Results of
Agricultural
Demonstrations
HILL COUNTY
2010
PO Box 318
Hillsboro TX 76645
254/582-4022
254/582-3551
e-mail: [email protected]
January, 2011
Dear Friend:
This is your copy of the 2010 Hill County Result Demonstration Booklet. It provides a summary
of demonstrations conducted during the year by farmers and ranchers in Hill County.
There are 657,452 acres of land within Hill County’s boundaries. The 2010 acreage harvested
crops include: Cotton, 7,810; Corn, 32,907; Corn Silage, 29,715; Grain Sorghum, 21,500;
Wheat, 37,443.
In addition to crops and livestock sold in 2010, Hill County producers also received Government
payments for Conservation Reserve Program, $999,686; Farm Payments, $9,401,430; Crop
Insurance, $4,614,389.
Hill County has 293,981 acres of improved and native pastures. Livestock production continues
to be an important part of agriculture in this county. Data from the latest census indicates
cow/calf producers in Hill County own approximately 63,941 head (2007 USDA Census of
Agriculture).
Appreciation is expressed to all the farmers who conducted result demonstrations in 2010.
Without their cooperation, this handbook could not have been compiled. A special thanks is also
extended to all agribusiness companies for providing assistance in conducting these result
demonstrations.
We hope the information in this booklet will aid agricultural producers and others in making
decisions which will produce even greater returns for you in 2011.
Sincerely,
Gideon Jennings
County Extension Agent-AG/NR
Marty Jungman
Extension Agent-IPM
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A&M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOREWORD
HILL COUNTY LEGEND
HILL COUNTY 2010 AGRICULTURAL INCOME
HILL COUNTY PROGRAM AREA COMMITTEES
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
EXTENSION SUPPORTERS
2010 WEATHER DATA
2010 RESULT DEMONSTRATIONS MAP
4
7
8
10
12
14
15
16
WHEAT SECTION
EVALUATION OF WHEAT PLANT POPULATION ACCORDING
TO YIELD AND INPUT COST
Demonstration – Rodney Schronk, Itasca
19
EVALUATION OF NINE HARD RED WINTER WHEAT VARIETIES
FOR YIELD COMPARED TO FARMER SAVED SEED
Demonstration – Jeff and Chris Sulak, Itasca
Comparison of Yields from 2008-2010
23
FOLIAR FUNGICIDE STUDY IN WHEAT
Demonstration – Kyle Miller, Bynum
28
FOLIAR INSECTICIDE TRIAL FOR APHIDS IN WHEAT
Demonstration – Eugene Hejl, Aquilla
32
HESSIAN FLY PHEROMONE STUDY
Demonstration – Eugene Hejl, Aquilla
36
26
CORN SECTION
EVALUATION OF TRIPLE-STACKED CORN HYBIRDS
Demonstration – Barney & Matt Pustejovsky, Chatt
FIELD EVALUATION OF ROUNDUP-READY AND
ROUNDUP-READY Bt CORN HYBIRDS
Demonstration – Paul Gerik, Vaughan
AFLA-GUARD FIELD TRIAL
Demonstration – Lanny Neil, Brandon
Demonstration – John Sawyer, Hillsboro
44
47
51
AFLA-GUARD STUDY IN CORN
Demonstration – Jerry & Josh Gerik, Aquilla
55
MANAGING RESIDUAL NITROGEN FOR CORN PRODUCTION
Demonstration – Aaron Walters, Bynum
59
THE EFFECT OF CORN PLANT POPULATIONS ON GRAIN
YIELD
Demonstration – Paul Gerik, Aquilla
62
EVALUATION OF CORN HYBRIDS FOR SILAGE PRODUCTION
AND QUALITY
Demonstration – Rayford Schulze, Malone
66
GRAIN SORGHUM SECTION
PLANT POPULATION RELATED TO RESIDUAL NITROGEN AND
VARIABLE FERTILIZER RATES
Demonstration – Chad Radke, Malone
72
FIELD EVALUATION OF MEDIUM-EARLY GRAIN SORGHUM
VARIETIES
Demonstration – Gary & Kenny Kelm, Malone
76
MANAGING RESIDUAL NITROGEN FOR GRAIN SORGHUM
PRODUCTION
Demonstration – Chad Radke, Malone
81
EVALUATION OF PLANT POPULATIONS IN GRAIN SORGHUM
Demonstration – Gary & Kenny Kelm, Malone
85
FIELD EVALUATION OF EXPERIMENTAL GRAIN SORGHUM
VARIETIES
Demonstration – Chad Kaska, Abbott
89
COTTON SECTION
EVALUATION OF FLUTRIAFOL SPRAYED ON THE LOWER STEM
FOR THE CONTROL OF PHYMATOTRICHOPSIS ROOT ROT
Demonstration – Ronnie Gerik, Aquilla
Demonstration – Joe Mach, Penelope
95
FIELD EVALUATION OF MULTIPLE-ROW TRANSGENIC COTTON
VARIETIES
Demonstration -- Kenneth & Richard Machac, Irene
99
EVALUATION OF COMMERCIAL AND EXPERIMENTAL COTTON
VARIETIES FOR YIELD AND QUALITY
Demonstration – Kenneth & Richard Machac, Irene
103
EVALUATION OF BAYER CROPSCIENCES CAP B2F TRIALS
IN COTTON
Demonstration – Ronnie & Ronnie Joe Gerik, Aquilla
107
CONVENTIONAL COTTON TRIAL
Demonstration – Larry & Jason Degner, Bynum
111
FORAGE
FORAGE SORGHUM YIELD TRIAL
Demonstration – Persia Parker, Brandon
117
BRUSH CONTROL
EVALUATION OF AMINOCYCLOPYRACHLOR FOR MESQUITE
FOLIAR INDIVIDUAL PLANT TREATMENT
Demonstration – Justin Lewis, Aquilla
123
HORTICULTURE
EVALUATION OF LOCALLY PURCHASED TOMATOES FOR YIELD
POTENTIAL
Demonstration – Martin Whitworth, Hillsboro
Demonstration – Gideon Jennings, Abbott
129
FORWARD
This report, prepared by the County Extension Agent-Agriculture/Natural Resources and
Extension Agent-IPM, gives a summary of results demonstrations planned by Hill County
Extension Program Area Committees and conducted by cooperating farmers.
Included are demonstrations in most major agricultural enterprises. These demonstrations were
conducted and are reported to give people in Hill County an opportunity to become better
acquainted with the results of research and the application of these results in the county.
Remember, the test plot data given in this report are for one year and do not necessarily give a
sound basis for changing a practice already proven successful on your farm or ranch. Results of
the demonstrations might be different in another year, with different growing conditions. Results
obtained over a three to five year period are necessary for reliability.
FACTORS AFFECTING 2010 AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION
If one word could describe the 2010 crop year from the farmer’s perspective, “fair” would likely
sum it up best. Weather-wise, it was not all that difficult but producers faced extreme challenges
in marketing several crops. Typical of Texas weather, rainfall was both below average and
above average at times. With that being said, 2010 was just slightly above annual rainfall as
recorded in Hillsboro. Weather data recorded at the KHBR Radio Station and the Hillsboro
Reporter Newspaper, an official weather station, reported 40.47 inches of rain for the 2010
calendar year. Average annual rainfall for Hill County is 37.15 inches based on records dating
back to 1903. In remembering 2010, the cold winter that we experienced, with temperatures
dropping as low as eight degrees in January, should be mentioned. Some people stated that it
was the coldest winter they can remember in 20 years. At one point, temperatures remained
below freezing for more than 24 hours. We also endured a cold spring with average daily
temperatures remaining consistently cool resulting in delayed spring green-up and several issues
with bermudagrass establishment due to cold soil temperatures.
The 2009-2010 wheat season had some challenges with wet weather reducing the total wheat
acres that were to be planted. There was 37,443 acres planted to wheat in 2010. The crop as a
whole did not suffer significant damage from insect related pests likely due to cold weather. A
wet winter led to some problems with fertilizer applications at top dress and producers had to
practice flexibility in applying nitrogen to the crop. Overall, yields were above average at 52.5
bushels per acre across the county (see Agricultural Income Report, p. 11). Producers also faced
a new issue in 2010 with low protein values resulting in significant price decreases when
marketing the crop. Average price received for the crop was in the vicinity of $3.75 per
4
bushel. This is a significant cut in price when compared to the 2008 price of $8.00/bushel and
2009 at $6.00/bushel.
The corn crop began with the western side of the county being planted on time while wet
weather delayed planting on the eastern side of the county. Those producers in the center portion
of the county planted in small windows of opportunity between rains which led to three stages of
corn across the county. Adequate moisture through the majority of the season provided excellent
growing conditions for both corn and grain sorghum. August, however, was brutal with boiling
temperatures and a recorded high temperature of 109 degrees. A one inch rain just prior to
harvest created what was described by many as the perfect storm. Aflatoxin, a fungal disease
infecting drought stressed corn, ran rampant resulting in significant price decreases and some
fields were destroyed due to the high levels of infection. Many producers had problems
marketing the crop at all. Unfortunately, this disease took a major toll on the price received in
Central Texas for corn even while the market price was good. Hill County producers sold corn
on average for only $3.00 per bushel. Yields were good to excellent with a 55 bushel per acre
average across the county.
The grain sorghum and cotton crops were smooth sailing providing some balance to the
problems producers dealt with in wheat and corn. Grain sorghum yields averaged 4000 pounds
across the county and there was little if any lodging present at harvest. Producers averaged $5.15
per bushel.
Cotton was the crop to have in 2010 with excellent yields and prices. On average producers
yielded 750 pounds and received $0.70 per pound. Planting season went without a hitch and
despite some minor early season problems with fleahoppers and aphids the crop was fairly
problem free. The Texas Department of Agriculture Boll Weevil Eradication Program has been
extremely successful and cotton yields have increased due to the success of the program. The
late rain in August that was so fatal to the corn crop was beneficial to the cotton crop and
translated into additional yield at harvest.
Pastures faired pretty well in 2010 as a result of consistent rainfall. Even with the slow start, the
consequence of cold springtime weather, forages responded to the abundance of moisture from
January to April. June, July, and September were also beneficial months of rain and water levels
were not an issue with adequate rainfall to keep them supplied throughout the year.
The pecan crop was approximately ¾ of last year’s yield at 700 pounds per acre. If we review
the past few years of pecan crops you will begin to see a pattern. After such a wet 2007 (58.17
inches of rain), when almost every pecan tree around had a record harvest of 1500 pounds, 2008
(30.37 inches) was quiet a disappointment with only 500 pound yields, and 2009 (48.69 inches)
was up again to 1000 pounds. This year’s rainfall was above average for Hill County (40.47
inches) so a producer might have expected to make above average yields. But there is another
part of the equation when dealing with pecan. Rainfall does play a huge factor in pecan yield
because without water the tree cannot produce a crop. However, the pattern also exists due to
the fact that pecans are “alternate bearers.” This means they produce a good crop one year and a
5
few pecans the next year. Taking “alternate bearers” into consideration, expect the 2011 crop to
be a larger crop if rainfall totals are at least average and insect and disease pressures are not
overwhelming.
After reviewing 2010, I hope 2011 will bring opportunities and the weather will cooperate and
all will have a bumper crop. In evaluating the year, remember that you took the knowledge God
gave you and made a decision to the best of your ability with what you had at the time. This year
may have been very good to you and there may have been some setbacks, either way, it is time to
beat off the dust and do it again. We compile this booklet in hopes that in 2011 you will have
one more tool to help you make those hard decisions that determine what type of year it will be
for you. May you find the data compiled here to be not only interesting but helpful in 2011.
6
Hill County
Physical Features: North central
county; level to rolling; blackland soils,
some sandy loams; drains to Brazos;
lakes.
Economy: Agribusiness, tourism,
varied manufacturing.
History: Waco and Tawakoni area,
later Comanches. Believed to be Indian
“council spot,” a place of safe passage
without evidence of raids. AngloAmericans of the Robertson colony
arrived in early 1830’s. Fort Graham
established in 1849. County created
from Navarro County 1853; named for
G. W. Hill, Republic of Texas official.
Race/Ethnicity 2000: (In percent)
Anglo, 78.40; Black, 7.51; Hispanic,
13.49: Other, 0.60.
Vital Statistics, 2004: Births, 453;
deaths, 401; marriages, 301; divorces,
191.
Recreation: Lake activities; excursion
boat on Lake Whitney; Texas Heritage
Museum including Confederate and
Audi Murphy exhibits, historic structures,
rebuilt frontier fort barracks; motorcycle track.
Minerals: Gas, limestone.
Agriculture: Corn, cattle, sorghum,
wheat, cotton, dairies. Market value
$54 million. Some firewood marketed.
HILLSBORO (8,899) county seat;
Agribusiness, varied manufacturing, retail,
outlet center; tourism, antique malls; Hill
College; hospital; Cotton Pickin Fair
September; Cell Block museum, restored
courthouse.
Whitney (1,984) tourist center; hospital,
varied manufacturing.
Other towns include: Abbott (303); Aquilla
(154); Blum (434); Brandon (240); Carl’s
Corner (147); Covington (299); Hubbard
(1,596) agriculture, antiques shops, museums,
Magnolias & Mistletoe Victorian Christmas
celebration; Irene (170) Itasca (1,547);
Malone (276); Mertens (155); Mount Calm
(325);Penelope (217)
Population…………………..………...35,806
Change fm 2000…………….…………….10.8
Area (sq. mi.)…………….………….….985.65
Land Area (sq. mi.)……….……………962.36
Altitude (ft.)……………….………..….450-880
Rainfall (in.)……………….….……....….37.15
Jan. mean min………….……………...…35.2
July mean max………….…………………95.2
Civ. Labor…………………….………….15,467
Unemployed………………….……………..4.5
Wages…………………….....…..$555,533,122
Av. Weekly Wage…………….….……$491.48
Prop. Value………...…......….$1,984,630,225
Retail Sales………..………...…$423,223,820
7
HILL
A. CROPS HARVESTED AND
SOLD IN 2010
CROP
COTTON
Lint (lbs)
Seed (tons)
GRAINS
Corn (bu)
Sorghum (bu)
Soybeans (bu)
Wheat (bu)
Sunflowers
Other (Oats, Rye, etc)
FRUITS & VEGETABLES
Watermelon (lbs)
Peaches (bu)
Blackberries (lbs)
Pecans (lbs)
FEED, SEED, & FORAGE
Hay (tons)
Alfalfa (tons)
Silage (tons)
Sprigs
HORTICULTURAL
Christmas Trees
Nursery - Cut Flowers
Container Stk
Bare Root Stk
Balled & Burlap Stk
Flowering Pot Plants
Foliage Pot Plants
Bedding Plants
Turf
Roses
TOTAL
$72,006,208
ACRES
HARVESTED
FOR SALE
AVERAGE
YIELD
PER ACRE
TOTAL
QUANTITY
SOLD
AVERAGE
PRICE
RECEIVED
TOTAL VALUE
OF SALES
2010
TOTAL VALUE
OF SALES
2009
$0.70
$160.00
$4,882,500
$892,800
$2,449,216
$629,640
$2,433,284
$263,160
CHANGE FROM
2009
7,810
7,810
750.0
0.60
69,750,000
5,580
32,907
21,500
50
37,443
400
4,141
55.0
73.0
12.0
52.5
1,645
80.0
1,809,885
1,569,500
600
1,965,757
658,000
331,280
$3.00
$5.15
$9.50
$3.75
$0.27
$4.00
$5,429,655
$8,082,925
$5,700
$7,371,590
$177,660
$1,325,120
$9,380,143
$7,462,494
$39,757
$7,044,480
$94,802
$1,224,700
($3,950,488)
$620,431
($34,057)
$327,110
$82,858
$100,420
-045
1
27
-0250.0
3360.0
700.0
-011,250
3,360
18,900
-0$50.00
$1.25
$2.00
-0$562,500
$4,200
$37,800
-0$810,000
$6,000
$54,000
$0
($247,500)
($1,800)
($16,200)
33,015
99
29,715
150
2.4
2.5
10.0
1.0
79,236
247
299,824
150
$90.00
$250.00
$19.42
$85.00
$7,131,240
$61,875
$5,822,588
$12,750
$7,647,045
$86,625
$1,260,000
$12,750
($515,805)
($24,750)
$4,562,588
$0
$2,500
$81,200
$348,000
$58,000
$232,000
$92,800
$46,400
$69,600
$160,000
$34,800
$42,926,203
$2,500
$101,500
$435,000
$72,500
$290,000
$116,000
$58,000
$87,000
$200,000
$43,500
$39,607,652
$0
($20,300)
($87,000)
($14,500)
($58,000)
($23,200)
($11,600)
($17,400)
($40,000)
($8,700)
$3,318,551
B. 2010 SALES OF LIVESTOCK AND
LIVESTOCK PRODUCTS
ANIMALS
Fed Beef (Value Added)
Calves - Beef (hd)
Calves -Dairy (hd)
Stocker Cattle (Value Added)
Breeder Cattle-Dairy [hd]
Breeder Cattle-Beef [hd]
Slaughter Cattle (hd)
Sheep/Lamb (hd)
Goats (hd)
Horses (hd)
Other (Exotic)
POULTRY
Turkeys (hd)
Other (Quail, other Fowl)
DAIRY PRODUCTS
Milk (cwt)
AG-RELATED
Fishing
Recreation
Hunting
Firewood
TOTAL
UNITS
SOLD
AVERAGE
PRICE
RECEIVED
TOTAL VALUE
OF SALES
2010
TOTAL VALUE
OF SALES
2009
CHANGE FROM
2009
200
1,284
800
3,500
0
2,880
13,284
1,000
19,000
-0-
$184.00
$500.00
$100.00
$45.00
$850.00
$800.00
$550.00
$85.00
$85.00
-0-
$36,800
$642,000
$80,000
$157,500
$0
$2,304,000
$7,306,200
$85,000
$1,615,000
-0$50,000
$36,800
$5,520,000
$84,000
$157,500
$425,000
$2,400,000
$5,800,000
$75,000
$1,425,000
-0$50,000
$0
($4,878,000)
($4,000)
$0
($425,000)
($96,000)
$1,506,200
$10,000
$190,000
$0
$0
1,500,000
10,000
$.50
$3.00
$750,000
$30,000
$765,000
$30,000
($15,000)
$0
24,000
$12.00
$288,000
$236,000
$52,000
$10,000
$100,000
$600,000
$10,000
$14,064,500
$10,000
$100,000
$600,000
$10,000
$17,724,300
$0
$0
$0
$0
($3,659,800)
C. GOVERNMENT PAYMENTS TO FARMERS IN 2010
Total Natural Resource Conservation Service Payments
Total Farm Service Agency Payments
Total Payments
TOTAL
PAYMENTS
2010
CHANGE FROM 2009
$999,686
$9,401,430
$10,401,116
$327,563
$3,766,655
$4,094,218
$672,123
$5,634,775
$6,306,898
$4,614,389
$10,753,480
$(6,139,091)
D. CROP INSURANCE PAYMENTS (as of 1/3/11)
E. TOTAL CASH FARM INCOME (A + B + C + D)
2010
2009
CHANGE FROM 2009
TOTAL
PAYMENTS
2009
$72,006,208
$74,521,498
($2,515,900)
9
HILL COUNTY AGRICULTURE
RESULT DEMONSTRATIONS
of
2010
Presented by
EXTENSION LEADERSHIP ADVISORY BOARD
Bob Wilson, Chairman
Noah Dansby, Secretary
Vivian Caldwell
Ronnie Gerik
David Hocker
Gayle Kennedy
Arthur Mann
Kyle Miller
Barney Pustejovsky
Joe Sinkule
Patrice Stidham
Chase Yankie
CROPS COMMITTEE
Kyle Miller, Chairman
Kyle Cowan
Jason Hejl
Chad Kaska
Kenny Kelm
Milton Peterson
Bernard Pustejovsky
Chad Radke
Dan Rogers
John Sawyer
Howard Sides
Joe Sinkule
Albert Sulak
Delmer Sullins
Preston Wright
Chase Yankie
INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT
STEERING COMMITTEE
Chase Yankie, Chairman
Josh Gerik, Vice-Chairman
JoshBirdwell
Ronnie Gerik
Jason Hejl
Richard Holy
Thomas Holy
Clyde Nowlin
Kennie Nowlin
Bernard Pustejovsky
Phil Pustejovsky
Blair Russell
John Sawyer
James Ray Schronk
Rodney Schronk
10
LIVESTOCK COMMITTEE
Curtis Bullard, Chairman
David Bledsoe
Frank Burt
David Hocker
Doke Kiblinger
Jan Machac
Glen Magee
Blair Russell
Charlie Shelley
Nolan Sonnenburg
Charley Standly
Ted Stoffregen
Benjamin Walker
Barry Watson
USDA
Farm Service Agency - Preston Wright
Natural Resource Conservation Service - Dan Henson
Rural Development – John B. Smith
HILL COUNTY COMMISSIONERS' COURT
Justin Lewis -- County Judge
Danny Bodeker - Precinct 1
Steven Sulak - Precinct 2
Larry Wright - Precinct 3
Lee Harkins - Precinct 4
11
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The Hill County Agricultural Committees would like to express their appreciation to
demonstrators, agribusiness and agencies who contributed time, knowledge and material
resources to this demonstration program. Without their help in planning and conducting these
demonstrations, the publication of these results could not have been possible. There were some
demonstrations where data was not taken due to adverse weather conditions.
