I’ve always been intrigued by quotes that contain the words “dawn” and “dusk.” Just a personal quirk, I suppose. I lean more toward dawn, with its promise of a new beginning, although dusk does not necessarily signify the beginning of the end. Instead, perhaps it serves as a precursor to the dawn, or the starting over.
Following are a few of my favorites to set the stage as we prepare to lift the curtain on the upcoming growing season.
“There is only one day left, always starting over: it is given to us at dawn and taken away from us at dusk.” – Jean-Paul Sartre “Each time dawn appears, the mystery is there in its entirety.” – Rene Daumal
As the sun sets on 2013 and prepares to rise on 2014, Southern corn producers patiently plan their strategies. In October, Corn South published its 2014 Hybrid Guide to provide a partial listing that is being offered by the respective companies for the upcoming season. Hopefully, as farmers, consultants and others involved in the decision-making process sit down and “put the pencil to it,” this roster will be of some help.
In addition to hybrid selection, fertility programs are extremely important considerations when it comes to successful Southern corn production. Check out the tips on page 6 from university personnel across the region before finalizing your plans for 2014.
At this time of year, farmers also are making equipment decisions. Buy? Sell? Trade? If you are looking to make changes to your “iron resume,” perhaps you will want to take a peek at the Equipment Roundup on page 4, to see what’s new. Be sure to stay in touch with your accountant, too, before making any binding decisions during December. Make sure that you are aware of the tax implications of your buy, sell, trade conclusions.
In closing, humor me. One more “dawn” quote to wrap up.
“The difficulties you meet will resolve themselves as you advance. Proceed, and light will dawn, and shine with increasing clearness on your path.” – Jim Rohn
Good luck, and may the light shine favorably on you in 2014!
If you have comments, send them to Corn South, 1010 June Road, Suite 102, Memphis, Tenn., 38119. You may also call (800) 888-9784 or contact Lia Guthrie at lguthrie@onegrower.com or Carroll Smith at csmith@onegrower.com.