Effect of standing water and saturated soils on corn growth
Recent rains and forecasted precipitation could increase saturated soils and standing water in Kansas corn fields, especially in low-lying areas. Early-season flooding can stunt young corn plants and lead to long-term yield impacts. Stay informed and monitor affected fields closely.
Sidewall compaction from planting into wet soils
Conducting field work, including planting, tillage, or traffic in general, after wet weather can cause soil compaction, particularly sidewall compaction in the seed furrow. Plant symptoms can mimic drought stress and/or nutrient deficiency. To minimize risk, delay field work until conditions improve.
Get ahead of weeds: Preplant herbicide options for grain sorghum
Planting grain sorghum into a clean, weed-free field, paired with a strong residual herbicide program, gives the crop a critical advantage over weeds. Early weed control reduces competition for water, nutrients, and sunlight while lowering the risk of herbicide failure later in the season.
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Nitrogen fertilizer considerations for grain sorghum
Efficient nitrogen management is key to maximizing sorghum yields and profitability. This article highlights strategies for adjusting N rates using soil testing, improving fertilizer efficiency through placement and timing, and considering soil moisture at planting, especially important after drought conditions.
Sorghum planting considerations: Planting date and hybrid maturity
Planting date and hybrid maturity are two of the most critical decisions for maximizing sorghum yields. There is considerable variation in environmental stresses for grain sorghum in Kansas. Tailoring management to local conditions is essential to reduce the impacts of stress on the crop and maximize yield potential.
Sorghum planting considerations: Seeding rate and row spacing
Getting the right seeding rate and row spacing is key to maximizing sorghum yield. Learn how to adjust rates for your rainfall zone, why narrow rows can boost yields in high-yield environments, and when to bump up seeding rates for late planting.
Wheat disease update: Fusarium head blight and leaf spot risk elevated in Kansas
Recent wet weather has brought on an increased risk of Fusarium head blight (scab) and leaf spotting diseases in parts of the state. Stripe rust has been detected at low levels in Ford and Labette counties. This article updates current disease risks in Kansas and fungicide application reminders.
Corn leafhopper update and new dashboard to track presence in Kansas
As the 2025 corn season begins, be on the lookout for Corn Stunt Spiroplasma and its vector, the corn leafhopper. Early detection is key to managing this disease and minimizing yield loss. A new monitoring program will track leafhopper populations in key counties.
Plan now for volunteer corn control
This article discusses the importance of managing volunteer corn in soybean fields. This can be a significant issue, especially when the density is high. There are options that farmers can take early in the growing season to help control volunteer corn. Learn more in this article.
2025 Kansas Wheat Plot Tours - Preliminary schedule
Plan to attend a wheat plot tour! K-State Research and Extension will host winter wheat variety plot tours across Kansas starting May 13. Come see the latest varieties, learn about their performance, and get management insights. This is a preliminary list. Watch for updates on dates and locations.
K-State winter canola field day set for May 14
Kansas State University and the Great Plains Canola Association will host a field day in May to highlight winter canola variety development, research, and marketing. The field day will be held at the South Central Experiment Field southwest of Hutchinson, beginning at 10 a.m.
2025 Spring Crop Field Day in southeast Kansas
Kansas State University Research and Extension invites all interested individuals to attend the 2025 Spring Crop Field Day: Wheat, Weeds, and Weather on May 20. This half-day event will provide timely insights into wheat production, weed management, and climate outlooks tailored for southeast Kansas.