of a company that shares my passion and love of God, family, our country, and farming.