This summer, Iowa State University’s Research and Demonstration Farms are once again hosting a series of field days across the state. These events offer a valuable opportunity to learn about the latest crop production research, management practices, and emerging agricultural technologies directly from Iowa State specialists and researchers.

Residual soil nitrogen levels last year were relatively high and extremely variable from field to field. That means the Late Spring Nitrate Test (LSNT) can generate a large return on investment for in-season nitrogen decision-making this year. For those making in-season nitrogen applications, there may be significant opportunity for savings on fertilizer inputs.

Residual soil nitrogen levels last year were relatively high and extremely variable from field to field. That means the Late Spring Nitrate Test (LSNT) can generate a large return on investment for in-season nitrogen decision-making this year. For those making in-season nitrogen applications, there may be significant opportunity for savings on fertilizer inputs.

Early-season field conditions can set the tone for the entire growing season. Two common soil issues that can limit early crop development are soil crusting and sidewall compaction. While they look different in the field, both restrict crop establishment and early root growth, reduce early vigor, and can make crop stress symptoms show up sooner and more severely.

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Field Agronomists have completed their spring survey of subsoil moisture in northwest Iowa. Subsoil moisture sampling in Iowa dates to February 1954 when ten sites were chosen for soil moisture sampling. In 1959, the sampling increased to 22 locations, and in 1971, 61 locations were sampled. Today, 18 locations are sampled in northwest Iowa.