by Calvin Trostle, Extension Agronomy, Lubbock, (806) 723-8432, ctrostle@ag.tamu.edu The further west across Texas the more likely crops may encounter salty conditions, whether in irrigation water or in soil. In many cases water or soil conditions as determined by an appropriate test can ascertain the potential success of both traditional, alternative, or specialty crops. The numbers often suggest, when salinity in its different forms, is sufficient to conclude a producer should not plant a certain crop. My preferred reference document for crop salt tolerances is “Irrigation Water Quality… Read More →

by Suhas Vyavhare and Katelyn Kowles This season we experienced unusually high numbers of conchuela stink bugs in Texas High Plains cotton (parts of eastern Lubbock and Crosby counties in particular). Stink bug numbers peaked during August-September when plants were loaded with tender bolls that stink bugs feed on with their piercing-sucking mouthparts. Farmers who spotted stink bugs early and took timely action are now reaping the benefits. However, those who missed an insecticide application in infested fields are seeing severe stink bug damage now that bolls have… Read More →