Plant Tissue Testing
A Snapshot of Your Crop's Nutritional Status!
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Plant tissue analysis examines the nutrient levels within plant tissues (leaves, stems, or petioles) to reveal what the plant is actually absorbing and utilizing.
Pros and Cons of Tissue Testing
Pros:
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Diagnosis of hidden deficiencies: Can identify nutrient deficiencies that may not be apparent in soil tests.
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Fine-tuning of fertilizer applications: Helps optimize nutrient applications during the growing season for maximum yield and quality.
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Verification of soil test results: Confirms whether nutrients in the soil are actually being taken up by the plant.
Cons:
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Requires proper timing and sampling technique: Tissue sampling must be done at the correct growth stage and from specific plant parts to obtain accurate results.
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Environmental factors: Nutrient levels in plant tissues can be affected by environmental stressors like drought or disease, which need to be considered when interpreting results.
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Additional cost: Tissue analysis is typically more expensive than soil testing.
What is Crop Scouting?
​Crop scouting is the systematic process of monitoring fields to assess crop health, growth stage, and the presence of pests, diseases, or weeds. It's a proactive approach to identify and manage potential problems before they cause significant yield losses.
Why Scout Crops?
Common Scouting Methods:
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Visual Inspection: Walking through the field in a systematic pattern (often a "W" or "X" pattern), examining plants closely for signs of stress, damage, or abnormalities.
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Sampling: Collecting representative samples of plants, insects, or soil from different areas of the field for further analysis. This can include:
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Plant Tissue Analysis: Laboratory tests to determine nutrient levels and identify potential deficiencies.
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Insect Trapping: Using traps to monitor insect populations and identify pest species.
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Soil Sampling: Analyzing soil samples to assess nutrient content, pH, and organic matter.
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Thresholds and Economic Injury Levels: Comparing pest or disease populations to established thresholds to determine if intervention is economically justified.
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Remote Sensing: Using drones or satellite imagery to monitor large areas for signs of stress, water deficiency, or disease outbreaks.
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Technology: Utilizing mobile apps and GPS to record observations, track pest populations, and create detailed field maps.
Scouting for Specific Issues
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Pests: Look for signs of insect feeding, egg masses, or the presence of pests themselves. Use sweep nets or traps to collect samples.
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Diseases: Examine leaves, stems, and roots for lesions, discoloration, wilting, or other signs of disease.
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Nutrient Deficiencies: Identify visual symptoms of nutrient deficiencies (e.g., yellowing leaves, stunted growth) and confirm with tissue analysis.
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Weeds: Note weed species present and their density. Consider the growth stage of both the crop and the weeds.
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Crop Growth Stage: Assess the crop's progress to ensure it is developing as expected.
Scouting Frequency
Scouting frequency depends on the crop, its growth stage, weather conditions, and the prevalence of pests or diseases in the area. Generally, scouting is most frequent during critical growth stages when crops are more vulnerable.
Scouting Tips for Agronomists
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Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of scouting observations, including dates, locations, pest counts, and crop conditions.
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Utilize Resources: Consult with extension services, crop consultants, and reference materials for pest identification and management recommendations.
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Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date on the latest pest alerts, disease outbreaks, and recommended practices for your region.