Agronomy Highlights
Agronomy Highlights is a biweekly podcast from Penn State Extension. It is hosted by field and forage crops educators and covers a broad range of agronomic topics in depth. Episodes feature knowledgeable guests and are aimed at farmers, industry professionals, and anyone wanting to learn more about field crop production and management. The show provides practical information for improving crop knowledge and management.
Episodes
S5E3: Statewide Crop Conditions Tour Wrap-Up
Recorded: 9/24/26 Join Penn State Extension Agronomy Educators for a timely and practical conversation on current crop conditions across Pennsylvania. In this episode, the team shares on-the-ground observations from fields spanning multiple regions. They highlight how recent weather patterns, soil moisture variability, and crop growth stages are shaping corn, soybean, and forage performance. The d
S5E2: Harvest, Humidity, and El Niño: A Pennsylvania Weather Outlook
Recorded: 9/10/26 In this episode of the Agronomy Highlights Podcast, Penn State climatologist Kyle Imhoff joins the team to break down Pennsylvania’s 2026 growing season, from spring freeze events and summer rainfall patterns to what producers can expect heading into harvest and winter. The discussion explores how weather has affected crops across the state, explains the science behind El Niño an
S5E1: Statewide Crop Conditions, Yield Estimates and Silage Moisture
Recorded: 8/25/26 Join Penn State Extension Agronomy Educators for a timely and practical conversation on current crop conditions across Pennsylvania. In this episode, the team shares on-the-ground observations from fields spanning multiple regions. They highlight how recent weather patterns, soil moisture variability, and crop growth stages are shaping the performance of corn, soybean, and forage
S4E26: Statewide Crop Conditions, Soil Testing, and Seeding Fall Forages
Recorded: 8/5/26Join Penn State Extension Agronomy Educators for a timely and practical conversation on current crop conditions across Pennsylvania. In this episode, the team shares on-the-ground observations from fields spanning multiple regions. They highlight how recent weather patterns, soil moisture variability, and crop growth stages are shaping corn and forage performance. The discussion in
S4E25: Statewide Crop Conditions and Cover Crops after Small Grains
Recorded: 7/1/2026Join Penn State Extension Agronomy Educators for a timely and practical conversation on current crop conditions across Pennsylvania. In this episode, the team shares on-the-ground observations from fields spanning multiple regions. They highlight how recent weather patterns, soil moisture variability, and crop growth stages are shaping corn and forage performance.The discussion i
S4E24: Small Grain Assessment and Head Scab
Recorded: 6/22/26 As we prepare for small grain harvest, join us as we talk with Penn State experts about the latest approaches to assessing small grain health and productivity. In this episode, we dive into head scab (Fusarium head blight), including how to identify it and understand its impacts. Hosts: Justin Brackenrich and Dwane Miller, Penn State ExtensionGuests: Dr. Daneila Carrijo, Dr. Alys
S4E23: Statewide Crop Conditions and Corn Nitrogen Management Tools
Recorded: 6/2/26Join Penn State Extension Agronomy Educators for a timely and practical conversation on current crop conditions across Pennsylvania. In this episode, the team shares on-the-ground observations from fields spanning multiple regions. They highlight how recent weather patterns, soil moisture variability, and crop growth stages are shaping corn and forage performance. The discussion in
S4E22: Stand Assessment and Replant Decisions in Corn and Soybeans
Recorded: 5/21/26 What should growers look for when evaluating early-season corn and soybean stands to decide whether replanting is worth the time and cost? In this episode, expert Zack Curtis discusses replanting decisions for corn and soybeans, emphasizing the importance of objective assessment, cost analysis, and strategic planning to optimize yields and profitability. Hosts: Justin Brackenrich
S4E21: Forage Fertilization After First Cutting
Recorded: 5/11/26 Rising fertilizer prices are top of mind for producers this spring. As we approach first cutting, how should you be thinking about fertility management to ensure successful hay production throughout the season? Join us for a discussion with Andrew Frankenfield as he shares strategies to help you maximize your fertility inputs and get the most out of your hay crop.Hosts: Justin Br
