8.11.20 News from Your Federated Agronomists
Like sunflowers in full bloom, the growing season is reaching its peak and Federated Agronomists are keeping an eye out for yield-robbing spider mites and other crop issues. If you are a Minnesota grower, take note of new rules for fall fertilization. Growers throughout Federated's service area can look forward to the virtual Discovery Plot tours coming soon (sneak peek below).
Photo by Kevin Carlson
Fall Nitrogen Fertilizer Application Restrictions Begin for MN
Minnesota growers who plan to apply fall fertilizer, nitrogen in particular, should take note of the new restrictions that go into effect Sept. 1, 2020. Under the Groundwater Protection Rule (GPR) signed into law by the ag commissioner of Minnesota in 2019, application of nitrogen fertilizer is restricted in certain areas of the state to “minimiz[e] potential sources of nitrate pollution to Minnesota groundwater" ... Read more.
Spider Mites Spin a Yield-Reducing Web
web illustration
Two-spotted spider mites spin little webs that act like miniature parachutes, which get caught by the wind and move the spider mites into fertile corn and soybean fields. They are opportunistic insects, and they feed on whatever plants their little parachutes take them to (spider mites are immobile on their own).

Spider mites multiply in hot and dry conditions – like those found in most of Federated’s geography this season. Wetter weather produces a “natural control measure” – a fungus – that helps control spider mites, according to Kevin Carlson, Federated’s agronomy sales manager. But since this season ... Read more.
Virtual Discovery Day Plots: Pick Your Tour
With the Covid19-driven change from in-person to virtual Discovery Plot tours, Federated Agronomists and key supply reps are working hard to develop a series of videos that will enable growers to access agronomic information specific to their own geographic areas.

Growers will be able to pick and choose which videos to view based on crop- or farm-specific interests and needs.

“We will offer company-wide and regionally based video presentations,” said Kevin Carlson, Federated’s agronomy sales manager. “It won’t be one big video,” said Carlson, adding with a chuckle that “you won’t have to listen to it all!”

Videos will include an Enlist® update, seed trait updates, and seed supplier updates (from the company reps themselves). Topics related to Legend® will get full coverage “so everyone can see what that looks like,” said Carlson.

Virtual Discovery Plot tour videos will arrive in your inbox in upcoming editions of the Agronomy Update. Stay tuned. Got questions? Talk to your Federated Agronomist.