Fall 2011 Agronomy Sales & Marketing Update
- Published On:11/4/2011
- Author:Matt Schoper
- Categories:Agronomy, Admin
2012 PLANTING DECISIONS
Year after year seed companies are introducing new technology and products that aim to increase yield and become more useful in your operation. This year is no different as Monsanto’s newly launched technology is “Refuge in the Bag” (more commonly known as RIB). It is often a time consuming task for the farmer to figure out where to plant the refuge block or strip while still complying with EPA regulations. Planting a refuge is important as it helps ensure that the insect populations do not become resistant to the B.t gene. The RIB concept mixes the B.t corn and the refuge corn in the same bag. Mycogen seeds version of this technology is called “Refuge-Advanced” – which also combines both versions of corn in one bag. We anticipate supply being limited during this initial year so please talk to your Crystal Valley Sales Agronomist about placing your order for new reduced refuge options.
You will need to make decisions regarding your soybean seeds for the 2012 planting season as well. There are two different traits we see on the market right now; RR1 and RR2. RR2 soybeans came into the market heavily this year, following a very strong fall 2010 performance. Our expectation is that RR2 soybeans will continue to perform very strongly into the future and will significantly reduce the volume of RR1 soybeans planted. The companies that we work with have ramped up their line ups with nearly all varieties being RR2 for this season. Please watch the plots and side by sides this fall to make an informed decision on which technology you want in your fields for 2012. Don’t hesitate to call your Crystal Valley
Sales Agronomist to weigh test your hybrids and varieties this fall or to secure your 2012 seed needs.
HIGH YIELD CHALLENGE UPDATE
The new quest for corn growers is to hit the 300 bushel mark in the fields! In order to assist in achieving this goal, we at Crystal Valley know that we will have to change the way we make some recommendations. This past spring and summer we have been specially treating a number of trials in customer fields to hit that 300 mark; however, we still need mother-nature to work with us to help achieve this goal! We are seeing some remarkable differences despite the late season moisture shortage. The difference in these blocks involves splitting applications of nutrients, fungicide applications, being proactive in handling weed competition, foliar applying the right nutrient at the right time, and finally, scouting on a regular basis to help diagnose deficiencies or issues early. Early yield calculations done by hand have shown a 15 to 35 bushel response versus when the traditional practices are being applied. With today’s prices that is another $245 to the bottom line with $7 corn! As you work with your Sales Agronomist, be sure to discuss how you can better position your fields for 300 bushel corn and ask about the High Yield Challenge results.