Weekly Ag Update

By ned birkey

msu EXTENSION EDUCATOR EMERITUS

SPARTAN AG 

Eric Snodgrass, of Nutrien Ag Solutions, said his current thinking is an “open” spring for April, May and June, with normal precipitation, although he also says the spring rains may be of a “streaky nature.” Another weather model he looks at shows a wet forecast in the 45-day time through about April 23. He mentioned last year’s April and May were the windiest on record, and this year may follow suit.

Early planting (such as late March) looks like it may be “out the window” this year. The key is soil temperature and moisture. The worst thing is to start the year by planting into muddy and cold soils, even though the tractor has plenty of horsepower and flotation and the cab is nice and cozy. Some banks and lenders will “over lend” on planting equipment so it can be done in a timely manner. The NAU Country “early plant dates” for both corn and soybeans provide some good crop insurance guidance. Planting date is only one of several yield factors to achieve good yields. Tight budgets this year may also “rein in” trying something risky. This year may be an excellent time to try something new, but on a limited basis. Former three-time soybean world record holder Kip Cullers wanted his “experimental” treatments near the farmstead so he could keep an eye on things every day. The Ohio State 2025 eFields Report and Michigan Soybean On-Farm Research Report for 2025 have many good ideas of things farmers can do on their own farm.

Protecting plants from frost may seem like a no-brainer but serves as a good reminder to watch the forecast, even when planting cool tolerant vegetables.  Most frost-hardy (below 28ºF), early season crops can withstand freezing temperatures and a hard frost for short periods without injury. Frost tolerant vegetables can withstand a light frost of between 28º to 32ºF. Tender vegetables are damaged by even a light frost and should be protected, such as by row covers, blankets, cold frames or mulch to keep the plants warmer. Remember that even if air temperatures are as high as 38ºF, frosts may occur on the ground and plants.