Agronomy Highlights

Recorded: 5/21/25 While you may be familiar with the benefits of soil nutrient testing, are you familiar with the value of plant tissue testing? In this episode, Ryan and Justin invite Dr. John Spargo, Director of Penn State's Agricultural Analytical Services Lab, to discuss Plant Tissue (Total) Analysis. John shares the value of this type of testing, how it may fit into your agronomic toolbox, and the technical aspects of taking a tissue test.  Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Dr. John Spargo, Penn StateLinks:Plant Tissue (Total) AnalysisSign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 4/21/25 What are biological amendments, and how can I implement them on my own farm? If you find yourself asking these questions, then this episode is for you! Ryan and Justin navigate the wild west of biological products with Dr. Connor Sible, Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois Urbana. Dr. Sible discusses the definition of biological products, deciphers biological “modes of action”, and provides practical advice for implementing them on-farm.  Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Connor Sible, University of Illinois Urbana-ChampaignLinks:Crop PhysiologySign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 4/17/25As the planters get rolling for corn and soybean planting across the state, it can be all too easy to forget about scouting your wheat crops. However, getting ahead of late season small grain diseases is crucial to protecting your yield and profit. In this episode, we discuss small grain disease scouting and management with Penn State plant pathology specialists Dr. Paul Esker and Dr. Alyssa Collins.  Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuests: Dr. Paul Esker and Dr. Alyssa Collins, Penn StateLinks:Fusarium Risk ToolUpdated 2025 Fungicide Efficacy TablesScouting Small Grains Diseases for Improved Fungicide Decision MakingEvaluating Late Season Diseases in Small GrainsCheck Your Small Grain Growth Stage For Management DecisionsSmall Grain Growth and Development in Central Pennsylvania: Fields are Getting Closer to AnthesisPhoto Credit: Adriana Murrillo-Williams, Penn State ExtensionSign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 4/8/25 Are you wondering how tariffs may impact the grain market? Maybe you want to learn how to build a grain marketing plan in the first place! In this episode, Jon LaPorte, farm business educator with Michigan State Extension, returns to talk about tariffs, building a grain marketing plan, scenario planning, and leveraging your local market.  Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Jon Laporte, Michigan State ExtensionLinks:What's Your Grain Marketing Plan?The corn-soybean ratio and its potential impact on farm profitsIntroduction to Grain Marketing Video SeriesEnterprise budgets are useful tools especially during uncertain timesPhoto credit: Ryan Spelman,  Penn State ExtensionSign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 3/5/25 As any Pennsylvania farmer can tell you, deer can cause significant damage to crops and are a primary pest in our agricultural landscape. In this episode, we sit down with Law Enforcement Supervisor Brian Singer of the Pennsylvania Game Commission to discuss the legal and lethal options that farmers can take advantage of to manage deer populations.  Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Brian Singer, Pennsylvania Game CommissionLinks:Pennsylvania Game Commission Landowner AssistanceHunters Sharing the HarvestPhoto credit: Pennsylvania Game CommissionSign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 3/11/25Cornell Forage Systems Specialist, Joe Lawrence, returns to discuss small grain silage and silage inoculants. We discuss the agronomics of producing high-quality grain silage, and Joe walks us through the different types of silage inoculants, when to use them, and how to use them effectively. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Joe Lawrence, Cornell UniversityLinks:Using a Microwave Oven to Test Moisture Content of ForageSilage inoculants: What the research tells us about when and how to use themPhoto credit: Ryan Spelman, Penn State ExtensionSign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 2/19/25Get ready for spring green-up with this two-episode series on assessing your spring small grain and forage stands! In this episode we talk to extension specialists Dr. Daniela Carrijo and Dr. Guojie Wang about making management decisions based on your early spring stand assessments. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuests: Dr. Daniela Carrijo, Dr. Guojie Wang, Penn StateLinks:Wheat Stand AssessmentEvaluation and Considerations on Newly Established ForagesThe Penn State Agronomy GuidePhoto credit: Ryan Spelman, Penn State ExtensionThank the Pennsylvania Soybean Board for sponsoring our 2025 Crops Conference and Crops Day events. The Pennsylvania Soybean Board is responsible for the proper allocation of soybean checkoff dollars. This farmer led board preserves and advances animal agriculture, identifies and promotes sustainable practices that provide ROI to farmers, drives new innovations to increase the value of soy, promote biofuels through partnering opportunities, and increases the understanding of soy.Sign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 2/26/25  Get ready for spring green-up with this two-episode series on assessing your spring small grain and forage stands! In this episode, we talk to extension educator Zack Curtis about the technical aspects of taking qualitative and quantitative stand assessments.  Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Zachary Curtis. Penn State ExtensionLinks:Wheat Stand AssessmentEvaluation and Considerations on Newly Established ForagesAre My Forages Dead or Dormant?Photo credit: Ryan Spelman, Penn State ExtensionThank the Pennsylvania Soybean Board for sponsoring our 2025 Crops Conference and Crops Day events. The Pennsylvania Soybean Board is responsible for the proper allocation of soybean checkoff dollars. This farmer led board preserves and advances animal agriculture, identifies and promotes sustainable practices that provide ROI to farmers, drives new innovations to increase the value of soy, promote biofuels through partnering opportunities, and increases the understanding of soy.Sign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 2/11/25 With seemingly ever-increasing fertilizer costs, it is important to apply nitrogen fertilizers with as much precision as possible when growing corn and measuring soil nitrate levels in the early part of the season is a critical step to making these precise applications. In this episode, Ryan and Justin discuss the ins and outs of utilizing a Pre-sidedress Soil Nitrate Test (PSNT) to do exactly this with Penn State Extension specialists Dr. Charlie White and Dr. Robb Meinen. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuests: Charlie White and Robb Meinen, Penn StateLinks:Pre-sidedress Soil Nitrate Test for CornPre-Sidedress Nitrate Test for Corn (PSNT)Pre-sidedress Soil Nitrate Test (PSNT) for Corn Sample Submission FormPhoto credit: Charlie White, Penn StateThank the Pennsylvania Soybean Board for sponsoring our 2025 Crops Conference and Crops Day events. The Pennsylvania Soybean Board is responsible for the proper allocation of soybean checkoff dollars. This farmer led board preserves and advances animal agriculture, identifies and promotes sustainable practices that provide ROI to farmers, drives new innovations to increase the value of soy, promote biofuels through partnering opportunities, and increases the understanding of soy.Sign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 1/14/25  As farmers and ag workers begin preparations for the upcoming field season, they may be wondering what new pest management technologies and information are available. In this episode, Ryan and Justin sit down with plant pathology specialist Dr. Paul Esker to discuss new alfalfa fungicide recommendations, updated recommendations for soybean white mold and tar spot control, as well as new scouting platforms available to farmers. Entomology specialist Dr. John Tooker joins us to discuss new Bt traits, and updated information on slug management. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Dr. John Tooker, Penn StateLinks:Penn State Agronomy GuideFungicide Efficacy for Control of Corn Foliar DiseasesFungicide Efficacy for Control of Soybean Foliar DiseasesFungicide Efficacy for Control of Alfalfa DiseasesFungicide Efficacy for Control of Wheat DiseasesHandy Bt Trait Table for U.S. Corn ProductionPhoto credit: John Tooker, Penn StateThank the Pennsylvania Soybean Board for sponsoring our 2025 Crops Conference and Crops Day events. The Pennsylvania Soybean Board is responsible for the proper allocation of soybean checkoff dollars. This farmer led board preserves and advances animal agriculture, identifies and promotes sustainable practices that provide ROI to farmers, drives new innovations to increase the value of soy, promote biofuels through partnering opportunities, and increases the understanding of soy.Sign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 1/14/25 As farmers and ag workers begin preparations for the upcoming field season, they may be wondering what new weed management technologies and information is available. In this episode, Ryan and Justin sit down with weed specialist Dwight Lingenfelter to discuss new herbicide technologies, products, and resistance issues moving into the upcoming season.  Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Dwight Lingenfelter, Penn StateLinks:Order the new Penn State Agronomy GuideCorn Growth StagesSoybean Growth StagesPhoto Credit: Andrew Frankenfield, Penn State ExtensionThank the Pennsylvania Soybean Board for sponsoring our 2025 Crops Conference and Crops Day events. The Pennsylvania Soybean Board is responsible for the proper allocation of soybean checkoff dollars. This farmer led board preserves and advances animal agriculture, identifies and promotes sustainable practices that provide ROI to farmers, drives new innovations to increase the value of soy, promote biofuels through partnering opportunities, and increases the understanding of soy.Sign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 12/9/24 Winter is here, and temperatures are in the single digits across Pennsylvania, so what better time than now to talk about wintertime livestock feeding and pasture management! Join Ryan and Justin in a conversation with Dave Hartman about the agronomic considerations behind feeding livestock over the winter, reducing livestock damage to pasture, and planning your wintertime grazing rotation.  Formerly a Penn State extension educator, Dave Hartman now serves as the program director of PAGLC (Pennsylvania Grazing Lands Coalition). Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Dave Hartman, Former Extension EducatorLinks: Cold Stress and Beef CattleCA SoilWebPennsylvania Grazing Lands CoalitionPhoto Credit: Sjoerd Duiker Thank the Pennsylvania Soybean Board for sponsoring our 2025 Crops Conference and Crops Day events. The Pennsylvania Soybean Board is responsible for the proper allocation of soybean checkoff dollars. This farmer led board preserves and advances animal agriculture, identifies and promotes sustainable practices that provide ROI to farmers, drives new innovations to increase the value of soy, promote biofuels through partnering opportunities, and increases the understanding of soy.Sign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 12/20/24Happy New Year! On this episode of the Agronomy Highlights Podcast, Ryan and Justin reflect on our favorite episodes of 2024, and quiz each other on the topics covered over the past year. Tune in and play along on this special episode! Sign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 11/21/24Pennsylvania winters can bring low temperatures, high moisture, and often fluctuating conditions. These conditions can be abusive to stored farm equipment and machinery. On this episode, extension educators and resident farm equipment experts, Zack Curtis and Andrew Frankenfield, share winter storage tips, discuss how to prepare equipment for storage, and how to minimize problems that can arise during storage.  Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuests: Andrew Frankenfield and Zachary Curtis, Penn State ExtensionLinks: Preparing and Storing Farm Equipment for WinterPhoto credit: Zachary CurtisSign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 11/21/24In this episode, we're diving into the world of organic field crop production with Kristen Loria, Extension specialist at Cornell University. Kristen shares her broad expertise in building successful organic field cropping systems, including her experience in reducing tillage and improving crop diversity in organic field crop rotations. Kristen also discusses her experiences producing organic dry beans in New York (starting @ 40 min). Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Kristen Loria, Cornell UniversityLinks:Penn State Organic Crop Production GuideOGRAIN - Organic Grain Resources and Information NetworkButtermilk BeanPhoto Credit: Kristen LoriaSign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 11/21/24Let's talk crap! As harvest season wraps up and manure pits continue to fill, farmers may be wondering how and if manure may be applied to cropland in winter conditions. In this episode, we are joined by Penn State Extension experts Dr. Robb Meinen and Leanna Duppstadt to discuss how to safely and effectively spread manure in the winter. We also discuss the value of writing manure management plans. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuests: Robert Meinen and Leanna Duppstadt, Penn State ExtensionLinks: The Do's and Don'ts of Winter Manure SpreadingManure Management Plan Overview and Connections to ResourcesManure N-P-K Economic Value CalculatorPhoto Credit: Ryan Spelman Sign up to receive our newsletter, Field Crop News! and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 10/28/2024Ever wondered what it takes to become a successful multi-generation farm? In this episode, Ryan and Justin investigate the often-tricky process of farm succession and transition planning. Guests Joy Kirkpatrick and Darlene Livingston discuss what farm succession and transition planning means to producers, tensions that may arise during the process, and how to start your own farm plan.  Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuests: Joy Kirkpatrick and Darlene Livingston Links:Cultivating Your Farm's FuturePennsylvania Farm Link Resource HubFarm Succession with Pennsylvania Farm LinkPhoto Credit: Ryan SpelmanSign up to receive our newsletter, Field Crop News! and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded 10/2/2024As corn and soybean harvest season is in full swing here in Pennsylvania, there is no better time to have a conversation about grain marketing strategy than the present! In this episode, our grain marketing novices, Ryan and Justin, invite grain marketing expert Jon LaPorte of MSU Extension to discuss the basics of grain marketing. We discuss grain marketing terms like basis and futures, contract options available to farmers, as well as market trends.  Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Jon LaPorte, Michigan State ExtensionLinks:Michigan State University Extension DEMaND SeriesGrain Marketing Evaluation ToolCommonly Used Grain ContractsPhoto credit: Ryan Spelman, Penn State ExtensionSign up to receive our newsletter, Field Crop News! and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 10/7/24Have you ever wondered how a meteorologist predicts the weather? In the agricultural community, we understand the importance of accurate weather prediction and rely on forecasts to plan management decisions. In this episode, we are talking to Penn State meteorologist Kyle Imhoff about how weather is predicted, the innovative work his team does to improve weather prediction, and his forecast for the fall and winter seasons.  Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Kyle Imhoff, Penn State UniversityLinks:The Penn State Climatologist service: Agricultural Interests Climate ZonesWhat are El Niño and La Niña?Keystone MesonetPhoto credit: Ryan Spellman, Penn State ExtensionSign up to receive our newsletter, Field Crop News! and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 9/26/24 On this bonus episode, Ryan and Justin chat with fellow extension agronomy educators about 2024 crop conditions and silage dry-down. Dr. Heidi Reed discusses the results of the statewide crop conditions tour, projecting soybean and corn yields across Pennsylvania, and Zack Curtis discusses the findings from his silage dry-down reports this season. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest(s): Dr. Heidi Reed, Zack Curtis, Penn State ExtensionLinks:2024 Crop Conditions Tour: Corn Suffers Statewide, Hope for SoybeansCorn Silage Dry Down Update: Week of September 2, 2024Troubleshooting Abnormal Corn EarsPhoto credit: Heidi Reed, Penn State ExtensionSign up to receive our newsletter, Field Crop News! and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 9/25/24We cannot believe we made it to Season 3 without a silage episode! Today that all changes, as Ryan and Justin talk with forage systems specialist Joe Lawrence of the Cornell PRO-DAIRY team. Joe Lawrence draws upon his years of experience with Cornell and as a private certified crop adviser to chat about the science of corn silage management and hybrid selection, and reflects on lessons learned from the 2024 silage season.  Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Joe Lawrence, Cornell University Links:Corn Silage ManagementSpreadsheet to Price Standing Hay-crop ForageUnderstanding Silage ManagementCornell Field Crop Variety TrialsPDMP Pennsylvania Corn Silage Hybrid TrialsCornell Maximizing Forage Quality in Bunk SilosManaging for Quality Silage: Bunk Silos and Piles. Joe Lawrence, Forage Specialist, Cornell PRODAIRYPhoto credit: Ryan Spelman, Penn State ExtensionSign up to receive our newsletter, Field Crop News! and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 8/26/24 In part two of our two-part series, we are exploring new and emerging agricultural technologies. In this episode, Dr. Charlie White shares his lab's research on nitrogen decision support tools and variable rate fertilizer prescriptions, and Dr. Daniela Carrijo shares her lab's work on using drones to calculate cover crop nitrogen contributions and new short-stature corn genetics.Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest(s): Dr. John Wallace, Dr. Daniela Carrijo, Penn State University Links:Nitrogen Recommendations for Corn That Credit Cover Crops and Soil Organic MatterSoil Fertility TestingPhoto credit: Charlie White, Penn State Sign up to receive our newsletter, Field Crop News! and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 8/26/24In part one of a two part series, Ryan and Justin explore new and emerging agricultural technologies. On this episode Dr. Paul Esker shares his lab's reseacrh on drone technology and fungicide application and Dr. John Wallace shares his lab's research on exact-apply herbicide application technology. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State Extension Guest(s): Dr. Paul Esker and Dr. John Wallace, Penn State UniversityLinks:The Esker LabJohn WallaceExploring Emerging and Advanced Technology in AgriculturePhoto credit: Ryan Spelman, Penn State ExtensionSign up to receive our newsletter, Field Crop News! and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 8/26/24Season three of Agronomy Highlights is here! Hosts Ryan and Justin take the time to officially introduce themselves, and chat about the future ideas and plans for season 3. Big things to come this season! Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionLinks:Penn State Extension Agronomic CropsPenn State Extension Cover CropsPenn State Extension ForagesSign up to receive our newsletter, Field Crop News! and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 7/12/24Stored grain insect pests like weevils and grain moths can greatly reduce grain quality during storage, and increase the risk of grain rejection at the elevator. In this episode, we chat with Penn State Entomologist and Extension Specialist, Dr. John Tooker, about the biology of these insect pests and how to manage them using an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach.  Links:The Penn State Agronomy GuidePreparing Grain Storages for HarvestManagement of Stored Grain Pests in Organic SystemsHosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: John Tooker, Ph.D., Penn StatePhoto credit: Clemson University - USDA Cooperative Extension Slide Series, Bugwood.org Sign up to receive our newsletter, Field Crop News! and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: July 16, 2024We are experiencing drought conditions in many parts of Pennsylvania and the country. Join us for a round table discussion with extension educators across the state to learn about current crop conditions and the effects of mid-season drought on corn, soybean, and forages.  Links:Managing Crops During a Severe Drought: Q and AManaging Drought Stressed CornU.S. Drought MonitorHosts:  Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuests: Zack Curtis, Del Voight, Penn State ExtensionPhoto credit: Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionSign up to receive our newsletter, Field Crop News! and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 6/20/2024Can Agriculture and Solar Coexist? As national interest in renewable energy has increased, agricultural land has become a top choice for solar development projects. In this episode, we are joined by Ohio State Extension field specialist Eric Romich and agronomy educator Christine Gelley, along with Penn State Extension educator Dan Brockett, for a round table discussion. In the first part of this discussion, we discuss the scale and impact of solar development on Ohio and Pennsylvania agriculture. Eric and Christine then discuss their research on producing forage crops alongside solar panels.  Links:Agrivoltaics: What Does That Mean?Landowner Leasing for Utility Scale Solar FarmsForage as Vegetative Cover for Utility-Scale Solar in OhioAgrivoltaics: Integrating forage production in utility-scale solar farmsHosts: Ryan Spelman, Daniel Brockett, Penn State ExtensionGuests: Eric Romich and Christine Gelley, Ohio State ExtensionPhoto credit: Ohio State Extension Sign up to receive our newsletter, Field Crop News! and follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 6/13/2024In this week's episode, we are joined by Dr. Andrew Smith of Rodale Institute to talk about organic field cropping systems. Dr. Smith is the chief scientific officer at Rodale Institute and oversees their vegetable systems trial, along with other organic trials. Join us for an in-depth discussion of Rodale Institute's history, its long-term research on organic field cropping systems, and the future of organic agriculture in Pennsylvania. Links:Transitioning to Organic Crop ProductionPenn State Organic Crop Production GuideRodale InstituteRodale Institute: Farming Systems Trial 40 Year ReportHosts: Ryan Spelman and Anna Hodgson, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Dr. Andrew Smith, Rodale InstituteSign-up to receive our newsletter, Field Crop News!Follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 5/21/2024Interested in increasing forage availability during the summer slump? Summer annual forages might be for you! In this episode, we bring on forage crop and beef systems expert Dr. Daren Redfearn of the University of Nebraska to discuss types of summer annual forages, growing these crops, and how to best incorporate them into your farming operation. Forage species discussed include sorghum, sudangrass, sorghum-sudangrass, and pearl millet.  Links:Alternative Forages for Spring and Summer PlantingNebGuide: Summer Annual Forage GrassesUNL BEEF: Recent BeefWatch TopicsHosts: Joseph Akins and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Daren Redfearn, University of NebraskaPhoto credit: Troy Walz, UNL BeefFollow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 5/1/2024 With warm spring temperatures, the first cutting of hay is just around the corner for forage producers. During this episode, we are joined by Ron Hoover and Andrew Frankenfield of Penn State Extension to discuss the management considerations to be aware of going into this first cutting. Aside from their roles with Penn State, Andrew and Ron are avid hay farmers and share a wealth of knowledge and experience in producing a successful forage crop.  