We know that P is a critical element required for crop growth and development, and if deficient, the lack of P can significantly reduce crop yield. While application of P fertilizer is common, it is not always required to achieve maximum yield.

In both wet spring weather and drought conditions, the timing of cover crop termination can have a big impact on soil moisture levels, according to Purdue University.

According to the latest USDA Crop Progress report, some 2% of corn has been planted in the week ended April 4, in line with the 2% planted in the same week last year.

Elwyn Taylor, Iowa State University climatologist, reported that 200-bushel corn needs 19 to 23 inches of water during the growing season. For 200-bushel corn at 75 degree F (soil temperature), corn needs 1-acre inch of water per week, doubling to 2 inches at 85 degrees F, and doubling again to 4 inches at 95 degrees F. Read more in this article from Ohio's Country Journal.

There are lots of solutions on the table to improve water-use efficiency and address food production challenges the world is facing. But the root of these strategies needs to start with the soil.

Census of Agriculture data has been released for 2017. How did the Great Plains do with cover crop acreage and adoption? Read here to find out.

Several factors play into the winter survival of alfalfa, including soil moisture, soil temperature, stand age, soil fertility and fall stubble. Find out how these factors interact and how to assess whether or not your stand is still viable.