Josh Birdwell
Larry Degner
Jason Degner
Jerry Gerik
Josh Gerik
Paul Gerik
Ronnie Gerik
Ronnie Joe Gerik
Lee Harris
Eugene Hejl
Chad Kaska
Gary Kelm
RESULT DEMONSTRATION COOPERATORS
Kenneth Kelm
Chad Radke
Justin Lewis
John Sawyer
James Maass
Rodney Schronk
Kenneth Machac
Rayford Schulze
Richard Machac
Troy Sinkule
Kyle Miller
Chris Sulak
Danny Mynar
Jeff Sulak
George Mynar
Anthony Vybiral
Lanny Neil
Greg Vybiral
Persia Parker
Aaron Walters
Bernard Pustejovsky
Loren Weaver
Matt Pustejovsky
Martin Whitworth
12
EXTENSION SPECIALISTS' ASSISTANCE
Dr. Paul Baumann
Dr. Mark Metocha
Dr. Dennis Coker
Dr. Gaylon Morgan
Dr. Rob Duncan
Mr. Dennis Pietsch
Dr. Tom Isakeit
Mr. Bill Ree
Dr. Jason Johnson
Dr. Donald Renchie
Dr. Mark McFarland
Dr. James M. Welch
OTHER EDUCATIONAL SPEAKERS
Johnny Aten, NBBWEZ Manager
Scott Averhoff, Texas Corn Producer Board
Tony Driver, Syngenta
John Fox, Director-Abilene Classing Office
Ronnie Horn, Hill County Farmer (Sunflowers)
Billy Kniffen, Extension
Jack LeClair, DuPont Agricultural Products
Kyle Miller, Hill Crops Committee Chairman
Greg Steele, Monsanto
Chase Yankie, IPM Steering Committee Chairman
Barney Pustejovsky, NBBWEZ Steering Committee Chairman & TDA Zone 8 CPAC Chairman
13
Special appreciation is extended to the following Agribusiness supporters.
2010 AGRIBUSINESS SUPPORTERS
Adair Grain, Inc. DBA West Fertilizer Co.
Helena
AgTexas Farm Credit Services
HILCO Electric Cooperative
APEX Grain Company, L.L.C.
Scott M. Hill & Company, CPAs
BASF
Hornbeck Seed Company
B-H Genetics
McGregor Real Estate
Bayer Crop Science / Stoneville
Monsanto
Birome Gin
Phytogen
Brazos Valley Equipment
Pioneer
Cen-Tex Seed & Delinting
Sims Moore Hill Gannon & Crain, L.L.P
Channel Seeds (NC+)
Sorghum Partners
Crop Production Services
Syngenta Crop Protection
Croplan Genetics
Syngenta Seed Company, Inc.
Dow AgroSciences
Terral Seed
DuPont Agricultural Products
Texas Corn Producers Board
El Dorado Chemical
Texas Land Bank
Estes, Inc.
Tipton International
G & P Seed Company
Triumph Seed
Gerik Ag L.L.C.
Van Poppel Insurance
Gerik Crop Insurance
Warner Seeds
Heifrin Crop Insurance Agency
Integra Seed / Wilbur Ellis
14
2010 WEATHER DATA
Hillsboro, Texas
Rainfall (Inches)
Month
2009
2010
Monthly
Average
January
1.06
4.22
2.19
February
1.07
3.10
2.67
March
6.60
4.23
3.21
April
5.08
3.39
3.24
May
3.00
1.86
4.65
June
0.21
6.29
4.07
July
3.04
4.41
2.08
August
1.24
1.24
2.19
September
8.01
8.11
2.92
October
12.67
0.90
4.15
November
1.35
1.53
2.70
December
1.81
1.19
3.08
45.14
40.47
37.15
TOTAL
15
WHEAT
EVALUATION OF WHEAT PLANT POPULATION
ACCORDING TO YIELD AND INPUT COST
Rodney Schronk, Cooperator
Gideon Jennings, County Extension Agent-AG/NR
Hill County
Summary
This test consisted of four different planting rates of one variety of hard red winter wheat. Each
treatment was planted with the variety Fannin that Rodney stored from last year’s crop. Dollar
values were figured using seed cost at the time of planting and market price at the time of
harvest.
Objective
Research from Dr. Gaylon Morgan, former AgriLife Small Grains Specialist, indicated that the
majority of producers in Texas could cut their seeding rate (on wheat planted with a drill to be
utilized for grain) significantly and still maintain yields. Over a five year period, the research
continued to prove this trend and Dr. Morgan began utilizing a much lower planting rate in state
field trials. Our current specialist, Dr. Rob Duncan maintains those plant population rates in his
studies across the state. Historically, Hill County plants 100 to 125 pounds of seed per acre
which is a very high rate according to Dr. Morgan.
With input costs continually on the rise, lowering input costs can add up to significant savings
for the farmer. This trial was performed to evaluate lower seeding rates in the Blacklands and to
place actual dollar figures on input cost versus the rate of return at harvest.
Materials and Methods
The trial was planted with the producers grain drill on November 9, 2009 at four targeted seeding
rates of: 60, 80, 100, and 125 lbs/acre. Rates were based on the recommendation of Dr. Morgan.
The actual planting rate of each plot was 56, 80, 103, and 125 lbs/acre. This was a simple, sideby-side strip trial. All other farming practices (fertilizer and pesticides) were equally maintained
among the treatments to ensure an accurate test.
The trial was harvested with a combine and a weigh wagon on May 29, 2010. A one pound
sample of each variety was reserved to obtain percent moisture and bushel weight using digital
equipment at APEX Grain Company in Hillsboro.
19
Results and Discussion
As was the case last year, it was impossible to determine any difference among treatments with
the naked eye at harvest. This was not so for the majority of the year with the lower seeding
rates easily distinguished. It was not until the last leaf was visible or sometime after a Feekes
scale eight was reached that it became increasingly harder to determine which treatments were at
lower seeding rates.
Unfortunately, due to combine error in harvesting the trial, the lowest rate had to be thrown out
due to the lack of confidence that the data would fairly represent the lowest rate of 56 lbs. There
was a range of only 4.3 bushels from the highest to lowest yielding treatments. The 125 pound
treatment was the highest yielding treatment at 68.5 bushels per acre followed by the 103 pound
rate at 66.6 bushels and the lower rate of 80 pounds yielded 64.2 bushels per acre. Based on
results of this trial and the purchase price of seed set at $15 per bag, a producer could have spent
$6.00 per acre less on seed by using a rate of 80 pounds per acre rather than the typical rate of
100 pounds. The market price on the day of harvest was $3.65 which calculates to $234.33 per
acre at 80 pounds and $236.00 at the typical 100 pound rate, a difference of $1.67 per acre
between the two rates.
This differs from last year’s results in that seed costs were approximately $3.00 per bag higher in
2009. In 2009 when seed costs were $18 per bag the 75 pound rate returned $16.92 per acre over
the traditional 100 pound rate. This year a producer would have lost $1.67 for utilizing the 80
pound rate with seed costs and market prices. This information becomes especially valuable
when a producer utilizes forward marketing to determine the price of next year’s crop in that
budgeting becomes easier with set figures.
Conclusions
It remains evident that we can reduce our seeding rate to some degree. There will be a point of
economic return as well as some things to consider such as increased weed pressure due to a thin
stand. In the technology age in which we live, with pre- and post- emerge herbicides; we have
the capability to keep fields clean with little to no effect on the current crop at a very affordable
price. We do not, however, want to get into a situation of swapping money on seed costs for
herbicide costs.
Texas AgriLife Extension Service of Hill County will continue to evaluate plant populations in
wheat to assist local growers in determining the point of economic return and to target the proper
seeding rate for this area. Please refer to the table that accompanies this demonstration to
evaluate the results of the two years of studies on plant populations of wheat.
Acknowledgements
Appreciation is extended to Rodney Schronk for his cooperation and donation of equipment and
time in conducting this result demonstration. We appreciate his willingness to help and the
quality of work that we received through his cooperation.
20
A special thanks is also extended to Dr. Rob Duncan, AgriLife Small Grains Specialist, who
gave advice and presented data at the Small Grains Field Tour utilizing this trial to demonstrate
plant populations.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
21
Demonstration: Evaluation of wheat plant population according to yield and input cost
Farmer’s Name and Location: Rodney Schronk, Covington, TX
Soil Type: Houston Black
Seeding Rate/A: 80–125 lbs.
Date Planted: 11/9/2009
Plot Size: .446 Acres per Plot
Fertilizer Used: 75# of 11-52-0 + 2# zinc
Last Crop: corn
10 gallons of 32-0-0
Date Harvested: 5/29/10
2010 Results:
Seed Cost
Yield
per Acre
at $15/bag
Fannin 125#
10.2
60.1
$37.50
68.5
Fannin 103#
11.0
60.3
$30.90
66.6
Fannin 80#
10.8
60.1
$24.00
64.2
1
Market price of $3.65/bushel multiplied times treatment yield per acre.
Seeding Rate
per Acre
% Moisture
at Harvest
Test Weight
(lbs/bu)
Gross Return1
minus
Seed Costs
$212.52
$212.19
$210.33
2009 Results:
%
Seed Cost
Test Weight
Moisture
Yield
per Acre
(lbs/bu)
at Harvest
at $18/bag
Coronado 75#
10.2
56.5
$27.00
57.7
Coronado 100#
10.3
57.3
$36.00
56.5
Coronado 125#
9.8
55.6
$45.00
55.9
Coronado 50#
10.5
55.6
$18.00
54.9
1
Market price of $6.60/bushel multiplied times treatment yield per acre.
Seeding Rate
per Acre
22
Gross Return1
Minus
Seed Costs
$353.82
$336.90
$323.94
$344.34
EVALUATION OF NINE HARD RED WINTER WHEAT VARIETIES
FOR YIELD COMPARED TO FARMER SAVED SEED
Jeff and Chris Sulak, Cooperators
Gideon Jennings, County Extension Agent-AG/NR
Marty Jungman, Extension Agent-IPM
Hill County
Summary
This test consisted of nine hard red winter wheat varieties that were evaluated based on yield. It
was not the intent in the beginning to utilize uncertified farmer saved seed as a comparison but
due to the good reasoning skills of the producer his seed was utilized in the middle section of the
drill to prevent any unfair advantage due to compaction problems in wet field conditions. The
uncertified seed also served as a control throughout the trial to ensure that there was not a yield
advantage due to soil differences within the trial. The uncertified seed sheds light to the fact that
strip trials should be used as one of “several” tools in the variety selection process as there can be
variation in results even within the same trial. Replicated trials provide a more stable data source
for variety selection than strip trials and should be used in combination with strip trials when
making decisions regarding variety.
Objective
Testing new varieties of wheat for yield potential, disease resistance and the ability to perform in
Hill County remains a priority. With adverse weather conditions, the development of new races
of rust, and problems with lodging variety testing is vital to local producers as they strive to
improve yields. Trials planted locally serve as a tool to assist producers in selecting varieties
that show potential in this environment. This trial is intended to be used as one of several tools
rather than the sole factor in the decision making process. Other quality data sources include the
state yield trials conducted by Dr. Rob Duncan, Texas AgriLife Small Grains Specialist.
Materials and Methods
The trial was planted with the producers grain drill on November 9, 2009 at a seeding rate of 100
pounds per acre. All other farming practices (fertilizer and pesticides) were uniformly
distributed among the treatments to ensure an accurate test.
The trial was harvested with a combine and a weigh wagon on June 3, 2010. A one pound
sample of each variety was reserved to obtain percent moisture and bushel weight using digital
equipment at the Farmer’s Co-Operative Gin in Malone.
Results and Discussion
Yields ranged from 53 to 68 bushels per acre among the entries. Deliver, an OSU variety, was
the top yielder in this trial. Deliver has not performed well in either the Ellis or McGregor State
yield trials but did place second in the 2010 Hillsboro state yield trial and has a three year
average of 41.3 bushels in that study.
23
The producer’s uncertified Fannin tied for second place in the trial with TAM 304 at 66.8
bushels. TAM 304 is a variety that has not been all that impressive in terms of yield in the
McGregor or Hillsboro state yield trials nor did it perform well last year in the county strip trial.
It currently has a two year average of 47 bushels in this trial and a three year average of 45
bushels in the Hillsboro state yield trials.
Jackpot, an AgriPro variety, came in at 66 bushels. Jackpot faced some problems with rust and
yields suffered accordingly. Jackpot’s performance is still more than acceptable but with other
wheat varieties available that offer good disease packages this variety becomes less attractive
due to the need for a fungicide application.
Finally, Duster should be mentioned for its performance over the past few years. This year
Duster yielded 63 bushels per acre in the trial. Last year, this was the highest yielding variety at
33 bushels per acre. On a three year average across the state yield trials Duster has been
outstanding with averages ranging from 48 bushels in Hillsboro to 53 bushels in Ellis County
and 74 bushels at McGregor. After two years in the Hill County strip trial it averages 48 bushels
per acre. This is a variety that we should strongly consider due to an excellent disease package
and consistently high yields.
Conclusions
Strong considerations should be given to varieties that have performed well over the past three
years in this area. Unfortunately, only several varieties have three year histories in this trial.
Two year data on many of the new varieties combined with information from the Extension State
Yield Trials should give producers a good feel for expectations of newer varieties and allow
confidence in placing those varieties on their farms. It seems obvious that basing decisions on
yield data alone is unwise. A thorough examination of all varieties should be conducted to
ensure that yield data along with disease resistance information will provide high yields while
reducing the need for a costly fungicide application.
Acknowledgements
Appreciation is extended to Jeff Sulak for his cooperation and donation of equipment and time in
conducting this result demonstration. We appreciate his willingness to help and the quality of
work that we received during this study.
Thanks is also extended to the seed companies who donated seed for this trial through
cooperation with Dr. Rob Duncan and Ashley D. Hathcoat, Small Grains Research Associate.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
24
Demonstration: Evaluation of nine hard red winter wheat varieties for yield compared
to farmer saved seed
Farmer’s Name and Location: Jeff Sulak, Covington, TX
Soil Type: Houston Black
Date Planted: November 9, 2009
Fertilizer Used: 200 lbs. of 25-25-0
Fungicide Used: N/A
Seeding Rate/A: 100 lbs./A
Plot Size: .306A
Last Crop: Corn (silage)
Date Harvested: 6/3/10
2010 Results:
% Moisture
at Harvest
Test
Weight
(lbs/bu)
Yield1/
(bu/A)
Deliver
12.4
63.5
68.0
*U-Fannin 4
12.9
64.3
66.8
TAM 304
12.7
62.9
66.8
Jackpot
12.3
62.3
66.0
*U-Fannin 3
12.9
63.8
64.5
Duster
12.2
61.3
63.2
TAM 401
12.7
61.7
59.0
Fannin
12.9
63.8
57.9
Fuller
12.4
57.1
57.1
Coronado
12.1
62.1
55.7
TAM 203
12.8
61.8
55.0
*U-Fannin 1
12.7
63.5
54.4
*U-Fannin 2
12.9
64.0
*denotes uncertified farmer saved seed.
53.5
Variety
25
Comparison of Yields from 2008 to 2010:
Variety
2008
Deliver
Fannin
68.6
Coronado 63.0
Jackpot
Duster
TAM 304
Fuller
TAM 401
Doans
55.5
TAM 203
Shocker
2009
28.0
29.0
31.9
33.0
27.5
32.9
30.7
31.1
27.5
31.4
26
2010 Average
68.0
68.0
57.9
51.5
55.7
49.2
66.0
48.9
63.2
48.1
66.8
47.2
57.1
45.0
59.0
44.9
43.3
55.0
41.3
31.4
Foliar Fungicide Study in Wheat
Kyle Miller, Cooperator
Marty Jungman, Extension Agent-IPM Hill County
Robert Duncan, Extension Agronomist
Daniel Hathcoat, Extension Program Specialist
Hill County
Summary
A wheat fungicide trial was conducted near Bynum, TX during the 2009-2010 growing season.
This trial was designed to look at 10 different fungicides applied at different timings, while also
examining different fungicide rates. Treatment details are outlined more precisely in Table 1.
The results from this research demonstrate that the application timing is important. Additionally,
the disease present in the field must be properly identified to determine the most effective and
cost efficient method of management.
Objective
The objective of this research trial was to evaluate different commercially available fungicides
for control of powdery mildew, leaf rust, and stripe rust in wheat. Different rates were also
evaluated, along with a topdress application and a flag leaf application (Table 15).
Methods and Materials
This trial was initiated on February 2, 2010 in a wheat field near Bynum, TX. The treatments
listed below were superimposed into a field of Coronado Hard Red Winter Wheat that was
planted in mid-November. The treatments were sprayed on an area 10 ft. wide and 30 ft. long,
using a CO2 backpack sprayer equipped with 5 nozzles on 20 inch spacings. Each nozzle had a
Tee Jet 80-03 XR tip and applied a volume of 20 gallons per acre. A total of 15 treatments were
applied (see Table 15) randomized, with four replications. Visual observations of powdery
mildew, leaf rust, and stripe rust were made weekly starting February 18 through May 14.
Several of these ratings are reported in Table 16. Plots were harvested using a Massey Ferguson
8XP plot combine for yield. In addition to yields, grain moisture and test weight were also
analyzed using a Dickey John GAC 2100 moisture meter.
28
Fungicide treatments, application rates and timings
Chemical/Treatment
1 Untreated Check
2 Tilt
3 Embrace 3.6
4 Tilt
5 Embrace 3.6
6 Tilt
7 Embrace 3.6
8 Prosaro
9 Stratego
10 Headline
11 Headline
12 Twinline
13Twinline
14 Quilt
15 Quilt Xcel
Rate (fl oz/A)
2&4
4&8
4&4
8&8
4
8
6.5
10
6
9
7
9
14
10.5
Application Timing
Topdress & flag leaf
Topdress & flag leaf
Topdress & flag leaf
Topdress & flag leaf
Flag leaf
Flag leaf
Flag leaf
Flag leaf
Flag leaf
Flag leaf
Flag leaf
Flag leaf
Flag leaf
Flag leaf
Results and Discussion Unfortunately, disease pressure in this location was low and thus, few
differences in yield were observed. Additionally, very few differences in test weight were
observed. When the fungicides were applied at topdress, they all controlled powdery mildew
significantly better than the untreated check. However, this did not significantly impact yield.
All fungicides, except Prosaro, significantly lowered the presence of stripe rust below that of the
untreated check. Leaf rust pressure was inconsistent; however, all treatments were significantly
better than the untreated control.
Conclusion
Foliar fungicides are effective in reducing powdery mildew, leaf rust and strip rust. The
exception in this test was Prosaro for stripe rust control. Disease pressure was relatively low in
this study. Future studies will need to be conducted to test the efficacy of foliar fungicides for
disease control.
