Recent precipitation and current cool conditions are favorable for both corn and soy crop grain fill. The extended forecast is dry and warmer, which could expedite the grain fill window. For crops on some lighter soils in the Northeast, recent rains appear to have arrived late. Corn in sandy and soils with poor water holding capacity senesced quickly over the recent week. In field areas that flooded or have decreased plant populations due to environmental conditions, I’m finding grass weeds happily filling the void. One species in particular, Fall panicum, seems to be having an exceptional year. This summer annual can reach seven feet in height and is recognized by appearing to be growing in a zig-zag pattern caused by growth bending at the nodes. The seedhead is easily identifiable, resulting in a wide spreading panicle when mature.
For those in Grundy County and surrounding areas, Illinois Extension and the Kendall-Grundy Farm Bureau are partnering to host University of Illinois plant pathologist Dr. Boris Camiletti on Wednesday, August 28th at 1:30 pm at the Kendall-Grundy Farm Bureau building. Dr. Camiletti will lead a discussion on his research projects and share experiences in his first Illinois growing season. Producers, landowners and agronomists are encouraged to bring plant samples the afternoon of the meeting for discussion or identification purposes. Anyone is welcome to attend, the Kendall-Grundy Farm Bureau building is located at 4000 N. Division street in Morris, Illinois.