Category: Forage

Scouting Smarter: June Insect Pressure and Threshold Tips

Hayden Schug, Agriculture Agent | hschug@umd.edu
University of Maryland Extension, Charles County

As Maryland’s corn and soybean fields move into early vegetative and reproductive stages, June marks a key time for pest scouting. Early detection and threshold-based decisions are the foundation of a strong Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy, and this month brings several common threats that row crop producers should be on the lookout for.

Begin scouting for stink bugs in corn, especially along field edges. These pests often move in from neighboring wheat fields during harvest or from forested areas. They tend to show up first along borders and gradually move toward the field interior, so edge-focused scouting is important early on. From V1 to V6, the treatment threshold is 13 stink bugs per 100 plants; this drops to 10 per 100 plants from V14 to VT. Pyrethroids have shown good knockdown efficacy against stink bugs, but keep in mind that they tend to have a short residual period.

Soybean fields are also entering critical scouting windows. VE to V3 soybeans are susceptible to early defoliation from bean leaf beetles, grasshoppers, and other chewing pests. While the damage may look concerning, soybeans can tolerate up to 30 percent defoliation before bloom without experiencing yield loss. Be sure to scout multiple locations across the field, not just the edges, as field borders often exaggerate pest pressure.

Slugs have caused some issues this spring in Southern Maryland. While most fields are planted by June, it’s still worth noting that slugs can remain a concern, especially in no-till systems with heavy residue. Ensuring good furrow closure is key to preventing slugs from accessing germinating seeds. Using row cleaners to clear residue from around the furrow can also help reduce slug habitat and early pressure. If damage is suspected, conducting stand counts can help determine whether replanting is necessary as soybeans can compensate for stand loss. 

Alfalfa should be scouted for potato leafhoppers beginning in late May/early June. Regular scouting is very important, once hopper burn becomes visible in the field, yield loss has already occurred. Unlike alfalfa weevil, where the first harvest often reduces populations enough to avoid further issues, potato leafhoppers have multiple generations each year and can quickly reinfest fields after harvest or treatment, so continued scouting is necessary. For a dynamic threshold calculator and detailed scouting tips, check out this resource from Penn State Extension, https://extension.psu.edu/potato-leafhopper-on-alfalfa.

Hot and dry weather can also accelerate the development of secondary pests, particularly spider mites along field edges. While not typically a major issue in June, early flare-ups can occur during periods of drought stress. It’s worth inspecting leaf undersides in stressed areas to catch hot spots before populations expand.

Effective scouting depends on consistent, thoughtful observation. Early morning or evening visits often reveal pests that remain hidden during the heat of the day. Scouting beyond the field edge helps avoid over- or underestimating pest populations. Most importantly, only apply insecticides when economic thresholds are met. Doing so helps reduce unnecessary costs, preserves beneficial insects, and slows the development of pesticide resistance.

Optimizing Drying for Hay and Baleage

Triticale field mowed for baleage
Amanda Grev, Pasture & Forage Specialist | agrev@umd.edu
University of Maryland Extension

Along with making corn and soybean planting a challenge, spring rains can make for a challenging forage harvest as well. The faster we can get our hay or baleage dry enough to bale or wrap, the more we can reduce the risk of rain damage and retain a higher quality end product. Follow these guidelines to help optimize drying time during forage harvest this spring.

The Forage Drying Process

Let’s think for a moment about the basic principles behind forage drying. When forage is cut, it is typically around 75 to 85% moisture, but it must be dried down to 40 to 60% moisture for baleage or 14 to 18% moisture for dry hay. During this wilting and drying process, plants continue the natural process of respiration, breaking down stored sugars to create energy and carbon dioxide. The longer it takes the forage to dry, the longer the forage continues to respire in the field. Data suggests that 2 to 8% of the dry matter may be lost due to respiration, resulting in energy losses and an overall reduction in forage quality. This means that a faster drying time will not only get the forage off the field faster but will also lower the amount of dry matter and nutrients lost through respiration.

The drying process happens in several distinct phases; knowing and understanding these phases can help us manage our forage in a way that will maximize drying rates and ensure nutrient retention within the harvested forage.

Phase One: Moisture Loss via Stomatal Openings

The first phase in the drying process is moisture loss from the leaves. This happens through the stomata, which are the openings in the leaf surface that allow for moisture and gas exchange between the leaf and the atmosphere. These stomata are naturally open in daylight and closed in darkness. After a plant is cut, respiration through these stomatal openings continues but gradually declines until the moisture content has fallen below 60%. Rapid drying in this initial phase to lose the first 15 to 20% moisture will reduce loss of starch and sugar and preserve more dry matter and total digestible nutrients in the harvested forage.

