In this episode of Kicking Dirt, recorded on June 16, 2025, host Mike Wardyn brings together a roundtable of field agronomists from central and western Nebraska to discuss the current state of corn fields as they transition from early seedling to mid-season growth stages (V3 to V8). The episode underscores the importance of proactive management in a year with tight margins, offering practical tips.
The panel, featuring Patrick Howard, Kevin Keller, Chase Sauder and Kevin Kowalski, shares insights on regional growth stages, challenges with residue management, nutrient deficiencies, and herbicide application timing.
LISTEN FOR:
Corn Growth Stages: The agronomists report corn at V3 to V8 across Nebraska, with variability due to diverse planting dates and weather conditions.
Residue Management: Strategies for handling heavy residue in no-till and strip-till systems, emphasizing the importance of uniformity and equipment adjustments to avoid issues like hairpinning and sidewall compaction.
Nutrient Management: Discussions on managing nitrogen, sulfur, and other nutrients in corn-on-corn systems, including optimal application timing and ratios to address deficiencies like manganese, magnesium, and potassium.
Herbicide Application: The critical need for timely post-emergence herbicide applications to avoid yield loss, with a focus on crop safety and the benefits of Enlist corn for flexible weed control.
Soybean Considerations: Early nodulation challenges in soybeans, particularly in high-pH or stressed environments, and the role of sulfur applications to boost growth.
Proactive Management: Emphasis on timeliness, adjusting plans based on tissue samples, satellite imagery, and weather conditions, and setting calendar reminders to optimize future seasons.