Germination tests alone will usually not identify seed with impared vigor. Fall planting Planting season is not far off for some dryland areas. With the abundance of soil moisture that currently exists in nearly all southern Idaho dryland areas, there is no need for the very early seeding that often occurs. In normal years, there is sufficient temperature and growing season for proper plant development if seeding occurs prior to September 15 in all but the higher elevation areas of eastern Idaho. Earlier seeding is often done to seed into moist seedbeds after a rain or to avoid work conflicts.
Aphid surveys indicate quite high populations of aphids at present.
Early seeded cereals will undoubtedly need to be treated with an insecticide to prevent a build-up of disease carrying aphids. The abundant soi moisture that we have should allow seeding to be done at more shallow depths that are necessary some years. Research has shown that deeper seeded wheat and barley almost always will yield less that that seeded shallower, assuming adequate stands are obtained from both seeding depths. Field scouting This is an excellent time of year to take notes on field conditions. Many times, observations can be made from the combine that are not obvious at other times.