By Scout Nelson
Dry spring weather is creating new planting challenges across Nebraska. With much of the state in drought, growers are focusing on soil moisture, planter settings, irrigation timing, and herbicide use to improve crop success.
Soil conditions are one of the most important factors in planting. Surface moisture where the seed is placed matters most for germination and emergence. Even if deeper soil moisture is limited, April through June often brings rainfall that can help young crops. However, dry surface soils can change quickly and require close attention.
Each tillage pass may remove valuable soil moisture. In dry seasons, limiting unnecessary tillage can help conserve water. Proper planter adjustments are also important. More down pressure may be needed in hard soils, but too much pressure can create sidewall compaction and reduce emergence. Closing wheels should be adjusted based on actual field conditions.
Soil temperature also matters. Corn and soybean seeds respond best when planted into soils near 50°F and when warmer weather is expected. Avoid planting before a cold rain or snow event. Dry soils can cool faster than moist soils, so temperature swings may affect emergence.
Research continues to support deeper planting for moisture access. Corn often performs best near two inches deep, while soybeans may do well around 1.75 inches. If moisture is deeper, corn may be planted deeper to reach even moisture. “When seedbed conditions are dry, make sure you choose a seeding depth that ensures uniformly adequate soil moisture for (corn) germination and emergence.”
Good seed-to-soil contact is critical. Seeds placed in air pockets or poorly closed rows may fail to absorb enough water for germination. Digging behind the planter can help confirm moisture contact and row closure.
Herbicide timing should also match dry conditions. Some products may injure soybeans if seeds contact herbicide in open trenches or cracked soil. Proper row closure and moisture activation are important.
Irrigation can help when soil is too hard, powdery, or unevenly dry. Applying enough water to reach moist soil below the surface can support uniform emergence. Small amounts of water that do not reach deeper moisture may start seedlings that later fail.
Every field is different, but careful planning decisions this spring can help improve stands, protect yield potential, and manage drought risk.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zhud
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Corn, Weather