Acknowledgments
The authors would like to thank the individuals below for their help with chemical, land, and
time, without which, this trial could have not been conducted: BASF – Fred Moore, Syngenta –
Brad Minton and Tony Driver, Bayer – Gary Schwarzlose, Cooperator – Kyle Miller
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
29
Wheat yields, test weight and disease ratings for the Hill County Fungicide trial in 2010
Test
Weight
(lb/bu)
*Rating:
*Rating:
*Rating:
Chemical/
Yield
Powdery
Stripe Rust
Leaf
Treatment
(lb/a) LSD
LSD Mildew
LSD
4/16/2010 LSD
Rust
3/4/2010
5/7/2010
1. Untreated
59.2
ab
56.0
b
2.0
a
0.8
a
7.5
2. Tilt
56.4
abc
56.7
ab
1.0
b
0.0
b
2.5
3. Embrace
54.6
abc
57.6
a
1.3
b
0.0
b
0.0
4. Tilt
52.8
bc
57.2
a
1.0
b
0.0
b
1.8
5. Embrace
59.1
ab
57.0
ab
1.3
b
0.0
b
0.0
6. Tilt
59.8
ab
57.5
a
0.0
b
2.3
7. Embrace
51.5
c
57.0
ab
0.0
b
0.0
8. Prosaro
59.9
ab
57.5
a
0.5
ab
0.0
9. Stratego
55.1
abc
56.9
ab
0.0
b
1.3
10. Headline
59.6
ab
56.8
ab
0.0
b
0.8
11. Headline
60.1
a
56.9
ab
0.0
b
0.0
12. Twinline
58.0
abc
57.3
a
0.0
b
0.3
13. Twinline
57.7
abc
57.3
a
0.0
b
0.3
14. Quilt
58.0
abc
56.9
ab
0.0
b
0.5
15. Quilt Xcel
59.1
ab
57.0
ab
0.0
b
0.0
LSD (5%) 7.29
1.19
0.51
0.52
1.49
CV 8.89
1.46
25.32
436.87
91.97
Grand Mean 57.39
57.03
1.3
0.08
1.13
-Numbers followed by the same letter are not significantly different.
-All chemicals either had non-ionic surfactant or crop oil concentrate added at the recommended
rate according to the
product label.
*Percent leaf area affected.
30
LSD
a
b
d
bc
d
b
d
d
bcd
cd
d
d
d
cd
d
-
Foliar Insecticide Trial for Aphids in Wheat
Eugene Hejl, Cooperator
Marty Jungman, Extension Agent-IPM Hill County
Robert Duncan, Extension Agronomist
Daniel Hathcoat, Extension Program Specialist
Hill County
Summary
An insecticide experiment was designed and implemented in Hill County, TX in 2009-2010.
Five different insecticides were applied on winter wheat and evaluated for the control of aphids
(greenbugs, oat bird cherry aphids, green peach aphids, etc.). At the conclusion of the trial, there
were no significant effects (P<0.5) on yield. This is not to say that insecticides are not
beneficial, they simply were not at this site, during this particular growing season. However,
Barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV) was a significant problem in many wheat-producing regions
of Texas this past growing season.
Objective
To evaluate the efficacy of five insecticides for their control of greenbugs and aphids.
Methods and Materials
The insecticide trial was initiated on March 26, 2010, at a site close to Hillsboro, TX off of FM
310 west. This experiment was superimposed into an existing wheat field (variety unknown)
that had substantial aphid pressure. Each treatment was sprayed on an area that was 10 ft. wide
and 30 ft. long. Each treatment was replicated 4 times. Applications were made using a
backpack CO2 boom sprayer equipped with 5 nozzles on 20” spacings and Tee Jet 80-015 XR
spray tips. Spray volume was applied at 10 gallons per acre for all treatments. Table 17 lists the
exact treatments that were applied. Four visual ratings were taken at one-week intervals starting
on March 29, 2010. Ratings were taken by shaking a single row, one foot in length, onto a white
backdrop. Following this, the number of greenbugs and aphids were counted. This was done in
3 random spots per plot and the numbers were averaged. Plots were harvested for grain yield
determination with a Massey Ferguson 8XP plot combine. Additionally, grain moisture and test
weights were also taken for each plot using a Dickey John GAC 2100. The data from these
measurements is reported below in Table 18.
32
Insecticide treatment list and rates applied. All crop oil concentrate (COC) was mixed at a rate
of 1.0% volume/volume
Treatment/Chemical
Untreated Check
Endigo 2.6 ZC + COC
Warrior II 2.09 CS + COC
Cobalt 2.54 EC + COC
Actara 25 WG + COC
Dimethoate 4EC + COC
Rate
4.5
1.92
13.0
4.0
0.75
Rate Unit
fl oz/A
fl oz/A
fl oz/A
oz dry/A
pint/A
Yield and greenbug incidence for five insecticide treatments in Hillsboro, TX in 2009-2010
Treatment
Yield
(bu/a)
LSD
*Rating: LSD *Rating: LSD *Rating:
4/3/2010
4/9/2010
4/15/2010
Greenbug
OBCA
OBCA
Untreated Check
56.9
a
3.34
a
0.25
ab
0.42
Endigo 2.6 ZC
57.0
a
0.00
b
0.08
b
0.00
Warrior II 2.09 CS 62.1
a
0.00
b
0.00
b
0.00
Cobalt 2.54 EC
59.3
a
0.00
b
0.00
b
0.08
Actara 25 WG
59.6
a
0.00
b
0.42
a
0.17
Dimethoate 4EC
55.6
a
0.00
b
0.17
b
0.00
LSD (5%)
7.51
0.29
0.17
0.26
CV
8.48
34.62
75.69
158.95
Grand Mean
58.42
0.56
0.15
0.11
Numbers followed by the same letter do not differ significantly from each other.
(12% moisture, 60# test wt. standard)
* Average Number of Aphids per 1 drill row foot.
LSD
a
b
b
b
ab
b
-
Results and Discussion
Significant control of greenbugs was observed 8 days after the application for all treatments. By
April 19, the effect of Actara decreased for Oat Bird Cherry Aphid control (14 days after
application). Nearing 20 days after application (April 15), there was still significant aphid
control for most treatments, when compared to the untreated check. Aphid populations in this
field were inconsistent, which may have led to the lack of more significant yield observations.
No crop injury from the application of these chemicals was observed.
33
Conclusion
Significant aphid control for most treatments was achieved as applications neared 20 days after
treatments compared to the untreated check. Further studies will need to be conducted to
evaluate these products.
Acknowledgments The authors would like to thank Syngenta for sponsoring this research and
well as the cooperators for allowing us to conduct this research in their field.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
34
Hessian Fly Pheromone Study
Eugene Hejl, Cooperator
Manuel Campos, Allen Knutson, Glen Moore, Marty Jungman, Jim Swart, Chris Sansone
Texas AgriLife Extension IPM Agents & Specialists
Hill County
Summary
A study was conducted in commercial wheat fields in a three county area of north and central
Texas Blacklands to monitor pheromone trap captures of Hessian fly adults. Trap captures were
correlated to damaging pupae levels in the commercial wheat fields. Low infestation levels of
Hessian fly adults in the spring limited the ability of this study to identify trap captures
associated with damaging infestations.
Objectives
The objectives of this study were to 1) monitor Hessian fly activity using pheromone traps
during the spring in Ellis, Hill, Rockwall, Grayson, Tom Green and Concho Counties and 2)
determine the relationship between trap captures in the early spring and number of pupae per
tiller in the late spring.
Materials and Methods
This study was conducted in two commercial wheat fields in each of Ellis, Hill, and Grayson
Counties and in one field in Rockwall County (northern Blacklands) and in one commercial field
in each of Concho and Tom Green Counties (central Texas). Hessian fly activity was measured
with pheromone traps from early April to mid-May. Plastic triangular-shape (Pherocon VI) traps
with a white gridded sticky card in the interior-bottom of the trap were used to capture Hessian
fly adults. One trap was placed in each field. A rubber dispenser containing female sex
pheromone was placed on the white sticky card. Traps were suspended on a bamboo pole in the
wheat field and positioned about 6-8 inches above the ground. In most cases, sticky cards were
replaced every week and the number of captured Hessian flies was counted. The pheromone lure
was replaced every two weeks. Traps were monitored weekly for five to six weeks, except in
Rockwall County when traps were inspected on two dates. On the last sample date, several
wheat plants were collected from each of ten sites within about 5-6 feet of the trap and 100 tillers
from this sample were examined for Hessian fly puparia. The wheat was in the soft to hard
dough stage. In the lab, sticky cards were examined under a microscope at 10X to identify and
count captured Hessian fly adults.
36
Results and Discussion
Hessian fly adults were captured on every sample date and often in large numbers in all nine
study fields. Overall, more Hessian flies were captured in the fields in the northern Blacklands
relative to the two fields in Central Texas. In six of the seven Blackland fields, trap captures
remained steady during the first 3 weeks and then greatly increased to as many as 270-1600
Hessian flies per trap per week in late April and early May. The exception was Field 2 in Ellis
County where trap captures remained low throughout the sampling period.
In the two Central Texas fields, trap captures peaked during weeks 2 and 3 and then declined.
The differences in the seasonal activity of Hessian fly between these two regions may be related
to differences in wheat maturity and the timing of Hessian fly generations. The wheat in the two
Central Texas fields was drying down at the time of sampling, whereas the Blackland fields were
still green.
The second objective was to determine if trap captures of Hessian fly could be used to identify
fields at risk from Hessian fly infestations in the spring. To be useful in making management
decisions, trapping results must alert the grower early in the spring to the potential risk of a
Hessian fly infestation. For this reason, the number of captured Hessian flies during the first and
second week of trapping was compared to the subsequent infestation of puparia just before
harvest.
In both cases (Figs. 7, 8), there was little relationship between trap captures and later infestations
of Hessian fly. The lack of a significant relationship may have been due to the very low Hessian
fly infestations present in the study fields. Sampling tillers prior to harvest found that
infestations ranged from 0- 8 puparia per 100 tillers, well below an economically important
infestation. These low infestations limited the ability of the study to identify trap captures
associated with damaging infestations.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
37
Figs 1-6. Total number of Hessian flies captured per trap per sample date in wheat fields in Ellis,
Hill, Grayson, Rockwall, Tom Green and Concho Counties during the spring, 2010.
1800
400
Fig 1. Ellis Co.
Fig 2. Hill Co.
1600
350
300
1200
Hessian fly adults caught / trap
Hessian fly adults caught / trap
1400
FIELD 1
250
FIELD 2
1000
FIELD 1
FIELD 2
200
800
150
600
100
400
50
200
0
0
4/6
3/26
4/1
4/9
4/16
1000
4/20
4/27
300
Fig. 3. Grayson Co.
Fig. 6. Rockwall Co.
900
250
800
Field 1
Field 2
700
Hessian fly adults caught / trap
Hessian Fly adults caught / trap
4/13
4/22
200
600
500
150
400
100
300
200
50
100
0
0
4/5
4/14
4/23
4/30
5/7
5/15
35
4/12
4/19
4/27
5/5
5/13
200
Fig. 4. Tom Green Co.
Fig. 5. Concho Co.
180
30
Hessian fly adults caught / trap
160
25
Hessian fly adult caught / trap
140
120
20
100
15
10
80
60
40
5
20
0
0
4/16
4/23
4/30
5/6
4/15
5/14
38
4/22
4/29
5/5
5/11
9
Fig. 7. First week relationship
Hessian fly pupae / 100 tiller
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
y = 0.0302x + 2.726
1
2
R = 0.2027
0
0
50
100
150
Hessian fly adults caught / trap
9
Fig. 8. Second week relationship
Hessian fly pupae / 100 tiller
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
y = 0.0115x + 3.3627
1
2
R = 0.0417
0
0
50
100
150
200
Hessian fly adults caught / trap
Fig. 7 and 8. Relationship between the total number of adult Hessian flies caught in pheromone
traps during the first and second week of trap monitoring (late March-early April) and the total
number of Hessian fly pupae per 100 tillers in late April –early May from wheat fields in six
Texas counties, 2010.
39
Conclusion
Additional studies are needed in fields with significant Hessian fly infestations to determine the
value in using trap captures to make management decisions. Also, the value of trap captures in
predicting the risk of economic infestations might be improved by monitoring trap captures the
previous fall or earlier in the spring (late February-March). Reducing the concentration of
pheromone may also reduce trap capture, minimizing the time needed to count captured flies yet
still provide sufficient detection of high risk fields.
Acknowledgments
Special thanks to Dr. Allen Knutson for assisting in conducting this test. Appreciation is
extended to Eugene Hejl for providing the location to conduct this study.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
40
CORN
EVALUATION OF TRIPLE-STACKED CORN HYBRIDS
Barney and Matt Pustejovsky, Cooperators
Gideon Jennings, Hill County Extension Agent-AG/NR
Marty Jungman, Hill & McLennan Extension Agent-IPM
Hill County
Summary
The result demonstration was planted to evaluate triple-stacked corn hybrids for their
competitive use in Hill County based on grain yield. To ensure a fair comparison was made, all
varieties were adjusted to 15% moisture and all farming practices affecting the trial were kept the
same. Results of this trial range from 67 to 92 bushels, with an average of 84.3 bushels per acre.
Objective
Due to the benefits that triple-stacked corn varieties can offer, many farmers are now planting
this technology. Due to the multitude of triple-stacked hybrids available there is a need for those
hybrids (from different companies) to be compared under the same growing conditions within
the same field.
Evaluating these hybrids for yield potential is of economic importance to Blackland corn
producers as this information can greatly affect decisions made related to corn variety and
technology selection affecting overall profitability.
Materials and Methods
This strip trial was planted on March 15, 2010. Each plot consisted of twelve 30-inch rows
approximately 2192 feet in length or 1.51 acres per plot. The seeding rate was approximately
22,600 plants per acre.
The plot was machine harvested on August 6, 2010 with the producers combine. Yields were
determined by weighing the grain harvested on a digital scale mounted on a weigh buggy.
Samples of each variety were collected during harvest and tested for percent moisture and bushel
weight with a digital tester at APEX Grain Company in Hillsboro. Yields were adjusted to 15%
moisture. Fertilizer, herbicide, insecticide, and other farming practices were the same for each
variety.
Results and Discussion
Syngenta’s NK N77P was the highest yielding hybrid in this test at 91.7 bushels per acre. It was
closely followed by Belle 1655 Pro at 90.8 and DKC 68-05 at 88.7 bushels per acre. With the
exception of the Pioneer hybrid, this was a very competitive test with all hybrids yielding within
44
11 bushels from the high to low end. This speaks to the quality of the products offered by seed
companies locally. This trial also offers the information needed to fine tune an operation to
maximize yield. The difference in 11 bushels per acre this year would have been more than $33
per acre in profit simply through hybrid selection.
This test was designed as a strip trial and not a replicated study. It is advised to review several
years of data on a particular hybrid to assist in making a sound decision. Readers should realize
that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response
would occur when conditions vary from that of this trial.
Conclusions
Triple-stacked corn is still fairly new to the market and Hill County. This year only marks the
second year of testing this technology in the Hill County Extension field trials. Again, it is wise
to base decisions on information from several years of growing conditions. Unfortunately, corn
hybrids are changing so fast on today’s market that this trial only captured two years of data
from two hybrids. The first hybrid should be strongly considered as a potential for Hill County
is NK N77P which ranked 3rd in 2009 at 101.1 bushels per acre and was 1st in this year’s trial at
91.7 bushels per acre. The other hybrid, Cropland 8505 VT3, ranked 6th of 11 in 2009 with a
yield of 53.9 bushels and 5th out of nine hybrids in 2010 yielding 85.1 bushels per acre.
Acknowledgements
Appreciation is extended to Matt Pustejovsky for donating his time and equipment to make this
test possible. The Pustejovsky’s have been involved with many demonstrations over the years
and always provide a high quality research trial.
Also, thanks is extended to the many seed companies for providing seed and financial support
during the growing season for educational tours and meetings.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
45
Demonstration: Field Evaluation of Nine Triple-Stack Corn Hybrids
Farmer’s Name and Location: Matt Pustejovsky, Chatt, TX
Soil Type: Houston Black
Seeding Rate/A: 20,600
Date Planted: 3/15/10
Plot Size: 1.51 A
Fertilizer Used: 6 gal of 10-34-0
Last Crop: Cotton
100# of 82-0-0
Herbicide: Roundup
10 gal of 32-0-0 (side-dress)
Date Harvested: 8/6/10
Yield1/
(bu/A)
% Moisture
at Harvest
Test
Weight
(lbs/bu)
NK N77P
91.7
10.9
58.4
Belle 1655 Pro
90.8
11.4
59.6
DKC 68-05
88.7
11.2
58.8
Triumph 1522V VT3
87.2
10.6
58.9
Croplan 8505 VT3
85.1
11.1
60.0
Myc 2V732 VT3
84.8
11.0
58.1
Warner 4777 VT3
81.8
11.6
59.8
Integra 9676 VT3
81.0
10.9
59.7
Pio P1615 XR
67.2
10.7
61.1
Hybrid
46
FIELD EVALUATION OF ROUNDUP READY
AND ROUNDUP READY Bt CORN HYBRIDS
Paul Gerik, Cooperator
Gideon Jennings, Hill County Extension Agent-AG/NR
Marty Jungman, Hill & McLennan Extension Agent-IPM
Hill County
Summary
This result demonstration trial was planted to evaluate ten corn hybrids of two different
technologies including Roundup Ready or Roundy Ready Bt. Each seed company was allowed
one entry into this trial with hybrids to be evaluated based on grain yield. To ensure a fair
comparison was made, all hybrids were adjusted to 15% moisture and all farming practices
affecting the trial were kept the same. Results of this trial range from 81 to 99 bushels per acre,
with an average of 91.3 bushels.
Objectives
Evaluating hybrids for yield potential in different growing conditions from year to year is of
economic importance to Blackland corn producers. Comparing yield potential with the added
benefit of Bt technology benefits is also of great interest to local producers. This information
can greatly influence decisions made related to corn hybrid and technology selection which
affects overall profitability.
Materials and Methods
The strip trial was planted on March 18, 2010. Each plot consisted of six 30-inch rows wide by
approximately 1381 feet in length or .634 acres per plot. The plant population was
approximately 24,000 plants per acre.
The plot was machine harvested on August 12, 2010. Yields were determined by weighing the
grain harvested on a digital scale in a weigh buggy. Samples of each hybrid were collected
during harvest and tested for percent moisture and bushel weight with a digital tester at the
Farmer’s Co-Operative Gin in Malone, Texas. Yields were adjusted to 15% moisture.
Fertilizer, herbicide, insecticide, and other farming practices were the same for each hybrid.
Results and Discussion
Pioneer 33F87 topped the plot at 99.5 bushels followed closely by Mycogen 2T804 and DeKalb
66-94 at 99.2 and 98.0 bushels per acre respectively. Overall there was a 17.6 bushels difference
in the top yielding hybrid and the bottom yielding hybrid. This could possibly equate to a large
47
amount of money when spread out over several hundred or thousand acres. Insect pressure was
not measured in this study to evaluate the benefits of the Bt gene because that technology has
been proven through extensive research. However, hybrids with the extra Bt technology did not
outperform the Roundup Ready only hybrids in this trial, which could be credited to a lack of
insect pressure. This confirms that there is no benefit from Bt technology without the presence
of insects.
Conclusions
Looking at a hybrid over several years is an excellent way to understand how it will perform in
this area in different growing conditions from year to year. As stated in the triple-stacked corn
hybrid study Roundup Ready and Roundup Ready Bt hybrids are quickly being replaced with the
latest technologies, including more gene insertion, making it hard to complete several years of
data on a particular hybrid. This factored in with the speed at which hybrids are now being
produced on the market and it becomes almost impossible to evaluate a hybrid over a long period
of time. In the Hill County field trials there is only one hybrid that we have any history on for
more than one year and that is Mycogen 2T804. This hybrid was entered into the 2009 yield trial
where it ranked 1st of 10 yielding 96.1 bushels per acre. This year Mycogen 2T804 was 2nd of 10
with a yield of 99.2 bushels per acre.
