Corn maturity may be delayed by late planting and/or below normal summer temperatures. When slow corn development continues into the fall, corn grain may be significantly wetter at harvest. This can result in higher drying costs, mechanical damage to grain, and if a killing frost occurs before corn reaches maturity, yield reductions.

Cooler and wet conditions in the Western Corn Belt have delayed harvest and slowed grain drying, leading to increased ear rot diseases and grain molds. Some producers and consultants also are observing rotted cobs, which can be related to several ear rot diseases.

2019 brought us many adverse environmental conditions. As we look to start combining corn, harvest plans need to be made based on field evaluations.

Most areas of Nebraska received more rainfall than needed during the growing season leaving just a few dry areas. Most of the state caught rain in the last week and they are calling for more later this week, resulting in an increased chance for below average stalk quality for harvest.   

Within the Hoegemeyer footprint we have corn at many different stages of growth depending on when producers could get into the field.

Staging the corn growth enables you to understand when the optimal time is to apply fertilizers, spray post applied chemicals, spray fungicide and to scout for certain insects.

This spring has been a whirlwind of weather patterns throughout our region. While many farms have corn and even soybeans out of the ground, and others are still weeks away from planting, knowing your options for the possibility of a replant before that seed gets put into the ground can ease some tension if the problem may arise.

Anhydrous Ammonia, commonly called NH3, is one of the most commonly used sources of Nitrogen used by corn growers. Please take these items into consideration when using spring-applied NH3.