High Protein Wheat in the Mid-Atlantic – Is It Possible or Profitable?

Nicole Fiorellino, Extension Agronomist | nfiorell@umd.edu
University of Maryland, College Park

As we head into wheat season, I have had a number of Maryland farmers (and farmers beyond Maryland) ask me about growing high protein soft red winter wheat (SRWW) in our region. Coincidentally, I recently published an article on the topic based on a field study I performed in Maryland right around COVID. Back in 2018, representatives from grain mills in Pennsylvania asked me if it was possible to increase the protein content of SRWW grain, as SRWW is produced specifically to be low in protein. Increased wheat yields in the Mid-Atlantic have driven down the protein content of the grain produced, as there is a known inverse relationship between wheat yield and grain protein; that is, as wheat yield increases, grain protein decreases. Local wheat buyers are blending hard wheat from the Midwest with lower-protein SRWW produced locally, but this process is expensive and there is a need for higher protein SRWW grown in the Mid-Atlantic.

Figure 1. Average yield and grain protein of four varieties of soft red winter wheat over three years and two locations in Maryland. The first commercially available variety is generally marketed as high yielding and the other three varieties were selected for high reported protein and purchased from Virginia Crop Improvement Association.

I chose to answer three questions with my research, 1) is it possible to increase the protein content of SRWW; 2) if it is possible, would the increase be a result of selecting high protein varieties or modifying how nitrogen (N) fertilizer is applied or a combination of both; and 3) is it is profitable? We determined that in Maryland it is possible to increase protein content of SRWW and we demonstrated this through both variety selection and modifying fertilization strategy. I selected varieties from Virginia Tech Small Grains Variety Trial report that had the highest protein content reported, and these varieties resulted in grain with protein above 11%, with one variety yielding as well as a commercially available high yielding wheat variety (Figure 1), but typically a yield decrease was observed with increased grain protein. I shifted the timing of N fertilizer application in the spring to a greater amount of fertilizer applied at jointing versus greenup keeping the spring total N application rate the same. I included an additional treatment that kept the total N application rate the same, yet included a third application post-flowering, and I included a final treatment with three spring N applications and an increased spring total N application rate. I demonstrated there was no need to increase the total amount of N applied in the spring to increase grain protein, but dividing the same amount of spring N into three applications versus two will increase grain protein (Figure 2). Therefore, the answer to question 1 is, yes it is possible and the answer to question 2 grain protein increase can result from either variety selection or modifying fertilization strategy but not necessarily a combination of both.

Figure 2. Average grain protein across four nitrogen (N) fertilization strategies and three years and two locations in Maryland. Dividing the same amount of N into three applications versus two successfully increased grain protein. When three applications were made and more N was applied, there was no additional increase in grain protein.

Finally, to answer the question of profitability. The answer to this question is the classic “it depends,” and every grower should have a solid idea of their cost of production to estimate their profitability. Here are some points to consider if you are considering growing high protein wheat.

First, it is important to consider if typical wheat production is profitable in your location, as some locations in my study yielded so low that it would not be profitable to produce wheat period. Second, it is important to assume increased input costs for high protein wheat production, namely an additional application trip across the field for N application, increased seed costs for high protein variety, and longer distance hauling. Third, it is important to assume decreased yield with higher protein when estimating profitability. Using these assumptions, a grower should pencil out their breakeven price to produce high protein wheat and compare that to typical wheat prices in the recent past. Some of my calculations from sites in my study indicated a $2.25 premium would be required to breakeven producing high protein wheat…that is a huge premium that is unlikely to be offered. Finally, when producing a “value-added” product like high protein wheat, it is recommended to secure a contract or sale price before investing time or money into production, as my back of the envelope calculations do not always promise profit.

High protein SRWW is possible in the Mid-Atlantic but the profitability depends on the individual grower. Approach this new enterprise with caution and ensure the profitability pencils out before planting seed. The publication is available at https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/agg2.70154 , as always, reach out with any questions or further discussion.

Prioritizing Safety During Harvest Season

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

It’s harvest time, and safety should be paramount. Many people think about safety on the road or moving from the field to storage, but there are many other things to consider.

