Johnston, IA (March 11, 2024) - Determining if soil is fit to work each spring plays a large role in yield potential. Planting into wet soils can cause smearing of the seed furrow sidewall, compaction issues and even open seed trenches. Compacted soil restricts root systems and often causes uneven emergence.
Conversely, extremely dry soil is easily disturbed, increasing the potential loss of soil organic matter, topsoil and vital nutrients.
Evaluating each field for soil moisture conditions before starting field work can set a crop up for a successful fall. The “ribbon” test is a simple but effective way to determine soil conditions.
When testing soil, the top 3 to 4 inches should be dry enough to not form a ribbon when compressed in the hand. Ideal soil should crumble between the fingers and have favorable tilth.
However, soil conditions can change between the time the seedbed is prepared and planting begins. If soils become wet, drying time should be allotted. Working fields as close to planting as possible can minimize the chance for conditions to change drastically.
Finding the balance between wet and dry soils is a challenge for every farmer, but one that can pay off when done correctly. A poorly developed seedbed can result in uneven emergence, poor nodal root establishment, root lodging, reduced root mass and lower yield potential.
“When possible, we want to think about planting during a warming trend,” said Matt Montgomery, Pioneer Field Agronomist. “We can’t do it all the time, but the more often we can, the better we set our fields up for uniform emergence, uniform stand and a healthier overall crop.”