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Balancing cost and yield will be tricky in ’16

University of Minnesota extension corn specialist Jeff Coulter says finding ways to reduce costs while not sacrificing yield will be tricky for producers in 2016.

“We’ve got to be careful because it does get to a point where you can cut it so tight that as you pull back on inputs or costs further, it could impact yields.”

He tells Brownfield there are a few areas to evaluate as farmers prepare for planting.

“Planting rates and fertilizer rates are options.”

He says avoiding unnecessary tillage is another option this spring.

Coulter’s advice echoes that of many others- with continued low commodity prices expected this year, sound agronomic practices like timely planting and effective weed control might also help set producers up for success.