Links:Speeding up the Hay Drying ProcessHosts: Ryan Spelman, Justin Brackenrich, Penn State Extension Guests: Ron Hoover, Andrew Frankenfield, Penn State ExtensionSign up to receive our newsletter, Field Crop News!Follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 3/18/2024Few researchers anywhere in the world probably know as much about soybean cyst nematode as Dr. Greg Tylka. Originally from Westmoreland, Pennsylvania, Dr. Tylka now works for Iowa State and provided us with a broad-ranging discussion on the history of SCN, as well as how to manage it. If you want to take a deep dive into nematodes, this is the episode for you. Links:The Soybean Cyst Nematodes CoalitionTake the Test to Beat the Pest: Soybean Cyst NematodePlant Parasitic Nematodes ExplainedHosts: Joseph Akins and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Gregory L Tylka, Iowa State UniversitySign up to receive our newsletter, Field Crop News!Image credit: Penn State Department of Plant Pathology & Environmental Microbiology Archives, Penn State University, Bugwood.org Follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 3/6/2024It's rare that we get a cropping season where the weather is absolutely perfect, but luckily corn is relatively resilient. In this episode, Dr. Jeffrey Coulter from the University of Minnesota joins us to discuss how corn deals with weather-related stressors and how that may impact a grower's nitrogen management strategy. This is an interesting one and a very valuable listen as we come off this very mild winter and approach planting time for 2024. Links:Nitrogen Fertilization of CornNitrogen Recommendations for Corn That Credit Cover Crops and Soil Organic MatterManaging Drought Stressed CornHost: Joseph Akins, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Jeffrey A Coulter, University of MinnesotaSign up to receive our newsletter, Field Crop News!Follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 2/13/2024Sulfur is a critical secondary crop nutrient, especially for corn production. In this episode, Dr. Charlie White joins us for a hearty discussion on why, when, and how to apply sulfur to crops. We also get into the specifics of why it's difficult to accurately assess sulfur levels in the field, as well as the chemical nature of sulfur and its level of availability. Links:Sulfur Fertility Management for Grain and Forage CropsHost: Joseph Akins, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Charles White, Penn State Sign-up to receive news, upcoming event information, and our weekly newsletter, Field Crop News.Follow us on Facebook!

Recorded 2/12/24Certain weeds seem to be tough to control no matter what we do, and for many row crop farms in Pennsylvania, pokeweed and burcucumber certainly fit this description. If you're struggling to manage one, or both, of these weeds, then this episode will give you some valuable management recommendations on how to get these nuisances under control. We are joined again by one of our resident weed control experts, Mr. Dwight Lingenfelter, who helps shed light on how to alter herbicide programs and use good cultural practices for dealing with pokeweed and burcucumber. Links:Managing Burcucumber in Agronomic CropsPokeweed Control in Corn and SoybeanHost: Joseph Akins, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Dwight Lingenfelter, Penn State ExtensionFollow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 2/5/24Many farmers have expressed interest in trying to grow hemp in recent years, but understanding the agronomics of producing this crop is essential. In this episode, Dr. David Suchoff joins us to discuss the many aspects of what it takes to grow a successful hemp crop for fiber. We get into his research experience, new possibilities, obstacles, and how to go about growing hemp for the first time. Links:Industrial Hemp ProductionHemp Crop Outlook 2024Potential for Hemp Production in PennsylvaniaHost: Joseph Akins, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Dr. David Suchoff, NC State ExtensionFollow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 1/19/2024When it comes to fertilizer, we often discuss things like urea, potash, MAP, and DAP. However, a whole world of organic fertilizer sources exists outside of the traditional inorganic fertilizers most large-row crop producers are accustomed to using. In this episode, we are joined by two very knowledgeable members of our Penn State team to go over the benefits and drawbacks of organic fertilizers. We also discuss how folks interested in organic production might go about making the switch to organic.  