As we look ahead to the 2025 growing season, concerns about potential drought conditions are top of mind for farmers across the Corn Belt. Drawing from insights shared in a recent agricultural planning session, this blog post outlines key strategies to conserve soil moisture, protect crops, and prepare for possible drought. By acting early and implementing targeted practices, you can position your farm for success, even in challenging conditions.
Understanding the Drought Risk
Long-term weather cycles, like the 89-year Glyceberg cycle, suggest a potential for a major drought in 2025 or 2026, reminiscent of the Dust Bowl era. While last year didn’t bring the anticipated drought, short-term indicators point to continued risk. The ongoing La Niña, a dry fall in 2024, and an inactive subtropical jet stream could lead to a dry spring in 2025. These factors underscore the need for proactive measures to conserve soil moisture and protect crops.
1. Conserve Soil Moisture
Soil moisture is your farm’s lifeline during a drought. Here’s how to preserve it:
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Minimize Tillage: Whether you’re a no-till or conventional tillage farmer, reduce passes over the field to prevent moisture loss. Consider an early pass to seal the soil surface and lock in moisture.
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Plant Early: Early planting allows crops to establish deeper root systems before drought conditions intensify. Strong roots can access subsoil moisture, improving resilience.
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Cover Crops and Residue: Maintain crop residue or cover crops to reduce evaporation and improve soil structure, which helps retain moisture.
2. Protect Roots in Continuous Corn
Root health is critical, especially in continuous corn systems, which are vulnerable to rootworm damage. The 1988-89 drought highlighted the impact of rootworm pruning, with continuous corn yields dropping to as low as 11 bushels per acre compared to 100 bushels for corn following soybeans. To protect roots:
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Use Integrated Rootworm Management: Combine traits like SmartStax PRO with soil insecticides and biological tools like TS-201 (a rootworm bio-capsule). TS-201, as demonstrated in trials, reduces rootworm pressure and promotes root regeneration, crucial for drought resilience.
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Beetle Bombing: Target adult beetles the year before to reduce egg-laying and larval pressure.
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Monitor Rootworm Pressure: Leverage resources like the Iowa State Extension’s Regional Rootworm Monitoring Network to track local pest populations and make informed management decisions.
3. Leverage On-Farm Studies
On-farm trials, like those conducted with TS-201 under heavy rootworm pressure, provide valuable insights. These studies showed yield improvements and reduced root damage when TS-201 was used alongside other management practices. Consider testing new tools or practices on your farm to identify what works best in your conditions. Collaborate with local experts to design trials that address your specific challenges, such as drought or pest pressure.
4. Stay Informed and Proactive
Weather and pest pressures are unpredictable, but staying informed can help you stay ahead. Follow trusted sources like Eric Snodgrass for weather updates and university extension services for pest and crop management advice. Regularly check resources like the Iowa State Extension’s Rootworm Monitoring Network or Nebraska’s winter wheat guides to guide your decisions.
While we can’t control the weather, we can take steps to prepare for drought and protect our crops. By conserving soil moisture, safeguarding root health, assessing winter wheat stands, and leveraging on-farm studies, you can build resilience into your operation for 2025. As one farmer put it, “Pray it doesn’t happen, but plan like it will.” Start planning now to ensure your farm thrives, no matter what the season brings.
Author
Craig Allaman
Cornelius Seed Agronomist