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Agronomist says there’s still time for pre-plant activities

An agronomist says it’s too early to start fieldwork and planting when soil conditions aren’t optimal.

Purdue’s Bob Nielsen says even with the string of wet weather – there’s still time for farmers to proceed with their usual pre-plant operations.

But he says Mother Nature could change that.  “If this would drag on through the end of April, approaching the first of May – somewhere around that time frame – than yes planting would rise to the top in terms of importance,” he says.

Margins are tight again this year and Nielsen tells Brownfield agronomic decisions need to be not only cost effective but should also have data to support the decision.  “Seed and nitrogen together represent nearly 50 percent the total variable costs of production for corn,” he says.  “I’d certainly encourage people to be cost effective and smart on making those decisions on rates of nitrogen or seed.”

Nielsen says there are reference tools available to help farmers figure the best rates.

Purdue recently launched its 2017 Corn Field Scout app based on the Corn and Soybean Field Guide.  A link to more information can be found HERE.

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