Links:The National List of Allowed and Prohibited SubstancesAgricultural Analytical Services LaboratoryUsing Organic Nutrient SourcesHost: Joseph Akins   Guest:  Dr. Elsa Sanchez and Megan Chawner, Penn State University/Penn State ExtensionFollow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 1/5/2024I was once asked a question about whether fungicidal seed treatments negatively impacted beneficial soil fungi. While researching this question, I came across the work of Dr. Jim Germida from the University of Saskatchewan. In this episode, we get into a broad-ranging conversation about the many aspects of soil microbiology with a true expert. This is a valuable conversation for anyone looking to learn more about what's happening below the soil in their fields! Links:James J. Germida's CitationsHost: Joseph Akins, Penn State ExtensionGuest: James J. Germida, University of SaskatchewanFollow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 12/19/23In this episode we are joined by Dr. Glen Harris from UGA to discuss how, when, and why to apply foliar fertilizers. If you think your crop may be deficient in a key nutrient, a proper foliar fertilizer application can remediate the deficiency and help to achieve higher yields. If you've ever considered a foliar fertilizer application, this episode will help give you some great foundational knowledge.  Links:Plant Tissue (Total) AnalysisFoliar ApplicationGlendon HarrisHost: Hosts: Joseph Akins, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Dr. Glendon Harris, University of GeorgiaFollow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 11/30/23In this episode, we are joined by two very knowledgeable researchers from UC Davis to discuss the effects fertilizer can have on soil microbial populations. Often, we are told that mineral fertilizers are deleterious to soil microbes, but you might be surprised to find that it's not quite that simple! In addition to fertilizer impacts, we also discuss the effects of tillage practices, organic matter levels, and how microbes behave in agricultural field settings versus more natural settings.Links:Does Long-term Use of Mineral Fertilizers Affect the Soil Microbial Biomass?Host: Hosts: Joseph Akins, Penn State ExtensionGuest:  Dr. Kate Scow and Dr. Daniel Geisseler Follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 11/13/23Senior agronomist Kevin Fry shares his take on the 2023 growing season in this episode. Everything from the spring drought and Candian wildfire smoke to soybean white mold and weed escapes in corn were covered in the show. Join us to reflect on the 2023 growing season to help you better prepare for the year ahead! Host: Joseph Akins, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Kevin Fry, Pioneer Follow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 11/6/23Tune in as  tackle the management of winter wheat from two perspectives, general agronomics and soil fertility. From planting dates and seeding rates to nitrogen applications in fall and spring, we go over all the basics of successfully growing a crop of winter wheat. Useful Links:Planting Winter WheatNitrogen Management in Winter WheatHost: Host: Joseph Akins, Penn State ExtensionGuests: Guest: Dr. Daniela Carrijo and Dr. Charlie White, Penn StateFollow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 10/13/2023Joined by Mike Staton from Michigan State, we discuss how farmers can minimize yield loss during the soybean harvest process. Find out how much loss is typically expected during harvest, routes of pre-harvest loss, and what farmers can do regarding equipment management to prevent losses. Useful Links:Pennsylvania Soybeans: Minimize Harvesting Loss and Maximize Cost Per BushelReducing Soybean Harvest LossesHarvesting SoybeansHost: Hosts: Joseph Akins, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Michael Staton, Michigan State UniversityFollow us on Facebook!

Recorded: September 1, 2023In this episode, we are joined again by our resident forage specialist Dr. Guojie Wang to discuss forage quality. We talk about why maintaining high-quality feed is essential for good livestock management and, specifically, how to manage forages properly. We also talk about how forage testing labs analyze samples, how to interpret a forage report, and where listeners can get their forages tested.  Useful Links:Forage Quality in PerspectiveDetermining Forage Quality: Understanding Feed AnalysisWhy Test Forage Quality?Host: Hosts: Joseph Akins and Dwane Miller, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Dr. Guojie Wang, Forage Specialist, Penn StateFollow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 9/5/2023Join us as we sit down with one of our best plant pathologists to discuss some of the most common corn ear rots that afflict our Pennsylvania corn crop. Dr. Murillo-Williams explains what typically causes these ear rots to develop, how to identify them, and what farmers can do to manage them. We also discuss livestock safety issues related to mycotoxin production and which corn ear rots produce the most harmful mycotoxins. Useful Links:Corn Ear Rots and MycotoxinsEar Rots in Your Corn Crop?An Overview of Ear RotsGrain and Silage Sampling and Mycotoxin TestingHost: Hosts: Joseph Akins and Dwane Miller, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Dr. Adriana Murillo-Williams, Penn State ExtensionPhoto credit: Dr. Alyssa Collins, Penn State UniversityFollow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 8/25/23Of all the things that are in a farmer's control to produce a healthy crop, unfortunately, the weather is not one of them. This year, several farms across Pennsylvania encountered hail damage from strong storm systems, and when that happens, it can be challenging to determine what the next best move is. Thankfully, Justin McMechan from the University of Nebraska Extension joins us on to discuss how to assess a hail-damaged field and what management options a grower has going forward.  