The recent WASDE report from the USDA confirmed that this year’s crops have great potential. Now, it’s important for farmers to keep a close eye on their crops and do whatever they can to realize those potential yields. Kurt Maertens, BASF technical service representative in Eastern Iowa, said he has observed some great crop conditions in his area, but there are still some issues to monitor.
Maertens said he is seeing a lot of fungal disease right now, with tar spot being particularly prevalent.
Maertens said tar spot has been especially problematic for farmers who did not apply fungicide on their fields.
Selecting the proper seed hybrids is also critical in managing diseases, and Maertens said there will be a huge difference between varieties this year.
Maertens said lots of great conversations about this and much more were had at their recent field day in Story City.
For more information, visit agriculture.basf.us.
