We’ve been full on soil sampling for the last week and plan on staying that way for the next two weeks. Not surprising, nitrogen levels are very low this fall with early results showing 15 to 30 lbs in the top 24 inches. On top of that the soil is bone dry in most areas and nothing short of concrete. I can hardly push a moisture probe into the ground more than 3 inches. While these conditions make for excellent soil sampling, it’s not so great for the start of next year’s crop.

Producers are busy finishing up Avadex and Edge applications while some folks are still waiting for moisture to begin NH3 applications. The soil is so dry and hard it won’t flow around the opener properly. Canola seed purchases are all but done for most so if you haven’t booked yet you better get at it before your variety is sold out.

In Beyond Agronomy News this week, we’ll be talking about a really cool shielded sprayer made in Australia that could have a fit here. Next, I’ll show you some interesting responses to zinc in barley. Last, I’ll continue on with the canola planter idea and show you another producer using a vacuum planter in canola. We’ll finish with fundamental and technical grain market news.

Have a great week.

Steve