A Penn State-led team of researchers suggests that the best pest management outcomes may occur when growers encourage biological control — in the form of pests' natural enemies — by planting cover crops and avoiding broad-spectrum insecticides as much as possible.

Your disc openers play a critical role in proper seed placement and getting an even stand. Check the condition of your disc openers before you take to the field. The Planter Maintenance series is brought to you by Precision Planting.

Some soybean producers want to increase soybean yield and net income by applying fertilizer in a 2x2 band at planting — 2 inches to the side of the seed furrow and 2 inches below the seed. High fertilizer prices make it critical for producers to know for sure if their starter fertilizer program is making them money or costing them money. 

Experts advise farmers considering carbon contracts to start with their worst, sandiest and lowest organic matter field because even if the carbon markets don't pay out, the field will show other benefits in crop yield and water management.

An annual survey of farmers, custom operators and managers in Iowa shows prices could face increases for custom services this year.

While parts of Ohio and other Midwestern states have been wet this winter and wheat stands may look poor, stem counts may better correlate to potential yields.