Solar radiation is the biggest driver for maximizing drying during this initial phase. This can be accomplished by using a wide swath (at least 60% of the cut area), which will reduce the density of the forage swath and maximize the amount of forage exposed to sunlight. A wider swath will increase the swath temperature, reduce the swath humidity, and keep the stomata open to allow for moisture loss, encouraging rapid and more even drying immediately after cutting. In contrast, narrow swaths will have higher humidity and less drying, allowing respiration to continue and leading to further dry matter and nutrient losses. Wide swaths also help keep the crop off of wet soil more than narrow swaths, since narrow swaths are heavier and tend to settle through the stubble and make contact with the ground.

Research has shown that a wide swath immediately after cutting is the single most important factor in maximizing the initial drying rate and preserving digestible dry matter. To reduce soil moisture, some will cut their hay in a narrow swath and allow the ground to dry before spreading the crop out. However, research indicates that valuable drying time is lost while allowing the ground to dry, so this practice is not recommended. A full width swath will increase the drying surface of the swath by 2.8 times, and moisture reductions from 85 to 60% can be reached in as little as 5 to 7 hours. Baleage from wide swaths has been shown to have lower respiration losses during drying, greater total digestible nutrients, and more lactic and acetic acid, improving forage quality and fermentation.

During this phase, a wide swath is more important than conditioning, as most of the respiration takes place in the leaves. While conditioning is important for drying stems, it has less impact on drying leaves and therefore will have little effect on this initial moisture loss. This means that for baleage, a wide swath may be more important than conditioning.

Phase Two: Stem Moisture Loss

The second phase in the drying process includes moisture loss from the stems in addition to the leaves. Once moisture levels have dropped to the point where plant respiration ceases, the closing of the stomata traps the remaining moisture, slowing further drying. Loss of moisture from the stems is a much slower process because stems have a lower surface to volume ratio, fewer stomata, and a semi-impervious waxy cuticle that minimizes water loss. At this stage, conditioning can help increase the drying rate because it provides openings within the plant’s structure, breaking the waxy cuticle, providing an exit path for moisture, and allowing drying to continue at a faster rate. For maximum effectiveness, be sure the conditioner is adjusted properly. Forage is considered properly conditioned if the stems of legumes are scraped or broken every 2 to 4 inches and less than 5% of the leaves are bruised. In general, roller conditioners are best suited for alfalfa or alfalfa/grass mixtures, while flail conditioners work best for grasses.

Additional Factors

In addition to swath width and conditioning, several other strategies can be used to improve drying time. Be sure to mow forages at the proper height, leaving 2 to 3 inches of residual for alfalfa and 4 inches for cool-season grasses. Not only will this result in improved stand persistence, quicker regrowth, and sooner subsequent cuttings, but the stubble will help to elevate the swath, breaking contact from the ground, reducing moisture wicking from the soil, and promoting better air flow for drying. 

If possible, mow earlier in the day, preferably around mid- to late-morning after the dew has dried off. Although it is true that cutting later in the day can result in greater concentrations of sugars and starches in the forage at the time of cutting, increased respiratory losses overnight and a longer total drying time may offset this potential benefit with afternoon cuttings. Research in high-moisture environments has not found any forage quality advantage with afternoon cutting. Instead, mowing earlier in the day will allow for a full day of drying right away, maximizing exposure to sunlight and resulting in a faster drop in moisture and reduced respiration. 

And finally, be sure to rake or merge forage at the right time and adjust your rake properly. Raking the forage while it is still pliable helps to reduce leaf loss and maintain forage quality; legumes like alfalfa and clover should be raked when the forage is above 40% moisture, and grasses should be raked above 25% moisture. Rakes should be adjusted to minimize soil contact, as soil incorporation into the windrow leads to increased ash contamination. Research has found that for every 1% increase in ash content, there is a 1% decrease in total digestible nutrients. 

In conclusion, mowing at the proper height, using an appropriate and correctly adjusted conditioner, raking at the right time with a properly adjusted rake, and utilizing wide swaths to take advantage of sunlight are key to both faster drying and preserving digestible dry matter. Remember, a wide swath enhances leaf drying while conditioning expedites stem drying; both are needed to make high quality hay. 

Maryland Regional Crop Reports: September 2024

Reports are for crop conditions up to September 5, 2024.

