Extension specialists and educators provide timely information on management of weeds, insects and disease in Wisconsin cropping systems.
Jordyn Sattler, UW–Madison Extension regional crops educator, explains the importance of identifying nutrient deficiencies, how to recognize key symptoms like chlorosis, necrosis, and stunting, and how to use tools like NDVI imagery and plant tissue sampling for accurate diagnosis.
Josh Kamps, UW–Madison Extension regional crops educator, covers how to assess plant populations, determine crop growth stages for corn, soybeans, and wheat, and properly collect and interpret soil and tissue samples.
This video showcases cutting-edge technologies such as laser weeders, spot cultivators, and AI-driven imaging systems, with a focus on real-world research using laser weeders in onion production.
In this video, Dr. Rodrigo Werle shares 2025 field observations and research updates on corn and soybean weed management in Wisconsin.
Dr. Erin Silva, professor of organic agriculture at UW–Madison, shares practical spring strategies for organic weed management in grain systems.
Liz Gartman, UW–Madison Extension regional crops educator, provides an introduction to crop scouting, covering everything from pre-field preparation to in-field tools, resources, and best practices.
Dr. Emily Bick, assistant professor and extension specialist for field and forage pests in the UW–Madison Department of Entomology, provides an update on forage insect pests, focusing on alfalfa weevils, potato leaf hoppers, and slugs.
Integrated with cultural control practices such as variety selection for disease resistance and crop rotation, fungicides can be an important tool of integrated disease management for small grain systems.
Before dairy, wheat was king in Wisconsin. Between 1840 and 1880, the state was largest wheat producer in United States, providing a full sixth of the nation’s supply. Today, wheat is 5% of total grain crop (corn, soy, wheat) acres in the state. While there are benefits to having wheat in the rotation and a healthy local market for straw, a higher potential for dockages due to quality standards than corn or soy can be a deterrent for farmers.
It’s almost time to scout for early season insect pests in first alfalfa crops. These pests can impact alfalfa crops’ ability to thrive.
Black cutworm (Agrostis ipsilon) is the most common cutworm species affecting Wisconsin corn, although outbreaks are infrequent and difficult to predict. Black cutworm larvae reduce stand counts and yield potential by cutting corn plants at the base or below ground.
Cereal rye can be used as high-quality forage for livestock, but careful management of herbicide rotational intervals is essential to ensure legal and effective use.