S4E20: Grain Sorghum 101 (Pt.2)
Recorded: 3/16/26 Grain sorghum is gaining attention as a resilient, drought-tolerant crop with potential to diversify crop rotations across Pennsylvania. In this episode, Justin and Dwane are once again joined with Dale Stoltzfus, Sorghum grower and owner of Specialty Grains LLC. They will continue to dive deeper into grain sorghum management and discuss some opportunities and challenges of produ
S4E19: Planning for Planting
Recorded: 3/30/26 As planting season approaches, preparation and decision-making can set the tone for the entire growing year. In this episode, the hosts invite Del Voight, Lebanon County Agronomy Extension Educator, to discuss key considerations for planting corn and soybeans. Topics include evaluating planting conditions, deciding how early to start planting, and optimizing planter setup for uni
S4E18: Grain Sorghum 101 (Pt.1)
Recorded: 3/16/26 Grain sorghum is gaining attention as a resilient, drought-tolerant crop with potential to diversify crop rotations across Pennsylvania. But how well does it really fit our climate and management systems? In this episode, Justin and Dwane are joined by Dale Stoltzfus, sorghum grower and owner of Specialty Grains LLC, to explore the opportunities and challenges of growing grain so
S4E17: Phosphorus Fertility and New P Technology!
Recorded: 3/6/26As spring is coming fast, it is time to start making our fertility management plans! In this episode, we dive into the P of N-P-K. Penn State soil fertility management specialist Dr. Charlie White and Chief Administrative & Sustainability Officer of Phospholutions, Stephen Levitsky, join us to discuss phosphorus management, selecting fertilizers, and new high-efficiency phospho
S4E16: Double Crop Soybeans
Recorded: 2/23/25 Are you looking for opportunities to pack more crops into your rotation? Double crop soybeans may be for you! Double-cropping soybeans refers to growing soybeans immediately following a cereal grain crop. In this episode, we invite Dr. Carrie Knott of the University of Kentucky to discuss the agronomics of growing double-crop soybeans and the potential for double-cropping in Penn
S4E15: Sponsor Spotlight: Midwest Ag Risk Kontrol LLC
Recorded: 2/6/2026 When a fire emergency happens on the farm, it is important to be prepared to stop the fire at the source! In this episode, we discuss Enforcer One fire-control systems with our sponsor, Mark Twenhafel of Midwest Ag Risk Kontrol LLC (MARK). Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin BrackenrichGuest(s): Mark Twenhafel Photo credit: Mark Twenhafel Links:Enforcer OneFire DemonstrationMidwest A
S4E14: Farm Fire Safety
Recorded: 1/14/2026 Spring is coming soon, and the increased use of farm equipment this time of year can increase risk of fire. In this episode, Justin and Ryan chat with Rob Nese, Assistant Fire Chief of Centre Region Fire Protection and Emergency Management, about farm fire safety. We discuss common causes of fire on-farm, fire prevention, and what to do in an emergency. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and
S4E13: Reducing Costs, Increasing Profit on the Farm
Recorded: 1/15/2026 Are you wondering how you can reduce costs and increase profit on your commodity farm? In this episode, we tackle this question by introducing the utility of an enterprise budget and invite Clint Schroeder and Rachel Cochran, extension specialists at Ohio State and hosts of the Green Fields Green Dollars Video Series, to discuss creative production strategies to save money. Ho
S4E12: Identifying Crop Disease with the Plant Disease Clinic
Recorded: 12/17/25Plant disease can be difficult to diagnose, and thankfully, you don’t have to do it alone! In this episode, Ryan and Justin sit down with Dr. Sara May, Manager of Penn State’s Plant Disease Clinic, to discuss utilizing the clinic, identifying crop disease, and disease trends. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin BrackenrichGuest: Sara May, Penn StateLinks:Plant Disease ClinicNational P
S4E11: Managing Nitrogen with Soil Organic Matter and Your Microbial Herd
Recorded: 12/18/2025 Nitrogen may be one of the most mysterious nutrients that we deal with in agriculture. The dynamic elements of the nitrogen cycle make nitrogen quite a fickle nutrient in our systems. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Richard Mulvaney of the University of Illinois to discuss how Soil Organic Matter and Microbial activity drive N availability to our crops. We also discuss t
S4E10: AgrAbility, Respirator Fit Testing, and Farm Stress: Resource Episode!