It is essential to take the time to communicate with all those working proper protocols while making silage, along with safe practices around silage piles, bunkers, and silos.

Tractor rollovers are a leading cause of accidents and deaths on farms. Due to the steep nature of the piles or the sheer walls that exist on bunkers, extra precaution is needed when operating tractors while packing the silage pile. To help with the steep nature of silage piles, the recommendation is to utilize a 1 to 3 slope on the ends and sides of drive-over piles. Tractors should also be backed up piles to help prevent them from flipping over backwards on steep slopes. It is suggested that lighting or rails be placed above the walls on silage bunkers to indicate the location of the edge of the wall. Next is the lack of employees utilizing the safety belt when operating the tractor, which causes them to be thrown from the tractor, potentially being crushed in a rollover. Tractors should also be equipped with R.O.P.S. (roll-over-protective structures), which help provide a protective barrier around the person operating the equipment.

Entanglement in silage-making equipment, unfortunately, happens too often. Due to the extensive amount of moving parts, including blades, knives, belts, chains, gears, and PTO shafts, it is imperative to make sure all shields and safety guards are kept in place while operating equipment. This equipment is extremely large and can now chop twelve plus rows of corn at a time; thus, it is crucial to know where everyone is before starting the equipment and moving forward. Absolutely, do NOT let children play around this equipment.

Falls are another source of injury or death around silage piles. It can occur when climbing up the silo, falling off the side of the bunker, or the face of a pile. Make sure all guard rails are correctly installed on silo ladders and chutes are in good repair before accessing them. Workers must utilize good practices when there are slippery conditions or wet weather. Care should be taken when removing tires and tarps covering the pile, making sure not to get too close to the edge and fall off. Other types of falls have occurred when employees have slipped out of the bucket of the pay loader while trying to access the face of a pile.

Silage pile avalanches are also another source of danger. People should never stand closer than three times the height of the feeding face of the pile to help eliminate potential entrapment in a silage avalanche. To help minimize this risk, silage piles should never be constructed higher than the defacing or unloading feeding equipment can reach the top of the pile. This prevents undercutting, creating a cornice on the silage pile that can potentially collapse, entrapping people. Weak spots can occur between old crop and new crop silage if a pile is “added unto,” causing silage to release and break away. Thus, extra caution should be used in these areas of piles. When accessing the pile, always start at the top, working your way down the face of the pile. Never dig into the pile with the loader from the bottom and work up. Utilizing a tractor or equipment with an R.O.P.S. installed will also provide extra protection if an avalanche occurs and the cab is entrapped in silage.

When first accessing silos, bunkers, and piles, be aware of toxic gases that are produced during the fermentation process. Silos typically have the highest risk of these gases being concentrated, although they can occur in all types of silage fermentation. These gases include nitric oxide (NO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and nitrogen tetroxide (N2O4). These gases are toxic and often fatal when inhaled. Typically, the greatest concentration of these gases occurs during the fermentation process in the first three weeks after completion of filling the silo. Once a silo is opened for the first time, run the silage blower for 20-30 minutes and wear a respirator before entering the confined space. Precautions should also be taken when opening bunkers or piles for the first time, as they are also tightly sealed, and gases can concentrate under the tarps.

We also need to recognize that, in addition to gases, molds may sometimes be present. Some molds produce toxins such as aflatoxin, mycotoxin, endotoxin, etc., which can trigger asthma attacks or allergic reactions. Precautions such as dust masks or respirators are also recommended when handling moldy silage throughout the feed handling process.

As producers enter a confined space, they should be tethered to a rope or harness, which a person outside of the silo can use to pull the person out of a silo in emergencies. The “lock-out-tag-out” system should be engaged so that someone outside the silo does not accidentally turn the blower on if maintenance or repair is being performed inside the silo.

Last but not least, remember we farm where we live, so always be on the lookout for bystanders and children.

Communicating and training all workers on proper safety protocols for handling and accessing silage is essential to minimize the risk of accidents. Additional access to appropriate safety equipment, such as reflective vests, eye protection, and breathing equipment when needed, is equally important. Lead by example and do not be afraid to correct improper worker performance; if they do not follow established safety protocols, you may save a life!

