We are coming to the end of the year here in Sampson County and for our farmers, planning is beginning for next year. Just to reflect on this growing season for a moment, I will say it was better than the previous year but not without challenges. We started off wet which delayed planting in some instances and required replanting in others. Wet weather also delayed some pesticide applications. Lately it has been pretty dry which has aided in a timely harvest for crops like corn and cotton but could have reduced yields on crops like double crop soybeans. This dry weather is also slowing the growth of some winter small grains. Planning ahead for the next season is essential in agriculture. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind as we begin planning.
The first consideration should be the crops that are actively growing, taking the winter months to set tillers and produce grain next year. Scout these crops often and try your best to stay ahead of any disease or insect pressures you may see. Ensure that these crops have the nutrients they need to produce the most yield. Nitrogen rates range from 100 to 120 pounds per acre total for wheat. Split applications reduce the risk of nitrogen loss due to leaching or denitrification while matching the crop’s growth needs. This leads perfectly into the next consideration.
Fertility is essential to producing the optimum crop yield. Soil sampling is the first step in seeing what is needed. Sampling your soils thoroughly can give you the best idea of what spots in your field may need a little extra or not as much. I recommend grid sampling if there is no real problem area within the field. If there is an area where the previous crop showed signs of deficiency, sample it separately so you can make the amendment that is needed. Fertility begins with liming. Ensuring the soil is at the right pH level ensures that all nutrients are available to the plant and not bound in the soil. NCDA soil tests do not show results for nitrogen since it is so mobile in the soil. For other nutrients this test will provide an index value and generally, values over 25 are acceptable.
Maintaining machinery is another task that is nearly constant on the farm. Winter months are commonly utilized to change oil and fix those temporary fixes that were “good enough” while planting or harvest season was underway. Preventing future problems with good maintenance saves you some headache when planting or harvest season comes around again. It also helps your equipment to last longer, which with the price of equipment, is essential.
These are just a few considerations to pay attention to as we go into the end of the year and start planning for next season. Hopefully these tips are helpful. Remember that the holidays are right around the corner. I encourage everyone to take some time to spend with your families and friends.
