Sonja Begemann

Sonja Begemann provides information about seeds, chemicals and anything that affects crop production. A recent graduate of the University of Missouri (Science and Agricultural Journalism), Sonja is excited to help provide farmers with information they need to know. She has a strong background in row crop production and learned valuable agronomic skills in corn, soybeans, sorghum and alfalfa. Her roots in agriculture began with both of her grandparents, who were corn and soybean farmers and continued to grow throughout her childhood on a small family farm where she raised chickens and pigs for 4-H and FFA. When Sonja looks to relax she enjoys spending time with friends and family, cooking and doing anything outside.

Latest Stories
Waterhemp has quickly established itself as one of the nation’s most devastating weeds. Resistant to six herbicide groups, the weed can steal between 40% and 70% of yields, according to University of Illinois research.
Expect the weed to be exceptionally challenging this year
While all weeds are problematic, waterhemp, marestail, palmer amaranth, giant ragweed and Italian ryegrass are among the worst because they have documented cases of resistance to multiple herbicide groups, which makes them more difficult to control. In addition to resistance, they have the natural ability to evade herbicide control methods.
Doctors don’t prescribe treatment without first diagnosing the ailment. Weed control should work the same way.
Getting rid of yield-robbers takes careful planning and multiple modes of action
Waterhemp, marestail, palmer amaranth, giant ragweed and Italian ryegrass have been found guilty. Their crime: stealing nutrients, sunlight and water from your crops, leading to lower yields and profits.
Make the most of your nitrogen dollars by minding a few key factors from fall through harvest the following year.
Ken and Missy explain the value in understanding different hybrid characteristics when it comes to seed placement. Understanding will assist with maximizing sunlight and water holding capacity.
Stay one step ahead of mounting resistance issues by knowing how to identify and control
Monsanto speaks to investors about its motivation to pursue Syngenta.