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.
The Louisiana cotton crop is the smallest on record, but strong yields are a silver lining. LSU AgCenter’s Craig Gautreaux reports from northeast Louisiana.
October 17, 2025 04:48 PM
·
Using FEMA and USDA data, Trace One researchers estimate average annual U.S. agricultural losses of $3.48 billion, with drought accounting for more than half.
October 17, 2025 04:29 PM
·
Soybean farmer and Arkansas Lt. Gov. Leslie Rutledge highlights why the U.S. trade standoff with China is especially critical for Arkansas producers.
October 17, 2025 04:07 PM
·
NEFB President Mark McHargue provides an update from the Husker State, where farmers are working hard to bring in one of the largest harvests in recent years.
October 17, 2025 04:06 PM
·
Todd Miller, CEO of Head Honchos, shares about his business offering to ease agricultural labor shortages.
October 17, 2025 04:02 PM
·
Having a good read on fuel prices is a must during harvest, but one analyst says grain farmers should also be watching the crude oil markets.
October 17, 2025 01:26 PM
·
