With technology playing such an integral part of our ability to effectively manage crop production, it makes sense that it also plays a key role in effective scouting.

One of the simplest technologies (now, anyway) is taking a good picture to share with a trusted adviser, a farmer-client, or even via a phone app. If a picture is worth 1,000 words, let’s make it a good one.

LACK OF CONTEXT. While this picture had a size reference, it lacked important context to help confirm identification.

I often receive images via text or email. One person may ask for an identification and management recommendation for an insect, weed or disease. Another person may ask about a possible nutrient deficiency or abiotic issue. A good image can help lead to a fast and accurate diagnosis of the pest or other crop issue.

Conversely, advisers sometimes receive poor images that result in further confusion or back-and-forth messages to get a better image. As we start scouting emerged crops, examine these reminders (based on a list from the Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic) to ensure you capture pictures that truly are worth a thousand words.

Focus, focus, focus!

Lack of focus is one of the biggest issues with close-up images of problems.

WHAT IS THIS? Even the sharpest agronomist couldn’t deduce much from this photo. Believe it or not, this was an actual image brought to an Extension office for confirmation.

Here are a few focus tips:

Other tips

Here are two miscellaneous crop scouting tips:

I hope your 2024 growing season is full of great pictures, easy diagnoses and a lot of walking. Check out these other resources for scouting tips and tricks!

Anderson is an ISU Extension field agronomist.