Acknowledgements
Appreciation is extended to Paul Gerik for donating his time and equipment to make this test
possible. Also, thanks is extended to the many seed companies for providing seed and financial
support during the growing season for educational tours and meetings.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
48
Demonstration: Field Evaluation of TRoundup Ready and Roundup Ready Bt
Corn Hybrids
Farmer’s Name and Location: Paul Gerik, Vaughan, TX
Soil Type: Houston Black
Seeding Rate/A: 24,000
Date Planted: 3/19/10
Plot Size: 0.634A
Fertilizer Used: 130# 82-0-0,
Last Crop: Sorghum
6 gal 11-37-0
Date Harvested: 8/12/10
% Moisture
at Harvest
Test
Weight
(lbs/bu)
Yield1/
(bu/A)
Pioneer 33F87
10.7
58.5
99.5
Mycogen 2T804
10.8
58.4
99.2
DCK 66-94 AF2
11.6
58.8
98.0
Belle 1655 R
11.9
60.1
94.3
NK N 72-K GTBLL
11.0
51.9
92.3
Warner W4707 R
11.0
58.2
90.8
Croplan 691 GTCB
10.7
57.6
88.4
B-H X9150G
10.7
57.8
85.7
Terral 25HR49
10.8
60.7
83.3
Triumph 7514S
11.2
57.9
81.9
Variety
49
AFLA-GUARD FIELD TRIALS
Lanny Neil, Cooperator
John Sawyer, Cooperator
Jerry Gerik, Aerial Applicator
Tony Driver, Syngenta Crop Protection
Gideon Jennings, Hill County Extension Agent-AG/NR
Hill County
Summary
Aflatoxin, a fungal disease affecting corn, is responsible for millions of dollars of damage to the
corn industry in Central Texas. Aflatoxin is especially a problem in hot, dry years when corn
plants are drought stressed and ideal conditions for infection are present with warm days and
warm nights. These demonstrations were designed to evaluate a new product’s ability to reduce
aflatoxin infection. In these two trials, the product proved effective with little if any aflatoxin
present in the V-6 and V-8 treatments and a great reduction in levels from the treatments applied
at early tassel.
Objective
This side-by-side result demonstration was implemented to evaluate Afla-Guard, the freshly
labeled product from Syngenta that claims to assist in lowering aflatoxin infection levels in corn.
Materials and Methods
Trials were implemented on corn hybrids with an early aerial application of Afla-Guard at
approximately V-6 at one location and V-8 at the other location. Each plot consisted of roughly
10 acres per treatment (96 thirty-inch rows by approximately 2000 feet in length). A second
application of Afla-Guard was made to each of the locations at early tassel. Treatments were
separated by an untreated strip also approximately 10 acres in size. Fertilizer, herbicide,
insecticide, and other farming practices were the same for each treatment.
The strips were harvested with the producers combine and dumped into clean grain carts for
sampling. Samples were probed from each cart using a standard grain probe. A total of five
samples were pulled from each treatment (15-20 probes per sample) and bagged separately with
each sample weighing approximately five pounds. The carts were thoroughly sampled to ensure
results were not the product of a hot spot in the field but rather each sample was representative of
actual field conditions. Samples were then sent to several labs to be tested for aflatoxin infection
levels.
51
Results and Discussion
Sawyer Farm: Results of the strip-trial indicated that the earliest treatment (V-8), was the most
effective in reducing the presence of the disease with zero to two parts per billion (ppb) of
aflatoxin present among all samples. The early tassel treatment was also very effective with an
average of 41.2 ppb aflatoxin present. Both treatments easily and consistently proved to have
less aflatoxin when compared to the untreated check that averaged more than double the early
tassel treatment at 89.0 ppb.
Neil Farm: Results of this strip-trial indicated that the early treatment (V-6) was again the most
effective in reducing the presence of the disease with zero to 2.5 ppb of aflatoxin present among
all samples with an average infestation level of 1.2 ppb. The early tassel treatment was also very
effective with a range of zero to 3.9 ppb and an average level of 1.8 ppb. The untreated ranged
from 1.2 to 22 ppb among the samples and averaged 7.7 ppb overall. If you consider the 22 ppb
result in the untreated inconsistent with the other test results and therefore remove it, the data
would then resemble that of the Sawyer trial with the untreated at almost double that of the tassel
treatment.
Conclusions
This is the first year for Afla-Guard to be tested on Central Texas corn. Results of the two trials
above are consistent with results of similar demonstrations conducted between other county
extension agents and Syngenta. Based on the data from this trial, Afla-Guard fulfilled its claim
of reducing aflatoxin infections in corn. This product is not, however, the fix all to aflatoxin
infection. It is another tool that should be included in best management practices to reduce
aflatoxin levels.
Acknowledgements
Appreciation is extended to Lanny Neil and John Sawyer for donating their time and equipment
to make these tests possible. Also, thanks is extended to Syngenta for providing Afla-Guard and
expertise on how the product should be used. Finally, thanks to Jerry Gerik for applying the
product at no cost with his airplane. Without cooperation from each of the individuals
mentioned above, this test would have been impossible to conduct. Thank you.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
52
Demonstration: Afla-Guard Field Trial
Farmer’s Name and Location: John Sawyer, Hillsboro, TX
Soil Type: Houston Black
Row Spacing: 30”
Date Planted: March 2010
Plot Size: 10 acres
Date Harvested: 8/9/1010
Previous Crop: sorghum
Hybrid: NK N77P – Syngenta
Aflatoxin Samples Measured in Parts per Billion (PPB)
Ft Worth *Ft Worth
*Corpus
Grain
Grain
*APEX
*Itasca
Treatment
Christi Grain
AVG
Exchange
Exchange Grain Co.
Co-Op
Exchange
#1
#2
V-8
0.0
0.0
0.6
2.0
0.0
0.5
Tassel
12.0
52.0
33.0
24.0
85.0
41.2
Untreated
210.0
83.0
67.0
36.0
49.0
89.0
*Denotes the same ground and mixed sample tested at Ft. Worth, APEX, Corpus, and Itasca.
Demonstration: Afla-Guard Field Trial
Farmer’s Name and Location: Lanny Neil, Brandon, TX
Soil Type: Houston Black
Row Spacing: 30”
Date Planted: March 2010
Plot Size: 10 acres
Date Harvested: 8/16/1010
Previous Crop: sorghum
Hybrid: Pioneer 33F85
Aflatoxin Samples Measured in Parts per Billion (PPB)
Ft Worth
Blacklands
APEX
Itasca
Treatment
Grain
Grain &
Grain
Co-Op
Exchange Storage Inc.
V-6
0.0
2.5
2.2
0.1
Tassel
0.0
3.9
2.8
0.3
Untreated
4.0
3.6
22.0
1.2
53
AVG
1.2
1.8
7.7
AFLA-GUARD STUDY IN CORN
Jerry Gerik, Cooperator
Josh Gerik, Cooperator
Marty Jungman, Hill & McLennan Extension Agent-IPM
Hill County
Summary
Aflatoxin is a toxin produced by a mold (Aspergillus flavus) that is a pre-harvest contaminant of
corn, cottonseed, peanuts and sorghum. Aflatoxin contamination in corn is primarily related to
drought stress. Corn for feed exceeding 20 ppb aflatoxin cannot be used for dairy cattle and not
recommended for young animals. Aflatoxin levels up to 100 ppb are permissible for adult
animals and up to 50 ppb for wildlife. Aflatoxin levels up to 200 ppb are suitable for finishing
swine and up to 300 ppb for finishing steers.
Afla-Guard, is a commercial (Syngenta) formulation of a non-aflatoxin producing (atoxigenic)
strain of A. flavus that is labeled for reduction of aflatoxin in corn. The material consists of
spores coating hulled barley. If applied prior to silking, the atoxigenic strain colonizes corn
kernels, protecting them from subsequent colonization by the native toxigenic strains. Once it is
applied to the crop, inoculum of the non-toxigenic fungus needs to be activated by moisture in
order to promote growth and sporulation on the grain. Spores are carried throughout the field by
wind and insects, allowing the beneficial fungus to out-compete and displace the toxigenic
aflatoxin strain.
Trials were conducted at two locations to evaluate Afla-Guard for reducing aflatoxin levels. The
strip trials were composed of an untreated check, a ten pound application of Aflaguard at V-10
and a ten pound application at early tassel.
Aflaguard significantly reduced aflatoxin levels in both trials at both the V-10 and early tassel
application compared to the untreated check.
Objective
The objective of these two trials was to evaluate Afla-Guard for reducing aflatoxin levels in corn.
Materials and Methods
Afla-Guard strip trials were established at the Josh Gerik Farm south of Whitney and the Jerry
Gerik Farm in Chatt.
Josh Gerik Trial: Afla-Guard was applied at V-10 stage at a rate of 10 lbs/A by air on May 19.
The early tassel stage was applied at the same rate on May 22. Rainfall was recorded on May
21, 3/4 inch and June 3, 1 inch. The plot was harvested on July 16. The two treatments were
compared to an untreated check. The three strips were 10 acres in size with a 240 foot buffer in
between. The untreated check was located on the up-wind side of this test. A ten pound sample
55
of each treatment was taken by probing the grain truck. The ten pound sample was blended and
split into two-five pound samples for each treatment. Four samples were delivered to Fort Worth
Grain Exchange for each of the three treatments. Samples were analyzed for aflatoxin.
Jerry Gerik Trial: Afla-Guard was applied by air at the rate of 10 lbs/A at V-10 on May 25 and
early tassel on May 31. Rainfall was recorded on June 9 and June 10, one inch total. The plot
was harvested on August 3. The two treatments were compared to an untreated check. The three
strips were 10 acres in size with a 240 foot buffer in between. The untreated check was located
in the up-wind side of this test. A ten pound sample of each treatment was taken by probing the
grain truck. The ten pound sample was blended and split into two-five pound samples for each
treatment. Four samples were delivered to Fort Worth Grain Exchange for each of the three
treatments. Samples were analyzed for aflatoxin.
Morning dews were frequent after both locations following all treatments.
Results and Discussion
Josh Gerik Trial: Aflatoxin levels for the four samples of the untreated check ranged from 17
ppb to 320 ppb with an average of 127 ppb. The V-10 samples ranged from 0 ppb to 6 ppb with
an average of 2 ppb. The early tassel samples ranged from 0 ppb to 71 ppb with an average of 20
ppb.
Jerry Gerik Trial: Levels of aflatoxin ranged from 170 ppb to 440 ppb for the four samples of the
untreated check. The V-10 samples ranged from 0 ppb to 38 ppb. The early tassel samples
ranged from 7 ppb to 93 ppb with an average of 60 ppb.
The V-10 application in both trials had lower aflatoxin levels than the early tassel. The untreated
in both trials had higher levels of aflatoxin.
Conclusion
The two strip trials indicated that Afla-Guard was effective in reducing aflatoxin levels.
Additional studies will need to be conducted to further evaluate the efficacy of this product.
These trials were strip trials and not replicated studies.
Acknowledgment
Appreciation is extended to Josh Gerik and Jerry Gerik for conducting these studies. Special
appreciation to Jerry Gerik with Gerik Ag LLC for his for applying the Afla-Guard at both
locations. Special recognition to Tony Driver with Syngenta Chemical Company for providing
financial support to conduct these studies and providing the Aflaguard. Appreciation is extended
to the IPM scouts for assisting in collecting data.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
56
Demonstration: Afla-Guard Study in Corn
Farmer Name and Location: Josh Gerik, S of Whitney, TX
Date Planted: 3/8/10
Variety: Integra 9602
Fertilizer: NH3 – 135 lbs
Seeding Rate:
23,500
11-37-0 6 gals
Date Harvested: 7/16
Herbicide: Weathermax 23 oz/A + Status 2.5 Harvest: Machine
Previous Crop: Wheat
Treatment
Sample 1
Aflatoxin
ppb
17
6
10
Sample 2
Aflatoxin
ppb
52
0
71
Sample 3
Aflatoxin
ppb
120
2
0
Untreated Check
Aflaguard 10 lbs @ V-10
Aflaguard 10 lbs @ Early
Tassel
Field Average: 60 bu/A * The trial was a strip trial and not a replicated study.
Sample 4
Aflatoxin
ppb
320
0
0
Demonstration: Afla-Guard Study in Corn
Farmer Name and Location: Jerry Gerik, Chatt, TX
Date Planted: 3/15/10
Fertilizer: NH3 - 135 lbs
11-37-0 6 gals
Herbicide: Weathermax 23 oz/A +Status 2.5 oz/A
Previous Crop: Corn
Treatment
Untreated Check
Aflaguard, 10 lbs@V-10
Variety: Pioneer 33F88
Seeding Rate: 23,500
Date Harvested: 8/3
Harvest: Machine
Sample 1
Sample 2
Sample 3
Sample 4
Aflatoxin
ppb
Aflatoxin
ppb
Aflatoxin
ppb
Aflatoxin
ppb
400
440
430
170
0
38
0
0
45
96
7
Aflaguard, 10 lbs@ Early Tassel
93
Field Average: 80 bu/A
* The trial was a strip trial and not a replicated study
57
MANAGING RESIDUAL NITROGEN FOR CORN PRODUCTION
Aaron Walters, Cooperator
Mark McFarland, Ph.D, Extension State Soil Fertility & Water Quality Specialist
Dennis Coker, Ph.D, Extension Program Specialist
Gideon Jennings, Hill County Extension Agent-Ag
Marty Jungman, Hill & McLennan Extension Agent-IPM
Hill County
Summary
Drs. Mark McFarland and Dennis Coker implemented a third-year study in Hill County to
evaluate yield response of corn to residual nitrate-nitrogen (N) to a 24-inch soil depth. Applied
rates of nitrogen and phosph (P) were varied among eight treatments depending on soil test
results. Reducing (crediting) N fertilizer applications for corn based on residual soil nitrate-N
may offer growers an opportunity to improve their management of N fertilizer; thereby,
considerably reducing input costs.
Objectives
Identify possible relationships between available, residual nitrate-N within the top 24 inches of
soil profile and the total amount of N needed to grow corn without reducing yield potential.
Materials and Methods
Prior to planting, soil cores were collected from multiple sites across the study area, then
composited into samples. Using a Giddings hydraulic probe mounted on a pickup, soil cores
were collected at interval depths of 0 to 6, 6 to 12, 12 to 24, 24 to 36, and 36 to 48 inches.
Afterward, samples were dried, ground, extracted using Melich III extractant and analyzed using
ICP by the Soil Water & Forage Testing Laboratory, Texas AgriLife Extension Service to
determine soil test values for multiple nutrients.
Experimental design was a randomized complete block. Plots were planted to DeKalb on
February 25 and treatments initiated following crop emergence. Each plot area was 0.0207 acres
on 30-inch row centers. Nitrogen and P treatments were replicated four times and installed by
side-dress injecting liquid fertilizer five inches below the soil surface via knife applicators.
Applied N rates ranged from 0 to 130 lb/A based on 120 bushels corn/A and amount of residual
nitrate-N measured at the previously-mentioned soil depths.
59
Phosphate application rates ranged from 0 to 80 lbs/A based on 120 bushels corn/A and residual
phosphate present to a six-inch soil depth. Herbicide, insecticide, and other cultural practices
were the same across treatments. The producer’s seeding rate of 22,000 plants/Awas used.
Ten feet on each of two yield rows per plot in the was hand harvested on August 10, 2010.
After shelling, all samples of grain were transported to the Small Grains Testing Laboratory
located on the campus of Texas A&M University. There test weight using a mass balance with
Ohaus quart density canister and moisture using a Steinlite SS 250 digital meter were
determined. Yields were adjusted to 15.5% moisture.
Results and Discussion
Average residual nitrate-N across the study area to a 6-inch soil depth was 9 lb/A, 8 lb/A for 6 to
12 inches, and 8 lb/A for 12 to 24-inches. Compared to N application based on yield goal,
reduced N rates based on crediting residual soil nitrate-N to 12 (126.7 bushels/A), or to 24 inches
(135.8 bushels/A) did not statistically affect grain yield or bushel weight, a potential savings of
25 lbs N/A. Although numerically less, yield of corn (114.6 bushels/A) that received no
additional N was not different compared to corn that received additional N based on an average
yield goal. It is notable; however, that corn yield was reduced in the control (no additional N)
compared to the yield goat treatment at another study site in Hill County during the ’09 season.
During 2009, the same difference among treatments was also observed at other study sites in the
Central Blackland region.
Conclusions
Corn grain yield at this site was not affected by applying half (40 lb P2O5/A), one fourth or no
phosphate fertilizer compared to the 80 lb P2O5/A recommended based on soil test data. The
lack of yield difference observed between rates of N or P could be explained in part by the lack
of rainfall, particularly during May when yield components are easily impacted in a negative
way. Average grain yield of treatments in this study ranged from 114 to 136 bushels/A.
Acknowledgments
Appreciation is extended to Aaron Walters for donating his land, time, and equipment to make
this undertaking possible. A special thanks is also extended to Crop Production Services for
donation of liquid fertilizer and assistance with data collection at harvest time and the seed
companies providing seed and financial support during the growing season for educational
meetings and tours.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
60
Demonstration: Managing Residual Nitrogen for Corn Production
Farmer’s Name and Location: Aaron Walters, Bynum, TX
Soil Type: Houston Black
Row Spacing: 30”
Date Planted: 2/25/2010
Plot Size: .02 A; hand harvested 0.001 A
Fertilizer Used: Variable Rates
Crop Goal: 120 bu/A
Application Date: 5-14-10
Previous Crop: grain sorghum
Herbicide Used: Roundup
Crop Goal: 120 bu/A
Seeding Rate/A: 22,000
2010 Results:
†
Treatment
100-80-0
130-40-0
130-20-0
130-80-0
110-80-0
80-80-0
130-0-0
0-80-0
Test Wt.
(bu/A)
59.6 a†
59.1a
59.4a
59.5-a
59.5a
58.7b
59.0a
58.2b
Ear Wt.
(g/20 rft)
149.3
147.1
140.3
145.6
140.5
146.4
141.7
123.9
Yield1
(buA)
135.8
132.1
130.2
127.0
126.7
126.4
123.3
114.6
Means within a column followed by the same letter are not significantly different according to Fishers
Protected
LSD (P=0.05)
61
THE EFFECT OF CORN PLANT POPULATIONS
ON GRAIN YIELD
Paul Gerik, Cooperator
Marty Jungman, Gideon Jennings and Shane McLellan
Extension Agent-IPM and County Extension Agents-AG/NR, respectively
Hill and McLennan Counties
Summary
Corn populations of 12,000, 16,000, 20,000 and 22,000 per acre were compared to determine the
effect of plant populations on grain yield. The study was superimposed within the county variety
trial. Limited moisture conditions during the growing season resulted in average-to above
average yields for the area. The 12,000 plants per acre population produced approximately 20
bushels per acre less than the other three plant populations. The 16,000, 20,000 and 22,000 plant
populations had similar yield results.
Objective
Corn production in Hill County has continually increased since the early 1980's. Hill County
corn producers need to know the optimum plant population for corn under limited and unlimited
moisture conditions.
The major objective of this result demonstration was to determine the optimum plant population
for corn over a number of years to produce the highest grain yield. This was the first year of this
long-term study.
Materials and Methods
This test plot was planted on March 12 using the farmer's John Deere MaxEmerge II planter. All
plots were seeded at a rate of 22,000 seeds per acre. At the V-4 leaf stage, treatments were
thinned to populations of 12,000 16,000, 20,000 and 22,000 plants per acre. Treatments were
1/1000 A in size. Yields were obtained by hand harvesting 1/1000 A. All yields were adjusted
to 15% moisture. Plant population counts were also conducted at harvest.
All production practices, throughout the year, were the same for each plant population.
Results and Discussion
Corn plant populations of 16,000, 20,000 and 22,000 plants per acre produce the highest corn
yields. Limited soil moisture probably had an influence on the 16,000 plant population having
62
similar yields to the 20,000 and 22,000 plant populations. The plant population of 12,000
planted per acre was not at sufficient plant population to maximize yields with the amount of
rainfall this location received. The trial was a strip trial and not a replicated study.
Conclusion
Future studies will need to be conducted to test corn varieties at different plant populations, as
environmental conditions will vary from one year to another. This trial was a strip trial and not a
replicated study.
Acknowledgment Appreciation is extended to Paul Gerik for providing the locations for this
study. Special appreciation to the IPM scouts for the dedication and hard work in establishing
and harvesting this study.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
63
Demonstration: The Effect of Corn Plant Populations on Grain Yield
Farmer’s Name and Location: Paul Gerik, Chatt
Date Planted: 3/12/10
Fertilizer: NH3 130 lbs
10-34-0 6 gal
Herbicide: Weathermax 23 oz (2 applications)
Previous Crop: Grain sorghum
Row Spacing: 30 in
Seeding Rate/A: 24,000
Harvest Date: 7/30/10
Harvest: Hand harvest
Plant
Population
22,000/A
Plant
Population
20,000/A
Plant
Population
16,000/A
Plant
Population
12,000/A
Yield
(bu/A)
Yield
(bu/A)
Yield
(bu/A)
Yield
(bu/A)
Belle 1655 R
91
91
95
74
NK N72K GT/CB/LL
94
94
75
70
DKC 66-94 AF2
118
89
94
79
Croplan 691 GT/CB
81
85
80
39
Terral 25 HR49
83
95
99
73
BH X9150G
76
88
88
73
Warner W4707R
84
110
93
81
Triumph 7514S
56
73
68
55
Pioneer 33F87
100
99
96
71
Mycogen 2T804
96
109
94
74
Variety
* The trial was a strip trial and not a replicated study.