Article adapted from Be Safe and Smart Around Silage (Erickson, T., 2021)

Soybean Aphid Populations Increasing

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

Soybean aphids have been spotted in several fields across Southern Maryland this week, with notable activity in St. Mary’s County and Charles County. Infestations were first observed along field edges but have since been found deeper into the canopy in some locations. As you can see from the pictures, the fields look relatively healthy from the road, and it isn’t until you enter the field that you notice the large aphid populations, which is why it is important to keep scouting your fields regularly. Aphids were clustered on the undersides of leaves, along petioles, and around new growth, with many plants showing multiple colonies. In some spots, the density was high enough that honeydew, a sticky sweet substance aphids excrete, was visible creating a sheen on leaves and causing fungus to grow.

Soybean field
Soybean Field at threshold for aphids with no obvious visual signs. Image. H. Schug, Univ. of Maryland.

The soybean aphid is a small, yellow-green insect with black cornicles protruding from the rear of its body. Winged forms are dark with clear wings, while wingless forms are pale and slow-moving. Aphids feed by piercing plant tissue and removing sap, which can stress plants, reduce photosynthetic efficiency, and in high numbers, lead to leaf curling, yellowing, and stunting. Prolonged feeding during the reproductive stages (until R6) can lower pod set, reduce seed fill, and ultimately cause measurable yield loss. In addition to direct feeding damage, soybean aphids can transmit plant viruses, although this has not been a major yield factor in Maryland.

Scouting and Thresholds

University research across the Midwest has established an economic threshold of 250 aphids per plant, averaged across multiple sampling points, with populations actively increasing and plants still in the <R6 stages. Scouting should involve checking 20–30 plants per field, spread across several locations, including edges and interiors. The undersides of leaves and growing points are key inspection sites, as aphids prefer sheltered feeding areas.

Small green aphids on underside of soybean leaf
About 80 aphids are on the underside of this leaf. Image: H. Schug, Univ. of Maryland.

Natural enemies, including lady beetle adults and larvae, green lacewing larvae, minute pirate bugs, and various parasitoid wasps, play an important role in regulating aphid populations. Their activity should be noted during scouting. In some cases, robust predator populations can keep aphid numbers below threshold, especially if environmental conditions are unfavorable for aphid reproduction. Rain events can also play a key role in knocking down large aphid population levels, so this must be taken into account when making management decisions.

Management Considerations

If thresholds are reached and plants are still younger than R6, an insecticide application may be warranted. Although you should also take into consideration the weather and the 1.3-2.5% yield loss from wheel tracks with applications made during R1-R5. Pyrethroid products have been the primary tool for soybean aphid control in the Mid-Atlantic, but resistance has been confirmed in parts of the upper Midwest. Although Maryland populations have not shown resistance that I am aware of, it is important to rotate insecticide modes of action where possible to delay resistance development. Follow label directions closely, including restrictions on application timing and rates, and be aware of preharvest intervals.

Hot, dry conditions can favor both aphids and spider mites. If using a pyrethroid during these conditions, monitor for mite flare-ups in the weeks following treatment. Avoid unnecessary applications to preserve beneficial insects, which are critical for season-long pest suppression.

In summary, soybean aphids are present but only a few fields show damaging levels in most Southern Maryland. Continued monitoring is key, and management should be based on established thresholds to protect yield while minimizing unnecessary insecticide use.

Small, white aphid molts on green soybean leaf
Soybean leaf covered in molted aphid skins. Image: H. Schug, Univ. of Maryland.

August Field Crop Insect Scouting

David Owens, Extension Entomologist | owensd@udel.edu
University of Delaware

The month of August is a critical month for scouting field crops. Right now, full season beans are between R3 and R5, while double crop soybean is either just starting to flower or will be soon. Scouting soybean can save money in two ways: finding a problem that wasn’t anticipated and not finding anything worth spraying. This month we have been in fields that fit both categories, as well as fields that an insecticide could have been left out.

