Episode 397: Boots In The Field Report October 19, 2026
Harvest is approaching the halfway mark, and the results are telling a story of a challenging growing season across north-central Illinois. In this week's *Boots in the Field Report*, Ken Ferrie discusses corn yields running 20–40 bushels behind last year, soybean yield variability, and how drainage and heavy summer rains are showing up. He also explains why scalded cornfield edges are appearing following July's record heat and how to distinguish this damage from herbicide drift. As plot harvest progresses, Ken shares early findings from soybean seed treatment trials, fungicide and fertility responses, and the growing importance of nitrogen timing and rates in corn yields. He also discusses the relationship between corn populations, standability, and yield, along with the challenges of harvesting down corn.
