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Plan ahead for Asian soybean rust, but don't overlook more likeBy Ron Geis Retail Account Manager DuPont Sioux City, Iowa Few things here in the High Plains can create more fear--or inflict more damage--than a tornado. But at the same time, most of us realize we are far more likely to suffer losses because of fire, flooding, theft or a number of other threats. That's why it makes sense not only to keep an eye on the sky but also to watch out for more likely problems. The same thing is true in soybean production. The threat of Asian soybean rust has created a lot of concern in recent years, and rightly so. But I also believe that Soybean aphids, seedling disease and uncontrolled weeds may be more-immediate threats to the bottom line. One thing is certain: Asian soybean rust now has a foothold in the High Plains. In fact, the pathogen has even been found on crop residue in a grain bin here in Iowa. A bigger concern is the presence of overwintering rust spores in Mexico and Texas. Because of our wind patterns, they are more likely to reach farms in Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas and western Missouri than spores traveling from the Southeast. However, we now have a much greater understanding of how to protect against Asian soybean rust and, just as importantly, when and where it is likely to spread. The sentinel plot program implemented by the USDA has worked well. Researchers have done an excellent job of locating these plots in strategic areas, monitoring them carefully and then reporting their findings to the industry. Although there is a possibility that soybean rust will be a problem in the High Plains this season, it won't catch us off guard. That's why I encourage growers to remember to protect against the threats that are much more likely to occur. --Seedling disease. Mother Nature rolled back the calendar with cold, wet weather in early April. Those are terrible conditions for planting soybeans, but perfect for seedling diseases that can damage plants before they ever get going. --Early season weeds. I have spoken with a number of growers who worked up their corn ground after harvest last fall and, because of high fuel prices, don't expect to do any tillage before planting this spring. Although they don't call what they are doing no-till, it will have exactly the same effect on weed pressure. If you don't plan to till this spring, I strongly encourage tank mixing a good residual herbicide with glyphosate to do a better job of controlling spring and summer annual weeds. If weeds that are emerging now are left unchecked, they will have a four- to six-week head start on the crop, and growers will be playing catch-up all season. Soybean aphids. I believe Soybean aphids pose a more imminent threat than Asian soybean rust. Trap data suggest that infestations are possible in many areas this season. For most High Plains growers, timely scouting and preventive insecticide treatments are much more likely to pay for themselves than a treatment for possible rust. Having said all that, I'm not recommending that growers ignore the threat of Asian soybean rust--just keep it in perspective. Remember, protecting soybeans against other environmental stresses will lead to healthier plants that can better withstand Asian soybean rust if it does show up. As we say on the farm, the best time to close the door is before the cows are out of the barn. Editor's note: Between the Rows is brought to you by industry leaders in order to keep you informed about current growing conditions, regional practices, important management issues and environmental concerns. B 7 4/23/07 4 Star NE Date: 4/19/07 Advertisement
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