As row-crop harvest approaches, producers across West Tennessee are busy preparing for what appears to be a decent-to-promising season, based on predictions available as this issue of The Cooperator goes to print in early July.

This year, there is an estimated 2.6 million row-crop acres spread across West Tennessee counties including Dyer, Gibson, Obion, Haywood, Tipton, Lauderdale, Crockett, and Fayette. As of the third week of June, roughly 29% of Tennessee’s corn crop had reached the silking stage, notably ahead of the five-year average by 13 percentage points, according to the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture. Tennessee’s corn condition stands at 67% good to excellent, with only 10% classified as poor to very poor. Cotton planting is nearly complete at 87% planted, with 10% squaring — a bit behind average. Crop condition is solid at 53% good to excellent, with 16% poor or worse. Corn silking and soybean emergence are both slightly ahead of the five-year average, which suggests strong potential if weather holds.

So, the time for harvest prep is upon us. Equipment issues, tight labor availability, and unpredictable fall weather can quickly derail even the best-laid plans, so it’s critical to begin going through your harvest checklist carefully.

The following items outline key areas of focus for West Tennessee row-crop farmers looking to stay ahead of the curve this fall. 1. Inspect and service harvest equipment Combines, headers, grain carts, and tractors should be inspected top to bottom. Check belts, bearings, chains, hydraulic hoses, and electrical systems. Prioritize any known issues discovered during last year’s harvest that may not have been addressed during the off-season.

Pay special attention to combine calibration and grain-loss monitors. Proper calibration will ensure accurate yield data and reduce field losses. Clean out and inspect headers, especially those used in corn and soybean fields, and ensure cotton pickers are ready for field conditions, including moisture-level detection systems and module builders.

Yield monitors and GPS systems should be updated and calibrated. Fully functional precision ag tools are key for collecting accurate yield data and helping inform post-harvest analysis and input decisions. 2. Prepare grain-handling and storage systems On-farm grain bins, augers, and dryers should be cleaned and inspected for wear or damage. Look for signs of rust, rodent activity, or moisture accumulation from spring and summer storms. Inspect aeration fans and check that moisture and temperature sensors are operational.

Ensure you have the capacity for expected yields, especially if market timing leads you to store grain rather than sell immediately. Consider lining up temporary storage or delivery options in advance, particularly during high-yield seasons. 3. Walk fields and monitor crop readiness Evaluating crop moisture levels and plant health can help prioritize harvest order. Corn should generally be harvested between 18-25% moisture, while soybeans are typically harvested around 13%. Wheat and double-crop soybeans may have tighter windows for optimal quality.

Monitor for late-season pest pressure, disease, or lodging that may require earlier harvest. For cotton, closely evaluate boll maturity and schedule defoliation appropriately. Pay attention to field variability, especially in bottomland or low-lying areas that may dry down slower. 4. Plan for cotton-specific harvest needs Cotton harvest requires unique preparation. In addition to picker inspections, growers should plan their defoliation strategy, selecting appropriate products and timing applications for optimal leaf drop and boll exposure.

Coordinate with local gins early to schedule pickup and processing, especially during peak harvest windows. Ensure moisture monitors on cotton pickers are functional and bale module-handling equipment is in good working order.