The main threat for full season soybean comes from stink bugs. R4 and R5 are the most critical times to scout for stink bug activity. Stink bugs tend to concentrate along field edges, especially those bordering wood lines with wild cherry and maple and those bordering corn fields. If you do not see a sizeable population there, the odds of having one in the field interior are low. If a field edge is above threshold, go out into the field. Its not uncommon for those populations to decline 150-200 feet from the field edge. The most commonly used threshold for stink bugs is 5 bugs (adults and nymphs, all soybean-feeding species combined) per 15 sweeps. We grow an unusual amount of Plenish soybean which garner a bit of a premium, quality is a bit more important, and some folks tell me it takes them longer to dry down for harvest. I think it is justifiable to go with a bit of a lower threshold for those, around 4 bugs per 15 sweeps. Fortunately this year, stink bug blacklight trap captures have not been high.

At some point in August, our main corn earworm flight comes in, putting any full flowering soybean field at risk. Please keep checking with your local extension agent or closest earworm trap counts. So far this year, our flight seems to be a bit late, but that can change in a hurry! Earworm tends to be a quick moving flash in the pan. Moths come in, about 7-10 days later calls come in, and two weeks later there are no earworms to be found, but they can do a lot of pod feeding in that short window. The youngest earworms you may find in a sweep net will be a bright, translucent orange or orange-ish blue color with a dark head capsule and short bristly hairs. Larger earworm can be somewhat variable in color. Some are pink, yellow, yellow with some black on them, and green morphs which can be confused with green cloverworm. The best resource I know for determining if a field is over threshold is North Carolina State University’s corn earworm calculator: https://soybeans.ces.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/CEW-calculator-v0.006.html. Plug in your sampling method, control cost, soybean price, and row width. For some rough ball park numbers, this generally comes out to between 2.5 and 4.5 earworm in a 15 sweep sample. With low soybean prices it may be tempting to use a cheap pyrethroid, but beware, they are not reliable.

Another factor worth considering is how to treat insect pests this late. Soybeans are going to have less ability to compensate for drive-down damage. If you have a field of tall beans that have good to excellent yield potential and canopy thickness and a smaller sprayer boom, drive down damage can be substantial. An aerial application might be a bit more expensive, but the spray plane wont damage beans.

Before finishing, I wanted to send you other pest updates. Earlier this week I came across a field with a heavy population of soybean aphid which is very unusual. If you come across a field with a lot of broken, flagged trifoliates, it is a sign of possible Dectes infestation. Prioritize those fields for as timely a harvest as possible.

Sorghum: Sugarcane aphid (now called sorghum aphid) is starting to show up in sorghum. Occasionally this yellow-white aphid can build up in such large numbers as to cause crop injury. Look for it underneath mid-canopy leaves. Late sorghum that has not yet pollinated may be attractive to corn earworm for egg laying so be sure to scout heads.

Good insect id and proper product and rate selection are critical. Besides a sweep net, your most valuable scouting tool is your phone. Snap a picture and text it to someone for confirmation. There’s also an app, the MyIPM app for Row Crops which includes pictures, chemicals, rates, and brief overviews. Check it out. And sometimes, by scouting a field, you may see something else that needs addressing, like broken pivot nozzles. Good luck getting your soybean and sorghum to the finish line!

August 2025 Grain Market Report

Dale Johnson, Farm Business Management Specialist | dmj@umd.edu
University of Maryland Extension

Corn

This month’s 2025/26 U.S. corn outlook is for sharply higher supplies, greater domestic use and exports, and larger ending stocks. Projected beginning stocks for 2025/26 are 35 million bushels lower based on a slightly higher use forecast for 2024/25. For 2024/25, larger corn exports are partly offset by reductions in corn used for ethanol and glucose and dextrose. Corn production for 2025/26 is forecast at a record 16.7 billion bushels, up 1.0 billion from last month with a 1.9-million acre increase in harvested area and higher yield. If realized, this total would be 1.4 billion bushels more than the prior record set in 2023/24. The season’s first survey-based corn yield forecast, at a record 188.8 bushels per acre, is 7.8 bushels higher than last month’s projection. Sorghum production is forecast up 24 million bushels to 391 million. The yield is forecast at 69.0 bushels per acre, slightly above last month’s projection while harvested area is up 0.4-million acres. Total U.S. corn use for 2025/26 is forecast 545 million bushels higher to 16.0 billion. Feed and residual use is raised 250 million bushels to 6.1 billion based on a larger crop and lower expected prices. Corn used for glucose and dextrose is projected lower based on observed use during 2024/25. Corn used for ethanol for 2025/26 is raised 100 million bushels to 5.6 billion. Exports are raised 200 million bushels to a record 2.9 billion reflecting U.S. export competitiveness and expectations of relatively low world market prices. With supply rising more than use, ending stocks are up 457 million bushels to 2.1 billion and if realized would be the highest in absolute terms since 2018/19. The season-average corn price received by producers is lowered 30 cents $3.90 per bushel.