64
EVALUATION OF CORN HYBRIDS FOR
SILAGE PRODUCTION AND QUALITY
Rayford Shulze, Cooperator
Dennis Pietsch, Director of Crop Testing Program, Texas A&M University
Gideon Jennings, County Extension Agent-Ag
Marty Jungman, Extension Agent-IPM
Hill County
Summary
Hill County harvests 10,000 – 25,000 acres of corn silage each year to be used by the Erath
County dairy industry. This trial is performed to provide information on corn hybrids that will
produce a high quality product for the producer in Hill County and the dairyman in Erath
County. Yields ranged from 11.66 to 17.42 tons per acre and quality analysis were evaluated
utilizing % Crude Protein, % ADF, % NDF, Digestible NDF (dNDF), TDN, and % Dry Matter.
Objectives
Corn production for both grain and silage remains an important part of Hill County’s agricultural
industry. The purpose of this performance test is to assist corn producers in selecting hybrids
that provide both the quality and yield desirable to their operation and to that of the end buyer.
Data from this test offers the producer: 1) additional information on corn hybrids, 2) information
on silage potential, 3) observation on the relationship between yield and quality.
Materials & Methods
Commercial companies were given an opportunity to enter hybrids into this test on a fee basis
through the Texas A&M Crop Testing program. Hybrids were requested to have a 114-118 day
maturity range. This year, 20 hybrids were evaluated for silage and grain yields. Each hybrid
was replicated four times throughout the test. The plot was established as a randomized
complete block design. All plots were planted on April 10, 2010, with cones mounted on an
Almaco plot planter with John Deere Max Emerge ІІ units. The plot was hand harvested on July
7, 2010. A 10-foot portion from each row was harvested for a total of 20 harvested feet per plot.
Plots were weighed, chopped with a portable chopper, and a grab sample obtained for nutrient
analysis.
In addition to yield data, a sample from all replications was submitted to the Texas A&M Forage
Testing Laboratory on the Texas A&M University Campus in College Station, Texas for forage
quality analysis.
66
Results & Discussion
As we look at the results of this trial it is possible to realize several different conclusions from
the data. The first evaluation would be on hybrids that performed well in terms of yield. The
average of this trial was 14.74 tons per acre which is significant value to the producer when
compared to the average county yield of 10.09 tons determined by a group of producers from
across the county at the annual Agricultural Income Evaluation Meeting held each November.
The 2010 silage price averaged $19.42 per ton giving producers an opportunity to improve
profits significantly if they utilize almost any of the hybrids entered in the top half of this trial
next year. The lowest yielding hybrid in this study yielded more than 11 tons with the highest at
nearly 17.5 tons to the acre.
The second evaluation of this data might be to combine the silage results with those hybrids that
producers are currently utilizing to find a hybrid that will allow them to be utilized for either
grain or silage. In this case, a producer might plant this hybrid on fields that are closer to the
silage pit to reduce hauling costs or consider the hybrid on fields that have traditionally been
utilized for silage. When drought conditions are present, soil type or other factors may play a
larger factor in where to utilize a hybrid.
Another outlook on the data might include that of the final product purchaser (dairyman) as he
evaluates ADF, NDF and most importantly Digestible NDF. This is usually done by a
nutritionist and is not something that I will try to discuss, but the data is there for the taking. I
would like to point out, however, that the quality analyses of each hybrid are consistent and very
compatible across the board indicating a solid group of quality hybrids. The following factors
should be considered when evaluating hybrid for quality:
 % CP: % Crude Protein (8% is target)
 % NDF: % Neutral Detergent Fiber - measures all the fiber found in forage; a lower
number results in increased intake (51% is target)
 % ADF: % Acid Detergent Fiber - a lower number results in higher digestibility (28% is
target)
 dNDF: Nitrogen-free NDF
Typically, the higher yielding hybrids also have higher nutritive values. It is important to select
hybrids that demonstrate qualities that are desirable to both the producer and the market. Corn
hybrids that possess the ability to yield high in both silage and grain offer corn producers a large
degree of flexibility when marketing their product.
To determine the best hybrids to plant in this area, randomized replicated trials like this one
should be evaluated over several years to determine hybrid performance under the different
growing conditions from year to year.
Randomized replicated plots aid in removing factors of error in soil type, moisture, fertility,
compaction, etc…increasing the accuracy of the data. It is still recommended, however, that
multiple years of data be utilized to aid in making profitable decisions.
67
Conclusions
At $19.42 per ton, hybrid selection can provide a producer a significant increase in profit.
Observing several years of the same hybrid will assist in making a sound decision on hybrid
selection. The following hybrids were entered into the trial over a several year period proving
some solid data on silage yields in different weather conditions:
Hybrid
TMF 2L844
REV 26HR50
REV 28R30
DKC 67-87
Company
Mycogen
Terral
Terral
Monsanto
2008 - Rank
14.9 – 9th
14.0 – 11th
2009 - Rank
14.4 – 4th
12.1 – 9th
11.5 – 12th
2010 - Rank
17.4 – 1st
15.4 – 7th
14.3 – 12th
-
AVG
16.2
14.9
13.2
12.8
Although the chart above only gives two years history on each of the hybrids, this is two years of
history on a randomized, replicated study which should increase the accuracy of the information
and provide confidence in selecting any of these hybrids as a fit for Hill County.
Acknowledgments
Appreciation is extended to Rayford Schulze for taking time and providing resources for this test
to be possible. Rayford has cooperated with Texas AgriLife Research and Extension for many
years to make this test possible and we greatly appreciate his willingness to continue this great
partnership.
Appreciation is also extended to Dennis Pietsch, Director of Crop Testing Program at Texas
A&M University, for planting and harvesting the test.
Also, special thanks is extended to the seed companies that entered hybrids in this test for
providing seed and financial support during the growing season.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
68
%
Moisture
67.05
65.88
69.03
65.57
68.43
67.05
64.80
67.18
63.60
68.80
67.63
67.38
66.90
65.78
63.53
70.03
70.85
65.90
63.30
65.53
66.71
5.06
NS
%
Dry
Matter
32.95
34.13
30.98
34.43
31.58
32.95
35.20
32.83
36.40
31.20
32.38
32.63
33.10
34.23
36.48
29.98
29.15
34.10
36.70
34.48
33.29
10.15
NS
%
Crude
Protein
(2)
4.90
5.20
5.63
5.91
5.60
5.38
5.15
4.53
4.63
4.75
5.30
6.13
5.23
5.10
4.95
6.05
5.23
5.13
4.98
6.13
5.29
14.12
NS
%
ADF
(3)
29.15
27.33
28.50
24.76
27.03
29.68
28.80
29.10
29.58
31.53
26.58
27.50
26.05
26.25
32.38
29.08
30.75
30.48
28.78
23.80
28.35
13.77
NS
%
NDF
(4)
46.95
48.70
49.40
43.78
51.20
50.85
49.65
51.08
49.75
52.31
46.83
48.18
46.10
46.20
54.33
50.60
49.58
52.30
49.23
44.10
49.05
11.32
NS
Total
Digestible
Nutrients
60.70
62.20
61.48
64.42
62.63
60.48
61.08
60.63
60.28
58.83
62.83
62.43
63.23
63.00
58.25
61.15
59.58
59.78
61.03
65.28
61
5.12
NS
Plant
Pop.
Per
Acre
28,314
27,661
25,918
30,845
25,047
28,096
25,918
25,700
30,274
27,811
24,829
26,136
28,532
25,265
25,700
24,829
25,918
24,829
27,878
25,700
26,760
10.97
4,421
Silage
Yield
Tons/A
35%D.M.
17.42
16.60
16.42
16.23
15.96
15.90
15.37
15.28
14.93
14.68
14.47
14.43
14.29
14.07
13.91
13.70
13.61
13.25
12.58
11.66
14.74
12.27
2.72
69
Note 1:All data was analyzed using REMLTOOL. L.S.D.'s are given for traits that were significantly different at P<.05.
Note 2: Hybrid names starting or ending with an "X" denotes a commercial experimental. Those hybrids entered by the Texas Agricultural Experiment
Station are either in the experimental stage or being tested as experimental check hybrids. Please contact respective seed companies for the
availability of planting seed for the upcoming crop year.
(1) Genetically enhanced hybrid submitted by respective seed companies. B.t.=Bacillus thuringiensis, YG= YieldGuard, CRW= Corn Root Worm,
HX= Herculuex, LL= Liberty Link, RR= Roundup Ready, CL= Clearfield. Please check with respective seed companies for details on a GE hybrid.
(2) % Nitrogen x 6.25
(3) ADF (acid detergent fiber) was determined by NIR; used to predict digestibility
(4) NDF (neutral detergent fiber) was determined by NIR; used to predict intake
For further information about this report, contact Mr. Dennis Pietsch, Crop Testing Director, Texas AgriLife Research, College Station, TX
(979) 845-8505, [email protected]
Please visit the Crop Testing webpage at http://varietytesting.tamu.edu
2010 Hillsboro Texas Silage Corn Test, Rayford Schulze Farm, Malone, Texas.
Company
Days
or
Type
to
Hybrid
Brand
GE
50%
Name
(1)
Silk
TMF2L844
Mycogen Seeds
RR
70
TMF2N804
Mycogen Seeds
HX1
71
DKC67-88 (GENVT3P)
Monsanto Company
GENVT3P
67
TMF2W727
Mycogen Seeds
HX1
66
31R87
Pioneeer Hi-Bred Int., Inc.
RR
66
2288H
Triumph Seed Co.
HX1
70
REV26HR50
Terral Seed Inc.
HX1/LL/RR2
68
REV28HR30
Terral Seed Inc.
HX1/LL/RR2
68
P1615HR
Pioneeer Hi-Bred Int., Inc.
HX1/LL/RR2
70
Belle 1655 PRO
Armor Corn
RR/Bt
65
Belle 1545 PRO
Armor Corn
RR2YGCBRW 66
REV28R30
Terral Seed Inc.
RR2
67
REV28R10
Terral Seed Inc.
RR2
69
REV28HR20
Terral Seed Inc.
HX1/LL/RR2
70
F2F622
Mycogen Seeds
HX1
66
Belle 1655R
Armor Corn
RR
65
8539R
Triumph Seed Co.
RR
71
31G71
Pioneeer Hi-Bred Int., Inc.
RR/HX
67
TMF2Q716
Mycogen Seeds
HX1
66
F2F700
Mycogen Seeds
HX1
66
Mean
67.58
C. V.
1.39
L.S.D. .05
1.39
GRAIN
SORGHUM
PLANT POPULATION RELATED TO RESIDUAL NITROGEN
AND VARIABLE FERTILIZER RATES
Chad Radke, Cooperator
Gideon Jennings, Hill County Extension Agent-AG/NR
Dennis Coker, Ph.D, AgriLife Soil Fertility Program Specialist
Hill County
Summary
Utilizing the residual nitrogen study from Dr. Mark McFarland and Dr. Dennis Coker, AgriLife
Soil Fertility Specialist and AgriLife Soil Fertility Program Specialist, a plant population
demonstration was implemented to observe with yield when fertility and plant populations are
altered. This information can be very useful to a producer or crop advisor when poor stands are
a problem and decisions to replant or destroy a crop are necessary.
Objective
Observe the relationship between fertility and low plant population rates in comparison to a
typical plant population under the same fertility program.
Materials and Methods
In each treatment of the first replication of the research trial conducted by Drs. McFarland and
Coker (see Managing Residual Nitrogen for Grain Sorghum Production) 1/1000th of an acre was
reserved and populations were reduced to 30,000 and 45,000 plants per acre to be compared to
the original treatments planted at 65,000 plants per acre. Therefore the plot design for this study
is a simple strip trial not the randomized complete block that was used in the surrounding study.
The study was hand harvested July 15, 2010. Samples were collected from each plot and
transported to the Small Grains Testing Laboratory located on the campus of Texas A&M
University to determine test weight using a beam balance with pint density cup and moisture
using a Steinlite SB 900 digital meter. Yields were adjusted to 14% moisture.
Results and Discussion
Generally, the lower plant populations yielded less than those of higher plant populations.
However, in the two treatments with higher nitrogen fertilizers (79-15-0 and 110-15-0) the
30,000 population outperformed the 45,000 population. This did not hold true when you
compare the 45,000 plant population to the producer’s field planting of 65,000 where the higher
populations always outperformed the lower populations. Differences between the three
populations were not always significant in terms of yield pointing to the value of this type of
data. This information can be of much assistance in making replant or removal decisions
72
through evaluation of plant populations combined with the knowledge of the nitrogen fertilizer
that was applied to the crop.
Conclusion
This simple demonstration further proves the need to understand the available nitrogen in the soil
profile that can be utilized. Utilization of soil testing to properly credit nitrogen and knowledge
of the nitrogen applied to the crop combined with a good estimation of actual plant population
will increase a producer’s ability to make a sound decision in a tough situation. Depending on
seed costs, a producer might make the decision to keep a stand of grain sorghum that is in the
30,000 plus population range (assuming the stand is consistent) with confidence in his ability to
make a crop through additional nitrogen fertilization.
Acknowledgements
Appreciation is extended to Chad Radke for donating his land, time and equipment to make this
test possible. A special thanks is extended to Crop Production Services of Hillsboro, Texas for
providing liquid N and P fertilizer and to the seed companies for financial support of our
educational meetings and tours during the growing season.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
73
Demonstration: Plant population related to residual nitrogen and variable fertilizer rates
Farmer’s Name and Location: Chad Radke, Malone, TX
Soil Type: Houston Black
Row Spacing: 38”
Date Planted: 3/31/10
Plot Size: 0.023 A
Fertilizer Used: Variable Rates
Date Harvested: 7/15/10
Herbicide Used: Sequence 1.3 quarts (pre)
Previous Crop: corn
Yukon 6 oz (post)
Crop Goal: 5,500 lb/A
Seeding Rate/A: 65,000
Treatment
% Moisture
At Harvest
20-15-0
13.0
79-15-0
12.2
110-15-0
12.6
0-15-0
12.4
44-15-0
12.6
Average
*Yields adjusted to 14% moisture.
Plant
Population
30,000/A
Yield
(lb/A)
4372
4673
4542
3739
4240
4313
Test Wt.
(lbs/bu)
50.2
49.5
50.7
49.3
49.9
74
Plant
Population
45,000/A
Yield
(lb/A)
4630
4546
4397
4316
4700
4518
Plant
Population
65,000
Yield
(lb/A)
5384
5290
5286
4885
4874
5144
FIELD EVALUATION OF MEDIUM-EARLY
GRAIN SORGHUM VARIETIES
Gary and Kenny Kelm, Cooperators
Gideon Jennings, Hill County Extension Agent-AG/NR
Marty Jungman, Hill & McLennan Extension Agent-IPM
Hill County
Summary
Hill County has planted 30 – 43,000 acres of grain sorghum over the past three years. This crop
continues to offer producers a good rotation with consistent yields. The challenge with grain
sorghum is found in the plants inability to remain standing until harvest in drought conditions.
This demonstration was designed to locate varieties that will produce high yields and provide a
harvestable product through standability. Varieties are evaluated based on yield for their
competitive use in Hill County. Data includes: yield, test weight, and moisture. Yields from
this trial range from 4015 to 5212 pounds (lbs) per acre (A) with an average of 4577 lbs/A.
Objective
This side-by-side result demonstration was planted to evaluate existing or proven grain sorghum
varieties between different seed companies for yield and standability.
Materials and Methods
The strip-trial was planted using the producer’s grain drill on April 9, 2010, at the seeding rate of
85,000 seeds per acre. The plot size was eight rows wide and 1172 feet in length, with a row
spacing of 38 inches or .682 acres per plot. Yields were determined using the farmers combine
and a weigh wagon. Moisture and test weight were determined through digital equipment at
Malone Cooperative in Malone, Texas. To ensure a fair comparison was made, all varieties were
adjusted to 14% moisture and all farming practices affecting the trial were kept the same.
Results and Discussion
There was a yield difference of 1197 pounds, from the top to the bottom of the trial. Triumph
452 topped the trial at 5212 lbs/A. DynaGrow varieties placed both second and third with DG
771B and DG 776B with yields of 5007 and 4804 lbs/A respectively. Lodging was not an issue
with any of the varieties this season.
The future holds some exciting improvements for grain sorghum including adaptations that will
allow herbicides to be sprayed directly over the top of the crop to control grassy weeds. This is
expected to increase the number of sorghum acreage planted in Texas. For many years, corn has
replaced grain sorghum acreage due to the ease of weed control with herbicide tolerance. Please
note that this is a simple strip trial providing a snapshot of one year. Several years should be
76
reviewed prior to making decisions to plant a particular variety to due differences in weather and
or growing conditions.
Conclusion
Variety selection could equate to some significant dollars with a 21 bushel (1197 lbs) difference
from the highest yields to the lowest yields in this demonstration. At $5 per bushel, this could
mean a $105 dollar per acre increase in profit to the grower. There will be some variation in
seed costs per acre and that should be considered when making variety selections. Historical
data on varieties entered into this trial reveals the following information on yield and the
variety’s rank within the trial each year:
Variety
B-H 3808
DeKalb 44-20
Pioneer 85G01
2007 - Rank
2938 – 4th
2008 - Rank
3629 – 3rd
3548 – 4th
-
2009 - Rank
3811 – 1st
3376 – 4th
-
2010 - Rank
4373 – 9th
4764 – 4th
4436 – 8th
AVG
3937 lbs
3896 lbs
3687 lbs
Acknowledgements
Appreciation is extended to the Kelms for their cooperation, equipment, and time needed to
conduct this result demonstration. A special thanks is also extended to all the seed companies
for furnishing the planting seed.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
77
Demonstration: Field Evaluation of Medium-Early Grain Sorghum Varieties
Farmer’s Name and Location: Gary Kelm, Malone, TX
Soil Type: Branyon Clay
Seeding Rate/A:
Date Planted: 4/9/10
Plot Size: .682A
Plan Population: 85,000
Last Crop: Corn
Fertilizer Used: 135# 82-0-0 + 6 gal 11-37-0
Date Harvested: 8/6/10
Herbicides: 14 oz Outlook, 2/3# Atrazine, 1 qt. glyphosate
Variety
Yield1/
(lb/A)
% Moisture
at Harvest
Test
Weight
(lbs/bu)
Triumph TR 452
5212.2
11.5
57.2
DG 771B
5007.4
11.2
57.9
DG 766B
4804.1
12.5
56.3
DKS 44-20
4764.3
11.5
56.4
Syngenta 5613
4622.7
12.3
56.2
Integra G 10261
4579.5
12.2
56.3
Pogue PS-233A
4445.7
11.5
56.3
Pioneer 85G01
4436.0
12.0
59.8
B-H 3808
4373.5
12.2
56.8
GA 3311
4091.7
12.6
56.3
GA 3464
4015.1
11.9
54.9
AVERAGE
4577.5
79
MANAGING RESIDUAL NITROGEN FOR GRAIN SORGHUM PRODUCTION
Chad Radke, Cooperator
Mark McFarland, Ph.D, AgriLife Soil Fertility Specialist
Dennis Coker, Ph.D, AgriLife Soil Fertility Program Specialist
Gideon Jennings, Hill County Extension Agent-AG/NR
Marty Jungman, Hill & McLennan Extension Agent-IPM
Hill County
Summary
Drs. Mark McFarland and Dennis Coker implemented a third year study to evaluate yield
response of grain sorghum to residual nitrate-nitrogen (N) to a 24-inch depth of soil. Applied
rates of N and phosphorous (P) varied among eight treatments depending on soil test results.
Reducing (crediting) N fertilizer applications for grain sorghum based on residual soil nitrate-N
may offer growers an opportunity to improve their management of N fertilizer; thereby, reducing
input costs. This third season of study in Hill County confirms results in grain sorghum
observed the first two seasons.
