Johnsongrass has long been one of the most challenging perennial weeds facing growers across the southern United States. In this episode of the Crop Doctors’ Podcast, Dr. Jim Griffin shares insights from decades of weed science research and discusses the evolution of johnsongrass management strategies. The conversation explores the history of Treflan (trifluralin) and its role in johnsongrass suppression, as well as Dr. Griffin’s experiences with johnsongrass control in sugarcane production. Dr. Griffin also highlights the importance of continued research to identify new management tools and to evaluate whether older practices can be adapted or repurposed to address current production challenges. Join us for a discussion on lessons from the past, innovations for the future, and the critical role of research in advancing sustainable weed management.

https://extension.msstate.edu/shows/mississippi-crop-situation 

In an unplanned episode, Don and Tyler dropped in the Crop Doctors' Podcast studio to talk about the upturn in cases of spider mite infestations in corn.  

In the second half of the episode, AndyWhittington from the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation continues to outline the requirements for herbicide use set forth in the Herbicide Strategy that was recently released by the Us Environmental Protection Agency. 

Andy Whittington from the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation visited the Crop Doctors’ Podcast studio in Stoneville to discuss what is being called the final Herbicide Strategy related to the Endangered Species Act and new registrations and re-registrations for herbicides.  The episode got lengthy so we will split this over two episodes.  In the first episode, Andy recaps the Endangered Species Act and then begins to unpack how the Herbicide Strategy can be effectively navigated by Mississippi farmers.

On this episode of the Crop Doctors’ Podcast, Jay Mahaffey joins the conversation to discuss how advancements in southern row crop production have improved both yield potential and return on investment for growers. From precision agriculture and improved genetics to data-driven management decisions and evolving crop protection strategies, the discussion highlights the innovations that have shaped modern production systems across the South. Check out Jay’s work at https://www.cropscience.bayer.us/articles/dad/slc-research-reports.

https://extension.msstate.edu/shows/mississippi-crop-situation 

In this episode of the Crop Doctors' Podcast, Jason, Tom, and Bobby Golden discuss tassel nitrogen fertilizer applications in corn and how growers can maximize the value of late-season nitrogen. They cover ideal timings for tassel applications and how much flexibility exists when weather or logistics delay treatments. They also explore nitrogen use efficiency considerations, including how environmental conditions influence nitrogen availability and uptake. Finally, the conversation highlights the role of NBPT urease inhibitors in reducing nitrogen losses and protecting fertilizer investments when surface-applied urea is used.

https://extension.msstate.edu/shows/mississippi-crop-situation 

On this episode of the Crop Doctors’ Podcast, Erick Larson discusses what Mississippi corn producers should be watching as the crop progresses through tasseling and into grain fill. The conversation covers current field observations across the state, key environmental factors influencing yield potential, and management considerations for fertilizer.

https://extension.msstate.edu/shows/mississippi-crop-situation 

On this episode of the Crop Doctors’ Podcast, Drew Gholson discusses how Mississippi corn growers can make informed irrigation decisions to protect yield potential during critical growth stages. Drew explains how moisture sensors help monitor available soil water, why understanding moisture depth throughout the soil profile matters, and how rooting depth influences irrigation timing. He also breaks down the importance of proper irrigation scheduling, avoiding early-season overwatering, and maintaining adequate moisture during peak water demand to maximize corn productivity and irrigation efficiency across Mississippi fields.

https://extension.msstate.edu/shows/mississippi-crop-situation 

On this episode of the Crop Doctors’ Podcast, Jason and Tom break down the fundamentals of fungicide use in row crops. They discuss the importance of understanding fungicide components and modes of action, why following the product label matters, and how proper timing and application decisions can make or break disease management programs. The conversation also covers using fungicides as they were intended, avoiding unnecessary applications, and protecting product performance through responsible stewardship. Whether you’re making decisions in corn, soybean, or cotton, this episode offers practical reminders for getting the most out of your fungicide investment.

In this episode of the Crop Doctors’ Podcast, Tom Barber with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture joins the conversation to discuss the increasing challenges posed by herbicide-resistant johnsongrass across the Midsouth. Tom, Jason, and Tom discuss the history and extent of the issue in key production areas and why it has become such a persistent problem for growers. The discussion also focuses on practical management strategies, including effective herbicide programs, and integrated control approaches.

https://extension.msstate.edu/shows/mississippi-crop-situation