Second, we are not going to grow a 10 billion bushel corn crop, and it is not quite certain just where the final production forecasts will come in. However, this particular year where we end up on the range in the current price range forecast depends on the numbers in the September crop report. Corn belt farmers will be looking to store grains going into harvest with a wide basis. Local basis bids will hold a key in directing local farmers whether and when to be sellers of corn and beans this fall. Recent rains in many areas of the state mean that a late-summer harvest may be obtained off hay fields.
Potassium is needed by the forage to protect itself from freezing injury during the winter.
Think of it as the plant antifreeze. Just as you prepare your vehicle by checking and replacing the antifreeze, you should do the same for your hay and pasture fields. The amount of fertilizer that will be needed will depend on your previous fertilization program and your soil test value. If you do not have a recent soil test to work from, consider taking a soil sample and getting it analyzed now so you can know for sure how much potash to apply to each field. Fields are generally firm and will support the weight of the lime truck at this time of year versus in the spring when soils often are wet and loosened from the effects of freezing and thawing during the winter.