Producer Page: Old school, new info!
- Details
- Created: Friday, 22 July 2022 12:00
- Written by Mark Warmka
Old School, New info!!--- It has been awhile since this newsletter was sent out....lots has happened in the interim................. Covid, closed lobby, PPP program, wild
swings in the economy etc. But we are hoping to be being back to more normal times, and maybe this can be our contribution to that hope.
Government GobbledyGook--- The clock is ticking fast on the time left to certify
your planted acres at the FSA office. So run, don't walk to see the friendly staff there. You need to have your planting dates, field acreages and crops planted information in order to complete this task. July 15th deadline!
Insurance Insights---- But after certifying your acreage, you are not done! You need to stop in to see your crop insurance agent ASAP. The agent will need to complete an acreage report as well. Bring your FSA form 578 and maps with when you stop in at the insurance office.
Righteous Rain--- We were fortunate to receive some very welcome rain recently,
the timing was perfect and you might think you are done with this crop now but..
Wicked Weeds--- The rain may also germinate a new flush of weeds. This next couple of weeks will be critical for scouting your fields. You need to evaluate herbicide performance and check out the effectiveness of any residual products you applied earlier. If you need to make additional weed control passes, be sure to know precisely what weeds you are targeting and the carry-over potential of the applied products into next year's crop.
Fungicide Follies--- Soon it will be time for possible fungicide applications. Be sure to carefully evaluate why you are applying these products. What disease is prevalent and will respond to treatment? What stage of the crop is optimal for application? What is the cost? If you have the correct information, you can make an informed decision.
Tar Spot Talk--- This corn leaf disease has been spreading from Illinois and Iowa into SE Minnesota in recent years. It thrives in wet conditions, so over the next few weeks be on the lookout for small black irregular spots on corn leaves. So far it has not been a problem in our area, but it can create significant yield loss so be aware.
Marketing Matters--- We have enjoyed some excellent pricing opportunities over the past year. Do you have a plan in place for the crop in the field now? You need to review your costs of production and talk to your marketing advisor about how and when you should sell your production. Gather up data and make some time to consider this very important task. It needs to become a priority in your day to day management.
Safe and Sound--- Now that heat and humidity have returned. Please be very careful when you are sweeping out grain bins, baling hay, working livestock etc. Most of us are not as young as we once were, and we can get into trouble pretty fast by overdoing it on a hot day. Try not to work alone or at least let someone know where you are and what you are doing. Slow down! Take breaks and hydrate. Remember all your work is not going to get done in one day. (Especially if you aren't around to do it.)
Take Care,
Mark