Recent weather events haven’t been favourable for our recently emerged cereal or pulse crops. After a long dry summer, residual cover is generally low, and strong wind has caused significant damage to young crops on lighter soils. As it is now nearing the end of July, we need to carefully consider if resowing or assisting crop recovery is the best option. Below are a few simple tips to help is your decision-making process. If you have any questions, please reach out, and we can step through the process together. Resowing at this time of the year is generally used to establish some ground cover to minimise drift over summer however, a good finish can still produce some grain yield.
Assess Damage Quickly
- Walk the field to evaluate the extent of lodging, stem breakage, and leaf tearing.
- Identify whether the damage is cosmetic or if it affects the growing point.
Support Regrowth
- Apply a balanced foliar nutrient spray, especially with zinc, manganese, and copper, to stimulate recovery and reduce stress.
- Consider a mild nitrogen application to encourage tillering and new shoot development.
Manage Weeds and Pests
- Damaged crops are more vulnerable - monitor closely for opportunistic weeds, insects, and diseases.
- Use appropriate herbicides or insecticides if thresholds are reached.
Avoid Further Stress
- Delay any non-essential field operations (e.g., spraying or fertilising) until the crop shows signs of recovery.
- Ensure adequate soil moisture through irrigation if conditions are dry.
Monitor Growth Points
- In cereals like wheat and barley, if the growing point is intact, the plant can often recover well.
- If the growing point is damaged, consider replanting if within the viable window.
Consider Plant Growth Regulators (PGRs)
- In some cases, PGRs can help strengthen stems and reduce further lodging risk in recovering crops.
Trace elements and their role in crop development
Zinc (Zn)
- Essential for enzyme activation and protein synthesis, which are critical during early growth stages.
- Promotes root development, improving water and nutrient uptake.
- Deficiency can lead to stunted growth, poor tillering, and reduced grain yield.
Manganese (Mn)
- Vital for photosynthesis and chlorophyll production, supporting early plant vigour.
- Plays a role in nitrogen metabolism and disease resistance.
- Deficiency symptoms include interveinal chlorosis and poor root development.
Copper (Cu)
- Important for lignin synthesis, which strengthens cell walls and supports structural integrity.
- Enhances reproductive development and grain formation.
- Deficiency can cause twisted leaves, poor flowering, and reduced grain set.
As always, don't hesitate to get in contact with your local Crop Smart rep if there is anything we can assist with.