Soybeans

The 2025/26 outlook for U.S. soybeans includes lower beginning stocks, production, and ending stocks. Beginning stocks are lowered 20 million bushels on an increase to crush and exports in the prior marketing year. Soybean production for 2025/26 is forecast at 4.3 billion bushels, down 43 million on a lower area partly offset by a higher yield. Harvested area is forecast at 80.1 million acres, down 2.4 million from July. The first survey-based soybean yield forecast of 53.6 bushels per acre is up 1.1 bushels from last month. With lower supply and the slow pace of export sales to date, exports are reduced 40 million bushels. Crush is unchanged at 2.54 billion bushels. U.S. ending stocks are forecast at 290 million bushels, down 20 million from last month. The U.S. season-average soybean price for 2025/26 is forecast unchanged at $10.10 per bushel. The soybean meal price is forecast at $280 per short ton, down 10 dollars. The soybean oil price forecast is unchanged at 53 cents per pound.

Wheat

The outlook for 2025/26 U.S. wheat is for slightly tighter supplies, reduced domestic use, higher exports, and smaller ending stocks. Supplies are reduced on lower production, down 2 million bushels to 1,927 million on smaller harvested area only partly offset by a higher yield. The all wheat yield is raised 0.1 bushels per acre to 52.7. Production forecasts are decreased for Hard Red Spring and White, but increased for Hard Red Winter, Durum, and Soft Red Winter. Domestic use is lowered 5 million bushels on reduced food use, based primarily on the latest NASS Flour Millings Products report. Exports are raised 25 million bushels to 875 million on the continued strong early pace of sales and shipments, particularly for Hard Red Winter. Projected ending stocks are reduced by 21 million bushels to 869 million. The 2025/26 season-average farm price is reduced by $0.10 per bushel to $5.30 on a lower projected U.S. corn price and price expectation for wheat the remainder of the marketing year.

Maryland Regional Crop Reports: August 2025

Western Maryland

Our precipitation has become more spotty in recent weeks. The corn and most of the soybeans are looking good. It won’t be long before the corn silage harvest begins. We did have a microburst that laid some corn flat in a very small area. Even though we have had good moisture in June and July, the corn hasn’t rooted as deeply as in drier years. I think we will have good yields. I wish the price were better. The second cutting grass hay and second and third cutting alfalfa have been better this year. Until next month, I wish you timely showers.—Jeff Semler, Washington Co.

Central Maryland

Rains continued to be scattered throughout the county over the past month. Temperatures have thankfully dropped this week. Corn is looking good and in the milk to dough stage. There is some lack of pollination in the top several rows on the ear. Soybeans are developing pods. Minimal feeding from pests such as green cloverworm and Japanese beetles is present. Beneficial insects, such as lady beetles and spiders, are also present! Montgomery County is currently being inundated with spotted lanternflies, but they are more of a nuisance pest and won’t cause issues in agronomic crops.—Kelly Nichols, Montgomery Co.

Northern Maryland

Rains have been consistent in the region; some storms have been severe and brought several inches of rain in an hour, but in general, we are getting just the right amount of moisture. Most of the corn crop looks very good with most heading into dough and dent stages. There have been some localized reports of tassel wrap affecting pollination. You can find tar spot and gray leaf spot and a few other minor pests, but in general, the crop looks very good. Full season soybeans are putting on pods and look good; some are extremely tall, which worries me as tall beans don’t always yield well. We will see what August brings. Second cutting hay has as been made in between the rains.—Andy Kness, Harford Co.