Useful Links:7-Day Time Lapse of Corn Recovery from Hail DamageHail Damage Evaluation and Management in CornEvaluating Early-Season Hail Damage in CornHosts: Joseph Akins and Dwane Miller, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Justin McMechan, University of Nebraska-LincolnPhoto credit: Pixabay.comFollow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 8/1/23It takes a tremendous amount of mechanical power to keep a modern farm operation running, and in this episode, we dive into all aspects of farm machinery. We're covering which pieces of equipment are necessary for an operation, the tradeoffs of owning equipment vs. hiring a custom applicator, and how to manage equipment once you have it. A special "thank you" to fellow educator Zach Curtis for joining us and weighing in on our discussion. Useful Links:New & Used Farm Equipment For SaleAg Decision MakerHosts: Joseph Akins and Dwane Miller, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Zachary Curtis, Penn State ExtensionPhoto credit: Pixabay.comFollow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 7/19/2023There is certainly no shortage of livestock in Pennsylvania, and ensuring that those valuable farm animals have access to safe feed is of the utmost importance. In this episode, we discuss some of the most common forage toxicity problems and how they can be avoided. Listen in as we discuss everything from nitrate to toxicity, prussic acid to bloat, and toxic fescue. If you are interested in maintaining animal health or currently raising livestock, this one is for you!Useful Links:Warm Season Annuals and Alfalfa after FrostReducing the Risk of Nitrate and Prussic Acid Poisoning in LivestockSpectrum Analytic Analysis ServicesRock River LaboratoryDairy OneCumberland Valley Analytical ServicesHosts: Joseph Akins and Dwane Miller, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Leanna Duppstadt, Penn State ExtensionPhoto credit: Leanna DuppstadtFollow us on Facebook!

Recorded: 7/12/2023In this episode, we are speaking with Dr. Paul Vincelli from the University of Kentucky on the fascinating and often controversial topic of GMOs. We're discussing the history of genetically modified crops, how things have progressed over time, and the benefits and risks of this technology. Dr. VIncelli is a thoughtful scholar whose perspective on this makes for a balanced, productive, and thought-provoking conversation.  Useful Links:Dr. Paul VincelliHosts: Joseph Akins and Dwane Miller, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Dr. Paul Vincelli, University of KentuckyPhoto credit: Pixabay.comFollow us on Facebook!

Recorded: May 16, 2023In this episode, we are fortunate to be joined by Dr. Debalina Saha from Michigan State University to discuss the fascinating concept of allelopathy. Many plants produce compounds that inhibit the growth of other plants around them, and dissecting how that process works could yield some interesting opportunities moving forward. Tune in if you're curious about what allelopathy is, how it works, and how it could be harnessed in an agronomic system!Hosts: Joseph Akins and Dwane Miller, Penn State ExtensionGuests: Dr. Debalina Saha, Michigan State UniversityFollow us on Facebook!

Recorded: May 1, 2023Slugs can be a challenging pest to deal with early in the growing season. We sat down with one of our fellow Penn State Extension educator, Anna Hodgson, to discuss what to look for in the field when dealing with slugs. Learn how to manage slugs in row crops as we discuss species you might find to sampling and control methods.Useful Links:Scouting for Slugs in Corn Fields2023 Pennsylvania Slug Monitoring ProjectSlugs as Pests of Field CropsHosts: Joseph Akins and Dwane Miller, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Anna Hodgson, Penn State ExtensionFollow us on Facebook!Photo credit: Penn State ExtensionFollow us on Facebook!

Recorded: April 21, 2023In this episode, renowned entomologist Dr. Peter Ellsworth from the University of Arizona joins us to discuss the valuable role beneficial insects play in our cropping systems. We cover the differences between predators and parasitoids, how to scout fields to assess insect populations, as well as interesting, cutting-edge techniques such as beneficial insect releases via drone. Tune in to this in-depth conversation on all key aspects of biological insect control. Useful Links:About Peter C. EllsworthCrop CapsulesHosts: Joseph Akins and Dwane Miller, Penn State Extension Guest: Dr. Peter EllsworthFollow us on Facebook!