Objective
Identify the relationship between available, residual nitrate-N within the top 24 inches of soil
profile and the total amount of N needed to grow grain sorghum without reducing yield potential.
Material and Methods
Prior to planting, soil samples were collected and composited from across each of two halves of
the study a Giddings hydraulic probe mounted on a pickup. Soil samples were collected at
interval depths of 0 to 6, 6 to 12, 12 to 24, 24 to 36, and 36 to 48 inches. Afterward, samples
were dried, ground, extracted and analyzed by the Soil Water & Forage Testing Laboratory,
Texas AgriLife Extension Service to determine soil test values for several nutrients.
Experimental design was a randomized complete block and plots were established after planting
on May 5, 2010. Each plot area was 0.023 acres (A) on 38-inch row centers. Nitrogen and
phosphorous treatments were replicated four times and initiated by side-dress injecting liquid
fertilizer into the soil via knife applicators. Nitrogen rates ranged from 0 to 110 lb based on a
5,500 lb/A crop yield goal and amount of residual nitrate-N measured at the previouslymentioned soil depths. Phosphate application rates ranged from 0 to 45 lbs based on a 5,500
lb/A yield goal and residual phosphate values to a six-inch soil depth. Herbicide, insecticide, and
other cultural practices were the same across treatments. The seeding rate was 65,000 plants/A
of DeKalb 3707.
81
Ten feet on each of two yield rows per plot was hand harvested on July 15, 2010.Complete heads
were collected from each plot and later threshed using a portable Almaco thresher.
Measurements collected at the Small Grains Testing Laboratory located on the campus of Texas
A&M University, included test weight using a beam balance with pint density cup and moisture
using a Steinlite SB 900 digital meter. Yields were adjusted to 14% moisture.
Results and Discussion
Average residual nitrate-N across the study area to a six-inch soil depth was 8 lb/A, 6 lb/A for 6
to 12 inches, and 24 lb/A for 12 to 24 inches. Compared to the yield goal N rate (5,286 lb/A), a
reduced rate of N fertilizer application for grain sorghum based on residual soil nitrate-N to 12
(5,290 lb/A) or to 24 inches (4,874 lb/A) did not affect grain yield or bushel weight. This
represented a potential fertilizer savings of 38 lb/A or $24.23/A based on Fall 2009 fertilizer
prices. While numerically less, yield of grain sorghum that received no additional N (4,885
lb/A) was not statistically different compared to that which received N based on an average yield
goal (5,286 lb/A).
Compared to no additional phosphate fertilizer, sorghum grain yield and bushel weight was not
affected by applying 15 lb P2O5/A recommended based on soil test data, a 2Xrate (30 lb P2O5/A)
or 3X rate (45 lb P2O5/A). The lack of yield difference observed between rates of N or P could
be explained in part by the lack of rainfall, particularly during May when yield components are
most easy to be negatively impacted. Mean grain yield from treatments in this study ranged
from 4,874 to 5,552 lbs/A.
Conclusions
Results from the 2010 study on grain sorghum response to deep profile, residual N were
consistent with previous studies conducted during 2008 and 2009 in Hill County. Crediting
residual, soil profile N to 24 inches can improve the production economics of grain sorghum.
Additionally, the importance of managing N inputs for grain sorghum production by annual
collection of soil samples and consideration of soil test results has been verified. Application
rates of P fertilizer above current Extension recommendations will likely have no effect on yield.
Acknowledgements:
Appreciation is extended to Chad Radke for donating his land, time and equipment to make this
test possible. Special thanks is extended to Crop Production Services of Hillsboro, TX for
providing liquid N and P fertilizer and to the seed companies for financial support of our
educational meetings and tours during the growing season.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report is included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to
commercial products or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by
Texas AgriLife Extension Service and the Texas A&M University System is implied. Readers should realize that results from
one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where conditions vary.
82
Demonstration: Grain Sorghum Yield Response to Residual Nitrogen
Farmer’s Name and Location: Chad Radke, Malone, TX
Soil Type: Houston Black
Row Spacing: 38”
Date Planted: 3/31/10
Plot Size: 0.023 A
Fertilizer Used: Variable Rates
Date Harvested: 7/15/10
Herbicide Used: Sequence 1.3 quarts (pre)
Previous Crop: corn
Yukon 6 oz (post)
Crop Goal: 5,500 lb/A
Seeding Rate/A: 65,000
Treatment
Moisture
At Harvest
(%)
Test Wt.
(lbs/bu)
Yield
(lbs/A)
Cost of
Fertilizer
($/A)†
(Focus on N)
0-15-0
15.4
48.4‡
4885‡
8.10
20-15-0
14.6
50.8
5384
13.97
44-15-0
15.4
49.2
4874
22.78
79-15-0
13.6
50.0
5290
35.62
110-15-0
13.1
50.5
5286
47.00
(Focus on P2O5)
110-15-0
13.1
50.5
5286
47.00
110-30-0
13.7
49.3
5421
53.27
110-45-0
12.3
50.5
5498
59.90
110-0-0
13.2
50.9
5552
40.37
†
Based on Fall 2009 retail pricing for liquid 32-0-0 and 10-34-0.
‡
Means within a column and fertilizer grouping were not significantly different according
to ANOVA (Treatment Prob(F)≤0.05.
83
EVALUATION OF PLANT POPULATIONS IN
GRAIN SORGHUM
Gary Kelm, Cooperator
Kenny Kelm, Cooperator
Gideon Jennings and Marty Jungman
County Extension Agent-AG/NR and Extension Agent-IPM, respectively
Hill County
Summary
Utilizing the same varieties that were planted in the county variety trial, a plant population study
was superimposed within this study to better understand how new varieties react to lower plant
populations. Grain sorghum varieties were thinned to 30,000, 45,000 and compared to the
producer's normal plant population. The results from this test indicated that yields generally
increased at plant populations of 45,000. In 2009, grain sorghum varieties generally had an
increased in yield as populations increased from 30,000 to 45,000 and above. Data in 2008
indicated a trend that many of the varieties did not decrease in yield as plant populations were
lowered to 30,000.
Objective
Evaluate grain sorghum varieties at different plant populations. The information collected will
allow producers to consider planting lower seeding rates on varieties. This information may also
provide valuable data in situations of poor plant emergence where a producer is trying to make a
decision on replanting.
Materials and Methods
The plot was planted using the producer’s grain drill on April 19 at the seeding rate of 86,000
seeds/acre. Eight rows of each variety was planted the length of the field on 30-inch row
spacing. Each variety was thinned by hand on 1/1000 of an acre and that same area was
harvested by hand. All yields were adjusted to 14% moisture.
Fertilizer, herbicide, insecticide and other cultural practices were the same for each variety.
Results & Discussion
An overview of the results over the past three years indicate that varieties may perform well at a
reduced plant population. However, results from this 2010 and 2009 study indicated that yields,
generally, increased as plant populations increased. The 2008 study indicated that varieties did
not decrease in yields when lowered to a 30,000 plant population. The three year studies were
strip tests and not replicated studies.
85
Conclusion
Future studies will need to be conducted to test grain sorghum varieties at different plant
population levels as rainfall and other environmental conditions will vary from year to year.
This trial was a strip trial and not a replicated study.
Acknowledgments
Appreciation is extended to Gary Kelm and Kenny Kelm for their cooperation in conducting this
result demonstration. Special thanks is extended to all the seed companies for furnishing the
planting seed. Special appreciation is extended to the IPM Program scouts for hand thinning and
hand harvesting this test.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
86
Demonstration: Evaluation of Plant Populations in Grain Sorghum
Farmer’s Name and Location: Gary and Kenny Kelm, Malone
Date Planted: 4/9/10
Row Spacing: 38 in
Fertilizer: NH3 130 lbs
Harvest Date: 7/30/10
10-34-0 6 gal
Harvest: Hand harvest
46-0-0 70 lbs (sidedress)
Previous Crop: Corn (grain)
Herbicide: Dual Magnum 1 1/3 pt/A broadcast
Atrazine 1 lb/A (pre-plant)
Plant
Population
30,000/A
Plant
Population
45,000/A
Check
Yield
(lbs/A)
Yield
(lbs/A)
Yield
(lbs/A)
Plant
Population
(x1000)
Golden Acres 3311
4287
4590
4019
54
Golden Acres 3464
4461
5069
4731
69
DKS 44-20
5049
5453
4578
71
BH 3808
4245
5256
5324
56
Triumph TR 452
4367
5308
5106
56
Syngenta 5613
4827
4895
4760
71
Integra G10261
4317
4452
4452
64
Pio 85G01
4011
3810
3944
79
Pogue PS 233A
5121
4655
4456
52
DG 766 B
4488
4756
5291
59
DG 771B
4608
4941
5075
57
Variety
* The trial was a strip trial and not a replicated study.
87
FIELD EVALUATION OF EXPERIMENTAL
GRAIN SORGHUM VARIETIES
Chad Kaska, Cooperator
Gideon Jennings, Hill County Extension Agent-AG/NR
Marty Jungman, Hill & McLennan Extension Agent-IPM
Hill County
Summary
This side-by-side result demonstration was planted to evaluate new or experimental varieties
between different seed companies. Varieties are evaluated based on yield for their competitive
use in Hill County. Data includes: yield, test weight, and moisture. Yields from this trial range
from 5720 to 7025 pounds (lbs) per acre (A) with an average of 6264 lbs/A.
Objective
As new grain sorghum varieties continue to hit the market and more options are available to
producers, the need to test varieties remains necessary. This demonstration was designed to
begin evaluating new varieties that might have potential to be grown in Hill County.
Materials and Methods
The plot was planted using the producer’s grain drill on March 18, 2010, at the seeding rate of
80,000 seeds per acre. The plot size was eight rows 1034 feet in length, with a row spacing of 30
inches or .475 acres per plot. Yields were determined using the farmers combine and a weigh
wagon. Moisture and test weight were determined through digital equipment at APEX Grain
Company. To ensure a fair comparison was made, all varieties were adjusted to 14% moisture
and all farming practices affecting the trial were kept the same.
Results and Discussion
There was over 1305 pounds difference in yield, from the top to the bottom of the trial. Pioneer
84P74 easily topped the plot at 7025 lbs/A. Triumph 457 ranked second at 6815 lbs/A. There is
a significant drop to third place where DeKalb 69-45, Syngenta 5556, and Dynagrow 771B
competed in the 6300 pound per acre range. Lodging was not an issue this season with all
varieties standing for harvest.
The future holds some exciting improvements for grain sorghum including adaptations that will
allow herbicides to be sprayed directly over the top of the crop to control grassy weeds. This is
expected to increase the number of sorghum acreage planted in Texas. For many years, corn has
replaced grain sorghum acreage due to the ease of weed control with herbicide tolerance.
89
Please note that this is a simple strip trial providing a snapshot of one year. Several years should
be reviewed prior to making decisions to plant a particular variety to due differences in weather
and or growing conditions.
Conclusion
Varieties entered into this trial are either new or new to this area of the state. It is advised to
continue to consider these varieties as they are entered into trials and planted locally. Different
conditions from year to year bring out strengths and weaknesses of each variety. To manage
risk, a variety that performs well in wet and dry years is recommended. The only variety in this
year’s trial with more than one year of data would be the Pioneer 84P74. This variety placed 2 nd
last year in county trials behind BH 3808 and both experienced very little lodging in a year when
lodging was common.
Acknowledgements:
Appreciation is extended to Chad Kaska for his cooperation, equipment, and time needed to
conduct this result demonstration. A special thanks is also extended to all the seed companies
for furnishing the planting seed.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
90
Demonstration: Field Evaluation of Experimental Grain Sorghum Varieties
Farmer’s Name and Location: Chad Kaska, Abbott, TX
Soil Type: Houston Black Clay
Date Planted: 3/18/10
Fertilizer Used: 150# of 82-0-0, 7 gal of 11-37-0
Herbicides: Dual, Roundup
Seeding Rate/A:
Plot Size: .475A
Last Crop: cotton
Date Harvested: 8/6/10
Test
Weight
(lbs/bu)
% Moisture
at Harvest
Yield1/
(lb/A)
Pioneer 84P74
59.3
11.0
7025.7
Triumph 457
55.2
9.9
6815.8
DKS 49-45
53.5
10.4
6368.7
Syngenta 5556
55.3
10.7
6367.6
DynaGrow 771B
55.0
10.7
6341.5
Pioneer 85G03
55.6
10.6
6273.7
Integra G10166
56.5
11.1
6213.0
Triumph TRX 05361
50.9
10.2
6166.8
B-H 5227
57.2
10.9
6090.5
Integra G 10265
49.5
9.9
5978.6
Pogue 220
54.4
10.3
5807.2
Syngenta H-486
51.2
11.0
5720.3
Variety
6264.1
AVERAGE
*Yields adjusted to 14% moisture.
91
COTTON
EVALUATION OF FLUTRIAFOL SPRAYED ON THE LOWER STEM FOR
CONTROL OF PHYMATOTRICHOPSIS ROOT ROT OF COTTON
Ronnie Gerik, Cooperator
Joe Mach, Cooperator
Marty Jungman, IPM Agent, Hill County
Thomas Isakeit, Professor and Extension Plant Pathologist, College Station
Gaylon Morgan, Associate Professor and State Extension Cotton Specialist, College Station
Dale Mott, Extension Program Specialist, Dept. of Soil and Crop Sciences, College Station
Summary
In this experiment, flutriafol at 0.125 lbs ai/A significantly reduced the incidence of cotton root
rot. A lower rate of flutriafol was not as effective.
Objective
To evaluate two rates of flutriafol sprayed on the lower stem for control of Phymatotrichopsis
root rot of cotton.
Materials and Methods
The experiments were done in two fields of cotton in Hill County. Field 1, south of Aquilla was
planted April 9, 2010 to Stoneville 5327 B2RF using a 30” row spacing. Plants were spaced 5”
apart. The field had been planted to corn and cotton respectively, the previous two years. Plots
were established in the southeast corner of the field with a known history of cotton root rot. Field
2, northwest of Penelope, was planted April 5, 2010 to DP 164 B2RF using a 30” row spacing.
The field had been planted to grain sorghum and cotton respectively, the previous two years.
Plots were established in the southern part of the field with a known history of cotton root rot.
Two rates of a commercial formulation of flutriafol were applied with a CO2 sprayer at 40 psi in
a volume of 15 gpa to the lower stem and adjacent soil by hand using a wand with a single
nozzle. The rates evaluated were 0.0625 lb. a.i./A and 0.125 lb. a.i./A. The application was
made in both fields on June 4, 2010 when cotton was at match head square. Each treatment was
replicated four times and each replicate was 4 rows by 40 feet, with a 5-ft space between plots in
each row. Treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design.
95
Results and Discussion
Previous experiments suggest that when the fungicide is sprayed on the lower stem in a dryland
field, a rain is necessary some time before disease onset to redistribute the fungicide for more
efficient root uptakes. The rain will also increase the chance of disease development. On June
9-10, both fields received substantial rain: 2.5” in field 1 and 4-10” in field 2. However, there
was no substantial disease development in field 2 and so, no data was collected from this site.
Field 1 had developed disease, but according to the grower, the incidence was not as much as it
was in other years. Field 1 plots were evaluated for disease incidence on August 26, shortly
before defoliation. The plots in this field were hand harvested Sept. 13-15, after a very heavy
rain had fallen on the defoliated cotton.
Both rates of fungicide treatments resulted in less disease incidence than the control (Table 1),
but the differences were statistically significant (P=0.043) from the control, only with a high rate
(0.125 lb. a.i./A). Treatment effects were consistent with the first three replicates, i.e. disease
incidence in the control ranged from 35-38%, disease incidence with the 0.125 lb. a.i./A
treatment ranged from 0.3-5%, and disease incidence with the 0.0625 lb. a.i./A treatment ranged
from 0.3-8%. However, in the fourth replicate, disease incidence in the control was substantially
lower than in the other three replicates (17%), but disease incidence with both treatments was
substantial higher than in the other three replicates (12% for 0.125 lb. a.i./A and 28% for 0.0625
lb. a.i./A).
Effect of flutriafol rates on Phymatotrichopsis root rot in Field 1, Hill County.
Treatment
Average % Disease*
Yield of seed
Yield of lint
cotton (lb/A)
(bales/A)
None (control)
31 ±10
2602 ±388
2.1 ±0.3
0.0625 lb. a.i. flutriafol/A
9 ±13
2532 ±137
2.0 ±0.1
0.125 lb. a.i. flutriafol/A
5 ±5
2592 ±361
2.0 ±0.3
*Numbers in columns are the means of 4 replicates, followed by standard deviations.
There was no significant (P=0.05) effect of the either of the fungicide rate treatments on seed
cotton or lint yield (Table 1.)
Conclusion
In this experiment, the application of 0.125 lb. a.i./A flutriafol significantly reduced the
incidence of root rot. There was a rate response, as the lower rate was not as effective. There
could be several factors explaining why yield did not increase with reduced root rot. Hand
harvesting likely overestimated the yield that could be obtained by machine harvesting. It is well
known that the presence of root rot areas can interfere with the efficiency of machine harvest.
Additionally, the disease incidence data does not account for the timing of infection, which was
not evaluated in this study. A later infection results in less yield loss than early infection. There
may also have been some compensation in growth from non-infected plants surrounded by
diseased plants.
This experiment was an additional confirmation of the effectiveness of stem sprays for reduction
in cotton root rot. It is noteworthy that this reduction was on dryland cotton and with a 15 gpa
volume. This data and other data from other locations suggest that the effectiveness of stem
sprays depends upon an early application (pin head square or earlier) followed by a heavy rain or
96
overhead irrigation. However, the implementation of stem sprays into a mechanized operation
may result in reduced effectiveness of the fungicide application. This may not be an issue, as
other experiments in other locations indicate that the fungicide could be applied to soil at
planting and still retain activity later in the season. An application at planting would be much
easier to adapt to grower operations in different areas and so this will be the focus of future
research.
Future Research: Flutriafol is not labeled on cotton and we are not advocating its use. More
experiments need to be done to determine optimal rate, timing and application method.
Acknowledgments We thank Ronnie Gerik and Joe Mach for providing the fields for these
experiments.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary
97
FIELD EVALUATION OF MULTIPLE ROW
TRANSGENIC COTTON VARIETIES
Richard Machac, Cooperator
Kenneth Machac, Cooperator
Marty Jungman, Gideon Jennings and Shane McLellan
Extension Agent-IPM and County Extension Agents-AG/NR, respectively
Hill and McLennan Counties
Summary
A transgenic cotton variety test was established in Irene at the Richard Machac Farm. The plot
consisted of 14 transgenic cotton varieties. The trial was designed for yield, quality and gross
return per acre. The two varieties with the highest yield were DP 1028 B2RF and DP 0935
B2RF with 1262 lint lbs/A and 1225 lint lbs/A, respectively.
The varieties with the highest average loan value for lint quality was FM 9170 B2F at $.5670 and
DP 1048 B2RF at $.5640 and Phytogen 565 WRF at $.5415.
An economic analysis utilizing average loan value and yield indicated that DP 1028B2RF had a
gross return of $676.43 per acre. The next highest was DP 1048 B2RF with a gross return of
$660.66 per acre.
Objective
The objective of this demonstration was to evaluate yield, lint quality measurements, loan value
and gross return per acre in this cotton variety trial. The results will assist producers who are
confronted with economic decisions when deciding to plant transgenic varieties.
Materials and Methods
A transgenic cotton variety strip test was established on May 5 at the Richard Machac Farm in
Irene. This trial consisted of 14 transgenic varieties. Included in this test were: All-Tex 65207
B2RF, CG 3220 B2RF, DG 2570 B2RF, DP 164 B2RF, DP 0935 B2RF, DP 1028 B2RF, DP
1032 B2RF, DP 1048 B2RF, FM 9170 B2RF, PHY 375 WRF, PHY 565 WRF, ST 4288 B2RF,
ST 4498 and ST 5327 B2RF.
The individual plot size was 1,887 feet in length x eight 36-inch rows or 1.04 acre. Insecticide
treatments were applied to the entire trial and all cultural practices were identical. Harvested
area was 1,887 feet in length x four 36-inch row or .52 acre.
The trial was machine harvested and weighed with a boll buggy on October 4. One ten-pound
sample of each variety was hand ginned and evaluated for quality.
