Is it spring yet?

Along about this time of year we start to think some warm weather is a sign of spring. Unfortunately, there is no spring like weather in the forecast yet. Then when that warm weather hits, we think we should do something outdoors. We need to remember that saturated soils may take a little time to dry out, so don't rush things. Our average date of last frost is in mid-April. Do you need to put off plant corn until then? I would say not. There are conditions where seed will rot in the field, but on the whole if the field is fit to plant moisture wise the last few days of march or the first of April, go for it. I have seen some really good corn that was frozen off at the ground early, but the growing point was below the surface. I have seen good corn come up through the snow. If we should be lucky enough to have early corn planting, keep in mind that there is no particular advantage to early soybeans. Soybeans planted May 10 do as well as soybeans planted April 20.