Wheat Pete's Word, Aug 20: Frost-nipped beans, struggling corn, and a reminder to stay thankful

It’s time for another edition of Wheat Pete’s Word! This week, host Peter Johnson reminds us to take stock of how fortunate we are, even as challenging weather and commodity prices weigh heavy. From frost in soybeans in northern Ontario, to four-foot-tall corn, 2025 continues to throw curveballs at growers. Johnson also emphasizes the importance of staying connected — stress levels are high in farm country, and sometimes a simple phone call can make all the difference. Have a question you’d like Wheat Pete to address or some field results to send in? Agree/disagree with something he’s said? Leave him a message at 1-888-746-3311, send him a tweet (@wheatpete), or email him at [email protected]. Here’s what you’ll hear in this week’s Word: Even Wheat Pete has tough days (yes, really!) Why we’re still incredibly fortunate compared to many parts of the world Frost on soybeans in mid-August… yikes! Four-foot-tall corn? It's dry out there Rainfall showed up last week, but maybe a month too late Why that “one big rain” can lead to high nitrates and silo gas risks Please, please, be careful when chopping drought-stressed corn How long does an inch of rain really last? (Hint: not as long as you think) The frustration of watching 40-kernel-long cobs fill only 24 kernels The all-important lag phase in corn and why it sets your yield ceiling Soybeans wilting on knolls even after a good rain Big wheat yields outshining disappointing corn and bean crops Why stress levels on the farm are sky high right now A reminder to pick up the phone or drive in the lane — don’t wait for a call Risk Management Program payouts helping to soften low prices Input costs — land, rent, iron — and why “we’re our own worst enemy” Burn down options for edible beans and why sunshine makes all the difference Heat herbicide really does need heat! Triple superphosphate versus MAP — which gives better bang for your buck? Cover crop lessons: study out of Minnesota shows it’s not just seeding rate, it’s nitrogen that makes the difference Wind erosion control with oats — don’t walk away from cover crops too fast When to seed winter canola — and why too early is too risky Remember: abundant food, no hurricanes, no earthquakes — we are lucky indeed! Website: https://www.realagriculture.com/ #agronomy #farming #drought Find us on our other social media platforms: X/Twitter:   / realagriculture   Instagram:   / realagriculture   Facebook:   / realagmedia