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Rhonda Brooks

Agronomy Editor, Farm Journal

Rhonda Brooks is the Agronomy Editor for Farm Journal and AgWeb, covering all aspects of crop production. A Missouri native with a background in agricultural communications, she has previously worked on multiple Farm Journal brands.

Latest Stories
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Crop Production
Young Farmer Cultivates Success Through Shared Playbooks and High-Yield Innovation
Family partnership, peer groups and open-door networking have shaped Jake Drozd’s belief that farmers get better together.
June 09, 2026 03:06 PM
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Rhonda Brooks
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Corn
Agronomist Urges Corn Growers Not To Gamble With Nitrogen
As corn starts moving into the rapid growth stages, Farm Journal Field Agronomist Missy Bauer says now is the time for disciplined N assessments and applications — not reactionary rate cuts.
June 08, 2026 01:46 PM
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Rhonda Brooks
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News
Three Generations of Yield Winners: How a 13-Year-Old Hit 400-Bushel Corn
A true family affair, the Rathjens combine agronomy, management and teamwork into a winning formula that pushes seeds to their biological limits and delivers record-breaking yields.
June 08, 2026 12:35 PM
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Rhonda Brooks
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Corn
Why Counting Collars Matters Before The Sprayer Rolls
East-central Iowa field agronomist says misjudging corn growth stage, not herbicide choice, can be the biggest risk in post-emerge passes.
June 05, 2026 11:28 AM
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Rhonda Brooks
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Crop Production
Eyeing Specialty Markets? Start With The Low-Hanging Fruit
Some of the easier entry points for corn and soybean farmers looking to capture higher returns can deliver $200 or more per acre.
June 04, 2026 03:08 PM
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Rhonda Brooks
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Soybeans
Four Ways Singulation Protects Your Soybean Investment
David Hula and Randy Dowdy explain why precise seed spacing is no longer a requirement just for high corn yields.
June 03, 2026 12:56 PM
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Rhonda Brooks
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Ag Economy
The Hardest Crop to Grow In 2026 Is A Profit Margin
U.S. farmers and ag economists remain concerned by mounting global competition and the reliability of recent trade agreements. However, some economists say emerging market shifts could create opportunities later this year.
June 02, 2026 06:26 PM
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Rhonda Brooks
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Crops
How to Time and Place Nutrients to Unlock 300-Bushel Corn
Don’t let nitrogen and phosphorus demand outpace supply. Learn how to manage the midseason nutrient surge with these four expert tips on precision placement and split applications.
June 01, 2026 08:20 AM
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Rhonda Brooks
Corn, Soybeans
Ag Economy
The 180-Million-Acre Lock: Why U.S. Agriculture Remains Anchored to Corn and Soybeans
From canola to hemp, recent history shows new crops only stick when margin and infrastructure line up for years—not seasons.
May 29, 2026 03:42 PM
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Rhonda Brooks
Graphic for Boots in the Field Report with agronomist Ken Ferrie who has spent over 40 years helping farmers maximize corn and soybean yields.
Crop Production
Carbon Penalty Looms As Corn Enters ‘Ugly’ Growth Stage
Nitrogen availability, root development and residue load determine whether crops stumble or race through June.
May 29, 2026 11:54 AM
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Rhonda Brooks
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