Farmers in the western corn belt are increasingly concerned about planting delays with excessive moisture and flooding heading into the season. DEKALB/Asgrow Lead Pete Uitenbroek says it’s too early to be looking at switching to shorter season corn hybrids or more beans. In fact, they are advising producers to stay with their current seed package as long as they can.
He also thinks planting intentions will come out close to USDA’s most recent figures, even with the amount of flooding in the Midwest.
In wet years, yield can also fall below trendline due to later planting dates, but Uitenbroek says an early start doesn’t always translate into big production.
Uitenbroek says some fields may have lost nitrogen during the flooding. So, he suggests a soil test this spring to determine nutrient levels and make fertilizer applications accordingly.
DEKALB and Asgrow brands are also teaming up with NASCAR driver Clint Bowyer to celebrate Agronomy Week, giving farmers the opportunity to recognize the key role played by their agronomic support team.