Western Maryland

August brought us more rain than June and July combined. The hay and pasture fields responded, and there is hope for continued grazing and another cutting. The soybeans are probably the greatest beneficiary of the moisture. They are looking great as their pods fill. Modern varieties are a wonder to behold. Corn silage harvest began earlier this year thanks to the heat and drought. Many folks are glad they planted a little extra corn, primarily due to the need for forage and the low grain price forecast. Running it through livestock will add value. Triticale and oats are going in the ground for both fall and spring forage. Cool mornings and mild days have raised our countenance here in Western Maryland.—Jeff Semler, Washington Co.

Central Maryland 

August has finally brought some much needed rain; although amounts have been scattered throughout the region. A storm last week caused crop damage in some areas of the region. While it won’t be a year for record-breaking yields, most of the corn and soybeans are looking fairly good. The majority of corn is in the dent stage and is starting to dry down. Silage chopping has begun. Full season soybeans are in the beginning seed stage (R5).—Kelly Nichols, Montgomery Co.

Northern Maryland

About 6” of rain fell in August, which really woke up soybeans, especially later planted beans and double crops. Unfortunately, the rains have ceased, with the last measurable rainfall coming over two weeks ago. Rain is predicted for this weekend, so fingers crossed for good rainfall to finish out what could be a strong late season bean crop. Corn is rapidly drying down and a few acres have been harvested but the majority of corn is still 25% moisture or better. We are about another 10-14 days before the combines are rolling hard. Tar spot was also confirmed in the region at the end of August, consistent with the two years prior. A lot of good dry hay was put up over the last two weeks.—Andy Kness, Harford Co.

Upper and Mid Shore

July’s much-needed rains tapered off, leaving August with sporadic showers that varied significantly depending on your neck of the woods. This inconsistency has led to some challenging conditions for crops. Signs of water stress have become apparent; soybean leaves are cupping and corn leaves are curling from lack of moisture. In response, center pivots on irrigated fields have been fired up again, helping to maximize yield potential after a brief respite in July. Corn is drying down, with some early-planted fields already harvested. Soybeans are also moving along, with early maturing varieties starting to turn and double crop beans filling out their pods. The dry conditions earlier in the season provided the perfect environment for Palmer amaranth to thrive and compete with the crops. They can clearly be seen towering over the soybean and even corn in both conventional and organic fields. The region has also noticed more spotted lanternfly activity as these pests hit their final growth stage and take to the air. While they’re mostly just a nuisance in agronomic crops, controlling them can really help out your local fruit and vegetable grower, who would surely appreciate the effort.—Dwayne Joseph, Kent Co.

Lower Shore

Corn is drying down, but harvest has not yet begun. Due to low grain prices, farmers are inclined to let corn completely dry in the field, rather than take a moisture price hit at the mills. Drought stress during vegetative and early reproductive phases hurt corn. Yield is anticipated to be poor, and ears look small. Soybean is looking better than corn, especially double-crop soybean planted after wheat. There have not been reports of serious pest or weed damage. Cover crops are being flown into some corn fields via airplane.—Sarah Hirsh, Somerset Co.

Southern Maryland

Conditions remain very dry across the majority of Southern Maryland. Corn harvest is in full swing with reports of average to well below average yields. Yields vary greatly within and between fields depending on soil type and where isolated showers happened to fall. Grain quality is a major concern this year. Growers are encouraged to get corn off as early as possible. Beans continue to put up the good fight. Many full season beans are yellowing and drying down. Double crop beans will need some more help to fill out pods. Farmers have been scouting for pod worms and stink bugs. Thankfully, only a few fields have reached threshold and required a treatment so far. Weeds continue to require attention as fields have taken longer to canopy if at all, allowing greater opportunity for weeds to gain their share of the limelight. We continue to see ragweed, pigweeds of all types, and morning glory present. Deer damage is readily apparent in later planted beans that are failing to re-grow or canopy following deer feeding. Forages have struggled this summer with many fields of cool season grasses requiring replanting this fall or next spring.—Ben Beale, St. Mary’s Co.

*Regions (counties):
Western: Garrett, Allegany, Washington. Central: Frederick, Montgomery, Howard. Northern: Harford, Baltimore, Carroll. Upper & Mid Shore: Cecil, Kent, Caroline, Queen Anne, Talbot. Lower Shore: Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico. Southern: St. Mary’s, Anne Arundel, Charles, Calvert, Prince George’s

Maryland Regional Crop Reports: August 2024

Reports are for crop conditions up to August 1, 2024.