Upper & Mid Shore

As the reproductive crop stages continue in corn and soybeans, this 2025 season looks to be a very successful one. Pop-up rain showers have continued throughout July, keeping drought conditions at bay. This has greatly helped dryland crops, and has minimized irrigation use. Wheat and barley harvest have finished and average yields are looking very good. The good growing conditions have allowed noxious weeds to proliferate, particularly along field edges. This season has been especially hot and humid leading to disease pressure that has affected fruit and vegetables producers.—Travis Ford, Caroline Co.

Lower Eastern Shore

The weather has been wetter this month than the previous, although rains have been variable across the region, with some areas of the lower shore even facing excessive rain. Corn is looking OK, but there is concern about how the earlier season drought stress will affect yield. Irrigated corn looks good. Soybean is looking average across the region. Farmers are spraying fungicide, a second round of herbicide, and cutting hay.—Sarah Hirsh, Somerset Co.

Southern Maryland

We have enjoyed the cooler weather for the last two weeks, but that is coming to an end. Wheat harvest wrapped up with good yields and quality, but some fields were delayed due to rain and equipment breakdowns. Corn is tasseling or has finished up and is looking strong after timely rains. Soybeans are off to a good start, and most double-crop beans are coming along but could use some more rain. Weed pressure is picking up in spots after earlier showers. Overall, crops look good heading into the heat of summer.—Hayden Schug, Charles 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

Tar Spot is Starting to Appear in Maryland

Andrew Kness, Senior Agriculture Agent | akness@umd.edu
University of Maryland Extension, Harford County

Tar spot has started to pop up in corn fields and we have received several reports from Harford, Cecil, Queen Anne’s, and Kent County, Maryland over the past couple of weeks. These reports are about one month earlier than we have first reported tar spot in years past, with the July 23 confirmation of tar spot in Cecil County being the earliest.

Fortunately, all reports and all of the fields I have scouted myself, tar spot is present but at very low levels. The predominant disease I am seeing right now remains gray leaf spot, which makes sense as this is a disease that prefers warmer temperatures and tar spot tends to favor cooler temperatures.

With tar spot being present in our region earlier than usual, growers should be vigilant with scouting and monitoring this disease. Most of the corn crop in Maryland is at or close to R3 or near even near black layer in southern Maryland, which is towards the tail end of major yield concerns associated with disease infection. Furthermore, acres treated with a fungicide between VT-R3 should have sufficient protection to get them through grain fill. If you have corn that is later tasseling you will want to pay special attention to these fields to monitor tar spot levels and other foliar diseases that could potentially reduce yields. These fields may warrant a fungicide pass if you were not planning it already.

As you are scouting your corn fields, be on the lookout for tar spot. With funding from the USDA-NIFA, we are conducting a survey of tar spot’s distribution in Maryland. If you have tar spot, or think you might, please report it to corn.ipmpipe.org or reach out to me at akness@umd.edu or (410) 638-3255. Reports are kept anonymous and individuals and/or farms are not identified in any public reports or publications.

Maryland Regional Crop Reports: July 2025

Western Maryland

Hot and humid is the order of the day, but then again, it is July in Maryland. Wheat harvest is winding down, and soybeans are going in behind most of those acres. Yield and quality are all over the place. Scattered showers have continued, making field work more challenging than we are used to this time of year. We are thankful for the moisture, and the corn is showing it. Early corn is coming into tassel. Grazing and haying is better this time of year than in the recent past. Early dry hay was hard to get right. So, quality is not excellent, but alfalfa is better with the later cuttings. Until next month, hydrate. Water is man’s best friend during the dog days of summer..—Jeff Semler, Washington Co.

Central Maryland

We continue to get rain most weeks, and there’s a general sense of being behind on fieldwork. On Tuesday, another storm came through, dumping a few tenths to almost an inch of rain in spots around the region. Wheat yields are at or above average; however, rainfall delayed harvest and some kernels began sprouting in the field, resulting in lower falling numbers. Full season soybeans are flowering. Earlier in June, yellow poplar weevils were spotted in a few fields in Montgomery County (one field had one weevil per corn plant in some areas). This black-colored weevil is a pest of trees and does not cause damage to field crops, even though their population is higher than normal this year.—Kelly Nichols, Montgomery Co.

