Many people have been prepared for low yield this fall but surprisingly, early reports suggest grain corn quality might be more of an issue than the quantity.Field crop specialists at OMAFRA have started to issue warnings to watch for ear rots in grain corn. Early detection of Fusarium has already been confirmed in some locations. Where harvest is in full swing to the south, agronomists are also offering similar reports. They warn that the Fusarium fungus thrives in drought stressed silking and post-pollination conditions. Experts on both sides of the border suspect silk cut kernels as the potential instigator of the problem this year.Crop scouts and farmers who are seeing infected silk cuts on at least 10% of the field are advised to harvest corn as early as possible, (25-27% moisture is ideal) and dry the grain below 15% quickly.

US Extension specialists say corn yield response to nitrogen and needed fertilization rate decreases in years with below normal rainfall. But making broad assumptions this fall could mean a hungry crop next spring.Increased field variability was obvious this year and ensuring every plant has equal access to enough food in 2013 will be nearly impossible. Good soil sampling will be critical this fall, making sure enough cores are taken, and to the right depth. When interpreting results, remember that potassium availability may be overestimated in low testing soils or underestimated in high testing soils due to this year`s dry conditions and a higher incidence of binding in the soil. Also consider that high salt (fertilizer) concentrations in the sampling area can cause pH readings to be about 0.5-1.0 pH units lower than the actual pH before you decide to apply lime.