JOHNSTON, IA – Chuck Schneider, Regional Business Development Manager for AgVenture, Inc. has been elected as the president of the Indiana Crop Improvement Association (ICIA). Schneider has served in leadership roles with the ICIA during the past four years.

According to the International Fertilizer Association (IFA), total annual fertilizer sales including nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, secondary nutrients, and micronutrient total $180 billion.

A new study from University of Illinois may help improve U.S. total yield and grain composition prediction models by estimating total end-season yield by mid-season.

Most soybean cyst nematode (SCN) resistant varieties have the same source of resistance, PI88788. While has provided two decades of resistance to SCN, these microscopic parasites are adapting and finding a way around its resistance.

While residue prevents erosion and provides organic matter, it also holds moisture and prevents optimal drying and warming of the seedbed.

Ideal stand establishment starts with placing the right seed into a well-prepared seedbed. The soil temperature in the seed zone is of critical importance to maximizing stand establishment. Soil temperatures at four inches deep do not always increase steadily with time.

Seed treatments on soybeans, especially those containing a fungicide, may be of critical importance to stand establishment this year.

It starts with a clean and well-prepared planter. Take advantage of these chilly days of February to make sure your planter’s in top form. Consider these tips:

Crop residue in fields tends to hold excess water and can significantly lower soil temperature in the spring. Where excess residue is directly around newly planted seed, it may deprive developing seedlings of essential heat units necessary for rapid emergence.