Agronomy Articles
Plant Health
By Leo Hoiten, Agronomist, Lyons
Hope most growers in our trade area are finally starting to wrap up the spraying and spreading as the weather has allowed us to get back in those fields. With the timely moisture we’ve had this summer the crops are starting to look great. The heat and humidity are finally in the air. This is a perfect time to scout and be checking the crops as we get into reproductive stages in both corn and soybeans. In corn VT or full tassel is optimal time for fungicide application and in soybeans application at R1 can be beneficial for heavy white mold areas and again at (R3-R4) beginning to full pod.
The risk of disease pressure is increasing so be sure to ask about our fungicide options available at all agronomy locations. I recommend using a 3-mode-of-action product like Delaro Complete. This is a preventive and curative option during grain fill as it moves systemically through the plant profile. Fungicides can increase yield by preventing disease in the crop canopy and help make it through the heat and dry weather by providing plant health. Be sure to contact your local agronomist and we can get you taken care of.
7/11/2025
Fungicides and Insecticides: Mid-Season Crop Protection
By Levi Van Beek, Applicator/Agronomist, Irene
As June wraps up and July hits full stride, now is the time to begin evaluating your fields for potential insect and disease pressure. Connect with your local CFC agronomist to identify any pests or pathogens affecting your crops and to determine the best course of action.
Corn Disease Watch
With Tar Spot continuing to spread across our region in recent years, fungicide applications in corn are becoming more critical than ever. In addition to Tar Spot, keep a close eye out for:
- Southern Rust
- Common Rust
- Gray Leaf Spot
- Northern Corn Leaf Blight
Early detection and treatment can protect your yield potential and improve plant health.
Soybean Disease and Insect Pressure
In soybeans, we're seeing increased activity from Frogeye Leaf Spot, various blights, and powdery mildews. Insect activity is also on the rise—aphid larvae have been spotted, signaling the need to consider insecticide applications to prevent damage.
New for 2025: Drone Applications
CFC is excited to offer drone-based fungicide and insecticide applications this season. This new technology allows for faster, more precise coverage and is now available through your agronomist.
Protection and Assurance
CFC offers a variety of assurance policies to support your crop protection strategies. Talk to your agronomist today to find a plan that fits your operation.
7/3/2025
Timely In-Field Management
By Brian Nelson, Agronomist, Salem
As we reach mid-June, timely in-field management can significantly impact yield and crop health.
Post-Emerge Corn Spraying:
As corn progresses through vegetative stages, timely post-emerge herbicide applications are key to preserving yield potential. Targeting weeds now—before they exceed 4 inches—reduces competition for light, nutrients, and moisture during critical early growth.
Timing & Target Weeds:
Ideal application timing is from V2 to V6, depending on herbicide labels and weed pressure. Many broadleaf and grass species are highly vulnerable at this stage, so a well-timed post-emerge spray can clean up early flushes and extend control when paired with a residual.
Tank Mix Considerations:
Common active ingredients for post-emerge corn include glyphosate, mesotrione, tembotrione, and dicamba often in combination with a group 15 residual product like S-metolachlor or acetochlor. Stacking sites of action helps delay resistance and broadens the weed control spectrum.
Sidedressing Corn:
With early corn now entering rapid growth stages (V4–V8), it's prime time to sidedress nitrogen. Target fields where pre-plant nitrogen was minimal, or leaching is a concern due to early-season rainfall. Sidedressing offers flexibility to apply nitrogen closer to peak uptake (V10–R1), boosting efficiency. UAN (28–32%) or urea are common options. Avoid leaf burn by placing liquid N between rows and consider stabilizers to reduce volatility and leaching losses.
Post-Emerge Soybean Spraying:
Weeds are aggressive this season due to warm, moist conditions. If your soybeans are in the V2–V4 stage, act now to control broadleaf and grass weeds before they exceed 4 inches in height. Use a tank mix that includes both a contact herbicide (like glufosinate or glyphosate, depending on trait system) and a residual product like Warrant, Anthem Maxx and Outlook to suppress later-emerging weeds. Add appropriate surfactants and adjuvants for better efficacy, and scout fields 10–14 days after application for escapes.
Foliar Application on Alfalfa:
After the first cutting, alfalfa is primed for regrowth, and foliar feeding can give it a valuable boost. Apply a foliar fertilizer containing potassium, sulfur, boron, and micronutrients to support regrowth and stand health. This is especially important in fields showing early nutrient stress or where soils are marginal. Foliar fungicides may also be considered if leaf spot diseases are emerging.
Final Thoughts:
Timely action now will pay dividends later in the season. Be mindful of weather forecasts, tank mix compatibility, and label restrictions. Reach out to your agronomist with specific questions, and scout often to stay ahead.
6/20/2025
Agronomy Staff
 Jeff Schmiesing
Agronomy Dept. Manager
Cell: 605-940-7665
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 Allen Johansen
Agronomy Dept.
Purchasing Manager
Cell: 605-661-4882
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