Recorded: 12/11/2025 With the winter meeting season fast approaching, it is a good time to highlight some of the Penn State Extension resources that will be available at meetings and conferences upcoming across the state. Linda Fetzer shares information about the AgrAbility program, Shane Williams discusses respirator fit testing, and Ginger Fenton shares Farm Stress Resources. Hosts: Ryan Spelman
S4E9: Q&A with the Forage Team! (Part 2)
Recorded: 11/17/25 In this episode, our forage team educators and specialists sit down to answer commonly asked questions about forage production. In part 2, they discuss making your last fall cutting, and early spring fertility and management. Hosts: Ryan Spelman, Justin Brackenrich, and Dwane MillerLinks: Hay and Pasture Renovation DecisionsSoil Fertility Management for Forage Crops: Pre-establi
S4E8: Q&A with the Forage Team! (Part 1)
Recorded: 11/17/25In this episode, our forage team educators and specialists sit down to answer commonly asked questions about forage production. In part 1, they discuss establishing a new forage stand, fertility timing, and strengthening a weak stand. Hosts: Ryan Spelman, Justin Brackenrich, and Dwane MillerLinks:Hay and Pasture Renovation DecisionsSoil Fertility Management for Forage Crops: Pre
S4E7: Back to Basics: Soil Fertility Testing
Recorded: 11/05/25In our back to basics series, our hosts discuss the foundational agronomic principles that will improve crop management on your farm. In this episode, Ryan, Justin, and Dwane discuss the importance of soil fertility testing, how to take a soil test, and interpreting a soil test. Hosts: Ryan Spelman, Justin Brackenrich, and Dwane MillerLinks:Soil Fertility TestingInterpreting You
S4E6: Wheat Fertility Checklist
Recorded: 10/22/25With wheat planting well underway across Pennsylvania, there is no better time to review the basics of wheat fertility and management. In this episode, Ryan and Dwane invite Dr. Edwin Ritchey, Extension Professor of soil and nutrient management at the University of Kentucky, to discuss wheat fertility management. He shares practical advice on N-P-K application timing and rates, d
S4E5: Operating a Drone business in 2025 w/ RiehlWay Ag
Recorded: 9/25/25Drones have come onto the agricultural scene hard and fast here in Pennsylvania. In the last few years, interest in operating drones for fungicide, herbicide application, and cover cropping has increased immensely. In this episode, Ryan and Dwane sit down with Ephraim Riehl, Matthew Riehl, and David Stoltzfus, founders of a Lancaster-based agricultural drone business to discuss th
S4E4: Fall Herbicide Application: Burndown and Pasture Weed Control
Recorded: 9/18/25Have you ever harvested your crop just to reveal a major weed problem? Are you wondering whether a fall burndown is worth it or if you should wait for spring? In this episode, we chat with weed specialist Dwight Lingenfelter about fall burndown best practices, weeds that can be managed at this time, and tackling certain pasture weeds. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Pe
S4:E3: Harvest Do’s and Don’ts: Safety, Compaction, and Equipment
Recorded: 9/11/2025As we quickly approach the harvest of soybean and grain corn across Pennsylvania, it is a good time to consider harvest best practices. In this episode, Justin and Dwane are joined by three guests from Penn State Extension. Linda Fetzer joins us to discuss safety considerations, Dr. Sjoerd Duiker discusses compaction, and Del Voight discusses harvest equipment managementHosts: D
S4E2: Ag Innovations: Fungal Endophytes and Incorporating Perennials for Weed Control
Recorded: 8/20/25In part two of our Ag Innovations segment, we're highlighting research at Penn State’s Cover Crop Cocktails field site. We chat with PhD student Theo Newbold about how cover crops and management drive fungal endophyte communities, or “dormant” disease communities. We also chat with Master’s student Allie Rice about incorporating perennial systems into a rotation for weed mana
S4E1: Ag Innovations: How cover crops change the soil biology and the way corn smells!