Western Maryland

Welcome rains have sporadically arrived in Washington County. This has been the story for much of the summer. It depends on your location and how much rain you receive, out of which storms. Earlier in the spring, the southern part of the county was blessed more than the part that hugs the Mason-Dixon Line. July has seen that trend nearly turned on its head. Wheat is off, and test weights and yields were good. Many acres of optimistic double-crop beans were planted again. Moisture has dictated the success of those plantings. It is too soon to make any predictions on corn yields, but in many places, plants are shorter, but the ears might fill just fine. So we wait. In two weeks, choppers will start running, and corn silage will be our first indicator of yields. Peach harvest started a little early, and they are smaller, and yields are lower, but they are sweet.—Jeff Semler, Washington Co.

Central Maryland 

Corn and soybeans are well into reproductive stages and further along than previous years. Most of the region has experienced drought conditions throughout the growing season. Some growers have begun chopping early corn silage given how far hot dry weather has pushed the crop. Very limited disease pressure throughout the region. Recent rains have been welcomed, where received. Most precipitation events have been sporadically distributed to say the least.—Mark Townsend, Frederick Co.

Northern Maryland

We ended July with around 3” of rain here at the Harford County Extension office. Rains were more periodic in July; however, that is not the case for the entire region—rains continue to be scarce the further west into Baltimore and Carroll County you go and the rain that has fallen across our region has been very scattered and localized. You can find corn that looks very good and you can find corn that looks very poor all in the same county. I do believe that most places are “holding on” in terms of yield—I think we will fare OK and we may have avoided a complete disaster but corn yields will certainly be off of our norm. Soybeans are flowering and look good; if they can fill all the pods they’re initiating then soybean yields should be strong; the next few weeks will make or break them.—Andy Kness, Harford Co.

Upper and Mid Shore

The first couple of weeks in July brought us more of the high temperatures we’ve been experiencing, but unlike June, we were finally blessed with some much-needed rain across the region. While some areas received more rain than others, it was all welcome. The timing couldn’t have been better, as most of the corn was entering the reproductive stages right at the start of the month. Due to this, late-planted corn is likely to yield better than the earlier-planted corn. Both full-season soybeans and corn are now in their reproductive stages. Most of the corn has finished pollination and is moving into kernel development. On the small grains front, yields were either on par with or lower than last year, with not many reports of fields outdoing last year’s yields. The recent rains have also triggered a flush of weeds. If you look out over the soybean canopy, you’ll see those notorious pigweeds, common lambsquarters, morningglories, and annual grasses making an appearance, especially in the lesser-managed fields.—Dwayne Joseph, Kent

Lower Shore

We have had periodic rains the last few weeks and much of the drought damaged corn is greening up. Farmers are optimistic that the corn will pull through and have average yields. The later planted corn the better, in terms of less drought damage. Most corn is now in reproductive stages. Some corn is being aerially sprayed with fungicides. Milo is heading out. Soybean also faced drought damage, but is looking good with the recent rains. Double crop beans are starting to take off with growth. Substantial weed or pest pressure has not been reported..—Sarah Hirsh, Somerset Co.

Southern Maryland

The region is finally getting some relief from the hot dry conditions we have experienced since June. Rain showers have been scattered, so some areas are better off than others. Unfortunately, some of the rains have come a bit late for corn which was past pollination. For the conditions this year, the crop overall looks much better than should be expected. Soybeans follow much of the same story. Many full season beans could never get off the ground with a lack of moisture and constant deer predation. These plants are now trying to canopy and flower but are way behind schedule for this time of year. Weeds, especially annual grasses, marestail, Palmer amaranth and common ragweed have taken advantage of the extra sunlight and lack of canopy closure to germinate. Many fields are speckled with these weeds coming in later in the season.  Double crops beans struggled to germinate in the dry conditions or were planted late. They have made good strides in the last couple of weeks. Vegetable crops are coming off now with a consolidated harvest season due to the hot temperatures as of late squeezing the harvest window.—Ben Beale, St. Mary’s Co.

*Regions (counties):
Western: Garrett, Allegany, Washington. Central: Frederick, Montgomery, Howard. Northern: Harford, Baltimore, Carroll. Upper & Mid Shore: Cecil, Kent, Caroline, Queen Anne, Talbot. Lower Shore: Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico. Southern: St. Mary’s, Anne Arundel, Charles, Calvert, Prince George’s

Fall Forage: Playing Catch-Up

Jeff Semler, Principal Agriculture Agent | jsemler@umd.edu
University of Maryland Extension, Washington County

As of this writing, most of Maryland’s conditions range from abnormally dry to a small portion of severe drought. Recent sporadic rains have renewed the optimism inherent in every farmer, but we need to look ahead and plan.