99
Results and Discussion
The variety with the highest loan value was FM 9170 B2F with $.5670. The next two highest
were DP 1048 B2RF at $.5460 and Phytogen at $.5415.
FM 9170 B2F had the longest staple length at 1.12 and this was followed by Phytoben 565 WRF
and DP 1048 B2RF at 1.11.
Turn-out, Yield and Lint Quality Parameters of Fourteen Transgenic Cotton Varieties.
Lint lbs/
Acre
%
Turn
Out
Mic
Length
Unif
Strength
Color
&
Grade
Loan
Value
DP 1028 B2RF
1262
39.40
4.7
1.09
82.0
30.1
41-3
$.5360
DP 0935 B2RF
1225
37.10
4.4
1.06
81.4
26.7
32-1
$.5180
DP 1048 B2RF
1210
37.50
4.5
1.11
81.3
28.6
31-4
$.5460
PHY 375 WRF
1194
36.90
4.3
1.07
80.0
26.9
41-3
$.5245
ST 5327 B2RF
1187
38.30
4.4
1.08
82.2
30.4
42-1
$.5130
DP 1032 B2RF
1152
36.30
4.3
1.09
81.1
27.7
41-3
$.5335
CG 3220 B2RF
1110
36.40
4.3
1.08
80.6
28.0
41-3
$.5335
AllTex 65207 B2RF
1098
33.80
4.5
1.06
81.7
27.8
42-1
$.5030
DG 2570 B2RF
1088
36.50
4.6
1.09
83.0
29.6
32-2
$.5285
ST 4288 B2F
1054
30.40
4.3
1.09
80.8
27.0
41-3
$.5335
FM 9170 B2F
1027
36.00
4.0
1.12
81.7
31.4
31-2
$.5670
DP 164 B2RF
1000
33.00
4.3
1.10
81.7
27.1
41-1
$.5335
ST 4498 B2RF
956
31.60
4.4
1.05
81.8
30.4
42-1
$.5055
PHY 565 WRF
919
30.20
4.5
1.11
82.1
31.4
41-3
$.5415
Variety
This trial was a strip test and not a replicated study.
The two varieties with the highest yields were DP 1028 B2RF and DP 0935 B2RF with yields of
1262 lint lbs/A and 1225 lint lbs/A, respectively. The varieties with the highest gross return
were DP 1028 B2RF, DP 1048 B2RF, DP 0935 B2RF and Phytogen 375 WRF with $676.43,
$660.66, $634.55 and $626.25, respectively.
Soil moisture conditions for this study were ideal during most of the growing season. Dry soil
conditions may result in different varieties with a medium early-to medium late maturity having
higher yields. This plot was a strip test and not a replicated study.
100
Conclusion
DP 1028 B2R2 had the highest yield and the highest gross return per acre in this study. Soil
moisture conditions were at favorable levels throughout the growing season and these conditions
may have favored DP 1028 B2R2. This test was a strip trial. Additional testing will need to be
conducted to evaluate these varieties.
Acknowledgments
Appreciation is extended to Richard and Kenneth Machac for providing the location and
donating their time to conduct this demonstration. Special thanks to Will Elkins with Bayer
Crop Sciences, Richard and Steve Matus and Richard Percival with CenTex, Chris Hargrove
with Croplan Genetics, Doug Pustejovsky and Greg Steele with Monsanto and Scott Fuchs and
Brant Mettler with Phytogen for providing seed for this test. Acknowledgment to Dr. Gaylon
Morgan and Mr. Dale Mott for providing the weigh buggy to harvest this trial. Special thanks to
Doug Pustejovsky for assisting in harvesting and securing a lab to conduct lint quality analyses.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
101
Demonstration: Evaluation of Fourteen Transgenic Varieties for Yield, Loan Value and Lint
Quality Characteristics
Farmers’ Name and Location: Kenneth and Richard Machac, Irene
Date Planted: 5/5/10
Insecticide Seed Treatment: Orthene
Fertilizer: NH3 110 lbs
Plot Size: .52 A
11-37-0 9 gals
# Rows/Spacing: 8 rows-36 inches
Herbicide: Weathermax 23 oz
Seeding Rate/A: 65,000
Last Crop: Corn
Harvest: Machine
Date Harvested: 10/4/10
Variety
Lint
lbs/
Acre
%
Turn Out
Avg. Loan
Value
Gross
Return/
A
DP 1028 B2RF
1262
39.40
$.5360
$676.43
DP 1048 B2RF
1210
37.50
$.5460
$660.66
DP 0935 B2RF
1225
37.10
$.5180
$634.55
PHY 375 WRF
1194
36.90
$.5245
$626.25
DP 1032 B2RF
1152
36.30
$.5335
$614.59
ST 5327 B2RF
1187
38.30
$.5130
$608.93
CG 3220 B2RF
1110
36.40
$.5335
$592.19
FM 9170 B2F
1027
36.00
$.5670
$582.31
DG 2570 B2RF
1088
36.50
$.5285
$575.01
ST 4288 B2F
1054
30.40
$.5335
$562.31
AllTex 65207 B2RF
1098
33.80
$.5030
$552.29
DP 164 B2RF
1000
33.00
$.5335
$533.50
PHY 565 WRF
919
30.20
$.5415
$497.64
ST 4498 B2RF
956
31.60
$.5055
$483.26
102
EVALUATION OF COMMERCIAL AND EXPERIMENTAL
COTTON VARIETIES FOR YIELD AND QUALITY
Richard Machac, Cooperator
Kenneth Machac, Cooperator
Marty Jungman, Gideon Jennings and Shane McLellan
Extension Agent-IPM and County Extension Agents-AG/NR, respectively
Hill and McLennan Counties
Summary
Commercial and experimental varieties were evaluated in a single-row test for yield and lint
quality. The standard in this test was All-Tex Apex B2RF and was compared to commercial and
experimental B2RF, WRF and RF varieties. This highest yielding varieties were Phytogen 499
WRF, Monsanto 09R348 B2RF and Phytogen 569 WRF with yields of 1469, 1351 and 1339 lint
lbs/A, respectively. All-Tex Apex B2RF, the standard, had the loan value in this test at $.5350.
This was followed closely by All-Tex 81220 B2RF.
Objective
The purpose of this variety demonstration was to evaluate commercial and experimental cotton
varieties for yield and lint quality. Hill and northern McLennan Counties have produced cotton
as a cash crop since the land was settled. In recent years, cotton acreage in Hill and northern
McLennan Counties has dropped to approximately 9,000 acres. Cotton remains a viable crop in
North Central Texas because of its ability to return a significant net profit.
Materials and Methods
A single-row cotton variety test was planted on May 5. The plot was planted with a Kinze
planter. The one-row plot was approximately 200 feet in length. The planter delivery rate was
65,000 seeds per acre. The plot was planted in 36-inch rows. All varieties received insecticide
treatments as needed. Insecticide applications and all other production practices were equal for
all varieties in this test. No larvicide was applied to this study. The standard in this test was AllTex Apex B2RF.
Yields were determined by hand harvesting 1/100 of an acre for each variety at two randomly
selected acres. The trial was hand harvested on August 25 and September 16.
A sample was harvested from each strain and sent to Delta and Pine Land Company ginning and
classing lab for determination of fiber length, grade, staple, strength, uniformity and micronaire.
103
Results and Discussion
The highest yielding variety was Phytogen 499 WRF at 1469 lint lbs/A. This was followed by
Monsanto 09R348 B2R2 with a yield of 1351 lint lbs/A. Phytogen 569 WRF had the next
highest yield of 1339 lint lbs/A. All-Tex Apex, the standard, has a yield of 1,004 lint lbs/A. AllTex Apex B2RF had the highest loan value of $.5350. The next highest loan value was All-Tex
81220 B2RF with an average of $.5345.
Higher yielding cotton varieties do not always produce the highest net profits. Cotton lint quality
has a direct influence on income. Insect control can be expensive and have a direct effect on net
profits. Late-maturing varieties may require more insecticide treatments due to late-season
insect infestations. Cotton producers must consider more than yield when choosing cotton
varieties to be planted on their farms.
Conclusion
Cotton lint quality is becoming increasingly more important in cotton production. Producers
must become more familiar with lint quality and begin choosing varieties for their yielding
ability and lint quality.
This study was not a replicated study. Additional data will need to be collected.
Acknowledgments
Appreciation is extended to Richard and Kenneth Machac for their cooperation in conducting
this test. Special appreciation is extended to Mr. Doug Pustejovsky with D&PL for providing a
lab for quality analysis. Also, thanks is extended to the seed companies. Special appreciation to
the IPM Cotton and Grain Sorghum Program scouts for assisting in harvesting this plot.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
104
Demonstration: Lint Yield for Commercial and Experimental Varieties
Lint Yield
lbs/A
%
Earliness
First
Harvest
lbs/A
Total
Harvest
lbs/A
PHY 499 WRF
674
1469
46
Monsanto 09R348 B2R2
684
1351
51
PHY 569 WRF
638
1339
48
All-Tex 01437-91 B2RF
612
1292
47
Monsanto 09R555 B2R2
588
1227
48
PHY 519 WRF
651
1226
53
Monsanto 10R052 B2R2
644
1222
53
All-Tex 81220 B2RF
523
1108
47
All-Tex 81158 RF
482
1103
44
Monsanto 09R619 B2R2
491
1061
46
All-Tex 81159 RF
510
1016
48
All-Tex Apex B2RF
5601
1004
50
Epic RF
414
830
50
All-Tex 91224-91 B2RF
457
822
56
--
--
--
Varieties
All-Tex 65207 R2F *
All-Tex 8144 B2RF *
--* Samples lost in gin.
Planted on May 5 and harvested on August 25 and September 16.
Single-row plot: hand harvested 1/1000/A; 2 replications per variety.
105
--
Demonstration: Fiber Quality Traits and Loan Values for Commercial and Experimental
Varieties
Varieties
Fiber Traits (HVI)+
Loan
Value
Length
U.H.M
(inches)
Uniformity
Strength
(g/tex)
Micronaire
Color
Grade
PHY 499 WRF
$.5195
1.12
83.4
31.4
4.4
51-4
Monsanto 09R348 B2R2
$.5285
1.09
82.4
27.7
4.3
41-4
PHY 569 WRF
$.5180
1.10
83.5
31.5
4.6
42-1
All-Tex 01437-91 B2RF
$.5240
1.10
81.4
26.6
4.4
32-2
Monsanto 09R555 B2R2
$.5150
1.13
83.3
30.2
5.1
41-4
PHY 519 WRF
$.4895
1.12
81.8
31.0
4.5
52-1
Monsanto 10R052 B2R2
$.4915
1.12
83.2
30.5
4.8
52-1
All-Tex 81220 B2RF
$.5345
1.13
82.7
28.7
4.6
41-4
All-Tex 81158 RF
$.5070
1.14
82.7
29.7
4.4
51-1
Monsanto 09R619 B2R2
$.5105
1.08
82.1
27.9
4.8
42-1
All-Tex 81159 RF
$.5330
1.11
82.4
30.7
4.5
41-4
All-Tex Apex B2RF
$.5350
1.10
81.7
27.1
4.1
41-3
Epic RF
$.5025
1.11
84.0
31.4
5.0
42-2
All-Tex 91224-91 B2RF
$.5010
1.08
81.8
28.3
4.5
51-3
All-Tex 65207 B2F *
--
--
--
--
--
--
All-Tex 8144 B2RF *
--
--
--
--
--
--
Average
$.5221
1.11
82.6
29.5
4.6
Highest
$.5350
1.12
84.0
31.5
5.1
Data Summary
Lowest
$.4895
1.08
81.4
26.6
4.3
+ Fiber quality analyses performed by Delta and Pine Land * Sample was lost in gin
Staple value to length measurements:
0.96 - 0.98 = 31 staple
1.08 - 1.10 = 35 staple
1.05 - 1.07 = 34 staple
0.99 - 1.01 = 32 staple
1.11 - 1.13 = 36 staple
1.14 - 1.17 = 37 staple
1.02 - 1.04 = 33 staple
106
EVALUATION OF BAYER CROPSCIENCES
CAP B2F TRIAL IN COTTON
Ronnie Gerik, Cooperators
Ronnie Joe Gerik, Cooperators
Marty Jungman, Gideon Jennings and Shane McLellan
Extension Agent-IPM and County Extension Agents-AG/NR, respectively
Hill and McLennan Counties
Summary
Bayer CropSciences CAP trial was established to evaluate B2F cotton varieties. The B2F cotton
variety test was established at the Ronnie Gerik Farm in Aquilla. Stoneville 5327 B2F was the
highest yielding variety and also had the highest gross return per acre.
Objective
Cotton producers are confronted with decisions on evaluating varieties for lint quality, yield and
gross return per acre.
Materials and Methods
Bayer CropSciences CAP trial was established to evaluate lint quality and yield.
Thirteen varieties: six Stoneville, three FiberMax and four experimental, were planted on April
12. The seeding rate for each variety was 62,000 seeds/A. Plot size for each variety was six 30inch rows x 360 feet in length or .124 acre. Fertilizer for this test was 110 lbs of NH3 applied in
the fall and 6 gallons of 10-37-0 at planting. Fertilizer, herbicide, foliar insecticide and all other
cultural practices were the same for each variety. The test was machine harvested and weighed
with a weigh buggy on September 15. One ten-pound sample per variety was sent for fiber
quality analysis.
Results and Discussion
ST 5327 B2F had the highest yield at1257 lint lbs/A compared to the next highest variety, ST
4498 B2F, at 1176 lint lbs/A. ST 5288 B2F was third highest at 1157 lint lbs/A. FiberMax 840
B2F and ST 5327 B2F had the highest loan values in this test having loan values of $.5410 and
$.5405, respectively. BCSX 1040 B2F and FM 840 B2F had a staple length of 1.20 and 1.18,
respectively or a 38 inch staple. FM 9170 B2F and ST 4288 B2F had staple lengths of 1.16 or a
37 inch staple. This is an indication of the type of fiber quality that the North Central Blacklands
is capable of producing.
All of the varieties in this test were given a color grade and leaf value of 41-4.
ST 5327 B2F had the highest gross return of $679.41 compared to the next highest varieties; ST
4498 B2F at $635.04, ST 5288 B2F at $619.00 and BCSX 1030 B2F at $603.90.
107
Conclusion
ST 5327 B2F had the highest yield and the highest gross return in this test. This test was not a
replicated study. Additional data will need to be collected.
Acknowledgments
Thanks to Ronnie Joe Gerik and Ronnie Gerik for planting this test. Special thanks to Bayer
CropSciences and representative, Will Elkins, for providing the varieties to be planted in this test
and also their support throughout the season. Appreciation is extended to IPM scouts for their
assistance in this study.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
108
Demonstration: Evaluation of Bayer CropSciences CAP Trial - B2F
Farmers Name and location: Ronnie and Ronnie Joe Gerik, Aquilla
Date Planted: 4/12/10
Fertilizer: NH3 110 lb
10-37-0 6 gals
Herbicide: Prowl H20 1 qt./A
Previous Crop: Corn
Plot Size: 1/1000 acre
Row Spacing: 30 in
Seeding Rate: 62,000
Date Harvested: 9/15/10
Seed Treatment: Aeris Trilex
Lint
lbs/
Acre
%
Turn
Out
Mic
Length
Unif
Strength
ST 5327 B2F
1257
37
4.1
1.13
82.8
32.4
ST 4498 B2F
1176
37
4.5
1.11
84.3
32.0
ST 5288 B2F
1157
38
4.8
1.12
80.5
30.2
BCSX 1030
B2F
1147
39
4.1
1.12
79.4
27.9
BCSX 1010
B2F
1106
36
3.5
1.15
81.1
32.2
FM 1740 B2F
1088
36
3.7
1.13
82.9
32.2
BCSX 1160
B2F
1077
36
4.4
1.07
80.6
27.9
BCSX 1040
B2F
1072
33
4.3
1.20
83.1
32.0
ST 4288 B2F
1039
33
4.0
1.16
81.4
31.0
ST 5458 B2F
1019
36
4.1
1.11
79.7
31.9
FM 9160 B2F
957
35
3.9
1.09
79.9
29.3
FM 840 B2F
935
33
3.9
1.18
82.6
31.5
FM 9170 B2F
916
35
3.6
1.16
82.2
33.4
Variety
109
Demonstration: Evaluation of Bayer CAP Trial- Percent Turnout, Yield, Loan Value and Gross
Return
Farmers Name and Location: Ronnie and Ronnie Joe Gerik, Aquilla
Date Planted: 4/12/10
Plot Size: 1/1000 acre
Fertilizer: NH3 110 lbs
Row Spacing: 30 in
10-37-0 6 gals
Seeding Rate: 62,000
Herbicide: Prowl H20 1 qt./A
Date Harvested: 9/15/10
Previous Crop: Corn
Seed Treatment: Aeris Trilex
Variety
%
Turnout
Lint
Lbs/A
Loan
Value
Gross
Return
ST 5327 B2F
37
1257
$.5405
$679.41
ST 4498 B2F
37
1176
$.5400
$635.04
ST 5288 B2F
38
1157
$.5350
$619.00
BCSX 1030 B2F
39
1147
$.5265
$603.90
BCSX 1010 B2F
36
1106
$.5375
$594.48
FM 1740 B2F
36
1088
$.5405
$588.06
BCSX 1160 B2F
36
1077
$.5200
$560.04
BCSX 1040 B2F
33
1072
$.5395
$578.34
ST 4288 B2F
33
1039
$.5390
$560.02
ST 5458 B2F
36
1019
$.5385
$548.73
FM 9160 B2F
35
957
$.5300
$507.21
FM 840 B2F
33
935
$.5410
$505.84
FM 9170 B2F
35
916
$.5375
$492.35
Color grade 41 was given to each variety for loan value.
Leaf value 4 was assigned to each variety for loan value.
110
CONVENTIONAL COTTON TRIAL
Larry Degner, Cooperator
Jason Degner, Cooperator
Marty Jungman, Gideon Jennings and Shane McLellan
Extension Agent-IPM and County Extension Agents-AG/NR, respectively
Hill and McLennan Counties
Summary
A conventional cotton trial was established at the Larry and Jason Degner Farm in Bynum. Six
conventional varieties and a standard B2F variety was planted and evaluated for yield and lint
quality. HQ210 had the highest yield and gross return per acre of the seven varieties including
the standard DP 0935 B2F.
Objective
The main emphasis of this test was to compare yield responses of conventional varieties and
include a standard B2F variety for comparison. Lint quality and gross return per acre were also
included in these comparisons.
Materials and Methods
A conventional cotton study was established on May 1. The six conventional varieties included:
two Seed Tech varieties-HQ 210 and HQ 212, three All-Tex varieties-TopPick, LA 122 and LA
102, one Texas A&M University release, TAM-05-WK-11L and a standard B2F variety,
Monsanto-DP 0935 B2F were planted in a replicated, singe-row plot. The design was a RCBD.
Plot size was one row x 300 feet in length.
Herbicide, fertilizer, insecticide treatments and all other cultural practices were the same for each
variety. Bollworm pressure was at moderate levels in the conventional varieties and an
application of a larvacide, Belt 3 oz/A was applied. The larvacide for ease of application was
also applied to the B2F variety.
Cotoran at 1 lb/A and Sequence at 2 3/4pts/A were applied at planting. Envoke at .15 oz/A was
applied post-emerge on June 25. All the varieties were affected by limited weed control and this
appeared to have an impact on lowering yields.
A stratified, hand harvest was conducted on August 25 and September 28. The stratified harvest
limited certain varieties for having a yield disadvantage due to earlier maturity and being
impacted by rainfall. The area harvested was 1/1000 of an acre for each variety and replicated
three times. The varieties were hand harvested, weighed and ginned. Samples were sent to
Texas A&M University for ginning and to the Fiber and Biopoloymer Research Institute in
Lubbock for lint quality measurements and percent turnout. A color grade and leaf value of 41-4
was assigned to each variety.
111
Results and Discussion
Seed Tech had the two highest yielding varieties with HQ 210 at 421 lbs/A and HQ 212 at 395
lint lbs/A. The standard B2F variety, DP 0935 B2F, had a yield of 263 lint lbs/A and was
significantly different.
All-Tex LA 102 had the highest loan value of the seven varieties in this test at $.5409. This was
followed by the B2F standard, DP 0935 B2F at $.5394.