Recorded: 8/20/25Not only do cover crops influence soil microbiology, but they can also change the odor molecules that the following crop emits! In this first episode of season 4, Justin and Ryan chat with Dr. Jared Ali, an entomology professor at Penn State, who shared how cover crops can influence the way that pest insects perceive and feed on corn. They also sit down with PHD student Jennifer H
S3E29: Specialty Grain Spotlight: Hard Red Winter Wheat
Recorded: 4/19/2021Looking to grow something different? We go back to the archives for a conversation between Dr. Heidi Reed and Dr. Wade Thomason, former Grain Crop Specialist with Virginia Tech and current head of the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at Oklahoma State University, about growing hard red winter wheat. They discuss the characteristics, uses, and breeding goals of hard red wint
S3E28: Emerging Technology: Improving Pennsylvania Forage Systems
Recorded: 6/23/2025What does the future hold for forage production in Pennsylvania? In this episode, Ryan and Justin are joined by Dr. Guojie Wang, Penn State Extension forage specialist and director of the forage systems lab, to discuss his vision for improving forage systems in the state. Dr. Wang shares his ongoing and upcoming research efforts, including diversifying the corn silage and ryelag
S3E27: Mid-Season Check-In: Wheat Condition, Tar Spot, PA Yield Contests
Recorded: 6/27/25As wheat is being harvested across Pennsylvania, and corn and soybean development is well under way, Ryan and Justin take some time to check in with our army of experts on some timely topics. Dr. Heidi Reed joins to share findings from this year’s wheat crop condition tour, Dr. Alyssa Collins gives us updated scouting and management advice for corn tar spot, and Andrew Frankenfiel
S3E26:What Can a Certified Crop Adviser Do for You?
Recorded: 6/1/25Are you a farmer looking for information about finding a qualified crop consultant? Maybe you are interested in becoming a Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) yourself. In this episode, Ryan and Justin sit down with CCA’s Dean Collamer and Lew Frame to talk about the CCA program. They discuss what a certified crop adviser does, the value of the certification, the requirements of the cert
S3E25: Post-Wheat Cover Cropping and Herbicide Considerations
Recorded: 6/5/2025Winter cover cropping has become commonplace across Pennsylvania; however, few are making the best use of summer cover crops following wheat harvest. In this episode, Ryan and Justin talk to Dr. Heidi Reed about cover crop options and best management practices after wheat harvest. Dr. Dwight Lingenfelter also joins us to discuss considerations for herbicide use in wheat when foll
S3E24: Plant Tissue Testing
Recorded: 5/21/25 While you may be familiar with the benefits of soil nutrient testing, are you familiar with the value of plant tissue testing? In this episode, Ryan and Justin invite Dr. John Spargo, Director of Penn State’s Agricultural Analytical Services Lab, to discuss Plant Tissue (Total) Analysis. John shares the value of this type of testing, how it may fit into your agronomic toolbox, an
S3E23: Demystifying Biologicals
Recorded: 4/21/25 What are biological amendments, and how can I implement them on my own farm? If you find yourself asking these questions, then this episode is for you! Ryan and Justin navigate the wild west of biological products with Dr. Connor Sible, Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois Urbana. Dr. Sible discusses the definition of biological products, deciphers biological “modes
S3E22: Fusarium Head Blight and Other Small Grain Disease
Recorded: 4/17/25As the planters get rolling for corn and soybean planting across the state, it can be all too easy to forget about scouting your wheat crops. However, getting ahead of late season small grain diseases is crucial to protecting your yield and profit. In this episode, we discuss small grain disease scouting and management with Penn State plant pathology specialists Dr. Paul Esker and
S3E21: Navigating Tariffs and Building your Grain Marketing Plan