Whether you are involved in animal agriculture or your neighbor is, forage will be short this year. How can we mitigate this situation? First, if you are a corn grower, with corn hovering at four dollars a bushel, you should consider selling the crop as silage. I have little doubt many of your neighbors would appreciate the opportunity.

This gives you options for planting cover crops earlier that could be harvested and sold as forage this fall or next spring. You could also get your cover crops in earlier and reap the benefits next spring as you plant your next crop. Cover crops are no longer a novelty or experiment. They are a proven soil builder.

Fall forage comes in many options. It can be as simple as oats. If you can plant early, then forage oats are your best choice, but if you plant later, grain oats will mature faster and give you more bang for your buck.

Preferably, you think a bit longer term. Planting oats with companions like triticale, wheat, barley, rye, annual ryegrass, and crimson clover will give you forage this fall and next spring. I am a big fan of triticale, which provides you with quality and a wider harvest window. That said, use what works for you.

I would be remiss if I didn’t caution you regarding annual ryegrass. This species can become a weed. Many wheat growers have rued the day they planted annual ryegrass on their farm. There is also evidence that it is becoming glyphosate-resistant, so you have been warned.

For those unsure of forage needs in the spring, barley or wheat are excellent choices for fall oat companions. If you don’t need the forage, you can harvest all or part of it for grain.

Adding legume, be it a clover or vetch, makes sense on multiple levels. Adds protein forage and nitrogen to the soil.

In short, plan ahead when considering your forage needs and options.

Maryland Regional Crop Reports: July 2024

Reports are for crop conditions up to July 5, 2024.

Western Maryland

Dry, dry, dry. The pleasant spring has turned into a dry summer so far. Even when the heat isn’t oppressive, the sun is bright, and the wind blows all wonderful conditions for drying out things. Corn and full-season bean planting is a memory. Wheat harvest is in full swing, and yields and test weights are good. Two cuttings of alfalfa are off, and we are hoping for enough moisture to make a third cutting. Double-crop beans are going in the ground, further proving that farmers are the most optimistic people on the planet. Until next month, keep looking up. One day, those clouds will have rain in them, and we will need it.—Jeff Semler, Washington Co.

Central Maryland 

The wet spring resulted in lots of slugs and replanted soybeans. However, in the last few weeks, the rain has disappeared here in Montgomery County. Temperatures have soared into the upper 90s, resulting in some very dry topsoil, subsoil which is quickly losing moisture, and drought-stressed crops. Some corn fields are starting to tassel, and soybeans are beginning to flower.—Kelly Nichols, Montgomery Co.

Northern Maryland

June was unusually dry and we are in a drought situation. Wheat and barley harvest and straw baling was a breeze to the dry weather, and harvest came about 1-2 weeks earlier than normal due to the dry, windy June. Yields were not near the record-setting numbers we’ve seen the past two years but they were still respectable. Having small grains off early will greatly benefit double-crop soybeans, assuming there’s enough moisture in the ground to germinate them. Earliest planted corn is in tassel by July 4 and we thankfully got a couple of decent storms just as tassels were pushing through and alleviated drought scenarios in many fields; that rain likely saved several bushels. Full season soybeans are also starting to come along nicely now after a slow start that some moisture is back in the soil.—Andy Kness, Harford Co.

Upper and Mid Shore

Center pivots have been working double time, keeping corn and soybean fields in the region irrigated amid the ongoing dry spell. Significant rain events are a distant memory, and the summer solstice has brought record heat, contributing to visible water stress symptoms on non-irrigated fields. All corn acres are planted, and early-planted corn is currently tasseling. Small grain harvest is progressing well, aided by the dry weather, which has extended the harvest window. As the small grain harvest wraps up, double-crop beans will soon be planted. Meanwhile, sprayers are busy applying post-emergence herbicides to fields to manage pre-emergence weed escapes, most likely due to the absence of an activating rain. Hopefully we get some rainfall soon.—Dwayne Joseph, Kent Co.

Lower Shore

We had a very dry couple of weeks. Crops were showing signs of drought stress with stunting and leaf burning in some fields. This was followed by a 2-4” rain event across much of the Lower Shore. Corn is approaching late vegetative stages, but not yet tasseling. Wheat has been harvested and double crop soybean planted.—Sarah Hirsh, Somerset Co.

Southern Maryland

No report.

*Regions (counties):
Western: Garrett, Allegany, Washington. Central: Frederick, Montgomery, Howard. Northern: Harford, Baltimore, Carroll. Upper & Mid Shore: Cecil, Kent, Caroline, Queen Anne, Talbot. Lower Shore: Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico. Southern: St. Mary’s, Anne Arundel, Charles, Calvert, Prince George’s

Maryland Regional Crop Reports: June 2024

Reports are for crop conditions up to June 6, 2024.

