However, once they are set they should be monitored uniformly and timely. The key factor is to not waste time monitoring parameters that you either can't interpret or can't use in making management decisions. If you are scouting for insect damage, that will be the principle thing you look for. These parameters can be measured very quickly. In fact, plants can be pulled and these measurements made as you walk across the field.
Analyses is also very quick and can be done on the turn row before moving to the next field.
When summarized, the data can give indications of plant stand, stand uniformity and growth rate or vigor. This data can then be used to make replant decisions, help with insect control decisions and build a firm understanding of what type crop exists in the field. It should give an experienced manager a head start working with the field. Now it is common to begin scouting at emergence. However, it was only after the evolution of a simplified plant monitoring programs that crop parameters other than insects could be monitored during this phase.