Recorded: 4/8/25 Are you wondering how tariffs may impact the grain market? Maybe you want to learn how to build a grain marketing plan in the first place! In this episode, Jon LaPorte, farm business educator with Michigan State Extension, returns to talk about tariffs, building a grain marketing plan, scenario planning, and leveraging your local market. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich
S3E20: Deer Management with the Pennsylvania Game Commission
Recorded: 3/5/25 As any Pennsylvania farmer can tell you, deer can cause significant damage to crops and are a primary pest in our agricultural landscape. In this episode, we sit down with Law Enforcement Supervisor Brian Singer of the Pennsylvania Game Commission to discuss the legal and lethal options that farmers can take advantage of to manage deer populations. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin
S3E19: Silage Inoculants & Small Grain Silage
Recorded: 3/11/25Cornell Forage Systems Specialist, Joe Lawrence, returns to discuss small grain silage and silage inoculants. We discuss the agronomics of producing high-quality grain silage, and Joe walks us through the different types of silage inoculants, when to use them, and how to use them effectively. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Joe Lawrence, Corn
S3E18: Interpreting Small Grain and Forage Assessments
Recorded: 2/19/25Get ready for spring green-up with this two-episode series on assessing your spring small grain and forage stands! In this episode we talk to extension specialists Dr. Daniela Carrijo and Dr. Guojie Wang about making management decisions based on your early spring stand assessments. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuests: Dr. Daniela Carrijo, Dr. Gu
S3E17: Assessing Small Grain and Forage Stands
Recorded: 2/26/25 Get ready for spring green-up with this two-episode series on assessing your spring small grain and forage stands! In this episode, we talk to extension educator Zack Curtis about the technical aspects of taking qualitative and quantitative stand assessments. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Zachary Curtis. Penn State ExtensionLinks:Wheat S
S3E16: Managing Nitrogen with the Pre-sidedress Soil Nitrate Test (PSNT)
Recorded: 2/11/25 With seemingly ever-increasing fertilizer costs, it is important to apply nitrogen fertilizers with as much precision as possible when growing corn and measuring soil nitrate levels in the early part of the season is a critical step to making these precise applications. In this episode, Ryan and Justin discuss the ins and outs of utilizing a Pre-sidedress Soil Nitrate Test (PSNT)
S3E15: Pest and Disease Management in 2025
Recorded: 1/14/25 As farmers and ag workers begin preparations for the upcoming field season, they may be wondering what new pest management technologies and information are available. In this episode, Ryan and Justin sit down with plant pathology specialist Dr. Paul Esker to discuss new alfalfa fungicide recommendations, updated recommendations for soybean white mold and tar spot control, as wel
S3E14: Weed Management in 2025
Recorded: 1/14/25 As farmers and ag workers begin preparations for the upcoming field season, they may be wondering what new weed management technologies and information is available. In this episode, Ryan and Justin sit down with weed specialist Dwight Lingenfelter to discuss new herbicide technologies, products, and resistance issues moving into the upcoming season. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Just
S3E13: Winter Feeding and Pasture Management
Recorded: 12/9/24 Winter is here, and temperatures are in the single digits across Pennsylvania, so what better time than now to talk about wintertime livestock feeding and pasture management! Join Ryan and Justin in a conversation with Dave Hartman about the agronomic considerations behind feeding livestock over the winter, reducing livestock damage to pasture, and planning your wintertime grazin
S3E12: Best of 2024! New Year Episode
Recorded: 12/20/24Happy New Year! On this episode of the Agronomy Highlights Podcast, Ryan and Justin reflect on our favorite episodes of 2024, and quiz each other on the topics covered over the past year. Tune in and play along on this special episode! Sign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!