Western Maryland

I have a  good friend who says, “I don’t have forty years of experience farming; I have one year’s experience forty times.” This spring has been just like that. We have had more moisture than last year, but then came the hot days, cool weather, and more moisture. Corn is planted, and the first cutting of hay is in the barn. Soybean planting is winding down, and grain harvest will be here before you know it, starting with barley. With the moisture we will see how much disease took its toll. Fungicide applications weren’t always as timely as we would hope because of the frequent showers. Until next month when harvest is underway it is then the story will be told.—Jeff Semler, Washington Co.

Central Maryland 

Planting is almost complete. Slugs have been an issue; some soybean fields will need replanting. It was getting a bit dry, which did provide a good hay-making window. However, a thunderstorm is rolling in as I write this, giving us some needed moisture. Small grains are looking good. Summer annual weeds like pigweed, crabgrass, and foxtail are starting to take off with this warmer weather.—Kelly Nichols, Montgomery Co.

Northern Maryland

Spring has been a little challenging in our area. A dry spell in mid-late April made herbicide efficacy less than ideal, followed by several weeks of a lot of rain, which activated herbicides but prevented the timely termination of other cover crops. Early planted corn and beans are up and out of the ground, with earliest planted corn around V6 and getting it’s second shot of nitrogen. Rainy weather in late April early May delayed planting the remainder of the crop by about two weeks. These later planted fields are much further behind than usual but are looking good. There has been some slug damage present, it gets worse the further west you go in the region. Barley nearing harvest and wheat is starting to turn. There are symptoms of head scab but it remains to be seen how severe DON levels are in the grain. The wet weather has made it very difficult to make timely dry hay.—Andy Kness, Harford Co.

Upper and Mid Shore

Corn acreage is looking good, with a nice color and uniform growth. Depending on when it was planted, corn is in the V2 to V5 stages right now. Most of our full-season soybeans are already in the ground. As usual, rain across the region has been hit or miss, with some areas getting a lot more than others. These downpours might not be ideal, but they’re certainly better than no rain at all. Barley harvest is just around the corner. Summer annual weeds are popping up and are ready to impact yield potential. If your residual herbicide program hasn’t kept them in check, now’s the time for a POST application. And remember, using multiple modes of action in your tank-mix slows down the evolution of herbicide resistance in weeds.—Dwayne Joseph, Kent Co.

Lower Shore

has been planted and currently in emergence stage to around V4 stage. Corn is looking good, and being sprayed to combat early season weeds. Soybean planting is currently underway. In a few instances, early planted soybean (early April) had to be replanted due to slug damage. Wheat is looking good and drying down. Farmers are gearing up to cut wheat, which is earlier than anticipated.—Sarah Hirsh, Somerset Co.

Southern Maryland

As I write this, a very welcome rain is falling outside my window. As we move into the hotter days of June, the old adage that we are only a week away from a drought at any time is holding true. Two weeks ago it was too wet to get into fields and this week we have corn fields starting to show curling leaves and drought stress. In general corn is off to a good start with most sidedress N applications completed. There have been a lot of catch up full season beans planted in the last 2 weeks. Slug feeding has been minimal this year. Barley is drying down with harvest expected any day. Wheat will not be far behind. Ryegrass continues to be a challenge for producers in both burndown situations in corn and beans, as well as small grains. Many fields may need a harvest aid to kill the ryegrass and allow for timely harvest of wheat. Given the wet conditions following flowering, we are encouraging producers to get the wheat crop off as quick as possible to maintain grain quality.—Ben Beale, St. Mary’s Co.

*Regions (counties):
Western: Garrett, Allegany, Washington. Central: Frederick, Montgomery, Howard. Northern: Harford, Baltimore, Carroll. Upper & Mid Shore: Cecil, Kent, Caroline, Queen Anne, Talbot. Lower Shore: Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico. Southern: St. Mary’s, Anne Arundel, Charles, Calvert, Prince George’s

June IPM Insect Scouting Tips

Emily Zobel, Senior Agriculture Agent Associate | ezobel@umd.edu
University of Maryland Extension, Dorchester County

Corn

Continue scouting for cutworms and stink bugs. The threshold for cutworms is 2-5% cut plants up to the V5 stage and with active larvae present. Stinkbugs will move into corn as surrounding small grains are harvested. When scouting for stinkbugs, pay close attention to the thorax of brown color stink bugs as the beneficial spined soldier bug is often mistaken for the invasive brown marmorated stink bug. The spined soldier bug has a prominent spine on each “shoulder.” NCSU’s suggested threshold is 13 stinkbugs per 100 plants for V1-V6, 10 stinkbugs per 100 plants for V14-VT, and 28 stinkbugs per 100 plants for R1-R2. The most critical time to treat if between V14 to VT is just before the primary ear is exposed to avoid banana ear. Stinkbugs will likely be around the primary ear at this point so that should be the target of the application.

