Planting Window Opens for Some Indiana Farmers
Rain remains in the forecast, and soils remain too wet in many areas of the state. But, for a few growers in Central Indiana, the chance came yesterday to get rolling between storms. “I was traveling west on SR 28 in the Tipton area and I saw planters in the field,” reported Ryan Peil, field agronomist with DuPont Pioneer. “All the way along as I headed toward Lafayette, I saw ground being worked and even some dust in the air.” He said many areas of Central Indiana have received over an inch of rain in the past few days, but in areas where the rain has been lighter producers are able to get into the field, “There is a lot of variability out there, and I have talked with many farmers who feel they will have a change to get back in the field this week, even with the threat of more rain.”
But even where planting is taking place, soil temperature is still a concern, “This is a real concern. Our research shows that the first 24 to 48 hours a seed is in the ground is critical.” Peil added that the first drink of water a seed should have should be warm water in warm soil and that seeds planted this week may not get that. He indicated fields planted last week, where warmer and drier conditions persisted, may be off to a good start.
One good thing, early season weed pressure has been minimal due to the cooler weather. Peil says, for the most part, the soil has been in good condition, “The soil has been ideal to work with, and most producers have had time to get their spray programs working so weed control and burndown has not a serious issue.”
You can hear the complete interview with Ryan Peil on the agronomy page on this web site and app for smartphones and tablets, sponsored again this year by DuPont Pioneer. Throughout the growing season, Pioneer field agronomists will provide updates on crop and field conditions across the state. In addition agronomic advisories and research updates will be posted in this area. This is the 3rd year that DuPont Pioneer has partnered with HAT to provide this timely and vital information to Hoosier farmers.