News

Southwest Michigan field crops update – June 12, 2025

Published on June 12, 2025
Potato leafhopper is present—watch for it in potatoes and alfalfa. Wheat is done flowering and starting kernel fill.
Southwest Michigan field crops update – June 5, 2025

Published on June 5, 2025
Wheat is ending pollination and starting kernel development. Corn and soybeans reached early vegetative stages, but cool weather slowed development. Dry, windy conditions allowed lots of field work, including forage raking and baling.
Fusarium research under watch: How science and regulation work together to protect U.S. agriculture

Published on June 5, 2025
The plant pathogen Fusarium graminearum has recently gained media attention, but why all the fuss?
Southwest Michigan field crops update – May 29, 2025

Published on May 29, 2025
Wheat is mostly in full flower, and some fungicides for Fusarium head blight have gone out. Corn and soybeans continue in early vegetative stages, potatoes are at tuber initiation, and alfalfa had its first cutting.
Early season irrigation for small grains and forages

Published on May 22, 2025
Irrigated small grains and alfalfa hay tend to have higher water demands when compared to most field crops and are often overlooked when it comes to timely irrigation.
Southwest Michigan field crops update – May 22, 2025

Published on May 22, 2025
Wheat is heading out and just starting to flower on some acres. Cool weather slowed down corn and soybean progress.
The 2025 MSU Weed Tour is June 25

Published on May 16, 2025
Join Michigan State University to view the latest in corn and soybean weed control research.
Southwest Michigan field crops update – May 15, 2025

Published on May 15, 2025
Corn and soybeans continue to emerge while planting is ongoing. Wheat is at Feekes 9 (flag leaf fully emerged) and early 10 (boot stage).
Southwest Michigan field crops update – May 8, 2025

Published on May 8, 2025
Corn and soybeans started emerging, and wheat is at Feekes 8/9 (flag leaf emerging to fully emerged with ligule).
What is evapotranspiration and why is it important in irrigation?

Published on May 7, 2025
Evapotranspiration (ET) isn’t just a scientific term, it’s the foundation of efficient irrigation. Understanding and applying ET helps maximize yields while improving water productivity.