Spring is moving faster than the calendar

Spring planting is often a race against the calendar, but this year the calendar is way behind.

According to MFA’s agronomy team, growing degree units (GDUs) are accumulating at an unusually rapid pace across much of the region, pushing crops, weeds and insects well ahead of normal. For example, in the latest Crop-Trak In-Season Insights, Senior Staff Agronomist Scott Wilburn reported that Mexico, Mo., had already accumulated 711 GDUs as of April 16, compared with a long‑term average of 213. Even the notably warm springs of recent years trail behind, with 421 GDUs in 2025 and 570 GDUs in 2024 at the same point.

In practical terms, Wilburn said, that means farmers should be thinking—and scouting—on a timeline roughly three weeks ahead of normal for any heat‑driven plant growth and insect activity. As a clear sign of accelerated pest emergence, he pointed out that June bugs have already arrived in the area, much earlier than their normal appearance in May.

“While the adult beetles typically cause little concern, as opposed to their larva, which is an underground pest, their early presence reinforces the need for close scouting other species,” Wilburn said.

With abundant heat units and persistent southernly winds, farmers and their agronomists should closely watch all crops for weed and pest pressure. This includes hay and pasture, as cutworms and armyworms can cause rapid and severe damage.

Wet weather has added to this spring’s challenges, keeping many growers from being able to plant early, especially along the I-70 corridor and northern areas of the state. Delays that might be manageable in a “normal” year could quickly turn costly when the season gets compressed.

On the other hand, a significant number of acres have been planted in southern portions of MFA territory and areas that missed the rains. In fact, District Agronomist Jesse Surface said that he’s never seen as much corn and soybeans planted—and this far advanced—in his entire career.

The most successful strategy in an early, fast‑moving season is flexibility. Conditions are changing quickly, and plans may need frequent adjustment. Crop growth stages should be carefully monitored to avoid missing critical application windows. And for fields that have not yet been planted, waiting until conditions are conducive is critical to success.

“Regardless of the calendar date, it’s important to plant when soil conditions are right,” said Doug Spaunhorst, MFA director of agronomy services. “Planting into soils that have the proper temperature, moisture and structure will help get the crop off on the right foot and set the stage for season-long performance.”

Reach out to your local MFA agronomy team member or Agri Services manager for recommendations or assistance in adjusting cropping plans this spring.