By Andi Anderson
Hot temperatures and limited rainfall created challenging conditions for Southwest Michigan crop producers during the week. High water demand has increased pressure on farmers as corn, soybeans, and potatoes move through important growth stages. While scattered showers are expected to provide some relief, irrigation remains a key priority across the region.
Most soybean fields have entered reproductive stages, ranging from flowering to pod development. These growth stages are critical for yield formation, making it important for growers to monitor crop health closely. Farmers are also watching for white mold, a disease that can affect soybean production. Preventive fungicide applications are most effective when applied during the early reproductive stages.
Corn development also progressed significantly, with many fields reaching tasseling and early reproductive growth stages. As corn enters this period, producers are encouraged to scout for tar spot, a disease that can reduce yields if left unmanaged. Recent reports confirmed tar spot presence in additional areas of Michigan, increasing the need for field monitoring and timely management decisions.
Growers are also being advised to watch for western bean cutworm activity. This insect pest can damage corn during tasseling and reproductive stages. Monitoring for egg masses and tracking infestation levels helps farmers determine whether treatment is necessary. Adult moth activity increased in some regions following recent storm systems before declining later in the week.
Irrigation demand remains especially high because crops are at peak water use. Corn at tasseling requires approximately 1.7 inches of water per week. This stage is considered one of the most sensitive periods for yield development, and water stress during tasseling and silking can significantly reduce production potential.
Soybeans are also experiencing peak water needs, requiring between 1.5 and 1.7 inches of water weekly. The pod development and seed filling stages are particularly sensitive to moisture shortages. Potatoes in the tuber bulking stage continue to require about 1.3 inches of water per week to support growth and quality.
Agricultural specialists recommend monitoring soil moisture levels, crop stages, rainfall, and weather forecasts when making irrigation decisions. Visible signs of stress, such as leaf rolling in corn or flipped soybean leaves during cooler parts of the day, may indicate inadequate soil moisture.
In addition to field management recommendations, growers are encouraged to use irrigation scheduling tools that provide field-specific recommendations based on crop growth, soil type, and weather conditions. These tools can help improve water-use efficiency and support crop performance.
Experts also highlighted insect management during the latest agricultural educational program, emphasizing the importance of monitoring western bean cutworm as corn enters reproductive stages.
Overall, Southwest Michigan producers remain focused on managing water resources, controlling pests and diseases, and protecting crop yields as the growing season advances through a period of increased heat and crop water demand.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-nes
Categories: Michigan, Sustainable Agriculture