A popular Purdue Extension pocket reference guide for corn and soybean producers has been updated and is now available.

The 2013 Corn and Soybean Field Guide is an in-field reference to help farmers quickly identify and manage crop problems, such as weeds, diseases and insects.

The 324-page guide has information useful from planting to harvest and features color photographs and reference tables to help farmers make fertilizer and pesticide application decisions. Other topics include crop development, nutrient deficiencies, planting decisions, soil fertility and herbicide injuries.

Extension specialist says guide offers fertilizer and pesticide tips for all corn and soybean growing regions

Growers can use the guide to help them apply appropriate amounts of fertilizers for soil nutrient deficiencies or pesticides for pest management, which could save them money, said Corey Gerber, director of Purdue's Crop Diagnostic Training and Research Center.

Purdue Extension's Corn and Soybean Field Guide has been in production since 1988. According to Gerber, the guide is applicable to regions outside of Indiana and the United States. About 25% of sales are in Indiana, with the rest spread globally.

Updates from last year's guide include improved photographs and new information about soybean vein necrosis virus, which was first confirmed in Indiana in 2012.

Guides are available for sale individually or in bulk from Purdue Extension's The Education Store.