Soybeans leafing out underground?

June 20th, 2025

Hello & Happy Friday!

Not news to anyone but the top 4 inches of soil drying out again — not surprising given the string of warm, breezy days and limited follow-up moisture. While there’s some rain in the forecast, it’s been changing almost by the hour, making it tough to know what to count on. We'll see what actually comes down compared to what’s being predicted. With crops starting to root deeper, a decent rain would be well-timed right now to support that push. Until then, most fields are holding steady.

As always, if you’re unsure about what you’re seeing out there — whether it’s growth patterns, patchy emergence, or nutrient concerns — feel free to reach out. We’re happy to walk the field with you and talk it through.

Have a great weekend,

Bru, Jenn and the team at Antara Agronomy

Crop Talk
Spraying has continued to go smoothly across the region, with field and weather conditions cooperating for the most part. A little windy at times, but nothing terrible. It's been encouraging to see good weed kill where fields have been sprayed.

That said, a quick reminder to watch for spray drift — especially on breezy days or when spraying near sensitive crops or shelterbelts. Drift can cause visible damage such as cupped, twisted, or discolored leaves, often showing up in distinct patterns along field edges. If you suspect drift, check whether damage aligns with wind direction and proximity to recently sprayed fields. Being mindful of boom height, wind speed, and droplet size during application can help reduce the risk.

Cereal Crops
Some early wheat is starting to head out, marking a key point in development. Timely fungicide decisions are just around the corner, especially if conditions turn favorable for disease. Keep an eye on staging and weather — the window can close quickly.

Canola Watch
Canola is beginning to bolt in many fields. The window is closing for any pre-bolt top dress applications of nitrogen. The crop overall is looking strong, and flea beetles are now in the rearview — no issues reported this week.

Bean Talk
No major issues reported at this stage — continue monitoring for emergence uniformity and early weed competition. Some IDC starting to show up.

Corn Progress
Corn is looking stagey throughout. It took its time come up and hasn't done much with the cooler weather we had. Now with the warmer weather we should see it start to take off.

Question of the Week:

Why is my Antara AgWeather station showing different wind speeds then a MB Ag Weather Station?

Watch here!

This week's Weed Wednesday topic is:

Knapweeds

Three types of knapweed (from the Centaurea family) are causing trouble in MB. These invasive weeds grow fast, have deep taproots, and bloom from June to September. They love disturbed soils and spread quickly where there's lots of seed in the ground.

Mowing or burning? Not effective.
Best control: Group 4 herbicides – especially Picloram and 2,4-D – for hitting the parts above ground.

They can cross-breed with other knapweeds, making control even tougher. And yes – all three types are listed as Tier 1 noxious weeds in Manitoba!

Spotted in Stuartburn and Stanley municipalities so far. Keep an eye out!

If you see it, report it – early action helps stop the spread!

Photo credit: Gov of Manitoba. Mb Weed supervisors association.

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