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Six tips before V6

Identifying problems in corn in the early stages of growth can help farmers prevent yield loss.  Travis Belt, Mycogen Seeds agronomist has six tips that farmers should scout for before the V6 growth stage.

At the top of his list is emergence and germination.  “It’s number one because that’s where it all begins,” he says.  “We have to have a good stand before any other decision makes any sense.  If we don’t have a good stand than we’re already behind the eight-ball.”

Nitrogen is also key to a high yielding crop.  He says if nitrogen loss is detected before V6, there are corrective measures that can be taken.  “There are multiple options for adding in-season nitrogen,” he says.  “It could be side-dressing, or top-dressing with dry or liquid material – you have a lot of options.  Nitrogen is such an important factor in corn’s yield potential – making sure it has enough is one of the top things on my radar.”

Other suggestions Belt has – Identifying early season stress like insect pressure, managing weed pressure, evaluating the appearance of the corn crop for visual clues to overall plant health, and determining alternative options if replant may be needed.

AUDIO: Travis Belt, Mycogen Seeds (3:30mp3)