S3E11: Preparing Farm Equipment for Winter Storage
Recorded: 11/21/24Pennsylvania winters can bring low temperatures, high moisture, and often fluctuating conditions. These conditions can be abusive to stored farm equipment and machinery. On this episode, extension educators and resident farm equipment experts, Zack Curtis and Andrew Frankenfield, share winter storage tips, discuss how to prepare equipment for storage, and how to minimize problems
S3E10: Organic No-Till and Dry Beans
Recorded: 11/21/24In this episode, we're diving into the world of organic field crop production with Kristen Loria, Extension specialist at Cornell University. Kristen shares her broad expertise in building successful organic field cropping systems, including her experience in reducing tillage and improving crop diversity in organic field crop rotations. Kristen also discusses her experiences
S3E9: Do’s and Don'ts of Winter Manure Spreading
Recorded: 11/21/24Let’s talk crap! As harvest season wraps up and manure pits continue to fill, farmers may be wondering how and if manure may be applied to cropland in winter conditions. In this episode, we are joined by Penn State Extension experts Dr. Robb Meinen and Leanna Duppstadt to discuss how to safely and effectively spread manure in the winter. We also discuss the value of writing manur
S3E8: Farm Succession Planning
Recorded: 10/28/2024Ever wondered what it takes to become a successful multi-generation farm? In this episode, Ryan and Justin investigate the often-tricky process of farm succession and transition planning. Guests Joy Kirkpatrick and Darlene Livingston discuss what farm succession and transition planning means to producers, tensions that may arise during the process, and how to start your own far
S3E7: Grain Marketing Basics
Recorded 10/2/2024As corn and soybean harvest season is in full swing here in Pennsylvania, there is no better time to have a conversation about grain marketing strategy than the present! In this episode, our grain marketing novices, Ryan and Justin, invite grain marketing expert Jon LaPorte of MSU Extension to discuss the basics of grain marketing. We discuss grain marketing terms like basis and
S3E6: How to Predict the Weather! Fall Weather Update
Recorded: 10/7/24Have you ever wondered how a meteorologist predicts the weather? In the agricultural community, we understand the importance of accurate weather prediction and rely on forecasts to plan management decisions. In this episode, we are talking to Penn State meteorologist Kyle Imhoff about how weather is predicted, the innovative work his team does to improve weather prediction, and hi
S3E5: Bonus Episode! 2024 Crop Condition and Silage Dry Down
Recorded: 9/26/24 On this bonus episode, Ryan and Justin chat with fellow extension agronomy educators about 2024 crop conditions and silage dry-down. Dr. Heidi Reed discusses the results of the statewide crop conditions tour, projecting soybean and corn yields across Pennsylvania, and Zack Curtis discusses the findings from his silage dry-down reports this season. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin B
S3E4: Corn Silage Management: Lessons Learned from 2024
Recorded: 9/25/24We cannot believe we made it to Season 3 without a silage episode! Today that all changes, as Ryan and Justin talk with forage systems specialist Joe Lawrence of the Cornell PRO-DAIRY team. Joe Lawrence draws upon his years of experience with Cornell and as a private certified crop adviser to chat about the science of corn silage management and hybrid selection, and reflects on le
S3E3: Emerging Technology Pt 2: Fertilizer Recommendation Tools and Short Stature Corn
Recorded: 8/26/24 In part two of our two-part series, we are exploring new and emerging agricultural technologies. In this episode, Dr. Charlie White shares his lab’s research on nitrogen decision support tools and variable rate fertilizer prescriptions, and Dr. Daniela Carrijo shares her lab’s work on using drones to calculate cover crop nitrogen contributions and new short-stature corn genetics.