Northern Maryland

Heat arrived the latter half of June and into July, which accelerated corn growth and small grain dry down. Wheat harvest began the end of June/start of July with good dry weather; however, we have had a lot of rain over the last 7-14 days and the remaining acres have been a difficult to cut. Wheat yields and quality are all over the place. Overall I think our wheat crop is below average, including straw yields. Corn and soybeans however are loving the heat and consistent moisture. Most of the corn crop is at or near tassel and is looking good. There are reports of some tar spot in the area, but very minimal and should not be cause for panic as July heat will suppress the disease. Farmers will be making fungicide applications to corn in the coming weeks. Soybeans look good and are starting to flower. Double crops are out of the ground in a hurry with these warm soil temps.—Andy Kness, Harford Co.

Upper & Mid Shore

The summer solstice ushered in record heat and afternoon instability, with scattered pop-up downpours across the region. Small grain harvest is in full swing between rain events, and as fields are cleared, double-crop beans are going in, or are already emerging. Corn is progressing well but varies in development. Some early-planted fields are in the silking stage, while others remain in the late vegetative stages. Full-season beans have entered the reproductive stage. The first two cuttings of alfalfa have been promising, with good yields reported. The hot, wet conditions have created a perfect storm for Palmer amaranth and other aggressive weeds, many of which have taken off following the recent rains. Keep scouting regularly and act early to stay ahead of them.—Dwayne Joeseph, Kent Co.

Lower Eastern Shore

It was a good year for wheat. Harvest has been completed. Wheat yield was 70 to 100+ bu/acre, with 90 to 100 bu/acre on average. We had an extended hot and dry period, which really hurt corn. Corn stages vary. Early planted corn is tasseling; some late planted corn is early vegetative stages. Regardless of the stage, corn suffered from the extended dry weather. Double-crop soybean planting is finishing up. There have been reports of fall panicum grass, which has been difficult to control with glyphosate. We had a much needed rain this week, although the amount varied across the region, with reports of 1/2” to over 2”. Soybean is looking OK, and will be better able to overcome the dry weather than the corn.—Sarah Hirsh, Somerset Co.

Southern Maryland

Why can’t everyone just be happy…The corn folks are smiling with the crop receiving weekly rains, shooting tassels and loving life. Then there are those folks on wetter ground with a frown as they still struggle to get in the last of full season beans and finish up double crop planting. In the world of farming these folks are often one and the same person. Overall, crops look decent for this time of the year. The string of high temperatures early in the month stressed crops. Fortunately, the heat came with rain showers and cooler days followed in time for pollination. Beans that have been in the ground for some time are also responding well to the extra moisture. The wheat crop came off fast this year with excellent yields and good quality. Weeds have been a struggle, especially in fields with wetter areas that have not canopied. We are also seeing potassium and manganese deficiency show up in soybeans and corn. Farmers have made a good second cutting of hay with grasses responding well to the steady moisture.—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

Scouting for Tar Spot in Corn

Andrew Kness, Senior Agriculture Agent| akness@umd.edu
University of Maryland Extension, Harford County

Cooler than normal temperatures and intermittent rain and fog throughout the month of May made for favorable conditions for tar spot development. The fungus that causes tar spot on corn (Phyllachora maydis) prefers somewhat cooler temperatures and intermittent leaf wetness; conditions which we had for the better part of a month in May. The recent switch to hot temperatures will suppress tar spot development. I have had a couple of reports of tar spot, the earliest being June 25, so it would not surprise me if it is lingering at low levels in other fields too. This is by far the earliest detection of this disease in Maryland. Early infections can be potentially concerning if weather conditions remain cool. However, heat will break the infection cycle until cooler weather returns in late August/September.

With that being said, you will notice how rapidly tar spot disease probability has dropped off since the middle of June (Figure 1). This drastic drop is driven by the return of hot temperatures. This heat wave should arrest tar spot development, and if these temperatures continue, will keep this disease at bay until cooler temperatures return.Graph of declining tar spot disease probability from June through July 2025.

