Growers across the United States are concerned about the potential for early-season pests and diseases in corn and soybean crops because of weather conditions so far this spring. Pioneer Hi-Bred experts say corn crops planted early could experience more problems than those planted later because of cooler and wetter soils. Pioneer suggests growers scout their fields and evaluate stand establishment.

Crops planted early in April could experience seed rot or damping off – which occurs when fungal pathogens like Fusarium, Pythium and Rhizoctonia are present in the soil – and seedbed conditions are challenging. Concerns of these issues may lessen in areas with delayed planting because of warmer temperatures and drier conditions. However – for growers who plant into late May – experts say those fields could be more susceptible to black cutworm – which grows larger with time – increasing the chance of cutting down newly emerged plants. When the cutworm gets to be half-an-inch long it can kill the plant because it leaves small shot holes in corn leaves – resulting in stand loss or irregular stands.

Growers also should scout for soybean diseases – such as Pythium, Phytophthora and Rhizoctonia. Experts say tracking emergence is important. Seed treatments could help reduce early season disease and pest pressures for both crops.