Items by Mohammad Shamim
Why does your canola look so ugly in winter? That's actually a good thing.
By Mohammad Shamim
Published on Jan. 25, 2026
Canola can be one of the most beautiful crops you’ll ever grow, bright yellow flowers, happy bees, and neighbors slowing down to look. But once winter shows up, that same field can look like it lost a bar fight. Purple leaves, wilted plants, and a general “this can’t be alive” appearance are all common.
Is controlled drainage worth the extra bucks, time and effort in soybean fields?
By Mohammad Shamim
Published on Jan. 25, 2026
The Midwest United States is one of the world’s leading soybean-producing regions. According to a 2017 Food and Agriculture Organization report, the region accounts for more than 34% of global soybean production. Over the years, soybean yields have increased steadily thanks to improved genetics and better management practices.
Thinking of planting canola? Here's what you need to know
By Mohammad Shamim
Published on Sep. 16, 2025
As farmers are signing contracts to grow Canola in Kentucky, there are some general observations from previous research and from current farms on what appears to result in the best odds for successful Canola yields. Planting date
How Soybeans Respond to Drought Stress: Insights from 2024's Dry Spell
By Mohammad Shamim
Published on Jul. 14, 2025
Drought or moisture stress is one of the most critical factors affecting crop yield.
Corn across Kentucky will jump over the next week and we’ll find out if we need to pay for any planting sins.
By Chad Lee,
Matt Dixon,
and Mohammad Shamim
Published on Jun. 20, 2025
The heat and sun over the next few days will send a lot of corn to tassel and will help younger corn reach rapid growth. All of the corn that had looked pale and yellow during those storms will reach a deep green color by Monday, June 23, 2025, as long as it has adequate nutrients and good roots.