It would be a wise idea to scout your fields for tar spot (and other diseases) as they approach tassel (VT)—I would recommend starting around V10 and monitoring through early grain fill. Tar spot symptoms are characterized by small, round, slightly raised black lesions on the surface of leaves (Figure 2). If you notice tar spot established in your corn during this timeframe, you will want to consider a fungicide application around VT-R2 to manage the disease (and others); however, if you are only noticing one or two lesions on a leaf, it is no reason to panic. If you are already planning on a fungicide application at tassel, you will get good suppression of tar spot, along with other important foliar diseases. Do not forget about other diseases, such as gray leaf spot. Conditions for gray leaf spot are very high right now and will stay high since the pathogen that causes this disease favors hotter temperatures.

Figure 2. Tar spot stromata (raised black specks) on corn leaf.

If you find tar spot while scouting, or suspect you have found it, please send me a note or call me (410-638-3255) as we continue to monitor the spread of this disease in Maryland.

Mid-Summer Insect Scouting Priorities in Row Crops

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

As we move into July and August, insect pressure tends to ramp up across Maryland row crops, particularly in soybeans and corn. These months are critical for monitoring pest activity and making timely, threshold-based decisions. Several pests are commonly active during this period, including corn earworm, stink bugs, Japanese beetles, other defoliators, and spider mites.

Corn earworm moths typically migrate into Maryland in larger numbers in mid to late July, although some can overwinter here, and early flights have already been reported moving up the coast. In soybeans, larvae can cause significant injury during the R1 to R5 growth stages by feeding on pods and developing seeds. When I ran the numbers, the threshold was approximately 2.5 larvae per 15 sweeps, but thresholds can vary depending on market value and treatment cost. You can use the NCSU dynamic threshold calculator to run your own field-specific estimates: https://go.umd.edu/CEW. It’s important to sample evenly across the field, as female moths may lay eggs in clusters, leading to localized infestations. Many corn earworm populations show resistance to pyrethroids, so growers should consider using alternative insecticide chemistries when treatment is needed.

An image of corn earworm, green cloverworm, and soybean looper on a white background
Figure 1. Common soybean pest caterpillars. Graphic by Hayden Schug, University of Maryland.

Defoliating insects, such as Japanese beetles, bean leaf beetles, grasshoppers, green cloverworms, and soybean loopers, can all be active during July and August. Last year in Southern Maryland, there were soybean fields that reached defoliation thresholds from grasshopper feeding alone. In many cases, damage was more severe in the center of the field, so it’s important to walk the entire field and not rely solely on edge scouting. Defoliation thresholds are based on cumulative injury from all feeding insects. Economic thresholds are 30 percent defoliation before bloom (V1–V6), 15 percent from bloom through pod fill (R1–R6), and 25 percent from full seed to maturity (R7–R8). A helpful visual guide and estimator tool is available through the University of Nebraska (Figure 2).

Diagram of soybean plant and how to determine defoliation percentage
Figure 2. Sampling soybean defoliation. Infographic by Justin McMehan, University of Nebraska.

Stink bugs, including brown and brown marmorated species, are another priority pest in soybeans and corn during mid-summer. They damage pods by piercing and feeding on developing seeds, often resulting in aborted or shriveled beans. Scouting is most important from R3 to R5. The general treatment threshold is five stink bugs per 15 sweeps, but this drops to three per 15 sweeps in fields grown for seed or planted early.

Finally, spider mites may become a problem during periods of hot, dry weather, especially along field edges. These pests cause stippling and bronzing of leaves and can spread quickly under drought stress. Treatment should be considered when active mites are present on the undersides of leaves and bronzing or stippling begins to move into the upper canopy. Threshold estimates follow the 15 percent defoliation threshold, and plants should be treated when that level of injury is reached. 

In corn, Japanese beetles can clip silks and interfere with pollination. The treatment threshold is 3 or more beetles per ear, and pollination is still ongoing. Almost all pollination occurs within the first 4-5 days of silking, so any damage done by silk clipping after that period should not affect yield. It is important to look at ears throughout the field as Japanese beetles tend to congregate on field edges. 

Regular scouting during the next several weeks will be essential to managing pest pressure effectively. Making decisions based on economic thresholds helps protect yield while avoiding unnecessary insecticide applications. If you would like assistance with scouting, pest identification, or choosing control options, contact your local Extension office.