IARN — The team at Wilbur-Ellis Agribusiness is helping growers find out which seed is best for their operation.
Bernard Schaben, director of seed technology, shares recommendations to select the right seed for local growing conditions.
“Seed is probably the most varied input, but it’s also an expensive investment. But one thing that I have talked to farmers about is to really look at your fields history, but understand every year is different. If there’s a history of disease, pests, weed problems, those will likely be coming up again next year. After determining if you’re going to be coming back corn on corn. If you’re going to be rotated, you need to consider the defensive traits you’re going to need to provide for genetics, seed qualities, seed treatments, and then the biggest thing that’s out there is the service that you would get from that provider.”
Schaben says there are factors beyond agronomics to consider.
“You need to evaluate the seed quality standards, compare the input costs based on traits and potential return on your investment. Many farmers like to get at least a three to one, then you’re having a winning opportunity there. Ask also the provider of any seed treatments are included. Soybeans in particular, a lot of the pricing you see that’s out there does not include a seed treatment price. You also need to consider, is the seed sale just a single transaction, or are they a trusted partner throughout the growing season. Do they have technical agronomic expertise, local knowledge, and integrity, to really stand behind the product.”
Schaben adds it’s also critical to have adequate soil fertility and soil health.
“At Wilbur-Ellis, we recommend sampling and testing soil in the fall. Use soil test mapping and variable rate application of fertilizer to really deliver the precise nutrients needed in each field. The other big thing is improving soil health over time. And by being able to do this, you reduce fertilizer needs by returning organic matter back to the soil, reducing tillage and using cover crops and other beneficial practices. The success that a seed starts with long before the seat is actually put into the ground. The best time to start preparing is actually right now.”
Learn more online at wilburellisagribusiness.com.
Story courtesy of the Iowa Agribusiness Radio Network.