Soybean

Early-season defoliator pests that are active right now include bean leaf beetles, green cloverworms, slugs, and grasshoppers. Soybeans can typically withstand a decent amount of defoliation before yield losses occur. If defoliation reaches 30%, and you are finding one grasshopper per sweep or 2-3 bean leaf beetles per plant treatment may be advisable.

Figure 1. Bean leaf beetle with feeding damage on a soybean leaf. Photo by Adam Sisson, Iowa State University, Bugwood.org.

Alfalfa

Begin scouting for potato leafhopper. Ten sets of 10-20 sweeps using a sweep net should be taken in random locations in the field. A detail threshold for alfalfa is based on the plant size and cost of the hay can be found online but a general guideline is  3” or less is 20 leafhoppers per 100 sweeps, 4-6” tall is 50 per 100 sweeps, 7-10” tall is 100 per 100 sweeps, and greater than 11” is 150 per 100 sweeps. If the field is more than 60 percent bud stage or if it has experienced “hopper burn,” the alfalfa should be cut instead of sprayed. Fresh-cut alfalfa should not be sprayed as leafhopper adults tend to move out of the field when it is being cut.

Figure 2. Potato leafhoppers in a sweep net. Photo by Bryan Jensen, University of Wisconsin, Bugwood.org.

Maryland Regional Crop Reports: May 2024

Reports are for crop conditions up to May 3, 2024.

Western Maryland

April has brought us many showers. The triticale is all in the silos for the most part, and corn planting has begun. The wheat and the barley are looking good. Producers have a keen eye out for FHB, and thus, fungicide is on the docket. Pastures are looking good and first cutting alfalfa is not far off. Warmer temperatures are on the horizon.—Jeff Semler, Washington Co.

Central Maryland 

The wet, cool spring has turned into a hot, dry spring this week. Currently, the highest chance of rain (about 60%) is for this weekend. Planting is in full swing, and the first cutting of orchardgrass will start in a couple weeks. Wheat and barley are heading; if the drier weather keeps up, it will lower the risk for Fusarium.—Kelly Nichols, Montgomery Co.

Northern Maryland

Rain has been hard to come by with only about 1” of accumulated rain in the last 4 weeks. Corn and soybean planting has been in rolling for 2.5 weeks now, with a very large majority of it within the last week to 10 days or so. Small grains generally look very good, pastures and hay fields have also enjoyed the cooler than normal March and April. Wheat is anywhere from boot to head emergence. After a soggy start to April, we could use some rain.—Andy Kness, Harford Co.

Upper and Mid Shore

The rains from early in the month are now just a memory, with clear skies and no significant rainfall since. Dust clouds swirling on the horizon are a clear sign that #Plant2024 is underway. Farmers are terminating their cover crops and tilling the soil, readying it for planting. This year, we’re running a week or two ahead of last year’s schedule, raising hopes for another bumper crop. Small grains are currently heading, with some currently flowering.—Dwayne Joseph, Kent Co.

Lower Shore

After a rainy stretch, we’ve gotten some dry weather this past week. About half or more of cover crop acreage has been terminated. Some ground is being tilled, while the majority will be planted no-till. Corn is currently being planted. Wheat is looking very good. If wheat varieties are susceptible to Fusarium Head Blight and if the wheat is flowering, fungicides should be considered. The first cutting of hay has started.—Sarah Hirsh, Somerset Co.

Southern Maryland

Field conditions are a mixed bag. Areas to the north have turned dry in the last week. Areas to the south received more rain delaying field operations. In drier areas, soil has become hard and compacted, aggravated by wet conditions over the winter. This is a year where big differences in soil conditions can be observed between no-till and tilled fields. Planters have been rolling for the last two weeks with conditions mostly ideal for planting. Corn emergence looks good so far. Slugs were a concern early, but drier weather has helped with that issue. We have many acres of early planted soybeans again this year. Burndown programs have been challenged this year with many escapes of annual ryegrass. Wheat is headed and beginning to flower now. We are observing some yellowing of the flag leaf and leaf below the flag leaf across many fields that showed up in the last 10 days. We are working to determine the exact cause, but believe it related to environmental conditions with perhaps some virus issues like BYDV as well. A lot of good dry hay has been made in the last two weeks. On the fruit and vegetable front, plasticulture strawberries look very good and are ripening now. All of our main season vegetable crops are preparing to go in the ground this week. High tunnel crops are coming off now.—Ben Beale, St. Mary’s Co.

