Indiana's crops are improving with recent timely rains. Levi Riggs, a Specialty Hybrids dealer, believes corn has full yield potential. North of Indianapolis, heat stress affected corn, resulting in shorter plants. Most corn has undergone pollination, but hail damage impacted both corn and soybeans.
To combat potential diseases, Riggs advises applying a good fungicide to corn. The hot and dry forecast may lead to Tar Spot concerns. For soybeans, Riggs is optimistic but warns of Frogeye leaf spot threat, reducing yields by up to 10%. Applying fungicide protects soybeans.
Unusually high Japanese and Rootworm beetles observed require insecticides to control. Increasing humidity and heat may raise disease pressure in crops.
The latest USDA Crop Progress Report rates 61% of Indiana's corn and 59% of soybeans in good-to-excellent condition. While rain provides relief, farmers should stay vigilant, protect their crops with fungicides and insecticides for a successful growing season.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-luc-pouliot
Categories: Indiana, Crops