If you work in the agricultural sector, you may always be on the lookout for ways to improve your farming practices. Crop scouting, which can happen before seeding and throughout the life cycle of your plants, is an effective way to identify potential issues that affect your yield. If you’ve never used this service for your farm before, you may have many questions about it. To help you achieve a successful harvest, here are some reasons you’ll benefit from this type of work. 

What Is Crop Scouting?

When you hire an expert to perform crop scouting on your farm, they will move meticulously through your fields, either by foot or tractor, and stop frequently to assess the plants up close. They may also use a pocket knife, magnifying lens, and bags to take samples and notes.

Once they’ve analyzed the entire area, they’ll have a clear understanding of how growth is proceeding overall. They will know if some areas of your crops are affected by disease, pests, parasites, wilting, browning, or delayed growth. You can use this information to improve your yield.

How Does This Benefit Farming?

With so many responsibilities to tend to in your farm, you might rarely have time to inspect every inch of your crops. As a result, some issues may go unaddressed, leading to an unsuccessful or disappointing harvest. 

By hiring a crop scouting professional, you can find out what areas of your field you’ll have to keep a close eye on. The farming professional might also point out weed or pest issues you’re experiencing, allowing you to use fertilizers and pesticides as necessary to improve conditions. Not only will this boost your yield, but it will also improve your bottom line to allow you to invest in future plantings. 

If you’re interested in using crop scouting services for your farm, get in touch with Allied Cooperative. Since 1918, they’ve been serving farmers throughout Wisconsin. From delivering fuel to fertilizer consulting, they can help you improve your farming operations with several services. Visit their website to learn more about their offerings, or call (800) 247-5679 to discuss your needs.