University of Illinois researcher Scott Foxhoven will share new research on replicated trials comparing banded potassium and nitrogen to broadcast application, along with seeding population and yield response experiments at the 2020 National Strip-Tillage Conference.

The most recent USDA crop progress report showed corn planting progress increase significantly over the previous week. Planting progress reached 27% planted vs. 7% in the previous week, above the five year average of 20% and the 12% planted this time last year.

Waiting for parts is not what any farmer wants to do when they’re gearing up for spring planting. Presho, S.D., no-tiller Adam Ehlers, has encountered delays due to COVID-19.

For Canadian strip-tiller Mike Verdonck, weed pressure, erosion and a reliance on heavy herbicide and fertilizer applications are all symptoms of “sick” soil. The antidote? Reducing tillage, moving to a year-round, multi-species cover cropping system and putting a focus on rebuilding and maintaining soil health.

The latest USDA crop progress report shows both corn and soybean planting progress remains ahead of last year's numbers. Almost all other reported crops are on track with or ahead of last year's numbers as well.

The Coronavirus Food Assistance Program unveiled by Sonny Perdue, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, is designed to provide $19 billion to support farmers and ranchers while maintaining the integrity of the food supply chain, according to the USDA.

For agronomist Joey Hanson, Elk Point, S.D., spring 2020 is business as usual — so far. Hanson, owner of Diversified Agronomy, a crop consulting and custom strip-till business, has been assisting his 30-plus customers in South Dakota and Nebraska get ready for planting season.

Strip-tillage has been a viable option in North American corn and soybean production for over 30 years, and its use accelerated when RTK guidance became more commonplace. But what are the keys to capturing the most value from targeted nutrient placement — understanding the proper depth, delivery and distance of placement from the row.