*Regions (counties):
Western: Garrett, Allegany, Washington. Central: Frederick, Montgomery, Howard. Northern: Harford, Baltimore, Carroll. Upper & Mid Shore: Cecil, Kent, Caroline, Queen Anne, Talbot. Lower Shore: Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico. Southern: St. Mary’s, Anne Arundel, Charles, Calvert, Prince George’s

Maryland Regional Crop Reports: November 2023

Reports are for crop conditions up to November 16, 2023.

Western Maryland

Harvest is winding down. Nearly all of the corn and full-season beans are in the bins. Some of the double-crop beans weren’t even worth the cost of the fuel to harvest them. Cover crops are looking good as is the commodity wheat and barely. There are still a few acres that will get some rye. Manure is flying as we race to beat the December 15 deadline. Hay stocks are short but FSA has had the county designated a disaster area so there is some assistance available to make up for the shortfalls. Yields are all over the place depending on when the crop was planted and when the showers arrived. As always everyone is looking forward to 2024 being a better year.—Jeff Semler, Washington Co.

Central Maryland 

No Report.

Northern Maryland

2023 harvest has been about as smooth as anyone could ask for with very few weather interruptions. All but a few acres of corn and double-crop soybeans remain. Some rains here and there have been just enough to get cover crops and small grains off to a good start, especially those fields planted early, which have put on substantial growth and tillers. Corn yields have been very strong across most of the region and even record-setting on some farms. Soybeans on the other hand are average to below average in many fields and double-crop beans range from very poor to good. All things considered, yields (especially corn) were impressive considering how dry we started and finished the season; timely rains sure do make or break yields!—Andy Kness, Harford Co.

Upper and Mid Shore

Both corn and soybean harvest is finishing up. The high yields across the region have made grain delivery the last fewPreview (opens in a new tab) weeks a little frustrating. Tanks and piles are full. Granaries have been working to move grain out, but purchasing grain with reduced hours. On a positive note, that seems to be resolved now. The weather has cooperated to make harvest as easy and stress free as possible. We are finally receiving some rain to replenish ground water. Small grains are off to a good start.—Jim Lewis, Caroline Co.

Lower Shore

Corn harvest is 95% complete. Most full season soybean has been harvested. It has been very dry in the region, and soybean moisture is below 13%. Soybeans are dusty and farmers are blowing off combines due to fire hazard. Soybean yields are coming in average to slightly above average depending on how much rain fields received. Double crop soybean following wheat is still a few weeks from being harvested. Wheat planting is underway and farmers are planting into dry fields. In many fields, cover crops are already seeing substantial growth and some farmers continue to drill winter cereal cover crops following soybean harvest.—Sarah Hirsh, Somerset Co.

Southern Maryland

Wrap-up: The last acres of soybeans and corn are making their way off fields as we wind into the last chapters of 2023 season. The season started early, with ideal planting conditions in early April. Many growers planted beans and corn during that early window. Conditions turned dry and cooler through the latter part of April and into May and June. Growers struggled with annual ryegrass burndown control. Rains returned as we turned the page into summer and crops responded well. Concerns over the wheat and barley crop, which appeared uneven through he late spring, were unfounded. The small grain crop was of great quality and yield. Growers struggled during the later harvest period as rains delayed harvest well into July. Most corn made it through the pollination window with adequate moisture. Dry conditions returned once again in August and September, resulting in drought stress to beans and corn. Corn harvest started a little earlier than normal. Overall yield reports are above average, and something to be grateful for given the dry conditions later in the season. Beans were more of a mixed bag. Early planted beans performed well for the second year in a row, with most of the crop made by the time the rain ran out. Double crops beans ranged from very poor to very good depending on rain timing and stage of beans. The fall harvest season has been good. Wheat and barley has germinated well and is growing fast with warmer than normal fall temperatures.—Ben Beale, St. Mary’s Co.

*Regions (counties):
Western: Garrett, Allegany, Washington. Central: Frederick, Montgomery, Howard. Northern: Harford, Baltimore, Carroll. Upper & Mid Shore: Cecil, Kent, Caroline, Queen Anne, Talbot. Lower Shore: Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico. Southern: St. Mary’s, Anne Arundel, Charles, Calvert, Prince George’s