S3E2: Emerging Technology Pt 1: Drones and Precision Spray Technology
Recorded: 8/26/24In part one of a two part series, Ryan and Justin explore new and emerging agricultural technologies. On this episode Dr. Paul Esker shares his lab’s reseacrh on drone technology and fungicide application and Dr. John Wallace shares his lab’s research on exact-apply herbicide application technology. Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State Extension Guest(s): Dr. Pau
S3E1: Season 3 Introduction: Meet the Hosts
Recorded: 8/26/24Season three of Agronomy Highlights is here! Hosts Ryan and Justin take the time to officially introduce themselves, and chat about the future ideas and plans for season 3. Big things to come this season! Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionLinks:Penn State Extension Agronomic CropsPenn State Extension Cover CropsPenn State Extension ForagesSign up for
S2E24: Insects in Your Stored Grain? Take an IPM Approach
Recorded: 7/12/24Stored grain insect pests like weevils and grain moths can greatly reduce grain quality during storage, and increase the risk of grain rejection at the elevator. In this episode, we chat with Penn State Entomologist and Extension Specialist, Dr. John Tooker, about the biology of these insect pests and how to manage them using an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach. Links:Th
S2E23: Summer Drought and Crop Update
Recorded: July 16, 2024We are experiencing drought conditions in many parts of Pennsylvania and the country. Join us for a round table discussion with extension educators across the state to learn about current crop conditions and the effects of mid-season drought on corn, soybean, and forages. Links:Managing Crops During a Severe Drought: Q and AManaging Drought Stressed CornU.S. Drought Monitor
S2E22: Solar Development and Agrivoltaic Forage Production
Recorded: 6/20/2024Can Agriculture and Solar Coexist? As national interest in renewable energy has increased, agricultural land has become a top choice for solar development projects. In this episode, we are joined by Ohio State Extension field specialist Eric Romich and agronomy educator Christine Gelley, along with Penn State Extension educator Dan Brockett, for a round table discussion. In the
S2E21:Organic Field Crop Systems
Recorded: 6/13/2024In this week’s episode, we are joined by Dr. Andrew Smith of Rodale Institute to talk about organic field cropping systems. Dr. Smith is the chief scientific officer at Rodale Institute and oversees their vegetable systems trial, along with other organic trials. Join us for an in-depth discussion of Rodale Institute’s history, its long-term research on organic field cropping sys
S2E20: Summer Annual Forages
Recorded: 5/21/2024Interested in increasing forage availability during the summer slump? Summer annual forages might be for you! In this episode, we bring on forage crop and beef systems expert Dr. Daren Redfearn of the University of Nebraska to discuss types of summer annual forages, growing these crops, and how to best incorporate them into your farming operation. Forage species discussed includ
S2E19: First Cut Hay Considerations
Recorded: 5/1/2024 With warm spring temperatures, the first cutting of hay is just around the corner for forage producers. During this episode, we are joined by Ron Hoover and Andrew Frankenfield of Penn State Extension to discuss the management considerations to be aware of going into this first cutting. Aside from their roles with Penn State, Andrew and Ron are avid hay farmers and share a wealt
S2E18: Managing Soybean Cyst Nematodes
Recorded: 3/18/2024Few researchers anywhere in the world probably know as much about soybean cyst nematode as Dr. Greg Tylka. Originally from Westmoreland, Pennsylvania, Dr. Tylka now works for Iowa State and provided us with a broad-ranging discussion on the history of SCN, as well as how to manage it. If you want to take a deep dive into nematodes, this is the episode for you. Links:The Soybean
S2E17: Drought Stressed Corn and Nitrogen Management
Recorded: 3/6/2024It’s rare that we get a cropping season where the weather is absolutely perfect, but luckily corn is relatively resilient. In this episode, Dr. Jeffrey Coulter from the University of Minnesota joins us to discuss how corn deals with weather-related stressors and how that may impact a grower's nitrogen management strategy. This is an interesting one and a very valuable listen
S2E16: Sulfur Fertilization
Recorded: 2/13/2024Sulfur is a critical secondary crop nutrient, especially for corn production. In this episode, Dr. Charlie White joins us for a hearty discussion on why, when, and how to apply sulfur to crops. We also get into the specifics of why it’s difficult to accurately assess sulfur levels in the field, as well as the chemical nature of sulfur and its level of availability. Links:Sulfur
S2E15: Managing Pokeweed and Burcucumber
Recorded 2/12/24Certain weeds seem to be tough to control no matter what we do, and for many row crop farms in Pennsylvania, pokeweed and burcucumber certainly fit this description. If you’re struggling to manage one, or both, of these weeds, then this episode will give you some valuable management recommendations on how to get these nuisances under control. We are joined again by one of our resid