HQ 210 and HQ 212 had the highest gross return per acre of $225.45/A and $208.80/A,
respectively. DP 0935 B2F had the lowest gross return per acre of $141.86.
Conclusion
Seed Tech HQ 210 had the highest yield and gross return per acre. Yields in this study were
lower than expected and appeared to be partially due to limited weed control. Additional studies
will need to be conducted to evaluate conventional varieties.
Acknowledgment
Appreciation is extended to Larry Degner and Jason Degner for establishing this test. A special
thanks to the seed companies for furnishing seed for this study. Special recognition is extended
to Dr. Gaylon Morgan, Mr. Dale Mott and their technicians for their guidance and hard work in
conducting this study.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
112
Demonstration: Stratified Conventional Cotton Plot Percent Lint Turnout, Lint Quality
Measurements and Loan Values
Farmers’ Name and Location: Larry Degner, Irene
Date Planted: 5/1/10
Plot Size: 1 row x 300 ft
Fertilizer: NH3 80 lbs
Row Spacing: 36 in
10-34-0 6 gals
Seeding Rate: 53,000
Herbicide: Sequence 2 3/4 pts (at planting)
Hand Harvested: 8/25 and 9/28
Cotoran 1 lb (at planting)
Seed Treatment: Cruiser or Gaucho Grande
Envoke .15 oz/A on 6/25
Last Crop: Grain sorghum
Variety
Lint
lbs/Acre
% Turn
out
Mic
Staple
Unif
HQ 210
HQ 212
421 a
395 ab
46.63 a
46.73 a
4.63 ab
7.78 a
1.11b
1.09 bc
81.95 c
81.73 c
AllTex TopPick
335 bc
40.64 a
4.58 bc
1.14a
83.23 bc
TAM-05-WK11L
AllTex LA 122
AllTex LA 102
DP 0935B2F
LSD (P=.05)
307 c
50.40 a
4.65 ab
1.06 c
82.03 bc
30.83 ab $.5355 ab $225.50 a
29.85 abc $.5286 b
$209.00
ab
29.53 bc $.5365 ab $179.80
bc
28.25 c
$.5188 c $159.00 c
281 c
273 c
263 c
80.65
50.13 a
49.75 a
48.35 a
12.344
4.55 bc
4.40 a
4.65 ab
0.183
1.11 b
1.16 a
1.15a
0.0308
84.25 a
84.08a
84.10 a
1.236
30.03 abc $.5344 ab $150.00 c
31.83 a
$.5409 a $148.00 c
31.00 ab $.5394 a $142.30 c
2.001
0.8636
43.46
54.28
9.290
0.123
0.0208
0.832
1.347
0.5813
29.25
16.71
19.55
2.68
1.86
1.0
4.46
1.09
16.87
Standard
Deviation
Strength
Loan
Value
CV
Color grade 41 was given to each variety for loan value. Leaf value 4 was assigned to each
variety for loan value.
113
Lint
Value
FORAGE
FORAGE SORGHUM YIELD TRIAL
Persia Parker, Cooperator
Gideon Jennings, Hill County Extension Agent-AG/NR
Hill County
Summary
Hill County generally harvests more than 30,000 acres of hay each year with a fair portion of
those acres being planted to forage sorghums. This demonstration was designed to locate
varieties that will perform in Hill County. Yields from this trial range from 2708 to 2849 pounds
(lbs) per acre (A).
Objective
This demonstration was designed to locate varieties that will produce high yields and evaluate a
lower seeding rate as it relates to the varieties genetic traits. Several of the varieties entered into
this test include brown mid rib (BMR), photoperiod sensitive, and dwarf/short stature traits while
others are standard hybrid forage sorghums.
Materials and Methods
The strip-trial was planted using the producer’s grain drill on April 29, 2010, at the seeding rate
of 35 pounds of seeds per acre. The plot size was 40 feet wide and 850 feet in length, with a row
spacing of 7 inches or .781 acres per plot. Yields were determined by weighing the bales on a
set of truck scales at the local Co-Op storage facility. To ensure a fair comparison was made, all
farming practices affecting the trial were kept the same.
Results and Discussion
Unfortunately, due to adverse weather conditions, the producer was less than half way through
harvesting the trial when it began raining. The rain prevented a fair evaluation to be made
among all entries, with some varieties left on top of the ground for several days before harvest
could resume. It was decided that only data would be used on the four varieties that were baled
prior to the rain. The chart that accompanies this information will however include a complete
list of the varieties planted in the trial and information about those varieties.
The four varieties that information was gathered on include B-H Genetics’ 201 SB, Pogue Agri
Partners’ Later Grazer, Warner Seed’s 9R-PS, and Forage First’s Greentreat Dynamo. The yield
information here is very close with a little over 100 pounds separating the varieties from top to
117
bottom. The top yielder was B-H 201 SB followed closely by Greentreat Dynamo at 2849 and
2830 pounds per acre.
Please note that this is a simple strip trial providing a snapshot of one year. Several years should
be reviewed prior to making decisions to plant a particular variety to due differences in weather
and growing conditions.
Conclusions
Salesmen have said for years that a producer would be better off planting a BMR at a lower
seeding rate than a three-way cross at a much higher rate. Pricewise, they run about the same
cost per acre and quality wise the BMR is on a much higher level. Recently several producers
confirmed this to be true in terms of price and they were also pleased with the quality.
Unfortunately, in this trial samples were not taken from each variety for quality analysis to be
performed. However, research shows that BMR’s consistently provide a much higher quality
product than a traditional forage sorghum. This trial does not accurately measure a low seeding
rate or the quality associated with each variety but it does provide a moderate seeding rate and
the quantity that each variety can offer.
General recommendations are to look at a product over several years to better understand how it
will respond to our climate in terms of yield. From this trial, a few recommendations would be
to consider planting a BMR with a drill at a lower seeding rate (as recommended per variety) or
consider planting varieties with the dwarf gene. The dwarf gene allows the plant to grow more
leaves due to shorter internodes which increases yield. Finally, if you want a crop that is flexible
to harvest and has a high quality consider planting photoperiod sensitive (PS) forage sorghums.
The beauty of this product is that it will continue to grow in the vegetative state until daylight
hours fall below 12 hours and 20 minutes per day at which time it begins to form a seed head.
This allows the producer to harvest whenever conditions are right without the fear of the plant
forming a seed head and losing quality.
Acknowledgements:
Appreciation is extended to Persia Parker for his cooperation, equipment, and time needed to
conduct this result demonstration. A special thanks is also extended to all the seed companies
for furnishing the planting seed.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report are included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to commercial products
or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas A & M University is implied.
Readers should realize that results from one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where
conditions vary.
118
Demonstration: Forage Sorghum Yield Trial
Farmer’s Name and Location: Persia Parker, Brandon, TX
Soil Type: Houston Black
Row Spacing: 7”
Date Planted: 4/29/10
Plot Size: 0.781 acres
Fertilizer Used: 237# of 18-46-0
Date Harvested: 6/30/10
Herbicide Used: Roundup (pre)
Previous Crop: fallow
Seeding Rate/A: 35# per acre
Variety
Company
Traits
Total Pounds
per Acre
B-H 201 SB
B-H Genetics
BMR1, PS2
2849
3
Greentreat Dynamo Forage First
BMR, D
2830
Later Grazer
Pogue Agri Partners
2720
Succrose 9R-PS
Warner Seed Co.
2708
Succrose 6R-BMR
Warner Seed Co.
BMR
No data
Trudan Headless
Integra
PS
No data
SI-Gro H44
Golden Harvest
No data
Gro-N-Graze Dream Warner Seed Co.
No data
Gro-N-Graze
Warner Seed Co.
No data
B-H 211 SBD
B-H Genetics
BMR, D
No data
1
Brown Mid Rib – produce lower fiber and lignin in the plant resulting in a high quality product.
2
Photoperiod Sensitive – requires 12 hours and 20 minutes of daylight per day and will not
produce a seed head until day length drops below 12 hours and 20 minutes. Extended harvest
season and flexibility related to harvest are the benefits of this product.
3
Brachytic dwarf – shorter internodes creating more leaf per plant.
119
BRUSH
CONTROL
Progress Report
Evaluation of Aminocyclopyrachlor for Mesquite Foliar Individual Plant Treatment
Site Locations: Hill and Ellis Counties
Cooperators: Justin Lewis and Farmer Cattle Co.
Authors: Charles Hart, Extension Range Specialist, Stephenville
Will Hatler, Extension Program Specialist, Stephenville
Gideon Jennings, County Extension Agent, Hill County
Mark Arnold, County Extension Agent, Ellis County
Summary
Two sites were established in 2010 to evaluate the efficacy of DuPont herbicide MAT28
(aminocyclopyrachlor) when applied to mesquite foliage. Initial defoliation evaluations were
made at 60 days after treatment. Evaluations will continue to be made for two years after
treatment, at which time plant mortality results will be final.
Objective
Mesquite is the most common noxious plant invading Texas Rangelands. Mesquite densities can
reach such proportions as to severely limit desirable forage growth by competing for nutrients,
water and sunlight. In addition, large quantities of mesquite bean consumption over a period of
time (several months) can be toxic to grazing animals. Small quantities of bean consumption can
however be considered as a valuable forage.
DuPont Crop Protection’s experimental aminocyclopyrachlor herbicide, currently named
MAT28, has been in the testing phase for several years and has the potential to be a very
effective product for controlling invasive brush and weed species in non-cropland settings. The
objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of MAT28 when applied as an individual
plant leaf spray to mesquite.
Materials and Methods
Mesquite individual plant treatments (IPT) were applied on June 23, 2010 on the Justin Lewis
property in Hill County and on July 26, 2010 on the Farmer Cattle Co. property in Ellis County.
Treatments were applied using backpack sprayers equipped with ConeJet X8 nozzles. The
foliage of all mesquite located inside the plots was sprayed to wet, almost to the point of
dripping.
123
Plot sizes were variable, depending on the size and density of plants. Plant condition was also
variable, with significant insect damage and new leaf growth occurring at the Ellis County site.
All plants at the Hill County site exhibited dark green color with no visible new growth.
Environmental conditions on the day of application for each site are detailed in Table 1 and
specific treatment information is detailed in Table 2.
Table 1. Environmental conditions on the day of application for MAT28 IPT mesquite control
plots established in Hill and Ellis Counties in 2010.
Spray
Wind
Soil
Air
Soil
Site
Time
Speed/Direction
Temp.
Temp.
Type/Moisture
RH
Hill
10:002-5 mph/SE
92⁰ F
99⁰ F
Silty Loam/Low
44%
Co.
11:00
Ellis
11:001-3 mph/ESE
82⁰ F
90⁰ F
Clay/Low
74%
Co.
12:00
Table 2. Herbicides, rates of application for herbicides applied to IPT mesquite control plots
established in Hill and Ellis Counties in 2010. Non-ionic surfactant was added to all treatments
at 0.5% volume/volume.
Treatment No.
Herbicide
Rate
1
MAT28 (50% SG)
4.7 g/gal
Escort
1.2 g/gal
2
MAT28 (50% SG)
8.5 g/gal
Escort
2.3 g/gal
3
MAT28 (50% SG)
15.3 g/gal
Escort
4.1 g/gal
4
MAT28 (50% SG)
3.3 g/gal
Imazapyr
3.0 g/gal
Escort
0.9 g/gal
5
MAT28 (50% SG)
6.5 g/gal
Imazapyr
6.0 g/gal
Escort
1.8 g/gal
6
MAT28 (50% SG)
13.1 g/gal
Imazapyr
12.0 g/gal
Escort
3.5 g/gal
7
Remedy Ultra
0.5% v/v
Reclaim
0.5% v/v
Results and Discussion
Initial defoliation estimates were made after 60 days at both sites. Defoliation was 100% for all
treatments applied at the Hill Co. site. Estimated at 70%, treatment number 4, the lowest rate of
MAT28 + Imazapyr + Escort, had the lowest initial defoliation at the Ellis Co. site (Table 3,
Figure 1).
124
Initial mortality evaluations will be made at 1 year and final results will be determined at 2 years
after treatment.
Table 3. Herbicides, rates of application and initial defoliation results for herbicides applied to
IPT mesquite control plots established Hill and Ellis Counties in 2010. Non-ionic surfactant was
added to all treatments at 0.5% volume/volume.
Treatment No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Herbicide
MAT28 (50% SG)
Escort
MAT28 (50% SG)
Escort
MAT28 (50% SG)
Escort
MAT28 (50% SG)
Imazapyr
Escort
MAT28 (50% SG)
Imazapyr
Escort
MAT28 (50% SG)
Imazapyr
Escort
Remedy Ultra
Reclaim
Rate
4.7 g/gal
1.2 g/gal
8.5 g/gal
2.3 g/gal
15.3 g/gal
4.1 g/gal
3.3 g/gal
3.0 g/gal
0.9 g/gal
6.5 g/gal
6.0 g/gal
1.8 g/gal
13.1 g/gal
12.0 g/gal
3.5 g/gal
0.5% v/v
0.5% v/v
125
Hill Co.
100
60 DAT
% Defoliation
Ellis Co.
90
AVG
95
100
95
98
100
100
100
100
70
85
100
85
93
100
100
100
100
100
100
Figure 1. Herbicides, rates of application and initial defoliation results for herbicides applied to
IPT mesquite control plots established in Hill and Ellis Counties in 2010. Non-ionic surfactant
was added to all treatments at 0.5% v/v.
Acknowledgements
This project was supported by DuPont Crop Protection, Hill and Ellis Counties and cooperating
landowners.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report is included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to
commercial products or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by
Texas AgriLife Extension Service and the Texas A&M University System is implied. Readers should realize that results from
one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where conditions vary.
126
HORTICULTURE
EVALUATION OF LOCALLY PURCHASED TOMATOES
FOR YIELD POTENTIAL
Martin Whitworth, Cooperator
Gideon Jennings, Hill County Extension Agent-AG/NR, Cooperator
Hill County
Summary
These two result demonstrations were designed to evaluate tomato varieties for their use in Hill
County based on yield and the advantages or disadvantages of each variety. To ensure a fair
comparison was made, all cultural practices affecting the trials were kept the same throughout
the study. Results of this year’s trial range from 5 – 42 pounds (lbs) across both trials.
Objective
The trials were conducted to provide local gardeners with information that will assist them in
selecting a tomato variety for their garden. The tomato trial allowed the Texas AgriLife
Extension Service to compile some actual yield data of locally purchased tomato varieties
through cooperation with local gardener Martin Whitworth combined with a similar study
conducted at the home of the County Extension Agent, Gideon Jennings.
Materials and Methods
The plot design for both trials was randomized complete block with each site consisting of
uniform Eddy Clay soil types although one location is east of Hillsboro near the fault line and the
other site is south of Abbott but also near the fault line. Eddy Clay is a shallow, black clay soil
(6-8 inches in depth) over a very gravely white rock. It is a “hot” soil, meaning it can easily
become too dry to grow a garden due to the lack of soil depth. After each site had been properly
prepared, soil tests were conducted to determine nutrient needs. Fertilizer was applied in early
April a few days after planting.
Martin’s garden was planted with nine varieties while Gideon’s garden consisted of only five
varieties. Both growers purchased tomato plants from local nurseries and planted in early April
2010. Varieties were planted randomly throughout the garden to ensure that one particular
variety did not receive benefits over another due to location. Randomization takes the variables
out of test plots and increases the accuracy of the data.
129
Tomatoes were harvested and weighed as they ripened until the cutoff date of August 16th as
determined by Martin and Gideon. Digital scales were used to measure weights. Fertilizer,
herbicide, insecticide, and other farming practices such as irrigation and weed control were the
same for each variety within each trial.
Results and Discussion
Whitworth Trial at Hillsboro: Early Girl at 42 lbs was the variety that topped the trial with more
than three pounds difference over the second highest yielder Arkansas Traveler at 38.63 lbs.
Early Girl, no doubt received her name due to the extremely quick maturity with only 52 days
needed from transplanting until a ripe tomato can be harvested. Arkansas Traveler is an
heirloom tomato that brags a pink flesh color. Super Sonic at 35.5 lbs is also one that has a very
attractive, large fruit and will even bear when it is hot outside. There was a significant break
between third and fourth place in this trial down to 22 lbs with Cherokee Purple and the
remainder of the varieties continued to plummet down to only 5.5 lbs of tomatoes harvested.
Plants were harvested from June 28 to August 16th.
Jennings Trial at Abbott: Tomato 444 topped this trial at 21.8 lbs. Tomato 444 has natural plant
resistant to tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV). This is one of the only TSWV resistant varieties
that maintain production while giving the grower an edge on disease pressure. Second place was
Early Girl at 20.1 lbs which continues to be a great yielding variety and third place was Better
Boy at 19.26 lbs. There was a large gap between third and fourth place with 3.54 lbs separating
the two varieties. Fourth place was Homestead at 15.72 lbs. Fifth place also took a large drop in
yield with Celebrity at 13.92 total pounds of tomatoes harvested from June until August 16th.
Conclusion
This trial completes two years of tomato variety trials with Martin and one in Abbott providing
three trials to evaluate. Remember that this is a randomized, replicated block study providing
what researchers view as solid data. That said, the following information provides two years
with three separate studies on varieties that were repeated from year to year and should give an
excellent estimate of how varieties will perform if properly cared for:
Variety
Early Girl
Tomato 444
Homestead
Celebrity
2009 Hillsboro
Total lbs/5 plants
75.5
56.8
21.2
18.4
2010 Hillsboro
Total lbs/5 plants
42.0
11.9
14.7
18.6
130
2010 Abbott
Total lbs/5 plants
20.1
21.8
15.7
13.9
Average
45.9
30.2
17.2
17.0
Acknowledgments
Appreciation is extended to Martin Whitworth for donating his time, equipment and knowledge
to make this test possible. He spent many hours weighing tomatoes and evaluating variety
characteristics. I am very grateful to Martin for the many man hours he volunteered for this trial
to have been conducted and his cooperation with Texas AgriLife Extension Service.
Trade names of commercial products used in this report is included only for better understanding and clarity. Reference to
commercial products or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by
Texas AgriLife Extension Service and the Texas A&M University System is implied. Readers should realize that results from
one experiment do not represent conclusive evidence that the same response would occur where conditions vary.
131
Demonstration: Tomato Variety Trial
Farmer’s Name and Location: Martin Whitworth, Hillsboro, TX
Soil Type: Eddy Clay – very gravely clay soil
Spacing: 2 ft. x 2 ft.
Date Planted: 4/3/10
Plot Size: 300 sq. ft.
Fertilizer Used: 1 lb. Nitrogen
Last Crop: vegetables
Herbicide/Insecticide Used: Kelthane (Spider Mites)
Mulch: None
Variety
Yield1
Whitworth Notes:
Early Girl
42.0
Top producer for second yr
Arkansas
Travelers
38.6
No cracking problems
Super Sonic
35.5
No Cracking Problems
Cherokee Purple
(heirloom)
22.0
Celebrity
18.6
Homestead
14.7
444
11.9
Plants never reached a healthy looking stage. Seemed to have
problems from the start. seemed to suffer most damage from
spider mites
Super Fantastic
8.4
Started producing late trouble with a lot of blossom drop
Champion
5.5
Started producing late trouble with a lot of blossom drop
Total
197.12
1
Total pounds of tomatoes harvested from five tomato plants.
132
Demonstration: Tomato Variety Trial
Farmer’s Name and Location: Gideon Jennings, Abbott, TX
Soil Type: Eddy very gravely clay soil
Spacing: 2 ft. x 2 ft.
Date Planted: 4/7/10
Plot Size: 300 sq. ft.
Fertilizer Used: 1 lb. Nitrogen
Last Crop: Okra
Herbicide Used: None
Mulch: Wood chips
Variety
Pounds
Harvested1
Total # of
Tomatoes
444
21.80
57
Early Girl
20.10
94
Better Boy
19.26
63
Homestead
15.72
74
Celebrity
13.92
42
Total
90.8
330
1
Jennings Notes:
Large, heavy producer; good disease resistance.
One I would recommend for any garden
Medium to large with the perfect round shape. A
very tasty tomato
Medium to extremely large. In my garden they
suffered with blossom end rot but when not
infected they grew very large.
Medium size with many tomatoes
Large with some cracking around the stem
Total pounds of tomatoes harvested from five tomato plants.
133