Specialists Speaking – TYSON RAPER TENNESSEE
As I write this on the eighth of April, several growers in my area are nearing the end of soy and corn planting. We’ve had an abnormal March and quite the odd start to April, with very few showers and warmer conditions than expected. The planting conversation has quickly shifted to cotton, and while I am not yet aware of any cotton in the ground, if we can make it through next week with only light rains, there is a solid chance that many of our cotton acres will have an April plant date.
For those reading this that have not yet planted, there are several things to keep in mind when trying to achieve a heathy stand of cotton in Tennessee. First, we need to start clean, preferably with a minimum of a two-week period without green weed material present in the field. Insecticides targeting cutworms should be included in the residual herbicide application made at planting if seeding rates have been cut or if green plant material is present at planting. While planting, row cleaners should be used to move the residue away from the furrow and the furrow needs to be properly closed; this will reduce the likelihood of significant injury from slugs.
For those that have already planted, there are still several post-planting actions necessary to support the establishment of a healthy cotton stand. If a ThryvOn variety has not been planted, thrips populations should be monitored and treated, when appropriate, between emergence of the first and fourth true leaf. Weed management should include the use of residual herbicides to prevent weed emergence and reduce reliance on post-emergence products. Finally, all N, P, K, and S fertilizer should be applied with the intent to allow it to become plant available prior to the first week of flower. For specific updates on emerging issues in Tennessee production, be sure to sign up for the news.utcrops.com weekly newsletter. ∆
Specialists Speaking – TYSON RAPER TENNESSEE