Some farmers are taking advantage of warmer temperatures right now, and while mild weather can help jump-start the season, it also gives weeds a head start.
“Southern Illinois University in Carbondale did some research showing that in a bare dirt situation, waterhemp will emerge faster than if there are winter annual weeds or a cover crop. So, the people that have their ground prepped to plant or do have it planted, they’ll see waterhemp come up in those fields first because the soil will warm up a little faster, more sunlight to warm it up faster, etc. So, if you are planting early and have a clean seedbed, the risk of earlier germination is certainly there,” said Matt Geiger, an agronomic service representative with Syngenta.
Geiger says it is important to go back to the basics when managing weeds in early spring and to get an herbicide on the crop pre-emergence.
Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding discusses the recent surge in bird flu cases, the state’s expanded biosecurity response and efforts to support poultry producers.
March 03, 2026 12:16 PM
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Geopolitical risk is rapidly increasing fertilizer price volatility before planting.
March 03, 2026 11:20 AM
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Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels Alliance America joined us to break down the latest developments in the Renewable Fuel Standard rulemaking process and what it could mean for agriculture, energy markets, and rural economies.
March 02, 2026 02:25 PM
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Jennifer Tirey of the Illinois Pork Producers Association joined us to discuss efforts to bring pork back into Chicago Public Schools, the nutritional benefits for students, and what the decision could mean for pork producers across the state.
March 02, 2026 02:23 PM
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Farmer and retired colonial Joe Ricker joined us to highlight Ag Safety Awareness Program Week, share his work supporting veterans and farmers, and offer guidance on making safety a year-round priority on the farm.
March 02, 2026 02:22 PM
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Dry conditions may tighten hay supplies before summer growth. John Mays of Central Life Sciences joined us to discuss the risks of extended grain storage, how quality can be affected over time, and what growers can do to protect their grain while waiting for market opportunities.
March 02, 2026 02:21 PM
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