Agronomy

By: Lucas Gillmore, Seed Manager

In 1996, Monsanto introduced Roundup Ready soybeans which completely revolutionized farming practices. In just 3 years, 85% of soybeans grown nationally were Roundup Ready. Glyphosate was the silver bullet that a farmer could count on. But all good things often come to an end. Once glyphosate resistance emerged, it brought yield loss, multiple spray trips, and weedy fields. As weed resistance has grown, specifically in soybeans, farmers have faced more and more difficult weeds to control. We have had several new herbicide traits and stacks introduced into the market, and there will continue to be more added in the next few years. Plus, there are still more in the regulatory approval process. But, these new traits will be making beans tolerant to existing herbicides. While research is underway to find a new mode of action, there is nothing currently in the government approval process. Since this can take over a decade, we must make the best of what we have available today. As you plan next year’s weed management strategy, know the very first decision needs to be seed trait selection. More

By: Ryan Hahn, Agronomist

It’s hard to believe harvest is finishing up and just like that, another crop year is coming to a close. As you move from field to field this fall, it is the perfect time to reflect on the past season, especially how it started. Think about the early season weed pressure and how that battle played out through the rest of the crop year (maybe still an issue). More

By: Kelsey Morris, Agronomist

I am not sure if there is a better definition for this past spring other than chaos. Once the snow finally cleared and the temperatures started to rise, it was a mad dash to the field to prepare for the coming crop. Unfortunately, mother nature has this control over us. To help conquer springs like the past one, spread out your work load. One thing that can easily get checked off your list in the fall is your phosphorus and potassium applications. More