Corn Planting FAQs

Abstract

<p>Winter ISU Extension and Outreach meetings provided premium-grade fodder for reflection and thought. The January 2013 U.S. drought monitor maps showed drought still persisted across Iowa to a greater extent than in 2012. Thankfully, March and now April rains and snow helped reduce drought severity in many parts of Iowa. This week’s <a href="http://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/archive/20130416/pdfs/total_dm_130416.pdf">U.S. Drought Monitor</a> reflects significant improvement. Topsoil moisture conditions have subsequently improved, but subsoils in many areas remain short or very short in moisture (<a href="http://www.nass.usda.gov/Statistics_by_State/Iowa/Publications/Crop_Progress_&_Condition/2013/Vol05__04_15_13.pdf">NASS</a>). As we ramp up for the 2013 growing season, let’s address some frequently asked questions and concerns discussed over the long 2012-2013 winter.</p>