As harvest approaches, now is an excellent time to walk fields and evaluate stalk quality and overall plant health. Watch for signs of stalk cannibalization, crown rot, stalk rots, and other conditions that can weaken stalk integrity and increase the risk of lodging. A simple push or pinch test can help identify fields that may need to be prioritized for harvest. Taking a little time now can help reduce harvest losses and protect potential yield. If you have concerns about stalk quality or harvest timing, contact your local Premier Cooperative Agronomist and we would be happy to evaluate fields with you.
While harvest gives us the opportunity to evaluate this year’s management decisions, it is also the perfect time to begin planning for next season. Developing your 2027 seed plan early allows you to take advantage of seed discounts, financing opportunities, and early-order programs while helping secure the hybrids and varieties best suited for your operation. Planning ahead today can provide greater flexibility and confidence when spring arrives. Premier Cooperative is currently offering several early-order seed incentives and financing opportunities for growers who plan ahead for the 2027 season.
Fall is also one of the best times to evaluate your soil fertility through soil testing. Soil tests provide the foundation for making informed nutrient decisions by identifying pH levels, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, and micronutrient needs. Regular testing helps prioritize fertilizer investments, improve nutrient efficiency, and ensure your crop receives the nutrients needed to maximize yield potential. With increasing input costs, accurate soil test information helps remove the guesswork and allows for more precise fertility recommendations. Whether you are maintaining fertility levels or building long-term soil productivity, soil testing is one of the most valuable investments you can make for your operation.
Once soil test results are available, it is a great time to review your fertilizer needs for the 2027 crop year. Locking in fertilizer requirements early helps ensure product availability and positions you to take advantage of favorable purchasing opportunities. Global fertilizer markets continue to experience volatility as supply, demand, transportation, and trade dynamics shift. Strong demand or unexpected supply disruptions can quickly affect both pricing and availability. By planning ahead and securing both your fertility plan and nutrient needs early, you can reduce uncertainty and be better prepared for the season ahead.
Your Premier Cooperative Agronomy Team is ready to help evaluate harvest observations, collect and interpret soil tests, develop seed recommendations, and build a fertility plan tailored to your operation. Contact your local Premier Agronomist today to start preparing for a successful 2027 crop year. We hope you have a safe and successful harvest!
