I know some of you are itching to put seed in the ground. Especially corn. However, it is worth waiting a little longer. With the cool rain that fell already and some nighttime temps dipping down into the low 40’s some in the next week… Placing seed in the ground puts you at an increased risk of seedling disease. According to the Corn Production guide, varied corn emergence can decrease overall yields by as much as 20%. In a year with margins are as tight as they are, we have to try for the maximum yield possible.
“Dr. Bob Kemerait said, The combination of cool and wet slows germination, slows vigorous growth, increases risk of fungal seed rot and of seedling disease. I know, growers need to take advantage of soil moisture when they have it, but not when cool temperatures threaten. As an example, cotton growers are strongly encouraged to plant only when soil temps will be 65F and above to reduce risk to seedling disease.” Also, planting date DOES impact risk to diseases other than seedling disease. Following Peanut Rx, planting date impacts risk to tomato spotted wilt, leaf spot, and white mold. Planting date in corn impacts risk to southern rust and tar spot (earlier planted corn is at lower risk). Earlier planting dates seem to reduce risk to “CLRDV induced bronze wilt” in cotton. Earlier planting dates reduce risk to soybean rust. But, too early of planting means none of that matters, seedling disease will ruin your crop… If it doesn’t come up and grow, it doesn’t matter. For corn planting purposes, we want to see the 2 inch soil temp trending upwards consistently and staying above 55 degrees. We are not trending in that constant upward direction yet. See the attached screenshot of the soil temps in Midville. As always, give us a call with any questions you may have.