S2E14: Growing Hemp
Recorded: 2/5/24Many farmers have expressed interest in trying to grow hemp in recent years, but understanding the agronomics of producing this crop is essential. In this episode, Dr. David Suchoff joins us to discuss the many aspects of what it takes to grow a successful hemp crop for fiber. We get into his research experience, new possibilities, obstacles, and how to go about growing hemp for th
S2E13: Organic Soil Amendments
Recorded: 1/19/2024When it comes to fertilizer, we often discuss things like urea, potash, MAP, and DAP. However, a whole world of organic fertilizer sources exists outside of the traditional inorganic fertilizers most large-row crop producers are accustomed to using. In this episode, we are joined by two very knowledgeable members of our Penn State team to go over the benefits and drawbacks of or
S2E12: All About Soil Microbiology
Recorded: 1/5/2024I was once asked a question about whether fungicidal seed treatments negatively impacted beneficial soil fungi. While researching this question, I came across the work of Dr. Jim Germida from the University of Saskatchewan. In this episode, we get into a broad-ranging conversation about the many aspects of soil microbiology with a true expert. This is a valuable conversation for
S2E11: Foliar Fertilizer
Recorded: 12/19/23In this episode we are joined by Dr. Glen Harris from UGA to discuss how, when, and why to apply foliar fertilizers. If you think your crop may be deficient in a key nutrient, a proper foliar fertilizer application can remediate the deficiency and help to achieve higher yields. If you’ve ever considered a foliar fertilizer application, this episode will help give you some great f
S2E10: Fertilizer Impacts on Soil Microbes
Recorded: 11/30/23In this episode, we are joined by two very knowledgeable researchers from UC Davis to discuss the effects fertilizer can have on soil microbial populations. Often, we are told that mineral fertilizers are deleterious to soil microbes, but you might be surprised to find that it’s not quite that simple! In addition to fertilizer impacts, we also discuss the effects of tillage pract
S2E9: Year in Review
Recorded: 11/13/23Senior agronomist Kevin Fry shares his take on the 2023 growing season in this episode. Everything from the spring drought and Candian wildfire smoke to soybean white mold and weed escapes in corn were covered in the show. Join us to reflect on the 2023 growing season to help you better prepare for the year ahead! Host: Joseph Akins, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Kevin Fry, Pioneer
S2E8: Winter Wheat Planting and Fertilization
Recorded: 11/6/23Tune in as tackle the management of winter wheat from two perspectives, general agronomics and soil fertility. From planting dates and seeding rates to nitrogen applications in fall and spring, we go over all the basics of successfully growing a crop of winter wheat. Useful Links:Planting Winter WheatNitrogen Management in Winter WheatHost: Host: Joseph Akins, Penn State Extensio
S2E7: Soybean Harvest Losses
Recorded: 10/13/2023Joined by Mike Staton from Michigan State, we discuss how farmers can minimize yield loss during the soybean harvest process. Find out how much loss is typically expected during harvest, routes of pre-harvest loss, and what farmers can do regarding equipment management to prevent losses. Useful Links:Pennsylvania Soybeans: Minimize Harvesting Loss and Maximize Cost Per BushelRe
S2E6: Understanding Forage Quality
Recorded: September 1, 2023In this episode, we are joined again by our resident forage specialist Dr. Guojie Wang to discuss forage quality. We talk about why maintaining high-quality feed is essential for good livestock management and, specifically, how to manage forages properly. We also talk about how forage testing labs analyze samples, how to interpret a forage report, and where listeners can
S2E4: Corn Ear Rots
Recorded: 9/5/2023Join us as we sit down with one of our best plant pathologists to discuss some of the most common corn ear rots that afflict our Pennsylvania corn crop. Dr. Murillo-Williams explains what typically causes these ear rots to develop, how to identify them, and what farmers can do to manage them. We also discuss livestock safety issues related to mycotoxin production and which corn e
S2E5: Hail Damaged Corn
Recorded: 8/25/23Of all the things that are in a farmer's control to produce a healthy crop, unfortunately, the weather is not one of them. This year, several farms across Pennsylvania encountered hail damage from strong storm systems, and when that happens, it can be challenging to determine what the next best move is. Thankfully, Justin McMechan from the University of Nebraska Extension joi
S2E3: Farm Machinery Selection and Management
Recorded: 8/1/23It takes a tremendous amount of mechanical power to keep a modern farm operation running, and in this episode, we dive into all aspects of farm machinery. We're covering which pieces of equipment are necessary for an operation, the tradeoffs of owning equipment vs. hiring a custom applicator, and how to manage equipment once you have it. A special "thank you" to fell
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