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Illinois Agronomists Educate Local Growers, Resellers

August 16, 2016
Photo of pigweed

Ongoing education is an important pillar at the Syngenta Grow MoreTM Experience sites. Recent topics of interest at the Pana site included: the difference between waterhemp and Palmer amaranth, the three most common soil types, and the importance of applying nitrogen. These are all trials we address in our Pana trials.

Waterhemp vs. Palmer Amaranth

Growers often ask how to tell whether waterhemp or Palmer amaranth has invaded their fields. The test is simple. Fold the leaf over its stem. If the stem is shorter than the leaf, it’s waterhemp; if the stem is longer than the leaf, it’s Palmer amaranth.

Knowing Which Soil Types Help Maximize Yield

Illinois growers will encounter three main soil types: coarse, finely, and moderate-textured.

  • Coarse soil drains water well but does not have a very high water-holding capacity.
  • Finely-textured soil holds water and nutrients well but does not drain at a desirable rate.
  • Moderate-textured soil, however, is the best of both extremes, with qualities like adequate drainage and strong nutrient and moisture-holding capacities.

Syngenta believes it is important to study these characteristics at the Pana Grow More Experience site. When growers understand each field’s soil type, they can better evaluate which hybrids and varieties are best suited for maximum yield potential on that particular field. Syngenta agronomists are trained to help growers match soils to the most appropriate hybrid and variety.

The Importance of Nitrogen to Combat Disease

Syngenta also has trials to help demonstrate how nitrogen plays an important part of healthy plant growth. Too much or too little of the element can make crops more prone to disease. Balanced nitrogen levels can help protect crops from common diseases and the impacts of unpredictable Illinois weather.

To learn more about these topics and receive additional agronomic training at the Pana Grow More Experience site, contact your Syngenta representative.

Know More Grow More content is moving over to Thrive - Field Insights on April 1. Get familiar with the site before the switch! Take me to ThriveKnow More Grow More content is moving over to Thrive - Field Insights on April 1. Get familiar with the site before the switch! Take me to Thrive